Patti Hagata, Executive Director
Part of our mission at the Chamber is to provide support to our local small business members. We do this through a variety of programs – this year we are hosting our first ever, “Small Business Saturday.” Small Business Saturday, began 10 years ago, and is sponsored by American Express. The nationwide event, which takes place the Saturday after Thanksgiving, strives to promote small, locally owned, brick and mortar businesses across the United States.
If you are a Chamber member, you can participate in this event at no charge; in fact, the event is limited to chamber members only. The Chamber will provide the materials and guidelines – all you have to do is be open and ready for business! The Chamber office will be the “Welcome Station,” providing refreshments and guidance to shoppers. We will have a list of participating businesses that will serve as a shopping guide.
Shoppers will pick up a “Passport” at either the Welcome Station, or at participating merchants. When a shopper stops by the participating business, they will receive a unique stamp in their passport. If a shopper collects at least five stamps, they will be entered in a drawing for a gift valued at over $100.00!
Chamber board members will be reaching out to businesses with program packets and details – if you’d like to participate, please call the Chamber office at 257-4323 and we will put you the list. If you’d like to volunteer to help at the Welcome Station, please let us know.
The Chamber realizes that the fate of our economic vitality lies with healthy small businesses – working together, we can ensure that our businesses flourish, and our community members understand the importance of supporting those who support them. Small Business Saturday is just the beginning of what will be an extended campaign educating our shoppers and providing them with a “Passport to our Community”.
The Chamber is pleased to welcome Melanie Westbrook, Broker/Owner of Sierra Desert Properties, who was elected to a three year term on the board of directors at the October board meeting. She is an active member of the community, serving on many community organizations, as well as being a member of the City of Susanville Planning Commission. Please join us in welcoming her to the board of directors.
There is a new friendly face that has joined our staff at the Chamber office. We are happy to have Hannah Ardito serving as the new office assistant. Hannah grew up in Susanville and is excited to be at the Chamber to greet and assist visitors looking for area information. Stop by to say hi and welcome her to the Chamber. Just a reminder, when you stop in to meet Hannah, Chamber members should be sure to bring brochures and businesses cards to restock the office with your information so that we can help to promote your business throughout the year. This is a benefit of membership and free marketing service that is extended to all Chamber members.
