JAN 2014 – President’s Article by Geoff Bonney

Happy New Year!  We are looking forward to another exciting year here at the Redlands Chamber of Commerce.  In 2014 we will build on the successes of last year as well as continue to look for ways to improve the services we provide to our membership.

Our first Light Run was a success.  This event is not only a fundraiser for the Chamber, but also brings people from outside Redlands to our local businesses.  The goal is to grow the Light Run into a stable event we can look forward to every year.

As we continue to evaluate how the benefits to our members, we are looking at changes in how people interact and conduct business.  The electronic age continues to grow.  In response we have expanded our presence on the internet and in social media, and are looking for ways to help our members do the same.  E-blasts provide a cost effective way to get your message out to our membership.  The Chamber website is a constant work in progress, with the objective of becoming a first source for anyone interested in the Redlands business community.  However, in this age of instant electronic communication we also recognize that there is no substitute for face-to-face contact.  Events such as Rise ‘n’ Shine and Business to Business, monthly networking lunches will continue to provide opportunities to meet in person.

With the upcoming elections I’m sure there will be plenty to of other tasks to keep us busy.  The Government Review Committee will monitor the slate of candidates as they develop, and continue to watch the legislative agenda for bills that will help or hurt our business environment.

As always, we welcome and depend on your input for how we can serve the membership this coming year.  We have an experienced board of directors returning with a desire to continue the effort of keeping the Redlands Chamber of Commerce one of the best.