I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on my first month as Chairman. What a chamber and what a great experience to be in this new position! I said it before and I will say it again: there is no chamber like the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. We are so lucky to have such a high-quality group of caring and devoted individuals as our Chamber staff. They work so hard to make sure that every member gets a real and meaningful return on their investment. They ensure that every event goes flawlessly, and they are always available to meet and educate our members on every opportunity available to help create new business and new relationships.
Our Quarterly Pillar Breakfast at the Alexander Hotel was better than ever with an informative and educated overview of the incredibly long and complicated election ballot, provided by our dear friend Michael Putney. Everyone in attendance listened carefully to every word and left with a clear understanding of the local political races and the numerous proposed amendments. Thank you, Michael, for your devotion to the highest quality journalism with the most accurate and unbiased opinions on the complicated politics of today!
We were also fortunate to have the Women’s Business Council “Breakfast with a View” at the Forge with University of Miami President Donna Shalala. What an asset we have right here in South Florida with such an incredible and high-ranking educational institution! Dr. Shalala’s words were inspirational and many interested guests had the opportunity to ask their questions and share wonderful experiences.
I must also mention our Pillar Networker at Baoli: I was almost blown away just trying to get there as a result of Hurricane Sandy. Well, Sandy didn’t stop me or 120 other members from coming out and networking and having a great time. We must be doing something right to get that kind of turnout!
And of course, we started our Membership Drive on October 1st, with a goal of bringing in 100 new members in three months. We have four teams: Chamber staff, membership committee, Pillar Board and the Board of Governors. Having different teams is the key ingredient: this creates such a healthy, competitive spirit and great comradery amongst the team members. Even greater are the relationships made from the teams! Well, evidently we have great news for the first month. We are only one month into a three month drive and are already 80% there. This is a testament to the great things that this Chamber does, and I encourage everyone to get involved and experience the power of membership.
At your service,
Alan A. Lips
