December 2009 Your Business Matters

The 2010 South Kingstown tourism season is on the horizon, and with it comes a number of exciting challenges, especially relating to money available for promoting the region. However, with the right mindset, these challenging times also provide a number of opportunities. The economy, statewide and nationwide, still faces hurdles in its recovery. State funding for tourism has been decreased. However our local region remains a top tourism attraction, for those here as well as for those beyond.
   The Greater South Kingstown area is an area that holds large appeal for many different reasons. People come here to visit and enjoy our beaches, museums, attractions, our state university, learn some history, experience beauty. Many of these people enjoying these aspects of Southern Rhode Island live close by, and the number of those vacationing in their own backyard is growing.
    We are the embodiment of a quaint New England region. We offer the best in historical places, museums, and other attractions that entice p families to spend time and “SHOP LOCAL” here. During these challenging times our region still faces, we would all do well to remember that our own backyard often provides more pleasure than we realize. Dollars spent in our economy stay here, and multiply. Let’s remind our families, friends, and business associates that this should be a large part of marketing efforts as the new year begins. Doing so supports the Chamber’s “ Buy Shop, Dine and Stay” program. Our exciting “Shop Local” program supports our friends and neighbors who have invested in our Community and who create employment opportunities for our residents.
    Working together, the industry can weather the difficult economic period we are in. We are fortunate to have enticing mall and downtown stores, area shops, museums and neighborhoods with local flavors. Lets continue to make them all feel welcome and want to return for another visit or two. 2010 will be an important one. It’s time for the Greater South Kingstown community to come together, not just as a marketing tool, but as a region we are proud of and eager to share.

Joe Iacoi

Executive Director - SKCC "Relationships Key to Success"

Member Spotlight
Meet your new members

Chamber News
Chamber News

Programs & Events
Business Calendar

Networking News
Jeremy's Networking "Niche"

Programs & Events

Business Calendar

December

2^nd SKCC Holiday Party
5-7 p.m. at the Elks Club
Belmont Ave, Wakefield
$12 per person
RSVP on our facebook page
or email pmcdermott@skchamber.com

3^rd Ladies Night On Main Street - Historic Downtown Wakefield

3^rd Legislative Forum at the South Kingstown Town Hall – Council Chambers

180 High St, Wakefield

7-9 p.m.

4^th Tim Horton's
8-9 a.m.
621 Kingstown Road Wakefield
$5 Members/$10 Guests

9^th No Network @ Noon - it will be combined with our Business After Hours.

11^th Happy Hanukkah!Luminaries on Main Street - Historic Downtown Wakefield

16^th Main Street Caroling Stroll featuring Cub scout pack 51 (Wakefield) and Cub scout pack 44 (Matunuck) singing.

starting at Midtown Cafe 5:00- 7:00 p.m.
333 Main Street, Wakefield
$5 Member/$10 Guest

24^th Christmas Eve Your Chamber offices closed!

25^th
Merry Christmas! Your Chamber offices closed!

26^th Happy Kwanzaa!

SK Chamber Helps You this Holiday Season!

It’s amazing to think that we’ve made it through the majority of 2009 and are already entering into the holiday season. Thanksgiving has come and gone, and we’re on our way to the next holidays. As you look forward to the next month before the New Year, we have exciting news for you from your South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce!
   With “Black Friday” less than a week ago, if you find yourself beginning to think about gifts and gatherings, feel free to come by our visitor/information center at 230 Old Tower Hill Rd in Wakefield. We have brochures and information on things to do, restaurants, events and more. While you’re here you can pick up some gift certificates as well. Our improved gift certificate program just began and is already becoming popular. Gift certificates come in denominations of $10, 25, and 50, can be used at a numerous member businesses that increase daily. They are the perfect gift for anyone in South County!
   2009 has marked a big year for the Chamber, and we’re back in full force with new and improved programs, services and initiatives. One of which we are very proud to announce that we are the first Chamber of Commerce in RI to offer one annual membership price for your business, no matter the size! Our annual membership fee for all businesses is only $185. Because of this price, we are also able to offer advertising packages in addition to the website listing, regular referrals, and space in our visitor/information center for your brochures, etc. These packages offer ads and inserts in our e-newsletter and printed newsletter, website advertising, and ribbon cutting/grand opening or promotional packages.
   Our SK Chamber also plans and organizes a number of networking events during each month throughout the year. As a member you have have the option of purchasing one or more “networking cards” (a value of $270), transferrable within your company, that allow members of your business to attend all of our networking events for a year. We are offering these cards for only $175!
   As you can see, this fall has been a busy one for your SK Chamber. If you want to stay on top of what is happening in the SK area, make sure to stop by our website: www.skchamber.com, join the group on Facebook: South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce, or follow us on Twitter: @SKChamber! Our social networking has begun recently and we are excited as it continues to grow! Hop on the wave and come for a ride with your SK Chamber!

Click to view more information of designing your own membership: discounted packages

Eli Moger
SKCC Intern

Crazy Burger host a fundraiser for local couple

Crazy Burger will be having a fundraiser on Sunday, December 6th from 3-7pm at the Bon Vue to benefit Sharon (McNulty)& Norman Graichen of South Kingstown. Sharon has Crohn's Disease and Cancer and is scheduled for surgery for on December 10th. Last week her husband Norman fell off his horse and shattered his pelvis, ribs and jaw and had to undergo surgery for his injuries. We are trying to raise a little bit of money to help them through this difficult time. Anyone able to make a raffle or silent auction donation for this event please contact kcm112174@aol.com. If you are not in position to give a donation please consider joining us for the afternoon. Thank you for your consideration and we hope to see you there!

South County’s First Ever Electronic Holiday Decorating Contest

This year the South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with our corporate sponsor Westery Community Credit Union will be hosting the first ever Electronic Holiday Decorating Contest. This year Joe Iacoi, Executive Director of the South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce, will be asking all participant to submit the photos of their home, and business decorated in holiday gear online, where you will be asked to vote.

This year the competition will have two categories; Home and Business. First prize for each category is $50 cash! You will be asked to submit you pictures to www.skchamber.com to be entered in to win, along with you name, email address and phone number. Submittal of your entry is needed as soon as possible and the electronic voting deadline is December 18, 2009 at 4pm. We will be asking that the community as well as our South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce members go online to vote for the home and business with the most holiday spirit! The holiday decorating contest has been held in the past, however, with the online voting, and submission process, it is the first of its kind. We are very excited to be able to give this to the community, and it will be great that we can actively keep track of the contest.

We are excited about supporting this new South Kingstown Chamber initiative during this time of year, said Ms. Meg Sisco, Vice President of Marketing at the local Westerly Community Credit Union.

We are hoping everyone in the area supports the event and votes by December 18th, via their personal computer for their neighbors or local business entries. This "first time event" is so unique and we appreciate working with Westerly Community Credit Union, our Corporate Sponsor, and it's one of first of it's kind here in South County, added Mr. Iacoi.

While we are going on the trend of technology by posting the pictures of participants online, we encourage the community to visit all entrants in person. What better way to boost the spirit of the holidays than to stroll down Main Street taking in the sights while shopping locally. We hope this will help illuminate the holiday fun in the homes of the South County Community Members…

Member News

NEW MEMBER BENEFIT!!! SAVE UP TO 17% ON YOUR ELECTRIC SUPPLY!!!

WHO BENEFITS
Chamber members of all sizes and in all industries - the larger the group the greater the savings for business. Companies with locations in multiple states can participate - all locations are eligible (in deregulated states).

HOW IT WORKS
- Simply call the South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce 401-783-2801 or Tony Parente your
Teknikor Action Energy Chamber representative direct on his cell 401-265-1284
- Your electricity is still delivered by National Grid
- There are no fees for Chamber members to join the energy buying group nor does Action
Energy or its suppliers charge any additional fees to switch suppliers.
- There is no minimum usage to participate.
- The Decision Is Yours...YOU DECIDE IF YOU WANT TO PARTICIPATE
- Companies can enroll or leave the group and return to National Grid on any billing period*
- You save money by combining your purchasing power with other local businesses

ELIGIBILITY
- Companies with a business electric account
- Companies must be a member in good standing of
South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce.

WHY NOW
So you can start saving money on your electric bill as soon as possible. The Standard Offer Service from National Grid in Rhode Island expires on December 31, 2009. Business customers who have not selected a competitive supplier by the expiration date will still be supplied electricity from National Grid. Rates however may fluctuate more with market prices and businesses should be prepared for more volatile electricity markets.

FOR YOU
The South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to its members by providing opportunities for savings and benefits over and above what they are able to receive on their own, truly providing profits to their bottom line. This program underscores our commitment to our members, and ultimately the strength of the Rhode Island Business Community.

*Actual time to become effective is based on the number of days from the meter read. There are no guarantees. Individual results will vary. All companies subject to credit approval. The Chamber Power Group is one group comprised of participating chambers of commerce.

Call the Chamber to get a quote on what you could be saving or set up a consult with our representative. Call today 783-2801

Welcome to our Newest Members!

Canon Business Solutions

CARQUEST/Auto Parts All, Inc.

Kaleidascope

Sun Publishing Company

Tomassi Law Associates

Meet Your New Fellow Member

ENJOY THE REWARDS OF BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR. Simplify how you manage and market your business. Explore Kaleidoscope’s Support on Demand (SOD), Marketing/Meeting Support (MMS), and Business Writing Services (BWS). Kaleidoscope...high quality, professional services priced for small business budgets. We do anything to please the affordable palate! Call Maria Hoey.

100 Pine Tree Circle, North Kingstown, RI 02852
Phone: 401-294-2325

_________________________________________

A special ‘Family & Friends Holiday Rate’ of $69 is being offered by the Holiday Inn, South Kingstown from Dec. 8^th- Jan 8^th.This rate is good for any family member or friend of a South Kingstown Chamber member for each night of their stay.

So this year, invite everyone & have a

very Happy Holiday season!

_________________________________________

Legislative Forum at the

South Kingstown Town Hall

SOUTH KINGSTOWN – The South County Independent in conjunction with the South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a legislative forum on Thursday, Dec. 3, to give the public a chance to question legislators before the next session of the General Assembly.

The forum, to be held from 7 to 9 p.m. in Town Hall council chambers at 180 High St., will be hosted by Independent Managing Editor Betty J. Cotter and Clay Johnson of the Chamber.

“The South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce is excited to partner with the South County Independent for this forum with legislators,” Johnson said. “These are consequential times, and the news media and Chamber have important roles to play in informing the voters.”

“The legislature is facing a number of serious matters next year, including the state’s budget crisis and issues such as gay marriage and the possible expansion of casino gambling,” Cotter said. “This is an opportunity for voters to weigh in before legislators pre-file legislation in the coming year.”

Legislators representing South Kingstown and Narragansett have been invited to attend, including Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski (D-Dist. 37), Sen. James Sheehan (D-Dist. 36), Rep. Michael Rice (D-Dist. 35), Rep. Donald J. Lally Jr. (D-Dist. 33), Rep. David Caprio (D-Dist. 34) and Rep. Donna Walsh (D-Dist. 36).

The Chamber will make a video recording of the forum, which will be available for viewing at www.blip.tv/.

Jeremy’s Networking "Niche"

by Jeremy Walsh, The Right Click

Friend Your Mom. Seriously.

Social media has become huge. Whether or not you like it, agree with it, or participate in it, it has permeated our culture. People are using it to communicate, share information and yes, even to network. Is it just a phase or a flash in the pan? Only time can tell. But with over 325 million users on Facebook alone, it is easy to see that it is a very popular interface and, when used properly, can help to increase your visibility and credibility in the local word of mouth marketing networking community.
Whether you are an experienced facebooker or a noob tweeter, there is one very important thing to remember: everything that you do online is public. That is one of social media’s biggest strengths, but it is also its most dangerous Achilles’ heel. What you say in your posts and what you decide to put in your profile can make or break your networking credibility.
One of the most disturbing things that can happen when you are working in this medium is when you post something that you later regret. Sometimes you can say something and only later realize that it can be taken negatively or out of context. If you catch it in time, you can delete it before too many people read it. Other times you only have this epiphany after someone posts a comment about it and your heart races for a few minutes while you wait in agony until the moment passes and hope people forget about it quickly.
I think I finally figured out a way to minimize those embarrassing moments and the answer is so obvious and simple that I wish I thought of it sooner. It may have saved me an embarrassing moment or two. As soon as you can, friend your Mom. Seriously. If your Mom isn’t online, do yourself a favor and find the most conservative person you know and invite them to be your friend on Facebook (or Twitter, or LinkedIn, or whatever your medium of choice is).
Think about it – in life we have different conversations and different conversation styles depending on which audience we are with at that particular time. That is neither a good thing nor a bad thing; it is just part of the way we function in polite society. When we are with our children, we tend to choose our words carefully and take the time to explain things in simpler terms. When we are with our grandparents or parents, we tend to put on our best manners and speak the most politely. When we are with our college buddies we might reminisce about the good old days over a beer and we may be apt to use colorful expletive language when we do it. Each is appropriate for the audience you are with at the time.
The thing is, as a social networker you don’t really have the luxury of privacy. Everything you say has the potential to be viewed by everyone in your network. Especially in the land of Twitter, a comment or post could be reposted to thousands of people that you are two or three connections removed from. A personal conversation is, by the nature of proximity, an exclusive one intended for the people within earshot. Conversely, an online conversation is all inclusive to anyone connected with you, even indirectly.
So if you want to censor yourself and make sure you are always saying things that are appropriate. Do yourself a favor and friend your Mom. Then, every time you are about to hit the enter button to put your latest brilliant 140 characters up there for the rest of the world to see, remember that your Mom is going to read that post too and you don’t want her to wag her disappointed finger at you now, do you?

Santa says the best gifts offer options! Pick up your SK Chamber Townwide Gift Certificates Today! We offer denominations of $10, $25 & $50! Great gifts for teachers, bus drivers, coaches, employees, stocking stuffers and more!

Haven't signed up to participate in this program? Click here!

The Membership Committee, headed up by Mr. Michael Paolino and Ms. Jeanne Abate, is crafting a new Membership Campaign for 2010.

It is actually quite simple: They will help you join and become involved in the area’s most active Chamber. You can be on Committees, volunteer, receive newsletters, invitations, help promote our Gift Certificates, and emails.

Be a piece of the action here in South Kingstown. Are you interested in economic development, legislative issues, new promotions and imitative???

For only $185.00 you can join and become as active as you like. Call your Chamber Office today at 401-783-2801.

Rhode Island Storm
2009/2010 Home Schedule

Thursday, November 5, 2009      7:05pm vs New York
Tuesday, November 10, 2009    7:05pm vs Connecticut
Sunday, November 15, 2009       12:05pm vs Connecticut
Sunday, November 29, 2009     5:05pm vs New York
Sunday, December 6, 2009          3:05pm vs Connecticut
Saturday, December 19, 2009     7:05pm vs New York
Sunday, December 20, 2009         5:05pm vs New York
Sunday, December 27, 2009         5:05pm vs Connecticut
Saturday, January 2, 2010             7:05pm vs New York
Sunday, January 3, 2010               1:05pm vs New York
Sunday, January 10, 2010              5:05pm vs Connecticut
Thursday, February 18, 2010         7:15pm vs Connecticut
Saturday, February 27, 2010         7:35pm vs New York
Sunday, March 7, 2010                 6:05pm vs New York