News - Norman Chamber of Commerce

September is Membership Month

Wed Sep 01 08:40:00 -0400 2010

“Joining the Chamber is a Thrill”

The Chamber membership drive is in full swing. Twelve teams are competing for bragging rights during September, encouraging businesses to join the Chamber and experience the benefits that chamber membership can offer. Team captains include Mike Fowler, Chamber Board; Sara Kaplan and Autumn McMahon, Retail/Non-Profit; Scott Hofmann and Milly Groves, BancFirst; Ann Swanson, McClain Bank; Sean Crandall and Kevin Hopper, Arvest Bank; James Harp, Republic Bank; Tom Cooper, First American Bank; Andy Paden, Insurance Team; Jim Dembowski, Leaders Plus; Jim Adair, Builders & Developers Team; Nyky Wilson, First Fidelity Bank and Kyla McMoran, Norman NEXT.

All Team members are invited to a Kick-Off Reception on Wednesday, September 1 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Chamber. Anyone wishing to serve on a team is invited to the reception as well.

“We are looking forward to a successful membership drive this year,” states President-Elect and Membership Drive Chairman Sean Rieger. “We have an opportunity to share information with non-members about the many benefits of Chamber membership. Currently, with over 1200 members, we represent a powerful force in the business community. We also now offer a competitive Blue Cross/Blue Shield health insurance program called Chamber Choice. Additionally, our monthly networking events provide an opportunity for members to meet and share business information in a large group setting or a more intimate lunch environment.”

For more information on the drive or on becoming a team member, contact Lisa Allen at 321-7260 or lisa.allen@normanchamber.com.

Chamber Accepting Arts Grant Proposals

Wed Sep 01 08:40:00 -0400 2010

The Norman Chamber of Commerce's Business & Arts Committee is accepting applications for a matching grant for arts and humanities projects specifically designed to appeal to Norman residents and visitors. Applicants do not have to be a 501(c)3 to qualify for this opportunity. Any arts organization, individual, or business that is a Chamber member is a qualified applicant.

The applicant must partner with another Chamber member for this grant. The objective of the matching grant program is to foster strong partnerships between the business and arts communities. Both applicants must be members of the Norman Chamber of Commerce and current within 30 days on their membership dues with the Chamber. Those organizations making successful proposals will be awarded grants of up to $500 from the committee.

Past grants have been awarded to the MayFair Arts Festival sponsored by the Assistance League of Norman and Arvest Bank, for the creation of new signs to promote the event and acknowledge business partners; to the Norman Arts Council and the Downtowners Association for the re-design of the Arts Spot brochure; and to the Performing Arts Studio in partnership with Don Cies Real Estate for the Winter Wind Concert Series.

If your organization is eligible and would like to apply for a grant, applications are available at www.normanchamber.com. For questions or more information, please email Katie Merrick, katie.merrick@normanchamber.com, or call 321-7260. Grant applications are due to the Chamber by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 1.

Fall Arts Luncheon Scheduled

Wed Sep 01 08:38:55 -0400 2010

The Chamber’s Business & the Arts Committee invites you to the annual Fall Arts Luncheon on Wednesday, October 13. The event will be held at the Hall at Old Town Plaza from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. This event highlights the important relationship between the arts and business communities through presentations by the Business & the Arts Committee and the Norman Arts Council.

The luncheon was created to honor talented Norman residents who have succeeded in various areas of the arts and deserve more recognition for their achievements. The artists who will be honored at this year’s event are Michael Bendure, Quentin Bomgardner, Amber Clour, Lyn Cramer and Rebecca Marriott. Presentations from the Norman Arts Council will also be made to recognize a Person of the Year in the Arts and a Business of the Year in the Arts.

Corporate table sponsorships are available for $100, and individual tickets are $12.00. Reservations are required. Please contact Katie Merrick at 321-7260 or katie.merrick@normanchamber.com to make your reservation by Friday, October 8.

Free Prostate Screening Available

Wed Sep 01 08:37:49 -0400 2010

Free Prostate Screening Available

Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in men, and the disease is relatively simple to detect during its early stages.

In an effort to promote the health of our community, Norman Regional Health System is offering free prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood screenings to men ages 50 and older and men with a family history of the disease.

The free screenings will be offered through September 30 at eight of the Health System’s Lab Drawing Stations:

•   HealthPlex Specialty Hospital - Outpatient Services, 3300 HealthPlex Parkway, 405-515-2650
•   HealthPlex Professional Building, 3400 West Tecumseh Road, 405-307-6966
•   Findlay Medical Center, 809 North Findlay, Suite 101, 405-573-3754
•   Robinson Medical Center, 701 East Robinson, Suite 103, 405-360-3680
•   Doctor’s Park Building, 500 East Robinson, Suite 1600, 405-307-1149
•   Outpatient Diagnostic Services, 901 North Porter, Northeast Entrance, 405-307-2641
•   Moore Medical Center, 700 South Telephone Road, 405-912-3020
•   Hillcrest Medical Office, 2149 SW 59th Street, Suite 103, 405-307-5760

One in six American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime. If left untreated, the cancer can spread to surrounding areas. However, if the disease is caught in its early stages, men have an excellent chance of overcoming the cancer.

Most men with early stages of prostate cancer have few or no symptoms of the disease. Because of this, screening tests are critical to detect and treat the disease before it spreads.

Men ages 50 and older should make an appointment for a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test as well as a digital rectal examination (DRE). The two tests take only about 10 minutes to complete. African American men and men with a family history of the disease are at higher risk and should initiate regular screenings at an earlier age. Men who have three or more direct family members who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer have an almost 100 percent chance of contracting the disease. The condition also becomes more common as men age.

Now is the perfect time to take a few minutes that could save your life. Visit www.normanregional.com to find a physician today to complete the DRE and schedule a review of your PSA results.

Embassy Suites to Host LIVESTRONG Event

Wed Sep 01 08:35:13 -0400 2010

Embassy Suites Norman Hotel & Conference Center LIVESTRONG 5K Run/Walk

Embassy Suites brand has partnered with the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) in the fight against cancer by sponsoring LIVESTRONG challenges around the country. To date, Embassy Suites has donated nearly $1 million to LAF to assist them in their mission. This year Embassy Suites has decided to take their partnership to a new level by bringing their Make a Difference culture to life. In support of LAF, Embassy Suites has pledged to raise $200,000 between June 1 and September 30. To do their part, Embassy Suites Norman has decided to do a 5K run on the morning of Saturday, September 25th.

Lance Armstrong formed the well-known Foundation in 1997 during his own battle with cancer. Since that day, LAF has united people, organizations, and corporations to raise millions of dollars to prevent cancer, give access to screening and care, improve the quality of life for cancer survivors, and invest in cancer research. With a core belief that unity is strength, LAF created its signature fundraising event, the LIVESTRONG Challenge.

Embassy Suites Norman Hotel & Conference Center would like to invite Norman to LIVESTRONG, fight the fight against cancer and participate in our 5K Run/Walk.

For more information visit www.signmeup.com or call Dana Fisher at 405-253-3555.

Oklahoma Academy to host “Municipal, Oklahoma”

Wed Sep 01 08:34:08 -0400 2010

Each year the Oklahoma Academy conducts a town hall meeting focused around a topic critical to Oklahoma’s future. This year the Academy will focus on “Municipal, Oklahoma.” Considering the challenges cities face in this economic climate, this is a very relevant and timely topic.

The Town Hall is scheduled for Nov. 14 – 17. The Academy is seeking nominees that would be interested in participating in this dynamic session on a most important topic.

For more information, click the link below or visit www.okacademy.org.

http://production-images.webapeel.com/chamber/assets/2010/8/27/70065/Academy_Town_Hall_2010.pdf

Norman Arts Council announces New Fall Event

Wed Sep 01 08:32:15 -0400 2010

Norman Arts Council announces New Fall Event celebrating dozens of area arts organizations

Norman Arts Council announced today a new fall event designed to highlight the multitude of organizations that receive funds and support from the council.

On Thursday, September 23rd from 7-11pm, NAC will host the ONE party – a one-stop opportunity to see, hear, touch and taste elements from a host of Norman-based arts organizations. A $40 general admission ticket grants entrance into the galleried art show, food tables, a ONE custom cocktail, games and raffles, and the cabaret-style show.

“The Norman Arts Council has hosted some sort of fall event since it was formed in the 70’s,” states interim Executive Director, Josh Lunsford. “Since the impact of the council is so widely felt, it’s always challenging to boil down an event that still encompasses everything we do.”

“The council is always moving towards art activism,” elaborates Board President, Joe Hopper. “It has always encouraged the free, public expression of art in public and equal access to a variety of artistic programs whether that is expressed in ways like the Norman Music Festival or Jazz in June, or very personal interactions through our art education in schools programs. Keeping the money flowing and the programs free is always a challenge, and one that we will continue to meet through innovative fundraising.”

ONE will sharply focus the efforts and success of the council. Presenting the event in an open and flowing style, attendees can purchase paintings or sculpture, hear great singers and musicians, watch beautiful dancers, participate in poetry readings, snack on delicious food and drinks and tour the party for information about a wide range of activities and programs available in Norman.

“We decided to call the party ONE because you could only come to this ONE annual event, and see and hear everything that is available through the council,” explains ONE chair Melissa Scaramucci. “We’re booking a huge space so the party enjoys equal parts of festival, intimate performance, and fundraiser. The council is determined to provide as many funds as possible to agencies, but to keep our administrative costs down, we must fundraise. And a fundraiser that shows, in just ONE night, how big of an impact the council makes through the people of Norman, will be outrageous and inspiring.”

Tickets for ONE will go on sale on September 1st and can be purchased at all Republic Bank locations in Norman and online at www.normanarts.org.

Exciting New Advertising Opportunity

Fri Jul 30 13:26:11 -0400 2010

Exciting New Advertising Opportunity!

The Chamber is excited to announce a new advertising opportunity: an interactive map of Norman! This on-line map features local services, points of interest, schools and could feature your business as well!

To see the map, visit the Chamber website at normanchamber.com. Click on the Interactive Map ad on the right-hand side of the Home Page. Three tabs at the top of the map link you to different categories. After you click on one of the tabs, scroll over one of the icons and an ad pops up. The icon on the map will be your logo! A directory of advertisers can be found in alphabetical order or searched for by category using the drop-down menu in the upper right-hand corner.

Your ad will feature your business logo and/or artwork, list contact information and link directly to your site. Two ad sizes are available; a large 5” X 5” ad for $750 per year or a small 5” X 2.5” ad for $500 per year. If you have more than one business location in town, extra listings are just $100 each. Contact Lisa Allen at 321-7260 or lisa.allen@normanchamber.com today for more information. Once your artwork is submitted, your business will be on-line in a few weeks!

Job Listing Service Now Available

Fri Jul 30 13:23:24 -0400 2010

The Norman Chamber brings you news about a new business service!

The Norman Chamber has partnered with the Moore and Noble Chambers to bring news to our area businesses about a new FREE service from the Central OK Workforce Investment Board (COWIB).
Do you have a Job Opening? How do you let job seekers know about it? Don't have a job posting URL?
Now there is a solution: Pathway Connect

The Pathway Connect Workforce System platform will consolidate your job openings and local jobseekers in one no-fee, easy-to-use location. This new service will reduce your time to hire the right person and increase placement and retention.

You are invited to attend the introduction of this new service, Thursday, August 12, 2010, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Sarkeys Foundation.
Register now to learn more about how Pathway Connect ...

reduces your time to hire the "right person"
automatically posts jobs listed on your website or lets you post your job openings at no cost
notifies you when a job candidate registers who meets your pre-defined skill set
connects you with Oklahoma's jobseekers and with high school and college graduates
reduces turnover by finding the best employer/employee hard- and soft-skill match
provides business area statistics and information to make data-driven decisions

Click here to learn more and register to attend! or type http://tinyurl.com/PathwayConnect3 in your browser

ConnectForLunch Offers Networking Opportunity

Wed May 26 11:38:00 -0400 2010

ConnectForLunch Offers Networking Opportunity

ConnectForLunch, a new service for Norman Chamber of Commerce members, brings together business people for the purpose of building business relationships with other business people.

For a monthly fee, Chamber members enrolled in ConnectForLunch dine at local restaurants with three or four representatives from different businesses. ConnectForLunch matches the business people together, makes the restaurant reservations, and e-mails the pertinent details to people attending. All the chamber member has to do is show up at the restaurant.

Listen to what Chamber members have to say about the program.

"ConnectForLunch is excellent! I'm a new Chamber member and I'm glad to meet people in a more intimate setting. Everyone has been so upbeat and positive!"

Sheila Person, Manager
Elite Trophies

"ConnectForLunch has been great! My last lunch was with an interior designer; another Chamber member at the table and I are both going to use her."

Michelle Linnemann, Accountant
Don W. Armstrong CPA, Inc.

I just attended my first ConnectForLunch. It was great to meet the other participants over a casual lunch, and visit about their backgrounds and businesses. I will certainly participate again.

Patricia Welch, Owner
Hardware Expressions

Founded two years ago, ConnectForLunch has so far brought its program for building business relationships to many chambers across the U.S. The program is open to chamber of commerce members only. Chambers agree to work with ConnectForLunch because the program helps recruit and retain members.

“A major reason business people join a chamber of commerce is to meet other chamber members,” Lisa Allen, Director of Member Services and Sales says. “In fact, we’ve heard from several other Chambers using ConnectForLunch that business people are joining the Chamber specifically so that they can participate in ConnectForLunch.”

The charges for ConnectForLunch are only $9.95 for two lunches a month and only $17.95 for four lunch meetings per month. Members who are interested in trying out the program can go to lunch four times during a free introductory trial period that the Chamber is offering. The cost of the meals is not included.

Only restaurants that are members of the chamber are used as meeting places.

ConnectForLunch has offices in Santa Fe, N.M., and in the San Francisco area. For more information, go to the company's Web site at www.ConnectForLunch.com/normanok.