Clarkston Chamber eNews Connection
February 8, 2011
Welcome to the Electronic Newsletter of the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce
www.clarkston.org
5856 S. Main St.
Clarkston, MI 48346
248-625-8055
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Chamber President Bill Burr All Saints Cemetery |
Thoughts from your President: Your Attitude is the Key to Your Success
I woke up early today excited about all the many things I would do before the clock strikes midnight. I have many responsibilities to fulfill today. My job is to choose what kind of day I am going to have. Today I can complain because the weather is rainy or II be thankful that the grass is getting watered free. Today I can feel sad that I don’t have more money in my pocket or I can be glad my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste. Today I can grumble about my health or I can rejoice that I am still alive. Today I can lament over all that my parents didn’t give me when I was growing up or I can feel grateful that they allowed me to be born. Today I can cry because roses have thorns or I can celebrate that thorns have roses. Today I can mourn my lack of friends or I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships. Today I can whine because I have to go to work or I can shout for joy because I have a job to do. Today stretches ahead of me waiting to be shaped, and here I am the sculptor who gets to do the shaping. What today and 2011 will be is up to me. I get to choose what kind of day and year I will have. Credited to: Dr. Charles W. Edwards, Jr., Chaplain of the Disabled American Veterans. Continue to prosper, Bill Burr
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Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce
248-625-8055 www.clarkston.org
FACEBOOK 101
Recommended Six-step Approach to Building Your Facebook Page
#1: Objective
First, be clear on what your primary purpose is for your Facebook page. Examples include raising brand awareness, enhancing customer service, building your email list, driving traffic back to your blog, building community, etc.
#2: Design Strategy
Once you’re clear on the objective(s) of your Facebook page, the design needs to reflect that. Say your primary objective is to build your email list. You’ll need to feature at least one opt-in box.
#3: Content Strategy
Ideally, just as with your blog, you’ll have an editorial guide (or content matrix) which includes a plan for publishing a mix of updates, photos, videos, and links.#4: Promotion StrategyNow you’ve built it and need to ensure “they come!” There are many ways to promote your Facebook page inside Facebook, outside Facebook and offline. #5: Engagement StrategyNow you’re starting to gain traction! But you’ll need to allocate resources to ensure your Facebook page is being monitored and moderated—if not always by you, then by your team.
#6: Conversion Strategy
The tipping point in social media is between 500-1,000 fans/followers/friends/email subscribers. You’ll start to see measurable results with this size group. You’ll be building trust and loyalty among your fanbase with consistently good content and reliable responses. Now you must have a strategy in place to convert your fanbase to paying clients or customers.
Take 5 (Five Fast Facts)
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4 color glossy magazine mailed to residents and businesses in the Clarkston area Spring/Summer Edition March 2011 Advertising is now available. |
1. You are Invited! RIBBON CUTTING Field Stone Wedding Chapel & Associates is hosting their Open House, Feb. 8, from 3-7 pm, with the ribbon cutting at 3:30 pm. 15045 Dixie Hwy Stuite E (main level/center) Holly, MI 48442
248-328-0660 or 248-846-8014
2. The Golf Committee is changing things up for 2011! Not only is the Golf Classic date early in June (Monday June 13) but they're changing the format. Not a straight shotgun start SCRAMBLE--like everybody else does--This year's outing will be similar to the Ryder Cup! Beginning and intermediate golfers--no worries! Instead of playing for overall lowest score--you'll be competing for match points (winner of each hole). Experienced Golfers rejoice! Competition pairing will be balanced and exciting. There's something for everyone with the new Chamber Challenge Cup Classic! (including a travelling trophy cup that will be ENGRAVED with the names of the winning team).
3. Doing Business with the State: Getting Involved
The State of Michigan encourages vendors to educate themselves about government contracting, which may provide a wealth of business opportunities. To begin with, vendors should view the state’s Current Contract List to see what kinds of products and services the state is interested in. Additionally, vendors should visit the state’s Purchasing Operations website at http://www.michigan.gov/micontractconnect, to get a general sense about how to do business with the state. For further educational opportunities, the State of Michigan offers free contracting seminars that teach vendors how to register their business and become eligible to bid on state contracts as well as how to write thorough, quality bid proposals. A calendar of upcoming presentations can be viewed here.
4. Oakland County Parks & Recreation Annual Report providing a snapshot of parks, programs and services provided to 1.5 million local and regional visitors annually, 2010 Annual Report is now online at DestinationOakland.com.
5. Michigan Celebrates Small Business
The 2011 Michigan Celebrates Small Business Awards event will be April 28, 2011. Small business owners and supporters come from all across the state to show their support for the winners and support Michigan’s growing companies. On the night of the event, attendees are treated to an hour of hors d’oeuvres with live jazz, a dinner including full-course meal by the Lansing Center’s executive chef and the awards program. During the awards program, an important member of the small business community will act as guest speaker and awards will be presented.
WATCH for information on the nomination process--coming soon!
Upcoming Networking events
CHAMBER BOB
February 10, 2011 7:45-9:00 a.m. |
Belle Visage 6507 Town Center Dr. Clarkston, MI 43846 |
MEMBERS registration $15/person. Non-members $25/person BEST VALUE--MEMBERS Save $5 when you sign up and pay in advance. Early Bird discounts apply to registrations received 48 hours prior to the event. |
Chamber Luncheon Mixer February 17, 2011 11:45-1 pm
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Via Bologna 7071 Dixie Hwy., Clarkston, MI Speaker: Julie Meredith, Independence Twp. Library |
MEMBER Registration $25 Non-member Registration $30 BEST VALUE--MEMBERS Save $5 when you sign up and pay in advance! Early Bird Registration applies to registrations received 48 hours prior to the event. |
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OCN Business Card Exchange Ultimate Sports Bar (Silverdome) February 23, 2011 5:30-7:30 PONTIAC |
MEMBER Registration $15 Non-Member Registration $25 BEST VALUE--MEMBERS Save $5 when you sign up and pay in advance! Reservations should be made with the Pontiac Regional Chamber REGISTER at www.PontiacChamber.com |
Women in Business February 24, 2011 10:45-1 pm |
The Best Defense Speaker: Clarkston Self Defense Fountains 6060 Maybee Rd. Clarkston MI 48346 |
MEMBERS registration $50/person. Non-members $50/person BEST VALUE--MEMBERS Save $20 when you sign up and pay in advance. ($30/person) Early Bird discounts apply to registrations received 48 hours prior to the event. |
Contributor's Corner
- Check out Ron Delorme, Manage Max article in the Contributors Corner
- Check out State Representative Eileen Kowall's Capital Connection in the Contributors Corner Rep. Eileen Kowall seeks to increase safety on gravel roads
- NEW Check out Lou Melone's Dbusiness Web Xtra columns in the Contributors Corner
- NEW Check out Stacy Himmelspach's newsletter in the Contributors Corner
- Check out Advanced Counseling's newslettter in the Contributors Corner
- Check out Chamber Member Lou Melone's interview on From the Top with DBusiness Magazine!
- CHARITABLE GIVING/SAVINGS LaFontaine Automotive Group wanted to invite all of you to come out to our boutique here at the dealership February 1, 2011 through February 12, 2011 and take part in the Lighthouse of Oakland County’s “Career Dress” program. This is how it works. We are asking that you bring a gently used purse and in turn you will receive 30% off the purchase of a new purse. We have many “must have” purses arriving that would be great for Spring and keep in mind that all of the donated purses will go directly to help women in need of a job, dress for the interview. So come out and help us support a great cause and please help spread the word! Thanks so much for your help in advance. Have a great weekend. Carol Peters Office: 248.714.1164 eMail: cpeters@lafontaineauto.com
- NEW CHARITABLE GIVING February - Hope Closet Donation Site
Independence Township Library (6495 Clarkston Road)
Hope Closet makes it possible for all girls to attend prom by providing new or clean, gently used dresses, shoes, purses, and jewelry. Please bring your clean, gently used formal wear to the library to donate to this effort. The library will be collecting items through the end of February.
For more Information about Hope Closet, visit the website http://www.hopecloset.com/
- HEALTH McLaren is now a site thru the Riley Foundation and we are able to offer free mammograms for patients without insurance as long as they are over 40 and live in Oakland County. CLICK for COUPON
- HEALTH Clarkston Hot Yoga now offering ZUMBA Classes ! ! Zumba Wednesday & Saturday morning and Thursday evening. Zumba Gold Tuesday evening. Madison and Robin - certified Zumba instructors will take you through a fun cardio dance workout. No experience needed. Must wear Zumba shoes or socks/bare feet (Zumba shoes highly recommended). $10/session or $40 for 5 sessions (no expiration). This is the only class that is NOT heated! Come check out the new fitness fun. We also offer a new member special $30 for a 15-day trial membership for unlimited use of the studio - Yoga, Pilates and Zumba! Lockerooms w/showers and lockers. 5678 Sashabaw Rd., Clarkston Corner of Sashabaw Rd. and Maybee Rd (in the Kroger shopping center).
- NEW HEALTHJewels Yoga & Fitness
While you "weather the storm", remember to nourish your mind, body and spirit.... Join us on Thursday mornings for Flow Yoga at 9:30 am; a blend of classic teachings with asana flow and breath to help strengthen our whole being. Or, try Yoga Fusion on Saturday's at 8:00am - a warm, healthy class available to all. If you are a self-motivated, open-minded individual without limitation, this is the class for you.
Take a look at all of our classes at www.jewelsyogafitness.com or call 248-390-9270
- HEALTHAt Nuview Nutrition we are excited to announce that BIA testing is now available. Bioelectrical Impedance Analyzer-is a method of assessing your "Body Composition" the measurement of body fat in relation to lean body mass,is an integral part of a health and nutrition assessment. Research has shown that body composition is directly related to health. A normal balance of body fat is associated with good health and longevity. Excess fat in relation to lean body mass known as altered body composition, can greatly increase your risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and more. BIA fosters early detection of an improper balance in your body composition, which allows for earlier intervention and prevention. BIA also provides a measurement of fluid and body mass that can be critical assessment tool for your current state of health If you are interested in having a BIA test call 248-766-2210
- FUNDRAISING OPPORTUNITY Is your organization/club/church looking for a fundraising opportunity that also supports local business? Check out On the Border Gives back Two Fold Letter to Chamber Members
Chamber and Community Events
Mind & Body Wednesdays @ the Independence Township Library
Hear speakers presenting on a variety of health and fitness topics and participate in free sample fitness classes. It’s your chance to “try it before you buy it”. Try something new each week.
Hosted by the Friends of the Independence Township Library
Contact Keegan Sulecki at the library (248.625.2212) for more information.
HEALTH Wednesday, February 16, 2011, 7-8pm
Buddha Fitness
Learn to stay fit without gym equipment while improving mental focus, flexibility, and coordination. Martial Science Fitness in a non-competitive environment focusing on Zazen meditation, core strengthening, stretching and cardio exercises. Wear comfortable clothing. Mark Kopp will be presenting this class. Bring: pilates mat (optional). Liability waiver required for participation.
Independence Township Library
6495 Clarkston Road
248.625.2212
RESCHEDULED RIBBON CUTTING Field Stone Wedding Chapel & Associates is hosting their Open House, Feb. 8, from 3-7 pm, with the ribbon cutting at 3:30 pm. 15045 Dixie Hwy Stuite E (main level/center) Holly, MI 48442
248-328-0660 or 248-846-8014
HEALTH Clarkston Hot Yoga presents "The Workshop" An All Levels Practice - a great informational, hands on yoga workshop on Saturday, February 12, 2011, 11:00am to 2:00pm. $40 (refreshments included). SEE FLYER Conducted by senior teacher Zeek Vincent from our sister studio - Vegas Hot Yoga. Come and enjoy the 18 years of experience and knowledge of one of Las Vegas' most celebrated teachers! His workshop will include a line of selected modifications for poses, injury prevention and alignment tips, posture depth emphasized building blocks for beginners and more! No matter what your experience level is, you will gain much from this workshop. Sign up online at www.clarkstonhotyoga.com or by calling the studio at 248-620-7101. Bring mat, towel, water and come prepared to have a fun afternoon! 5678 Sashabaw Rd, Clarkston. Corner of Sashabaw and Maybee Rd in the Kroger shopping center.
EDUCATION10 Steps to Grow & Protect Your Money
Get started with an easy-to-follow process for organizing, coordinating and managing investments.
Thursday, February 24th, 6:30-8:00pm
IRAs & 401(k)s
Learn the features and benefits of IRAs and 401(k)s, including rollover options, minimum distributions, and other rules.
Independence Township Library
6495 Clarkston Road
248.625.2212
FAMILY March 2nd, 5-8pm On the Border Dr. Suess Party to kick of March is Reading Month FLYER
FAMILY March 2nd, 6:30 pm --50-minute workshop: PARENTS, KIDS AND MONEY
Movies, advertisers, friends . . . they can all affect your childrens' attitudes about life - and money. Find out how to talk with them about influences, choices and responsible money habits.
The workshop is designed for parents and their children, ages 6 - 10. It will help you: Reflect on the values you would like your children to learn, Teach you children about money and values, Learn practical toos to make teaching about money fun.
Cost: FREE Offered by: Elizabeth Kaniarz, When: March 2, 2011 -6:30 p.m.St. Stephen Lutheran School, 4860 Midland Avenue, Waterford, MI 48329 RSVP by 2/18/11 to the school office 248.673.5906
FAMILY March 5, 2011 Mardis Gras Spectacular-- St. Joseph Hall at Our Lady of the Lakes - doors open at 6:30pm
Food, music, Live and Silent Auctions
For tickets please call Kathy Flesher at 248-819-1599.
30$ at the door, 25$ pre-registered
FAMILY March 6, 2011 (12:30 - 3:00 p.m.) "An Adventure with Curious George". Children ages 2 - 6 and their parents are invited to "An Adventure with Curious George". There will be food, music, stories, crafts, games, and a scavenger hung. Please R.S.V.P. 248.673.5906.
St. Stephen Christian Day School, a ministry of St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 4860 Midland Avenue, Waterford, MI 48329
CHARITABLE RACE MARCH 6, 2011 Fight for Air--Climb Detroit, The American Lung Association's Premier Stair climb event. 70 flights of stairs to reach the top of the Renaissance Center, while raising funds and awareness for lung disease. FightforAirClimb.org 1-800-LUNG-USA
HEALTH Smoking Cessation Series - two (two) hour classes offered at Great Lakes Cancer Institute, 5680 Bow Pointe, Clarkston please RSVP to Deanna Hart 248-922-6606.
March 16 and 23rd - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
May 11 and 18th - 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
July 13 and 20th - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
CHARITABLE RACE 4th Annual Angel's Place Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, May 21, 2011 in downtown Clarkston (start/finish at St. Daniel's Church).
RACE Southern Michigan Adventure Racing Team (SMART) will be putting on an "Urban Hybrid" Adventure Race this year (The Blast) in The City of the Village of Clarkston on June 4, 2011. The race will start and end in Depot Park. This will be our second year in The City of the Village of Clarkston. for more information: (http://www.smartblast.org) What's an Urban Hybrid Race? It involves two-person teams competing on foot, on bike and by paddling a canoe. Along the way, each team completes special events. The types of special events as well as the course specifics are only found out on race day.
ENTERTAINMENT Peacefest June 4-5, 2011 is looking for bands and artists. Contact: LA Cafe
ENTERTAINMENT June 4, 2011 M-15 Heritage Route Car Rally (1st Annual) Clarkston to Vassar
NEW FAMILY and ENTERTAINMENT September 2-5 Great Lakes Agricultural Fair at the Silverdome
We LIKE it when you LIKE us. Did you know that you can post information, invitations and offers on the Chamber's Facebook Page? Check it out, post some information, promote your business Facebook page.
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