Recognizing opportunity

It is noteworthy how one looks at opportunity. Opportunity is defined as a set of circumstances providing the possibility to attain a goal. Some might consider opportunity a stroke of good fortune that is either grasped or lost. Others know that we are faced with a myriad of great opportunities disguised as often-impossible situations.

I once read a story about two market analysts who were sent independently to one of the world’s less-developed countries by a large shoe manufacturer. The first report sent back to the corporate office read, “No market here. Nobody wears shoes.” The other, a more promising note, depending of course on how you look at it, read, “Great market here. Nobody has any.” No doubt an opportunity if you are thinking positively.

In light of this most challenging global economy, I firmly believe that opportunities surround us if we boldly and creatively take advantage of the possibilities to collaborate and make things happen. Let me share with you some examples that illustrate the spirit of cooperation, persistence and determination I see daily in my role at the Northwest Connecticut Chamber of Commerce.

You are just making the deadline for registration for the 14th Annual WOW Forum on Friday at the Carole & Ray Neag Performing Arts Center at The Warner Theatre. So to wowforum.org to register of call us. You should not miss this one special day.

Please join us for the series of Candidate Roundtables. Jahana Hayes joins us Monday at 4 p.m. at the Chamber

State Senatorial candidates will meet Oct. 11 at 7:30 a.m. at NCCC.

Candidates for state Representative join us Oct. 19 at NCCC.

Ned Lamont will be at Chamber Oct. 22 at 11:30 a.m. and Oz Griebel joins us Oct. 24 at 12 p.m. at the Chamber. We’re still scheduling others that will interest you.

The Chamber had the good fortune to work with the Connecticut Department of Labor and the Northwestern Connecticut Community College this week to present the CT Learns & Works Breakfast Symposium. A number of outstanding panelists shared the opportunities and challenges in today’s technology driven economy. The word “collaboration” came up frequently. It was reassuring to hear that, despite the challenges, opportunity abounds!

We are seizing the opportunity to make great strides. Now, more than ever, we need you to join us in our efforts to build and sustain a vibrant business community.