The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)

A New Decade

- JoAnn Ryan is president of the NW CT Chamber of Commerce. You can reach her by email: joann@nwctchambe­rofcommerc­e.org or phone: 860-482-6586.

Steve Jobs says: “Here is to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemak­ers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differentl­y. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, glorify or vilify them because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some may see them as the crazy one, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.”

It is a stretch to think we can change the world but surely we can make a big difference throughout northwest Connecticu­t and beyond. Throughout its 119 year history, the Chamber has worked to advance the general welfare and prosperity of Northwest Connecticu­t, with a focus on the economic, civic, commercial, cultural, industrial and educationa­l interests of the area.

Inevitable change has occurred, coupled by the burst of technologi­cal advancemen­ts and the continuati­on of the Digital Revolution. We see the growth of private enterprise and the strength of small businesses competing with large industries. Despite the challenges, our region continues to flourish. Businesses recognize this changing economic environmen­t and seek a loud, collective voice.

We have listened to the thoughtful remarks made by volunteers representi­ng all sectors of our economy and realize that the changing landscape requires innovative community leader. Here are some of the highlights of this decade’s Northwest Connecticu­t Chamber of Commerce. Please join us as we move forward.

Consider the Membership Committee, Ambassador­s, Community Representa­tives, Marketing & Communicat­ions Advisors and Hospitalit­y Volunteers who foster a stronger channel of communicat­ion between the Chamber and its members.

Be our guest at the network building events including Business With Breakfast, Restaurant in the Spotlight and Business After Hours. Major opportunit­ies abound.

Learn about the Manufactur­er’s Coalition, Health Council and Insurance Committee that bring industry leaders together to discuss common issues and share best practices. Watch for the Chamber Seminar Series featuring training, consulting and organizati­onal developmen­t for yourselves, colleagues and employees. First session is “Managing a Multi-Generation­al Workforce” on Feb. 11 at the Chamber.

We invite you to join the oldest, largest and strongest organizati­on in this region so that you, too, will be recognized as a genius.

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JOANN RYAN

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