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Dividends-October 2004 President's Message Dear Friends: I am honored to be writing my first message to you as the president of the Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce. Portsmouth, and the surrounding communities that the Chamber serves, is indeed a very special place. In the 40 years that I have lived in the Seacoast, I have experienced, as you have, many changes. In the midst of those changes we have always been able to nurture what is best about our community while building a better future. I look forward to contributing to that process in the years ahead. Since arriving at the Chamber in late September, I have focused on getting to know our members, connecting with our friends and partners in the community, meeting individually with each member of the staff, and planning with the board of directors. The Chamber staff is exceptional and we are eager to get to work together. The Board is extremely talented and provides strong and thoughtful leadership for the Chamber and the community. Our members are actively engaged in the work we do. Our partners in the community, our civic and political leaders, are optimistic about what the future will bring. I look forward to working with you all. As I have introduced myself to many of you, you have often heard me say that listening well is a good start to building a strong relationship. However, listening is just that, a beginning. What really matters is being able to engage in a conversation, a dialogue, the back and forth with each other that leads to good ideas and a shared sense of purpose. My goal in these early days is to establish the foundation for us all to have a good relationship and productive conversations with each other. Dialogue is something that Portsmouth does particularly well, and we can be proud of that. Our ability to have these conversations with each other will stand us in good stead as we address the issues that impact the quality of our life and local economy. We know what many of the issues are. The cost of providing healthcare and its increasing burden on businesses, both large and small, is a prime example. Developing workforce housing to ensure that a diverse workforce has a home in this community is another. The future of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a third. Transportation and parking…the list goes on. The solutions to issues like these, and how we handle them are not entirely within the influence of the Chamber, or any one member of the community. As we work through them, we will not all agree upon what is the right answer. No one person or entity can wave a magic wand to create the solution that is right for Greater Portsmouth. But we all can be engaged in the process in a meaningful way. The foundation for that is dialogue made possible by good relationships. The Chamber will be a part of finding these solutions. It is essential that we are successful in nurturing our local businesses and attracting new ones to the area. When the business community is doing well, the community as whole will be doing great. Much of the work of the Chamber revolves around making that statement a reality. The diversity of the economy in this area is one of our strengths. We are a world-class tourist destination, an experience which often provides the entrée for a business leader to think about locating his or her company here. We have a lively downtown that helps shape the character of the area and that features one-of-a-kind cultural and historic institutions. The eCoast initiative is on the leading edge of the economy of the future. The entrepreneurial spirit thrives in the many small businesses that call this place home. We are blessed with large companies that are committed to having a positive impact on the community. We are poised to do great things together. Recently, I was quoted as saying that I have the best job in Portsmouth. I really believe that. Your support and enthusiasm as I join the Chamber is more gratifying than I can express. I look forward to working with each of you to create a strong and vibrant future for Greater Portsmouth. If we have not yet met, I look forward to that. I encourage you to call me at the Chamber, (603) 436-3988, ext. 16, or directly at (603) 785-6142, whenever I can be of service to you. Holiday Auction Gala Members Encouraged to Support Members and guests searching for unique holiday gifts should not miss this year's Holiday Auction Gala set for 5-9:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 18 at the Wentworth by the Sea-A Marriott Hotel & Spa in New Castle, N.H. Over the next several weeks, members of the Chamber's auction committee will be canvassing the Seacoast business community for a representative sampling of special and unique items. Members of the committee are: Lisa DeStefano, DeStefano Architects, chair; Kelly Wright, CobbleHill Antiques; Michelle Firmbach, Irving Oil; Christine McKinney, Arbonne International; Shawn Shapiro, Port City Chiropractor; Doreen Austin, AdminiStaff; Christopher Houldsworth, Cousins Home Lending; Sarah Robillard, Fleet Bank and Rick Lafleur, Norton Financial Services. The Chamber is currently in the process of soliciting donations for this year's auction and looking for volunteers to help create this popular annual fundraising event. All contributors become part of a catalog that includes information on donating businesses as well as full descriptions of the auction items. Items on the block this year will include cruises, antique furniture, a stay in a French castle, sports event tickets, jewelry, restaurant gift certificates and passes to kid's attractions. Chamber members interested in contributing to the auction, and harnessing its marketing and visibility benefits, may contact Nicole Gregg, the Chamber's events manager, at (603) 436-3988 or ngregg@portsmouthchamber.org. For a preview of this year's items, vist the Chamber's website at www.portsmouthchamber.org/auction2004.cfm. Breakfast to Explore State Industry Leaders The Chamber invites members to learn about the economic impact of tourism on the Greater Seacoast area at a Fleet Speaker Series breakfast forum set for 7:30-9 a.m., Oct. 20 at Redhook Ale Brewery. The breakfast will feature a look at the future of the state's tourism sector and how the Seacoast figures in the $2.5 billion the industry generates. Featured speakers include Paul Hartgen, president of the NH Lodging and Restaurant Association, Karen Peterson, Davidson, Peterson & Associates (a marketing research agency specializing in travel and tourism), Shari Young, vice president and general manager of the Sheraton Harborside Portsmouth Hotel and Alice DeSouza, new director of the NH Division of Travel and Tourism. According to Hartgen "as New Hampshire looks to raise revenue without raising taxes, it's crucial to fund tourism promotion. Studies show that for every $1 the state invests in tourism promotion, it receives over $8 in tax revenue. That kind of return on investment is vitally important to the state, and to local communities. As more revenue is generated, more money flows back to cities and towns across the state. For example, in Fiscal Year 2003, Portsmouth was budgeted to receive $629,476 from tourism tax revenue-and 85 percent of that revenue comes from non residents of the state." Cost of the breakfast is $12 for members and $15 for nonmembers. Those interested should reserve a seat by contacting Diane Burch at (603) 436-3988, ext. 13 or email dburch@portsmouthchamber.org. Year of the Customer Session to Focus on Using Learn how to Harness Your Customers as Your Primary Marketing Tool in the final session of the Year of the Customer Series set for 8-10 a.m., Nov. 10 at the NH Community Technical College. The seminar, underwritten by Federal Savings Bank will focus on implementing programs to encourage satisfied customers to actually act on your behalf. Cost of the seminar is $10 for Chamber members and $15 for nonmembers. Seating is limited. To RSVP, contact Ginny Griffith, the Chamber's business development manager, at (603) 436-3988, ext. 14 or email ggriffith@portsmouthchamber.org For more details on the program and speaker biographies, visit www.portsmouthchamber.org/yotc4.cfm. Former Intern Fills In as Katie Goodspeed, a Chamber membership intern since June, has been named interim membership manager. She takes over for Kendra Frangos who will be on maternity leave through December. Over the past several months, Goodspeed has worked with Frangos updating member information packages and online resources, as well as supporting other membership programs. After graduating from Bates College in 2001, Goodspeed said she tried a few different types of jobs including teaching French and working in sales and marketing. Her college background focused primarily on political science with a concentration in international studies including studies in Sydney, Australia and London, England. "My passion is international business and after a few years in the "real world" I decided to go back to school and get my master's degree in organizational management at the School for International Training. I became interested in Chambers of Commerce after doing a marketing plan for the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce. Working at the Chamber has been a wonderful experience and I am so lucky to have the opportunity to work with such a great group of people. I am also very excited that they have asked me to stay on as interim membership manager." Members may contact Goodspeed at (603) 436-3988, ext. 18 or email kgoodspeed@portsmouthchamber.org. Chamber Events YEAR OF THE CUSTOMER SEMINAR 3 Turning the Voice of Your Customers into Exciting New Products and Services was the focus of Seminar 3 in the Chamber's Year of the Customer Series. The program, underwritten by Federal Savings Bank, was held Sept. 14 at NH Community Technical College located at the Pease International Tradeport. Featured speakers at the seminar included Michael Brassard, Brassard Management Services; Paul Young, principal, Calypso Communications; Patricia Lynch, executive director for The Music Hall; and Maribeth Girard, director of marketing for Seacoast Newspapers. The common theme among the panelists was to develop the skill of listening to customers-and give them what they want, expect and appreciate. Lynch said that she "leads to satisfy" by listening to loyal patrons, getting staff to report on comments they hear when they're out and about, holding focus groups, conducting online surveys and evaluating her own personal interactions. She said "recognize creative tension between the old and the new. Razzle dazzle your customers and don't apologize for introducing something new, never substitute cynicism about what's been done for enthusiasm about what could be done, keep what they love still in front of them and don't mess with emotional traditions. Young talked about his firm's model of creating successful customer relationships by listening to find out about a customer's culture, goals, needs, constraints and opportunities; acting to match your skills, services and products to meet the personal and business needs of your customers; and telling others what you've done to serve your customers. BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT COUGHLIN, RAINBOTH, MURPHY & LOWN It looked more like a block party as more than 100 Chamber members and guests gathered on the lawn of Coughlin, Rainboth, Murphy & Lown Sept. 23 for the monthly business after hours. The local law firm pulled out all the stops for the evening which featured a smorgasbord of catered delights and an ample supply of refreshments for the energetic crowd which circulated in and around the white marquee and the firm's historic offices. Some lucky guests left the event with more than a few new contacts and acquaintances. Mark Syracusa, Apple Painting & Restoration, won a gift certificate for classes at O2 Yoga; Bicycle Bob Shouse, Bicycle Bob's Bicycle Outlet, picked up a $50 gift certificate for Serendipity; Mary Ham, Service Credit Union, drew a gift certificate to the Flower Kiosk; Sean Clancy, Success Coach, won a bottle of wine courtesy of Cornerstone Title; Michael LaBarre, Seacoast Business Machines, picked up a gift certificate for a meal at the Wentworth Marina's Dinghy Dock; Jamilla Taylor, Seacoast Harley Davidson, won Red Sox tickets trivia contest and Monica Dorley, Idea Outfitters, drew the member of the month profile on the Chamber's website. BREAKFAST FORUM WITH AUTHOR JAY CONNORS "How can communities succeed?" That was the question posed by Author Joseph "Jay" Connor as he addressed more than 50 Chamber members and guests at the Fleet Speaker Series Breakfast held Sept. 28 at Redhook Ale Brewery. The program was co-hosted by the Chamber and United Way of the Greater Seacoast. Connor is the founder and chief executive of the Collaboratory for Community Support and author of the book, Community Visions, Community Solutions: Grantmaking for Comprehensive Impact. An organization and a manual dedicated to getting local businesses, agencies and communities to work together to solve common problems rather than working separately in their own individual "silos." He also served in leadership positions in major corporations like ADT Security Systems. "Something I learned early on is that no matter how strong the individual nonprofits are it is very difficult for them to succeed in our complex communities. While the strength of these organizations is very necessary, it's not enough to get us to a strong community impact," said Connor. Connor said successful communities have a shared understanding of what everyone is trying to accomplish. Connor added that what he finds "is that we have fragmented the work so much in the community that it's impossible for us to articulate comprehensive impact and community results." To overcome those tendencies, Connor said local agencies have to put energy into doing things differently and getting the community as a whole to participate in identifying needs and working to implement solutions. He added that he has been to countless communities that have book shelves on top of bookshelves of needs assessments, data, indicator reports, smart growth and sustainability-"but there's no action." "To be able to get results, we have to change the way we work," said Connor. Chamber Calendar Breakfast Forum on Discover How Tourism Contributes to 7:30 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 20 Join us to discover how tourism contributes to the local economy and how it generates revenue for communities. The breakfast, part of the Fleet Speaker Series, will also feature a look at the future of the state's tourism sector and how the Seacoast figures in the $2.5 billion the industry generates. Featured speakers include Paul Hartgen, president of the NH Lodging and Restaurant Association, Karen Petersen, Davidson, Peterson & Associates (a marketing research agency specializing in travel and tourism), Shari Young, vice president and general manager of the Sheraton Harborside Portsmouth Hotel and Alice DeSouza, new director of the NH Division of Travel and Tourism. New Hampshire, like every other state, is faced with the challenge of increasing revenue without overtaxing residents. Tourism has proven to be one of the most effective and equitable means of accomplishing that goal. In New Hampshire, over $165 million of tax revenue was generated in 2003 thanks to tourism. And $36 million of that revenue went back to local communities. Best of all, 85% of tourism spending is generated by non-residents, representing over $140 million in tax revenue in 2003 that did not have to be paid by New Hampshire residents. Admission is $12 for Chamber members and $15 for nonmembers. Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP by contacting Diane Burch at (603) 436-3988, ext. 13 or email dburch@portsmouthchamber.org. Business After Hours 5:30-7:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 21 Join us to welcome Ocean National Bank to downtown Portsmouth at the October Business After Hours. The bank staff is excited to show off their new headquarters at the corner of State and Fleet Street and celebrate their 150th birthday with a party that's sure to include great food, great company and a host of great door prizes. Ocean operates branches from Kennebunk to Keene and prides itself on supporting businesses and business professionals with full-spectrum support in all areas of financial expertise. So make plans to meet the new hometown finance professionals at this fall fling. Mid-Day Meet Make Plans to Hone Your Networking Noon-1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 21 If getting to know people at big events is a little overwhelming, the Chamber now has something for you-the Mid-Day Meet Brown Bag Networking Lunch. The monthly sessions run from noon to 1 p.m., the third Thursday of each month in the Chamber conference room. Seats are limited, so those interested should contact Ginny Griffith, the Chamber's business development manager, to RSVP at (603) 436-3988, ext. 14 or ggriffith@portsmouthchamber.org. Seacoast Chambers Noon-7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 28 You're invited to the 15th Annual Seacoast Chambers Business Expo--one of the Seacoast's biggest business events. The Expo, entitled Bridging the Seacoast is set for noon to 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 28 at the Pease International Tradeport's Flextronics Building at 166 Corporate Ave.. The new location features outstanding parking facilities as well as convenient access off Routes 16 and 95. Over its 15-year history, the Expo has attracted businesses from a wide array of industries including tourism, high-tech, financial services, Internet and telecommunication service providers, and others. "This year's show is for members only and will not be open to the public--it's an opportunity for the more than 3,500 member businesses to see and be seen," according to organizers. The program will feature a keynote luncheon at noon, followed by open exhibits at 1 p.m. and a combined Business After Hours from 5-7 p.m. Underwritten by Public Service of NH, the Expo is a cooperative effort of the Dover, Exeter, Hamptons, Portsmouth, Rochester, Somersworth and York Chambers of Commerce. The event is co-sponsored by D.F. Richard Energy, Feliciano Limousine, LLC, LifeSize Graphics, Lightship Telecom, Northeast Credit Union, TTLC Internet and Unitil in partnership with he NH Air National Guard remains a partner of the expo, along with the NH Department of Resources and Economic Development (DRED). NH Business Review is the expo media partner. For more information, visit www.dovernh.org/SeacoastChambers/Expo.htm or contact Nicole Gregg at (603) 436-3988 or email ngregg@portsmouthchamber.org. eBrew Join the Crew Driving the Seacoast 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 4 Join us for the monthly eBrew at The Press Room on Daniel St. in Portsmouth. The event is open to the employees and guests of all local high-tech businesses and the local business community. The Chamber thanks The Press Room for helping to make this event possible. For more on the monthly eBrew and Roundtable activities, surf over to www.ecoast.org. Holiday Auction Gala Join Us for A Special Evening 5-9:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 18 Overlooking the scenic waters of Little Harbor, the Wentworth by the Sea Hotel will add a special ambience to this year's Holiday Auction which will feature an atmospheric evening of fun and networking --not to mention an opportunity to pick up some of the most unique holiday gifts anywhere. The staff of the rejuvenated grand hotel have a special evening planned including a menu of their finest cuisine presented in an atmosphere of elegant holiday ambience. Don't miss this chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the season for a chance at great bargains. This year's event is graciously underwritten by the Wentworth. Chamber members interested in contributing to the auction, and harnessing its marketing and visibility benefits, may contact Nicole Gregg, the Chamber's events manager, at (603) 436-3988 or ngregg@portsmouthchamber.org. Movers and Shakers New Generation, Inc., a shelter for homeless pregnant women and mothers of young children, recently received help from area businesses to meet its ongoing mission. Its three community services- a daycare, thrift shop, and furniture barn- are reaping benefits as well. Supporting businesses include: Lawn Doctor of Portsmouth and Exeter, Hoyt's Carpet and Tile, Condon Sign Maintenance, Dominoes Pizza in North Hampton and York's Wild Animal Kingdom. For more on the agency, visit www.newgenerationinc.org. Watson Communication Group, Inc., an integrated marketing communications firm based in Portsmouth, N.H., was recently named the winner of the 2004 International ECHO Award, a prestigious award given out by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) each year for the best in direct marketing. Pamela Watson, principal of Watson Communication Group, and Cynthia Stave, creative director, will be traveling to New Orleans Oct. 17 to receive the award. The Children's Museum of Portsmouth recently held its 18th annual Golf Classic at the Wentworth By The Sea Country Club in Rye and netted proceeds of $16,000 to support the museum's "Reach All Initiative." The unique program allows families in need to participate in the museum's educational workshops and camps. With 25 percent more players than last year and dozens of prizes donated by local businesses, the Children's Museum 2004 Golf Classic was successful for all involved. The staff thanks the many local businesses that supported the tournament. For more on the museum, visit www.childrens-museum.org. Peter Hamblett, president and CEO of Federal Savings Bank, recently announced the promotion of Jugmi Rao to the position of mortgage originator. Rao has a background in marketing, administration and management, and brings 11 years of professional experience to her new position. For more on FSB, visit www.fsbdover.com. The American Lung Association of New Hampshire recently announced its 2004-2005 elected officers. The positions are: Chair - Daniel Fortin, Executive Vice President - New Hampshire Audubon Society; Vice Chair - Ann McArdle, President - The McArdle Group; Treasurer - Elliot Lerner, Tax Principal - Berry, Dunn, McNeil, and Parker; Secretary - Jamie Bulen, Associate State Director of Communications, AARP NH; and Immediate Past Chair - Mark R. Windt, MD - Center for Asthma, Allergy and Respiratory Disease. For details visit www.nhlung.com. The Lollipop Tree, a specialty food manufacturer based in Portsmouth, N.H., recently announced the addition of a Pumpkin Spice Pancake Mix to its specialty line. The mix features the traditional fall medley of pumpkin and spice which goes good with the company's real maple syrup or vanilla ice cream and Lollipop Tree Pumpkin Maple Pecan Butter. To find out more, visit www.lollipoptree.com. Keith Emerson has resumed the position of senior vice president and general manager of Lee Hecht Harrison's Manchester office. Emerson, who has been with the company for six years, will oversee the marketing, sales and deliver of the office's career services and will focus on expanding business relationships in the area. The newest state-of-the-art print and graphic services are now available at the York Copy Center which joins sister companies Portsmouth Copy and LifeSize Graphics. Bill Hurley, owner of all three companies opened the new store Aug. 2. York Copy Center offcers full copying and clor digital printing services as well as wide format copying for the construction community. To find out more, visit www.yorkcopycenter.com. PMI-NH, New Hampshire's chapter of the Project Management Institute invites Chamber members to its next chapter meeting. The meeting is set for 6-9 p.m., Oct. 20 at the Inn at Hampton. Stephen A. Devaux, PMP, President of Analytic Project Management of Bedford, Mass., will speak on Moneyproject: Baseball, Metrics, and Proje
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