Anyone who knows me, knows that I love win-win partnerships. Over the years, there have been many that I’ve enjoyed. One of my favorites, however, has been the ongoing partnership with the Bossier Chamber of Commerce.
I remember when then Chamber Executive Director Don Pierson reached out to me about a partnership with the Bossier Press-Tribune. We published “Chamber Update” pages for our readers for many years as a result of that partnership.
When Lisa Johnson became the President of the Chamber, the partnerships continued. From opportunities to print the Annual Report to sponsorships, to the very publication you have in your hands (or on your screen) right now, we have been partners with the Bossier Chamber for a long, long time.
I was honored to serve on the Chamber Board for 12 years, chairing the organization in 2016. That seems like a lifetime ago now.
When BIZ. Magazine launched in 2010, one of our first partners to step up and work with us was the Bossier Chamber of Commerce. It truly has been a win-win.
As the world has grown, pivoted, and changed, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce has continued to innovate to meet the needs of its membership, and the new demands in the marketplace.
When COVID-19 changed our lives (and businesses) forever, the Bossier Chamber was there, ready to serve in any capacity needed. Watching them work during this time was truly awe-inspiring.
This special edition of BIZ. Magazine, produced in partnership with the Bossier Chamber is a celebration of those that led the way in 2020. But make no mistake, the Bossier Chamber is definitely one of those too.
On the pages that follow are some of the accomplishments of the Chamber, the finalists for the various chamber awards for 2020, and information from the chamber sponsors that made it all possible.
Many of you will read this edition while attending the 2021 Bossier Chamber Annual Gala. Others may be reading it at the office, having received it in the mail. I encourage you to read every page of this edition. The Chamber Gala pages are clearly marked with the gala logo, while the business news of the regular monthly edition is located on the pages that follow them.
Often, people ask the question, “What has the chamber of commerce ever done for me?” It doesn’t take much research to see the value that a chamber brings, in just about every community and to every member. See for yourself in this month’s edition of BIZ.
David Specht | President of Specht Newspapers, Inc.