CITY COMMENTARY: CHAMBER HELPS AREA BUSINESS, INDUSTRY, CITY

A question many individuals ask is, "What does the Chamber of Commerce do?" This is a simple question with a complex answer.

The Jackson Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization representing business, industry and professionals interested in promoting the economic and general welfare of our community. The chamber is governed by a board of directors, which meets on the second Wednesday of each month. The location of the meeting varies and is announced through the monthly newsletter published by the chamber.

The organization has a number of committees which work and promote different avenues of community life. Some of the committees are: membership, education, industrial relations, service clubs, tourism, agri-business and governmental affairs.

Chamber committee work is just a small part of members' activities. The chamber is used as a resource by many residents, businesses, industries and governmental organizations in coordinating various activities.

The chamber participated with the city of Jackson in erecting a new welcome sign on Highway 61 East, the purchase of new Christmas lights and the organization and operation of the Tourism Committee.

The chamber assists and supports the Jackson Jaycees in their annual Christmas parade, Fourth of July events and the Bundle of Joy program. Members also support the Jackson Merchants Association's "Good Ole Days" each year in uptown Jackson.

The annual Agri-Business Tour, held in July, alternates each year in visits to agricultural business and industry. The 1995 tour included visits to a national poultry producer, a 200-acre fish farm, a University of Missouri test farm and a farm featuring satellite imaging technology. The 1996 tour will feature business and industry in the area.

The Jackson Chamber of Commerce operates in and owns the Historic Old Post Office at 125 E. Main St. The building was repainted this summer, and improvements on handicap accessibility and new air conditioning were installed.

Chamber membership includes individuals, organizations, businesses, industries and medical professionals. The force of organized business functioning within the chamber is an effective influence for the purpose of improving the community.

Membership is growing. The cost of membership is very affordable when one considers its social, educational and economic value. The best avenue for the development of a small business is through active participation in the civic and economic affairs of the area.

Larry Hall is president of the Jackson Chamber of Commerce.