2014 has been a very good year for Morgan Hill ’ s Chamber of Commerce . Our major events including the “ Celebrate Morgan Hill ” awards ceremonies , “ Rock the Mock ” high school student coaching program , “ Friday Night Music ” free community concert series and Fall ’ s capstone “ Taste of Morgan Hill ” festival were all extremely successful both from a community building standpoint and as financial endeavors . We often say that no organization should be focused primarily on the money , but every organization must be thoughtful and effective in managing its finances in order to succeed . Our deepest appreciation and gratitude goes out to the sponsors , volunteers and participants who came together to make these events happen .

An effective Chamber of Commerce , however , is much more than an events management organization . Our efforts in Economic Development this past year have been focused on both tourism and long-term , highquality job creation . From a tourism perspective , we formed Morgan Hill Presents to bring together organizers of events which have a major tourist draw in order that these organizers can be more productive in the use of their resources . Formal and informal collaboration between these groups has yielded cost savings , operational improvements and enhanced cross-promotional activities . Another major collaboration , this one led by the Wineries of Santa Clara Valley , culminated in the installation of a complete wine trail signage series throughout Southern Santa Clara County . On the other side of the job creation equation , we have been engaged in a joint project to capture and promote the business success stories of larger businesses within Morgan Hill . Going forward , we will be using these success stories to encourage other companies to locate and / or expand in Morgan Hill .

Speaking of which , now is the time when we are very focused on our plans and priorities for the year ahead . If you have an interest in being more involved with the Chamber , email me ( john @ morganhill . org ) and we will find you a way to “ plug in .” We are also calling for nominations for 2015 ’ s Woman of the Year , Man of the Year , Business of the Year , Educator of the Year , Student of the Year and Volunteer of the Year . If you know of worthy candidates for this honor , please download and complete a nomination form from morganhill . org . Thank you for your interest in our community !

Taste Of Morgan Hill

Friday Night Music

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Morgan Hill Today 2014 09 Fall | Page 68

Chamber Celebrates Good Year !