EVOLVE Business and Professional Magazine February 2018 | Page 39

For nearly 100 years the Daytona Regional Chamber has had a
very rich history of being looked at as an organization that can bring
the right people to the table to discuss issues and move forward
of the chamber rather than raise funds through very individualized
products, events and opportunities associated with membership.
The Chamber of the future will continue to work towards
with solutions. While not all decisions and actions are agreed upon bringing all sides of government towards the center. It does this
by all in a community, it is the approach of the Chamber to build a boldly, without apology, as long as the end game is movement
strong center of commerce that will lead towards the betterment of a forward on many very complex issues. It attempts to take the politics
community as a whole. out of politics by communicating and offering solutions where there
What does the Chamber of the future look like? It likely looks is disagreement. In the end, the work of a chamber advocating for a
similar in that it represents a community of people trying to solve fair and equitable business environment will be the differentiator in
very complex issues in their communities. It means that, as an the success of a community and the Chamber. We will not be fearful
organization, we will find a way to connect with modern forms of of tough issues like homelessness, blight, the economic stratification
engagement by using technology while not forgetting the power of our community, or the needs of those who are working pay check
of the chamber’s history of bringing together influencers in a to pay check. We will, however, be the cheerleaders for all that’s
community in a face-to-face forum. No virtual networking or use of right with our community while dealing with the less positive
social media will ever take the place of true honest dialogue when issues intentionally, often times behind the scenes, while
people are in a room together. Members will continue to look to providing solutions.
the chamber to be an influence in the commerce of their area and
The Chamber of the future will be diverse in its representation
most importantly to be the sane center for political action. This also and will not reflect “your grandfather’s chamber”, where those
means that chambers will need to look at how to fund the mission sitting around the table all look alike. We will be different in age,
INVESTOR SPOTLIGHT
NEVER REST
John Ferguson
Shareholder, Cobb Cole PA
As one of Florida’s leading law firms, Cobb Cole has been known for
effective legal representation and active community service for more
than eighty years. The firm considers its investment in Team Volusia
and active engagement in the economic development process as priority
commitments. Its leaders know that attracting successful companies
in select industries is good for the area and good for the residents
of Volusia County. When it comes to working with its fellow Team
Volusia investors, Cobb Cole never rests.
TeamVolusiaEDC.com
386.265.6332
FEBRUARY 2018 | 39 |