New chamber chair has high expectations

In his first meeting as chairman of the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce, Mark Valentine served notice that he has high expectations for the coming year.

The general manager of Tanger Outlets let his board of directors know last Friday morning that he expects members to “challenge the status quo,” participate in all chamber events, develop a 3-5-year strategic plan and establish “measurable goals” relating to membership and finances.

One of his goals, Valentine said, is “to create an environment where we have a challenging attitude. I want to foster an environment where the board of directors is encouraged to challenge the status quo at all times. We want to be aggressive and avoid the pitfalls that boards fall into where they’re relaxed.”

By the February meeting, Valentine said he would establish goals for membership and finances.

For the full story, read The Commerce News.