‘You’ve gotta have heart ...’

I love hearts. They seem to appear on everything … heart thumbtacks holding the chamber’s mission, a heart pin with the stars and stripes, heart frames with my beautiful grandchildren, heart sticky notes to remind me of important dates, heart paper clips, a heart paperweight, a heart ornament hanging on my office door, a heart box for keys and probably more.

Somehow, I connect my heartbeat to that of the Chamber. From my perspective, I think of the lyrics from that popular song.

“You’ve gotta have heart!” You must wonder how we accomplish so much. It would not be possible without the efforts of corporate partners, premier members, members, the board of directors, volunteers and staff. They all have heart – healthy ones at that so we send Valentines to all of them!

“All you really need is heart.” The sponsors of our Business After Hours have big, generous hearts as they open up their business and welcome hundreds of members and guests. This offers an opportunity to learn all about one of the region’s successful businesses and to make new connections for your own business. Drop everything in a heartbeat and consider becoming a part of the Chamber to take advantage of these networking events.

“When the odds are sayin’ you’ll never win, that’s when the grin should start!” We smile often and are more determined than ever when we are told we can’t win. The best testimonials come from the small businesses who are participating in the Great Giveaway Business Showcase, April 1 from 4 to 7 at Chatterley’s Banquet Facility. We’re grinning because the results are positive. Call to register.

“You’ve gotta have hope! Mustn’t sit around and mope.” I know that there may be some of you whose lives have changed due to the downsizing in the labor market. I would suggest that there are strong companies who are adding to their workforce. Come to the Job Fair, March 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Torrington City Hall. Update your resume and plan on attending.

“When your luck is battin’ zero, get your chin up off the floor.” We know it’s tough it is to do business in this economy, that there are not enough customers coming through the door and that overhead continues to increase. Well, let’s do something about it. Join us on in Hartford for Connecticut Business Day on March 4 to hand deliver the 2020 Legislative Agenda. We refuse to let these issues zap our energy or our hearts.

“There’s nothin’ to it, but to do it.” Sign up for the Chamber Seminar Series beginning Feb. 11. Topic of importance to kick off the series is “Managing a Multi-Generational Workforce.” We need to all work together to wholeheartedly make this a better place in which to live and work.

“You’ve gotta have heart! Miles and miles and miles of heart!” The heartbeat continues. This week, send a card, make a phone call, drop off a canned good, kiss a loved one, hug your children and grandchildren, deliver some sweets to your colleagues and do it with heart. To all who are working with us to boost the economy business by business …our heartfelt thanks. HappyValentine’s Day.

JOANN RYAN