Coffee & Contacts: SkateDaze
Tuesday, September 9 |  7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
SkateDaze
3616 South 132nd St.

Get your morning off to a great start by attending Coffee & Contacts. Make connections and share ideas, so bring plenty of business cards. The environment for this networking opportunity is SkateDaze, an indoor, climate-controlled environment packed full of fun activities featuring rock climbing, bumper cars, a roller coaster, a skating rink and arcade games. Visit their Web site at www.skatedaze.com

There is no charge if reservations are made in advance. The cost is $5 at the door, if space is available.

Reservations by | September 8 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Networking 101
Tuesday, September 9 |  3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce - West Office
13206 Grover St.

Learn, review and practice your networking skills! At Networking 101, you’ll find out how to get the most out of the Chamber’s networking events. Sessions are 90 minutes and there is no cost.

Reservations by | September 8 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Chamber Academy: Recognizing and Valuing Workplace Diversity
Wednesday, September 10 |  8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commece - Downtown office
1301 Harney St.

Explore ways that all generations can work together to achieve company goals and objectives. Learn how to use diversity to help create a high performance team.

Cost per person is $20.

Reservations by | September 8 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Member Orientation - SOLD OUT
Thursday, September 11 |  7:15 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce - west office
13206 Grover St.

Member Orientation is a great way to break the ice and begin getting the most out of your Chamber membership. And it can lead to lifelong relationships with other members of the business community.

There is no charge for this event.

Reservations by | September 10 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Washington, D.C., Federal Fly-In
Tuesday, September 16 - Thursday, September 18 |  All Day Event
Washington, D.C.

The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce and the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce are once again partnering to host a Federal Fly-In. In addition to meeting with policymakers and federal officials regarding several different issues, including meeting with This year’s group will meet with Frank Newport, editor and chief of the Gallup Poll, to discuss the national political climate, upcoming elections and the importance of Nebraska's electoral votes. This is your opportunity to spend three days with over 100 CEOs, managers, small business owners and elected officials – including Governor Dave Heineman.

In addition to meetings and networking, we have plans to enjoy some highlights of our nation’s capital. Last year the trip featured a tour of the redevelopment area that is anchored by the new Nationals Park, home of the Washington Nationals. This year’s trip includes watching the Washington Nationals face the New York Mets Tuesday evening in the new stadium. HDR, Inc. and HOK Sport are sponsoring the evening at the ballpark. Wednesday's event will be an evening cruise down the Potomac. Look forward to seeing the monuments lit up at night while enjoying hors d'oeuvres and drinks on a beautiful ship. The event is sponsored by AAA Nebraska.

This unique opportunity to travel, meet and socialize with congressional members, their staff and fellow participants provides an opportunity to share experiences and conversations that don't occur in a traditional business setting.

The trip includes:

Charter Airfare

Events

Meals

The Nebraska Breakfast

Ground transportation

Two nights at the historic Westin on Embassy Row

A $750 non-refundable deposit is required by August 1 to reserve your place in the delegation. Full payment is due by Aug. 15.

Reservations by | August 15 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

YPC Breakfast with a CEO
Thursday, September 18 |  7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce
1301 Harney St.

Your opportunity to meet and visit with Omaha's top leaders. Learn, connect and get involved while creating a dialogue between established and emerging leadership in Omaha.

Leaders
Rex Fisher - Qwest Communications
Jamie Gutierrez - Midwest Maintenance
Rodrigo Lopez - AmeriSphere Financial LLC.
Lyn Wallin Ziegenbein - Peter Kiewit Foundation

Reservations by | September 16 to Kirsten at kcase@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7945

 

2008 Golden Spike Awards
Tuesday, September 23 |  7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
Holiday Inn Omaha Convention Center
3321 S. 72nd St.

Area businesses are recognized for their key leadership roles in Greater Omaha's growth and development. Each recipient demonstrated a passion for excellence, steadfast dedication to product quality and a sound business plan.

The 2008 Golden Spike Award winners are:
Armored Knights, Inc.
The Maids International
Simmonds Restaurant Management, Inc.
United Seeds Inc.
Watkins Concrete Block
Westin Foods

Winners are selected by the Chamber's Economic Development Council and Small Business Council.

Also during the awards ceremony, Chamber President and CEO David G. Brown will give a behind the scenes look at the Chamber's efforts to continually drive Greater Omaha’s momentum forward through partnerships with other key organizations and the introduction of new initiatives.

The breakfast is sponsored by Northwest Bank.

Reservations by | September 19 to Susan at shart@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7937

 

Networking 101
Tuesday, September 23 |  3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce - West Office
13206 Grover St.

With daily opportunities to network, you need to prepare effectively. Maximize those opportunities by treating networking as an enjoyable chance to meet new people, share business tips and form a relationship that may lead to a referral.

Register now for Networking 101. Sessions run 90 minutes and there is no charge.

Reservations by | September 22 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Secretary of State Diplomatic Conference
Wednesday, September 24 |  All Day Event
Embassy Suites Omaha - Downtown/Old Market
555 South 10th St.

Nebraska Secretary of State John Gale and the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce are co-hosting Nebraska: America’s International Heartland, the secretary of state’s third annual diplomatic conference. The conference will introduce international guests to the dynamic and progressive spirit of Nebraska as a place to do business.

Governor Heineman is the breakfast keynote speaker and former Nebraska Congressman Doug Bereuter, now president and CEO of The Asia Foundation in San Francisco, is the keynote luncheon speaker.

Informative panel discussions throughout the day will cover international finance/insurance, agribusiness, health care, communications and other important topics.

View the Secretary of State registration form, conference agenda and list of international guests.

Reservations by | September 15 to Marisa at mring@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7940

 

Nebraska State Chamber Legislative Morning Forum
Wednesday, September 24 |  7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Security National Bank
1120 S. 101st St.

State senators and legislative candidates will discuss their priorities and get input from the business community on important issues facing the state.

Will include legislative districts 39, 31, 20, 12, 10 and 04.

This event is free of charge.

Reservations by | September 22 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Chamber Academy: Highlights from Outclass Your Competition
Wednesday, September 24 |  8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce - West office
13206 Grover St.

The ability to Outclass Your Competition has never been more critical. Skillfully handling interpersonal interactions leads to retention of existing customers and improved perception of future customers. Learn how to work a room, understand eye contact and body language, master the art of introductions and the power of a handshake.

Cost per person is $20.

Reservations by | September 22 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Nebraska State Chamber Legislative Afternoon Forum
Wednesday, September 24 |  12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce - Downtown office
1301 Harney St.

State senators and legislative candidates will discuss their priorities and get input from the business community on important issues facing the state.

Will include legislative districts 13, 11, 09, 08, 07, 06 and 05.

This event is free of charge.

Reservations by | September 22 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Business After Hours: Ayars & Ayars, Inc.
Thursday, September 25 |  4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Ayars & Ayars, Inc.
7009 L St.

Increase sales…network…discover products that may benefit your company…let others know what you can do for them. Accomplish all this at a mini-trade fair that brings business people together to network over hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. Ayars & Ayars, Inc. provides the perfect background for you to grow your business. Visit their Web site at www.ayarsayars.com.

Booths are SOLD OUT. Tickets are $5 when purchased in advance and $10 at the door, if space is available.

Reservations by | September 24 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Nominations Due for Chamber Board
Friday, September 26 |  All Day Event

Nominations are open to active members in any business classification. Nominees are selected based on their broad involvement with business and civic activities in Greater Omaha.

The Nominating Committee will consider the composition of the current Board in making nominations. They will work to ensure the Board of Directors represents individual, business, civic and geographic diversity of Greater Omaha.

Complete a nomination form.

 

Chamber Academy: Confessions of a Former Plaintiff’s Employment Lawyer
Wednesday, October 1 |  8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce - West office
13206 Grover St.

A former plaintiff’s employment attorney tells you what types of cases and clients they love, what mistakes they hope employers make and what employers can do about it.

Cost per person is $20.

Reservations by | September 29 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Small Business Insights: The Attitude of Sales
Thursday, October 2 |  7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
Metropolitan Community College
Fort Omaha Campus (30th and Fort streets)

Sales. You need to know some fundamentals, tips and tricks, but more importantly, you need the right attitude! Learn from a panel of business owners and sales executives the steps to successful sales management. Our panel will elaborate on the “attitude of sales” and how loving what you do can separate your business from the norm.

Panelists:
Doreen Blakely, Alliance Enterprises, Inc.
Tim Goddard, Sheppards Business Interiors
Jeff Neary, Regal Awards

Reservations by | October 1 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Chamber Academy: Leadership Strategies for a Many-to-Many World
Wednesday, October 8 |  8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce - Downtown office
1301 Harney St.

The popularity of blogs, YouTube and Facebook is shifting communications from one-to-one to many-to-many. This transition requires innovative leadership strategies as success becomes less about directing actions and more about facilitating interactions.

Cost per person is $20.

Reservations by | October 6 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Buy the Big O! Show
Wednesday, October 15 |  All Day Event
Qwest Center Omaha
455 North 10th St.

The Buy the Big O! Show is the region's largest and most prestigious business-to-business trade show.

The Show brings approximately 400 exhibiting businesses and more than 7,000 people together in one day. This is proof that one-stop networking and marketing happen at Omaha's largest B2B gathering.

Reservations by | October 14 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Buy the Big O! Show Breakfast - Self Marketing Power
Wednesday, October 15 |  7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Qwest Center Omaha Ballroom B
455 N. 10th St.

Today’s marketplace is crowded and noisy, making it difficult to stand out. In order to get ahead, land a big client, or make a difference in the community, professionals need to establish and exploit their “personal brands.” Jeff Beals, a real estate executive, radio talk-show host, part-time college professor, and newspaper columnist, will enlighten and entertain you as he give you the secrets of effective self marketing:

• Promote your brand to your personal target audience
• Become a “celebrity” inside your sphere of interest
• Get better results from your networking efforts
• Harness the media to promote your brand
• Develop an expertise and become a sought-after speaker and source for news stories.

It’s a perfect message for any group of people striving for success. Includes FREE copy of Jeff Beals’ latest book Self Marketing Power: Branding Yourself as a Business of One.

Event Sponsor
Valpak & Valpak.com

Reservations by | October 9 to Maria at reservations@omahachamber.org or (402) 978-7912

 

Chamber Academy: Staying Power: Secrets of Surviving and Thriving in Business
Wednesday, October 15 |  9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Qwest Center Omaha - Room 213
455 N. 10th St.

Hear an entrepreneur discuss and share lessons learned, challenges, triumphs and bumps in the road she experienced starting and running a business for 15 years.

No registration necessary.

Entrance is free with a Buy the Big O! Show ticket, which will be available at www.BuyTheBigOShow.com in mid August. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.

Presenter | Deb Bass president and CEO Bass & Associates, Inc.

 

Chamber Academy: Marketing in the Fast Lane
Wednesday, October 15 |  10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Qwest Center Omaha - Room 214
455 N. 10th St.

Millions of people are on the Internet – the super highway of information. Steer them into your business and to Web site. This panel discussion will provide practical solutions for turning Internet traffic into your customers.

No registration necessary.

Entrance is free with a Buy the Big O! Show ticket, which will be available at www.BuyTheBigOShow.com in mid August. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.

 

Chamber Academy: On Your Marketing, Get Set, GO!
Wednesday, October 15 |  1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Qwest Center Omaha - Room 213
455 N. 10th St.

Explore innovative ideas for getting products and services to your market in a way that creates partnerships, credibility and trust. Learn how to generate demand and develop enriching customer loyalty.

No registration necessary.

Entrance is free with a Buy the Big O! Show ticket, which will be available at www.BuyTheBigOShow.com in mid August. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.

 

Chamber Academy: Grow Your Business One Click At A Time
Wednesday, October 15 |  3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Qwest Center Omaha - Room 214
455 N. 10th St.

Learn techniques to harness the Internet to target advertising to the right audience and increase Web site visibility. Also optimize search engine results and affordably bring customers to your site using Google™.

No registration necessary.

Entrance is free with a Buy the Big O! Show ticket, which will be available at www.BuyTheBigOShow.com in mid August. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.