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From the Director’s Desk for January 17, 2025




"Thinking outside the box" is a worn-out phrase. How can one achieve this if accustomed or conditioned to viewing the world in a particular manner? It’s hard—really hard. Looking at things in a new way allows us to get out of whatever box our thinking might have us in and come up with new and perhaps dynamic ideas.


I just recently discovered a YouTube channel called “Big Think.” While I have yet to watch all their videos (none over 15 minutes), the one that got me thinking in a new way is the one I’ve included a link to at the end of this article.


x

New Terms

These terms (unfamiliar to me) are explained in the video. 


·       Linear Dynamics

·       Complex Systems Theory

·       Complicated vs Complex Systems

·       Sandpile Model

·       Basins of Attraction

·       Mirage of Regularity

·       Black Swan Events

·       Radical Uncertainty


Since I don’t remember studying any of this in my college days, I had to ask ChatGpt where one might study such lofty topics:


Interdisciplinary Fields That Integrate These Topics


  1. Complex Systems Science: Combines nonlinear dynamics, emergence, and systems thinking.
  2. Systems Engineering: Focuses on designing and managing interconnected systems.
  3. Applied Mathematics: Explores dynamical systems, chaos theory, and linear models.
  4. Decision Science: Explores uncertainty, risk, and decision-making frameworks.
  5. Ecology and Environmental Science: Studies feedback loops and basins of attraction in ecosystems.


If your studies were in these areas, this would not be new to you. But for a layperson like me, this video helped me see the world differently and think outside my restrictive box!


How to Apply These Concepts to Grow the Chamber


So that this is not merely a mental exercise, I wondered how we could apply these concepts to the Chamber.



Some suggestions that can lead to action:


  • Embrace Collaboration: Our local success depends on partnerships between businesses, schools, and organizations. Initiatives like workforce training programs and tourism campaigns can unite our community. We are aware of this and embrace it wholeheartedly.


  • Prepare for Disruption: The video highlights the interconnectedness of modern challenges. By building resilience—through digital infrastructure, flexible planning, and disaster preparedness—we can ensure Wetzel and Tyler counties thrive, even in uncertain times.


  • Leverage Small Changes: Big Think reminds us that small actions can lead to large-scale transformation. Programs like micro-grants or supporting local entrepreneurs can create ripples of positive change across our communities. What small changes can we make within our communities that might significantly impact them? I’m thinking of something related to affordable, quality childcare. What are your thoughts?


  • Celebrate Local Strengths: Wetzel and Tyler’s natural beauty and rich culture are potent attractors. Promoting what makes us unique can draw visitors, investors, and new businesses to the area.


Join the Movement


The Wetzel-Tyler Chamber is committed to fostering resilience, collaboration, and adaptability. We’re working hard to craft a vision for sustainable growth.


Get Involved: Join us in applying these concepts to build a stronger, more connected future for Wetzel and Tyler Counties. We welcome your ideas! Email: director@wetzeltylerchamber.org.



The Big Think YouTube channel is valuable because it offers insightful, engaging, and actionable content from leading experts across various fields. The topics often have universal significance, making the channel a useful resource for audiences worldwide.

In short, Big Think empowers viewers with knowledge and tools to tackle challenges, spark innovation, and grow personally and professionally. It’s a go-to platform for anyone who values learning, creativity, and intellectual growth. I hope you take a look!


https://youtu.be/TLm6dC34gYk?si=3GCwp0-sYBq3g4qj

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The Belmont County Enrichment Fund (BCEF) and Expand Energy grant cycles are officially underway!


BCEF Grants: Apply now through February 4, 2025, to fund projects that enhance the quality of life in Belmont County.


Expand Energy Grants: K-12 classrooms in Brooke, Ohio, Marshall, and Wetzel Counties can apply through February 7, 2025 for STEM-focused classroom projects.


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Membership Dues Changes for 2025


The Wetzel-Tyler Chamber of Commerce is introducing updates to our membership fee structure to better align with the size and nature of our member organizations and businesses. These changes are designed to make membership more accessible for small businesses and nonprofits while ensuring fairness.


Membership Fee Structure for 2025


For-profit businesses:

  • 0–5 employees: $100
  • 6–10 employees: $150
  • 11–25 employees: $300
  • 26–50 employees: $500
  • 51–100 employees: $750
  • 101+ employees: $1,500


Nonprofit organizations:

  • 0 employees: $50
  • 1–50 employees: $100
  • 51+ employees: $250


Other categories:

  • Banks/Credit Unions: $1,000 (no change)
  • Students: $25 (no change)
  • Individuals: $50 (no change)


Comparison to Current Structure


The current structure offers fewer tiers, leading to broader categories. For instance:


  • For-profit businesses with 0–10 employees are currently charged $125. Under the new structure, the cost is reduced to $100 for 0–5 employees and $150 for 6–10 employees, providing a more precise reflection of company size.


  • Nonprofit organizations currently pay $100 across the board. The new structure introduces a lower tier for nonprofits with no employees ($50) and adjusts rates for larger organizations.


Why the Change?


This update ensures that membership fees are equitable and reflect the diversity of our members. Smaller organizations and nonprofits will benefit from more affordable rates, while larger businesses will contribute at a level aligned with their capacity.


This structure will strengthen our Chamber by encouraging participation from all community segments.


Please note that you can easily renew your membership through the link below:





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Commissioners meet four times a year, twice in person and twice virtually, on Thursdays. Youth commissioners also represent West Virginia at virtual and in-person events at nationwide youth commissioner convenings. This is an unpaid volunteer position, appointed by the Governor, but Volunteer West Virginia will cover the cost of all travel and registration associated with this work.

 

Deadline to Apply: January 22nd


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