In the KNOW!

 

May 4, 2026

 

Which Fork Is It?


Let’s be honest for a second…

Most of us have sat down at a formal dinner at some point and had that quiet internal moment, myself included, of “Alright… which fork am I supposed to use?”

You glance around, try to play it cool, maybe follow the lead of someone nearby, and hope for the best.

Here’s the good news: you’re not alone. And even better… we’ve got a way to figure it out that doesn’t feel awkward or overly formal.

On Monday, May 11, we’re hosting Dining with Confidence – Etiquette Dinner, and it’s one of those events that’s as practical as it is fun.

Thanks to the support of First United Bank and Oklahoma Baptist University, this experience is free for our members.

We’ll kick things off at 5:30 PM with networking and mocktails, followed by a guided 7-course meal prepared by OBU Catering. As you move through each course, you’ll learn the ins and outs of dining etiquette in a way that actually sticks, no pressure, no overthinking.

This isn’t about being perfect at the table.

It’s about feeling confident walking into a business dinner, a gala, or any event where you want to focus on the conversation, not the place setting.

And honestly, it’s just a great night out with good people and a great meal.

Space is limited, and seats are filling up quickly.

Register below to reserve your spot (or send someone from your team who would benefit from it).

You’ll walk away with a few new skills, a little more confidence—and yes, you’ll finally know which fork to use.

-Daniel

 

UPCOMING SHAWNEE FORWARD EVENTS

Your network grows when you show up. Social Exchange gives you two chances each month to connect with fellow Chamber members, share what you do, and build relationships that actually matter.

To make networking easier to fit into your schedule, we offer both before-hours and after-hours Social Exchange options each month, so you can choose the time that works best for you.

Free for Members!

Next Before Hours | May 7th 8-9:30 AM

Join us on May 7th for our next before-hours Social Exchange from 8:00–9:30 AM at the Pottawatomie County Admin Building.

Join us for our next PCYP Young Professionals Meetup on Tuesday, May 5th, at Theopolis Social Club, featuring Sandy Vanderburg with United Way Eastern Frontier Country as our guest mentor.


This is a great opportunity to hear from a community leader, learn from Sandy’s experience, and connect with other young professionals in our area.

And as a bonus, Theopolis will have Cinco de Mayo lunch specials available. Come ready to grab lunch, cover your own meal, and enjoy good conversation around the table.


PCYP is for young professionals ages 18–40 who live or work in Pottawatomie County and want to build connections, grow professionally, and get more involved in the community.


It's time to dust off those bowling shoes and show everyone what your business is made of! We’re thrilled to announce our 3rd Annual Bowling for Business Tournament on August 25, 2026. This is your chance to prove that your business has the best bowling team!


Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a gutter ball champion, this event is all about fun, friendly competition, and networking. Bragging rights are on the line, and we can't wait to see which business will take home the trophy this year.

NEW MEMBERS

 

Please join us in welcoming our newest Shawnee Forward Chamber of Commerce members. Click their logo to learn more about their business or organization and find opportunities to connect and support them in our community.

 
 

To learn more about all of our members, visit the Membership Directory on our website or click the button below.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

 
 

BUSINESS RESOURCES

 

4 Things to Do During Small Business Month to Grow Your Company


Want to scale your business? Achieve your goals with these core growth strategies and activities.


May is Small Business Month, a time to support and celebrate the contributions of America’s 33.2 million small businesses and startups. It’s also the perfect time for entrepreneurs to explore new ways to grow their companies.

Happy National Small Business Week! 


Join the Small Business Administration (SBA) for the virtual summit on Tuesday, May 5, and Wednesday, May 6, to celebrate the small businesses that power America's economy.


Whether you’re just starting or ready to scale, the summit is designed to help your business thrive in today’s market. Connect directly with industry leaders through educational sessions and interactive virtual booths. You'll walk away with resources and advice from experts who understand what it takes to succeed.


Topics include:

  • Making AI work for you 
  • Becoming bankable and winning contracts
  • Hiring secrets
  • Protecting yourself from risk and fraud



Can't join live? Don't worry, they've got you covered! All registrants will receive a full recording of the summit via email, so you can catch every session on your own schedule.


MEMBER EVENTS

Click on each image to learn more.

Want Your Event in Our Newsletter?

If you're a Shawnee Forward member and have an upcoming event you'd like to share, we’d love to help spread the word! Please email your flyer to Daniel or Crystal at least two weeks before the event, and we’ll include it in the two newsletters leading up to your big day. It’s a great way to get your event in front of the community. Don’t miss out on this member benefit!



Miss a Newsletter?

If you missed a recent newsletter, you can catch up anytime by viewing the archives on our website here.

Thank you, ShawneeCTV, for your generous sponsorship of our newsletter, "In the Know". Your support enables us to keep our community informed and engaged with the latest updates and events.

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