In an effort to fulfill the mission of the Greater Hartsville Chamber of Commerce –to promote the free enterprise system and to encourage growth in the Hartsville area –several new programs are being introduced in 2012. All of these new events provide an opportunity for Chamber Members to network and to become more involved in our community. New programs to watch for in 2012:

1) April 19th, 7:00pm, Center Theater –Debate of the 7th Congressional District Candidates. Darlington County will be served by the new 7th Congressional District Seat, created based on South Carolina’s population increase in the 2010 census. The Chamber of Commerce will be teaming with WBTW to allow our citizens an opportunity to hear from the Candidates who are vying for this new seat. The Debate will be free and open to the public.

2) March 1st, 6:00-7:30pm, Gymnasium of the Upper Pee Dee YMCA. –Business Expo. Open to Chamber Members only, The Business Expo will be an opportunity for Chamber Member businesses/organizations to promote their businesses and to get to know more about other local businesses/organizations. The intent of the event is to open the lines of communication between local businesses/ organizations in hopes of keeping more business local and establishing member-to-member relationships. 3) September 2012-June 2013 –Leadership Hartsville. In partnership with Coker College, The Chamber will be sponsoring a nine-month leadership program to identify and develop future leaders in Hartsville. The class will be limited to 15 participants who will enhance their leadership skills, be provided an in-depth look into various aspects of the Hartsville community and be exposed to leadership opportunities that are available in Hartsville.

4) Breakfast seminars and workshops will be presented by the Chamber of Commerce and Hartsville Downtown Development Association. These 8:00-9:00am workshops will be beneficial for both networking and learning, topics include:

Ask Your Legislator -January From Attic to Window Dressing -May Getting Ready for Back to School -July HR 101 for Small Business -September

Local Life Lines for Small Business -November

5) The Pigskin Kickoff will be held in the fall to celebrate all of the huge state football rivalries enjoyed by our citizens. It will be an opportunity for everyone to sport their favorite team colors, enjoy tailgate food and activities, fellowship with friends and enjoy great music and dancing. The exact date and location of this event will be announced soon.