Organization Helps Advance and Promote Local Businesses
Writer / Angela Partee
Photography Provided
The Middletown Chamber of Commerce’s website —middletownchamberofcommerce.com — informs the reader that the “Chamber works to create a climate of growth and success in which all Middletown companies – regardless of size or industry – can prosper together.”
The Executive Director of the Chamber, Freda Chapman, is acquainted with climate and growth. She owned and operated a florist shop – Freda’s Fancy Flowers — for more than 40 years. Health issues prompted her to sell her business. Her interest in seeing things bloom continues through her work with the Chamber. But, instead of orchestrating floral scents, she orchestrates business sense.
This is actually Middletown’s second chamber. The first chamber was active about 30 years ago. Chapman was one of 12 people who helped start the first Chamber. She did not work for the Chamber at that time. She said she is not sure why the first chapter closed.
Chapman says the City Commission recognized that the city was growing and needed a chamber to help the businesses. The second chamber was established in July of 2010.
“I had no clue the commission would ask me to help start the chamber again,” she says.
The Chamber is managed by a staff of two, which includes Chapman and Laura Wright, Assistant Executive Director. Wright does the event planning for the Chamber.
“She wears several different hats,” Chapman says. “She has been an asset to us to help us grow.”
The chamber’s website is a valuable marketing tool for businesses to possibly gain exposure locally, regionally and nationally.
One way to create a climate of growth is to plant good seed in the community by hosting and helping with community events. According to Chapman, the Chamber had about 100 events last year.
“We help our businesses connect and promote their business,” she says.
The Chamber doesn’t focus solely on events that are favorable for businesses. They also sponsor or participate in events that are fun for the community.
Chapman says the Chamber is involved with various events scheduled for this year including:
– Middletown Chamber of Commerce 5K, September 5
– 47th Annual Middletown Family Fun Festival, September 6 and 7
– Middletown’s Annual Trick or Treat Pancake Breakfast Event, October 26
Light Up Middletown (with a business expo), December 6
The Chamber sponsored an Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Vendor Village, April 20.
