A Chamber of Commerce is by definition a form of business network whose goal is to further the interests of local businesses.

The first Chamber of Commerce was formed in Marseille, France, in 1599. The first in the United States was formed in New York City in 1768.Much has changed in business in the world and the country since that time, and Chamber of Commerce's have evolved along with it.Many local communities still have a Chamber of Commerce in existence, one being ours, The Tamaqua Chamber of Commerce.The organization currently has 129 active members from Tamaqua and surrounding areas.These members not only include business owners and professionals, but also civic groups, local governments, churches, schools and individuals with a general interest in our community. The chamber has evolved into a community- based group rather than just for businesses. Anyone can join the chamber.Some of services provided by the chamber are not only for members, but the community as well. We publish a weekly electronic newsletter known as Chamber Chatters. Members can have anything published in the newsletter about their business or upcoming events. This is a great opportunity for not only businesses but also nonprofit groups. Anyone can receive the newsletter. It is a valuable tool for the community just to see what is going on in the area.The downtown veteran memorial banners were sponsored by the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce. This was a very successful program and added a wonderful theme to our downtown area honoring our local veterans.We have worked closely with the Tamaqua 2004 Partnership, Tamaqua Historical Society and have administered the Main Street Program to help with the revitalization of the Tamaqua Downtown Business District. Although these projects have been completed, we strive to maintain the efforts of these groups to keep the Tamaqua Area a vital growing area for future years. Downtown Tamaqua is alive and well and beautiful thanks to the efforts of these groups and many volunteers.We host the Summer Concert Series at Depot Station Park at the Tamaqua Train Station. This has had a positive response from the community for years.We host informative breakfast mixers and workshops which are open to the public. Also the Annual Dinner in which we honor a Citizen and Business of the year.Upcoming events include a breakfast mixer hosted by St. Luke's Hospital-Miner's Campus in Coaldale from 8 to 9 a.m. Sept. 22 and a "How to Create a Business Facebook Page"workshop to be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Sept. 29 at the Tamaqua Community Arts Center.In this column we will try to offer tips not only on running a business and the difficulties we all face, but also let you know about other organizations within our community as well information for individuals in our everchanging world.For more information on joining the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce or these events go to the website at tamaqua.net or call the Chamber which is located at 114 W. Broad St., Tamaqua at 570-668-1880.