Salem Area Young Professionals

Joining Salem YoungPros was Bert Ortiz of Tico's Coffee Roasting Company, Shawn Abbey of Abbey's Carpet Care, and Sara Whitney of Le Shoe Boutique (pictured at right in order from left to right).

"Getting engaged in the community is an important step in making your business successful," said Abbey. "You have to get your face out there. It helps people remember you."

The three guest speakers focused on the growth of their businesses as well as the challenges they have faced in finding success. Over 80 YoungPros packed the Blue Pepper on the morning of April 22nd. Pictured below enjoying the 2nd floor view during the event (left to right) are Forrest Gill of IKON Office Solutions, Russ Butler of Country Financial and Insurance Services, Tim Ferrell of Saalfeld Griggs PC, and Myles Catchpole of Garmin AT.

"Don't overestimate your competition and underestimate yourself. We're capable of much more than we think we are," said Ortiz.

Ortiz also shared the importance of building relationships with people throughout the community to better understand who is doing business with who.

Sara Whitney with Le Shoe Boutique recently made a major move for her retail operation, moving from State Street downtown to Court Street.

"Business has really picked up after the move," said Whitney. "We actually have foot traffic now."

Whitney shared the challenges of trying to operate a business located adjacent to the former McMahan's Furniture store which burned down back in August of 2006. Due to the demolition of the burned building, access to adjacent stores was difficult for consumers, she said.

YoungPros will move from the Blue Pepper in April to a Volunteer Fair in May. Click on the "Happening" section at the top of the page to learn details about the participating service organizations looking for YoungPros like you to help them move forward.

Presenting Sponsors

Sponsors / Ticor Title / Oregon Community Credit Union / Willamette University MBA