This year’s Inter-City Visit to Lafayette / West Lafayette, Indiana, October 18-20, was an overwhelming success. This was the sixth Inter-City Visit that we have hosted, and each one has delivered on the purpose of learning from comparable communities.
When selecting communities to visit, we always try to find those that are of similar size and home to a large university. The Greater Lafayette region checked these boxes and is home to Purdue University. Our delegation included representation from across the Ames MSA, and included governmental and community leaders from Ames, Boone, and Nevada.
As is often the case, it is the time between the panels where discussions take place and ideas begin to foster. We compare notes, push and challenge each other, and build relationships that truly impact the region.
When we go on trips like this, it is easy to point to aspects of their community that we wish we could transport to our region. It is easy to get the feeling that we are missing the mark. I have found that feeling to be part of the journey to improve our community as it challenges us to be better. As I returned, however, I was quickly reminded of the amazing things that we have here in the Ames MSA.
Before I close, I want to encourage you to attend our Annual Luncheon event, Tuesday December 5, from 11:00am – 1:00pm at Cornerstone Church. The event will feature New York Times Bestselling author, Tommy Spaulding. His message about being an inspirational leader is truly incredible. Many of our companies would consider sending their team across the country to hear him speak for professional development, yet here he is in Ames. Registration for the event is open to the public, and I assure you that you will find value, as will others inside your organization, from hearing Tommy’s message.
Registration can be found on the Ames Chamber of Commerce website.
