Monday, May 21, 2007

School District Reorganization

Dear Fellow Y-Pros,

An important decision is currently before our School Board in Duluth. At our last DYP Leadership Council meeting, we had an in depth discussion on how the decision will affect Duluth, and how young people starting careers and families in the Duluth area will be affected. Now we want to hear from you!

Consider this; the School Board decides to move forward with the Red Plan (click here to see the plan options) as recently announced. How will that affect issues such as housing and property values surrounding the new proposed schools? Will the real estate market decline surrounding Central School and strengthen in West and East Duluth as a result of the districts plans to relocate students? What will the student-to-teacher ratio be and does this give a competitive advantage to private or alternative schools in the area? If so, is that good or bad? Where will the line be drawn to determine east from west, and will that build needed diversity in each school? As a young professional hoping to move into the Duluth area or stay here out of college, what matters most in deciding where to live, where to work, and where to play? These questions need to be addressed and the answers need to be understood if we are to shape a successful Duluth School District.

This is our chance to be heard and help shape the future of Duluth. This decision will not affect the students of today like it will the children of our younger population, yet this population has not given its two cents. I challenge you to educate yourselves on the three options, attend the remaining school board meetings, and start a dialogue with the decision makers to assure that all angles are being considered. We are on the cusp of great opportunity for Duluth, let’s be enthusiastic about this inevitable change and take some ownership in the outcome. After all, those who watch change instead of move change can not throw the first stone.

Jesse Frye

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Duluth Young Professionals - FAQ

The Duluth Young Professionals (DYP) group was launched in February of 2005 as a program for Chamber members. The mission of the group is to inform, connect and network young professionals (YPros) so they can influence our community. A community influenced by young people will attract and retain young people. Many people have questions about the DYP group. Here a short list of our most frequently asked questions.


  1. How do you define a “professional”?

    Professional doesn’t mean doctors, lawyers, accountants and others who require certification. We include all people employed in our community.

  2. How do you define “young”?

    "Young" means different things to different people. We loosely target those in their 20's, 30's and the young at heart. The goal is to be inclusive.

  3. How do I join?

    Go to http://www.duluthchamber.com/ and enter your email address in the “Stay Connected” box. You can also call the Chamber at 218.722.5501 or email inquiry@duluthchamber.com and simply let us know you have an interest. You will begin to receive email announcements about our upcoming DYP events.

  4. How much does it cost to join?

    There is currently no membership fee to join DYP. There is a charge for each DYP event, with a reduced rate for members of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce.

  5. Will a membership fee be established in the future?

    In 2007 we will introduce an annual membership fee. The membership fee, which is estimated to be around $40 a year, will be used to enrich the DYP program.

  6. Do I have to be a member of The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce to be part of DYP?

    No. For each event there is a nonmember rate. When a DYP membership fee is established in 2007 there will be a corresponding nonmember rate so all young professionals in our community can participate.

  7. What is the benefit of getting involved?

    Benefits include: opportunities to connect with other YPros and leaders in our business community, opportunities to stay informed about our community, and build your network. It is a gateway to being involved and influencing the growth of our community.

  8. How do I sign up for events I would like to attend?

    The email invites to DYP events will include a registration link. You can also call the Chamber at 218.722.5501 or email inquiry@duluthchamber.com to register or with questions.

  9. Can I bring non DYP members to events?

    Absolutely! There is a non chamber member rate for all events. Reminder: Anyone employed by a Chamber member business is considered a member of the Chamber.

  10. How can I become more involved or volunteer with DYP?

    Talk with a DYP Leadership Council member or a chamber staff person. There are committees being developed for various projects and we would love to have your help.

  11. What is the appropriate attire for DYP events?

    Generally, whatever is considered business professional in your industry would be acceptable. Appropriate attire will change with the venue and event. If a dress code is applicable to the event location we will include that information in the event announcement.