The Eastern Plains Chamber of Commerce met Nov. 4 at Grace Community Church. The owner of a promotional products business addressed the group. Art Pierson said that his companyís name, Phoenix 820, has a special meaning to him.Like the legendary phoenix, the bird that supposedly came back to life from its ashes, Pierson was emerging from the ashes of his old life when he formed the company. The 820 is from his birthday, Aug. 20. Pierson is a native of Corpus Christi, Texas. He originally planned to join the Secret Service. He thought that joining the military would be a good route to the Secret Service. After four-plus years in the military, he did not make it to the Secret Service. Pierson then put his graphic arts training to work to create print-ready artwork. He offers a variety of promotional products, including coffee mugs, pens and clothing that can be branded with a company logo or a personalized message. He even carries a line of cookies that he said tastes like they are homemade. The cookies are baked to order and delivered within five business days after approval of the package design.ìThings like that speak volumes,î Pierson said. Products can be sent to the person who orders them or directly to the end recipient. He started his company in Falcon eight years ago with no idea about running a business; he operates Phoenix 820 completely online.Chamber President Dave Ahrens said some people have suggested that the chamber meetings be held via Zoom. However, he said the chamber does not have the equipment for Zoom meetings. He did say there is the possibility of having live stream meetings. Ahrens also said a job fair in the spring is a possibility.Joseph Graff of Best Version Media suggested that each person bring a guest to the December meeting.
