Hello Chamber Members,

Happy New Year! This year is very special to me personally. January marks my 20th year with the Chamber of Commerce. I am proud and truly blessed to serve such a great organization and its members. So for that - I say thank you! And thank you for the many lifetime friendships that have formed over that past 20 years.

This year our board of directors will be looking particularly close at the organziation’s programming and benefits. In these tough economic times, they want to make sure you are getting the most for your investment. I’d like to add that the most important benefits you can receive from the chamber are the networking opportunites and direct referrals. Come to a chamber event and connect with other members who may just need your service or product. And did you know that when a phone or email inquiry comes into the chamber, we give chamber members first preference?

I think you’ll enjoy the exciting new things you’ll see in 2010. One thing on tap is a leadership conference on May 7th in conjunction with Shawnee State University. Leaderscast, will come to us live via satellite at the Vern Riffe Center. This event will inspire you to be the one to make a difference in your work environment, at home and in our community. You will learn how to set yourself apart from the competition and influence others. Be sure and save this date.

Don’t forget our upcoming Business After Hours (BAH). You’ll find a complete listing of those on page 5. Please note - the March BAH will be on Tuesday NOT our typical Thursday. If you’ve never attended a BAH, make this the year to do so. For information about hosting a BAH, give me a call at the office. We have a couple months open for 2010.

Have a safe and prosperous New Year!

Regards,