If you have already made out your Christmas Wish List and it happens to include a dozen varieties of home-made chili, all kinds of fresh treats, pancakes smothered in baked apples topped with whipped cream, a roaring bonfire, and plenty of good cheer; then the Chamber is the place to be in December. While all of us will be pressing hard to get all of the items on our “To-do” list scratched off by the end of the year, we will definitely find time to stop and remember the reason for the season and we invite you to join us for food, fun, and fellowship. In fact, go ahead right now and make a note on your calendars to include the Chamber Office on your list of places to visit.

On Thursday, December 10, the Chamber Ambassadors and Staff will be hosting our Annual “Christmas Open House” from 5:00 – 8:00 (yeah right, like anyone is ready to go by 8:00!) at the office. If the weather permits, we will have a roaring bonfire outside, plenty of home made chili inside, and all of the drinks and snacks you can imagine. Grab a friend (or two…) and stop by. If you prefer to enjoy your comfort food in the morning, you need to be sure to stop by the office on Friday, December 18 for pancakes, sausage and all of the fixin’s at our Annual Pancake Breakfast from 7:30 – 9:30. These events are both a lot of fun, very relaxing, very casual, and give all of us a welcome opportunity to slow down for a few minutes and to spend time with our friends at the Chamber.

As plans begin to fall into place for all of the various committees, programs, and services for 2010, it is hard not to be excited about the many ways the Chamber can be of benefit and service to you. If 2010 is looking like the year you want to get out and meet other business persons, visit a committee meeting or two, make new friends, or otherwise learn a bit more about the Chamber of Commerce, then you are in luck! Looking at the Program of Work for the New Year it is easy to see that opportunity is knocking around each and every corner. Never before have we had so many ways for you to plug into the Chamber of Commerce. Be on the lookout in the coming weeks for a complete list of all of the committees and contact information for 2010.

So whether you prefer hot chili, hot leads on new prospects, hot chocolate, or a blazing hot bonfire, we have a lot to offer and a lot to be thankful for. I sincerely hope you take me up on our invitation to share your time, your talents, and your friendship during this special holiday season.