In January we held our Annual Board of Directors Retreat. We spent almost a full Saturday working on goals and initiatives for the coming year. This was one of the most beneficial retreats since I have been with the Chamber. One of the first changes that you may notice is with this column. I decided that I would use this space to report on the meetings and projects associated with the committees.

Another change starting this month will be an e-mail notification of our Chamber newsletter online. We are hoping this will make it easier to pass on the newsletter to other employees in your company or to anyone else that may have an interest. Often individuals, other than the contact person that receives the printed version, are interested in becoming involved.

We are forming new sub-committees under our Economic Development Committee to address upcoming issues like: slots, comprehensive planning, re-engage motor sports and support for start up companies. We will continue with our monthly speakers.

Our Legislative Committee is finalizing plans for a City of Cumberland Candidate Forum in partnership with WCBC Radio. The thought is to host forums for all future county-wide elections. In addition we want to utilize the media more for engaging the citizens in legislative issues. The Chamber also wants to use e-mail to encourage letters to our legislation concerning bills that will impact our region. We also discussed holding legislative committee meetings year round not just during the legislative session.

The Membership Committee came up with more ideas than I can list in this column this month. Some of the significant suggestions are to establish a discounted new business membership, formalize our Ambassador Program and improve communications.

The Fun-Raising Committee is finalizing plans for our Annual Spring Fling to be held April 11, 2008 at the Ali Ghan Shrine Club. In addition to the Spring Fling, the committee also discussed a fall business event. As a member if you have any ideas, please let us know.

When it comes to money matters our Finance Committee is looking into easier methods of paying membership dues and is reviewing our rate structure. For additional revenue we are planning to sell ad space on our website.

This is just a brief overview of our day-long discussions during the retreat. We certainly welcome any suggestions or comments from our members. Please contact us with any ideas.

                                                              Barb