Where is our new chamber office? Many of you may have been asking yourselves that question. If you have been reading this letter each month you have heard me saying that your Board has been busy looking at several pieces of property and options. Our first consideration as your Board was to insure any decision we made was based on sound business practice and in the best interest for the chamber.

A big sign should appear before long on our new piece of property, located at the N.E. corner of Highway 98 and LaCanosa Blvd. announcing "Future Site of the Walton County Chamber of Commerce Beach Office." We are very excited about the location and the opportunities it will bring. A campaign to raise the money needed for the purchase of the property as well as a new building is already underway.

Beginning June 4th we plan to have monthly First Friday membership luncheons in the beach area as well as our First Friday breakfast in the lake/bay area. So much is happening so fast better hold on to your shirttails.

Pam Tedesco, staff members, and your current board attended a strategic planning session recently to see where we are in this year's plans as well as plan for next year. The meeting was very productive and keeps us focused on what we need to do to keep our membership satisfied as well as recruit new members. It also gives an opportunity to brainstorm new ideas and think"outside the box" for the future of your chamber.

I encourage each of you to become more involved with your chamber. Call one of our offices and ask how you can support an effort or lend us your talents. We need each of you to maintain the momentum and build a successful future for all of our businesses in Walton County.