Laura Nicholson, Executive Director/CEO

Change. One syllable, six letters and so much meaning.

This year has already been about change. We have changed our spending habits as we have watched prices go up on everything from coffee to gasoline. We've changed our work habits to accommodate the challenges we face in doing business in a changing economy. And, we're watching change head our way in January. We don't know for sure what or how things are going to change, but we know for sure there is going to be a new President in the White House come 2009.

Well, the Chamber is no different than all of you out there doing your best in a tight economy. We, too, are planning a change. Here goes.

After a lot of discussion the Chamber has decided to move its formal, annual dinner from January to May 2009 and the format will change from a formal, sit down dinner to a semi-formal cocktail party awards show.

Okay. I heard the collective gasp. Hang in there and let me explain. And, yes, you will still be able to dress up, eat great food and find out who will receive the Athena Award and the Vision Awards recognizing outstanding businesses.

Several volunteers, board members, the Chairman of the Board, the incoming Chairman of the Board and myself have been meeting to discuss the annual dinner. There is more than one element to the discussion.

The first critical element we talked about was cost. The Chamber raises the money to pay for the expenses of its events, which is why we offer sponsor tables and hold a raffle at the Annual Dinner. There are expectations that the holiday season could be a difficult one. We believe it will be hard to raise the money to put on the Annual Dinner in the elegant fashion you are accustomed to with costs on the rise. We also feel that one less monetary obligation going into the New Year just might help you out.

Issue number 2 has to do with the location. There is no professional conference center or business large enough to host this event without substantial costs.

Which, brings us to the third issue we discussed - time-starved volunteers. This is a big, big event and it takes a lot of volunteers - in the middle of the holiday season, thus the change to May.

We also just thought, hey, how about something a little different for a change. We will let you know as soon as the date and place are confirmed.

I can assure you we will still have an event that is all about networking, fun, friends, good food and some libations to boot. It will be a change, but I think you'll agree, change can be a very good thing.