Monday, November 22, 2010

Exciting events close out a whirlwind year


As I write this column, I am looking at my wall calendar in disbelief that Thanksgiving is right around the corner and the holiday shopping season appears to be in full swing. Each passing year seems to go by quicker, but that is especially so this year.

For the Chamber, 2010 has been a whirlwind. Looking back, it really is quite remarkable the organization has been able to absorb so much change while still delivering top-notch service and programs to our members. We've moved our office, moved the location of the Village Fair, broken in a new chief executive (yours truly), restructured the leadership of the Board of Directors, and are on the verge of converting to a new information database and accounting system.

All of this would not have been possible without the hard work, dedication and determination of the Chamber staff, our unbelievable volunteers and committee members, and our Board of Directors. I owe each a huge debt of gratitude and am so thankful for the support the Chamber receives throughout the year. With their help, and with the improvements we have made mostly in place, 2011 is poised to be a very exciting and rewarding year indeed for our membership and the organization.

As 2010 winds down, so does the Chamber's calendar of programs and events. But there still are a couple of opportunities to learn more about the Chamber and the year that was, reconnect with old friends and colleagues, and gather to share in the blessings of what the future holds.

On Wednesday, Dec. 1, the Chamber will hold its annual meeting beginning at 8 a.m. at The Community House in downtown Birmingham. The meeting serves as a report of the year to the general membership and community at large; the new Board of Directors is announced; and both the Business Person of the Year and First Citizen are recognized.
Prior to the meeting, a great networking opportunity takes place over breakfast.

On Wednesday, Dec. 8, the Chamber Board of Directors and staff will host the annual holiday mixer, scheduled from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Birmingham Athletic Club. It is a great event to celebrate the season and the promise 2011 holds. Details and registration information is available at www.bbcc.com

I look forward to seeing old friends, new friends and future friends alike at both events. Come and join the fun.Joe Bauman is president of the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber. He welcomes feedback at joeb@bbcc.com.

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