What an amazing experience!  This past year as chair of the board has had a tremendous impact on my life, both personally and professionally.  I have had the opportunity to work with an amazing board of directors – a group of community leaders committed to making some tough choices in light of today’s volatile market in order to provide improved service to our members.  We have spent countless hours working on budget issues, capital campaigns, staffing, and membership.  I thank you all or your dedication and commitment to our community – it is an honor to have such an outstanding group of leaders.

The Visalia Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the Best of Visalia at our 56th Annual Awards Celebration to be held Thursday, June 18, at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center.  “Best of Visalia” is the theme of this year’s event as we highlight the best our community has to offer in terms of businesses and individuals, along with elegant entertainment, food and fun!

Network with business and community leaders and get a sneak peek of our new programs at the Visalia Chamber of Commerce’s 2009 Annual Meeting happening May 15th at the Lamp Liter Inn.  Please join us as we reinstate this annual meeting (otherwise known as the “state of the Chamber”) and recognize the stars of the community and business arena.  Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. and the cost is $20 for members and $50 for future members.

We love our members all year round, and we’ll be showing it with root beer floats, hot dogs, and Budweiser beer on Friday, April 3rd, from 4:30-7 p.m. at the Visalia Chamber of Commerce.

The search is finally over!  After more than six months of searching, I am proud to announce Glenn Morris as the newly-appointed President/CEO of the Visalia Chamber of Commerce.