It is an honor to be asked to serve as Chair of the Canyon Lake Area Chamber Of Commerce.  It was clear to me at the November meeting that everyone involved with Chamber leadership shares the common goal as stated in the Chamber Vision Statement, i.e., "to preserve the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Hill Country by encouraging responsible commerce and carefully managed growth."  I look forward to serving with a team of men and women committed to making that happen within our community.  It will be our focus to provide a forum for collaboration among members for the sharing of knowledge and research-based best practices.

Meeting new people and potential customers is easy at the many Chamber events offered throughout the year. Business after hour networking events (Mixers) are held throughout the year at a sponsoring member's place of business.  Seminars, special events, and committee involvement are other great avenues for business networking.  The Chamber provides many opportunities for community and personal growth through those committees.  Members are encouraged to become an integral part of the progress of the Chamber and the community through investing time in your special area of interest and expertise.  Our Chamber will continue to improve and grow with your support and involvement.

The Chamber is the source many visitors and residents turn to for names of service providers whether they are looking for a place to stay, a bite to eat, or a good plumber.  Every dollar spent by a visitor for accommodations, attractions, dining, or shopping filters down to Canyon Lake accountants, attorneys, bankers, contractors, electricians, hair stylists, insurance agents, painters, physicians, veterinarians and on and on.  Our Chamber is a forward looking organization working in tandem with community partners in the business, non-profit, military and governmental sectors to ensure our region's continued prosperity.  A priority is to aggressively promote business in the Canyon Lake Area by providing effective networking venues, meaningful educational programs, community projects, and legislative advocacy in a way that provides a wealth of resources to you, your business, and your family.

We have a great product to promote and sell.  The Guadalupe River/Canyon Lake region of the Hill Country is an attractive destination for visitors and many others who will make their home in the area.  Canyon Lake is enriched with culture, history, and more importantly a strong sense of community.  We live in a warm-hearted place where all are welcomed and appreciated.  Our community has a wonderful, progressive yet laid-back atmosphere that makes it a great place to spend the night or a lifetime.  Since all of us that have been here for a while know of the beauty of our rivers, lakes, and spectacular sunsets it is no surprise that we are one of the fastest growing counties in the state.  That being said, we must take very seriously the key role we have as a Chamber in providing leadership, advocacy, connections and support for managing the tremendous growth and change in a way that maintains our community's unique quality of life. 

The key to the Chambers future success lies in the membership.  Let the Chamber know about your business concerns and allow the Chamber to demonstrate how it can serve you.  The members define the direction of the Chamber, and your voice needs to be heard.  Join us as we endeavor to bring a healthy, happy successful working environment to the community in which we live.  If you live in the Canyon Lake area please consider joining today, and encourage others to join so that together, we can move our community positively and progressively into the future.

I'm excited about being your Chair for 2008, and working together for the good of our community.  If I can be of service, please feel free to contact me through the Chamber office. 

Peggy Fuller-2008 Chair, Canyon Lake Area Chamber Of Commerce