Along with the joy and excitement of the New Year’s season, we consciously or unconsciously review the year that has gone by, resolutions kept or not--- expectations, met or not.

We give pause and think about our own losses, our friends and families that have lost loved ones and we hope those left behind have somehow found the strength to move forward.

I am sure there were some disappointing moments as well as those moments that caught you off guard-----then in a flash, we are ready for the New Year and fast forward and review ways in which we will strive to develop and grow.

Review your past year with fresh eyes. Instead of finding everything wrong that has happened, remember those moments that –“took your breath away”-----

The New Year itself can seem daunting to some, challenging to others, filled with excitement or with fear. Just as each breath we take is a fresh one, unless we carry the past with us as heavy baggage, unless we cling to old memories and mistakes, we can then begin to live this year in a way that is truly refreshing and healing as well. Each day, each moment offers us this opportunity---we just need to grasp it.....

Life itself is a series of changes and challenges. When we resist these changes, we resist life itself. Though difficult at times, change brings new growth, values, goals and understanding. As we say good-bye to plans, hopes, and old ways of being, we welcome and open the door to new experiences and fulfillment. The present moment, the “now” is always filled with wonder, freshness and endless possibilities.

Take time to think of the good things that happened to you. The people that came and went in your life, Most of all take the time to think about you –and what you admire and respect about who you are. The more you admire and respect yourself, the easier it is to embark and succeed at new goals and dreams. (And yes, maybe even a new year’s resolution or two)I wish you all ---that which you wish for yourself in the New Year----

Sincerely yours,
Sari Rotenberg
Chair of the Board

Dear Members:

Happy New Year to all! Congratulations to the City of Coral Springs for becoming the first city in the nation to win the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige award. The Chamber and the City have a long history of working together to provide assistance and services to businesses in the community. Contributing to the Malcolm Baldrige award was an opportunity for the Chamber to show its support of our City and be proud of its accomplishments, excellence and quality. Thanks to all of our members that financially contributed to help with the site visit. I truly feel this is a wonderful reflection on the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between local government and business.

The Chamber has a very exciting year planned for 2008! Our new community profile and membership directory is currently under production. Last year over 8000 directories were distributed throughout the City; including City Hall, City Hall in the Mall, hospitals, banks, libraries and sent to hundreds of people looking to relocate to the city. Your membership includes your business name included alphabetically and by category in the directory. A representative from Village Profile will be contacting you shortly to provide information on low cost effective advertising.

We had an amazing response to our “Power Lunch” in December; the next one is scheduled for February 6^th. This is a great way to provide our members with educational resources for their businesses. Knowledge is power- each lunch will consist of a guest speaker discussing topics that you, our members, have told us that you want to learn about.

Also in 2008 the Chamber will be working in conjunction with Economic Development to survey businesses in the City to see how we can further assist them with their needs. In addition, the Chamber is currently meeting with several organizations to work on providing counseling assistance for small businesses.

Our 2008 Business Leader of the Year awards luncheon is scheduled for Friday, May 2nd at the Mariott Coral Springs Golf & Convention Center. You will be receiving more information shortly.

Did you know that………….

• The Chamber has 3 FREE referral groups that are included with your Chamber membership; to find out about availability - email laserimage1@earthlink.net
• The Chamber website receives over 7000 visits per month and as a member your business receives a free link directly to your website allowing potential customers direct access to your website
• The website features low cost banner advertising and also contains “HOT DEALS” a member to member discount program. If you would like to advertise or participate in HOT DEALS just email us the discount you would like to offer to other members. email: Jessica@cschamber.com
• The Chamber provides mailing labels to our members for only $50; or your company can send an email blast to over 1500 business representatives for only $99.
• We have amazing committees to share your talents with and get to know other business people. Check the website for email contacts.

Remember, networking is not about numbers, it’s about relationships.People do business with people they know and trust.

Sincerely yours,

Cindy Brief
President