As we continue into 2009, we should take time to reflect on past achievements and count present day blessings.  Focusing on an unknown future portrayed as "dismal" by the media will not create the positive attitude and work ethic required to conquer 2009.

All of us have faced difficult times in previous years and, as a result, we have grown from these experiences.  Rarely does a person enjoy or welcome hardship;  however, these are times when we learn about ourselves and each other.

As we focus on 2009, let's look at this time as an opportunity for personal growth and community awareness.  All of us are in this together. . .and together, great things can be accomplished.

And from your Evergreen Park Chamber of Commerce, you can expect:

• Much more communication from us, not only about what we do, but better communication about each and every business in our chamber. 

• This new and improved website, including classified listings and web links for your business.

• Calendar of our networking events in your hands at the beginning of the year, including our popular seminar luncheons, board meetings, formal dinners, golf outing, business expo, etc. 

• Increased advertising venues – beginning in mid-April of 2005, the Chamber purchased continuing advertising space in the Evergreen Courier to promote each and every business in the Evergreen Park Chamber of Commerce.  Programs like this will continue. 

• Enhanced referral program for chamber members based on calls coming into the chamber office.

• Continued efforts to remind the community to shop local.

Again, I look forward to serving you in 2009, and should you have any questions at all, please feel free to call our Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Glenn Pniewski at the chamber office direct at (708) 423-1118 (epchamber@sbcglobal.net),

In the meantime, please browse our website, and let us know your suggestions! 

Sincerely, 

Tom Ollenburger
Vice-President, H & R Johnson Brothers, Inc
2009 EPCC President