President's Article - December

By Jim Wright

Last Saturday morning I received a phone call from our five year old grandson Wesley. He had a question for me. "Bub," he said, "is great grandma older than Santa?" "Well no, I replied, Santa is much older than great grandma." Wesley waited a moment and said, "Are you sure, she really looks older. And" (I am sure he was thinking of how wrinkled her face is) he continued, "her skin doesn't even fit her face!"

The Holidays are so much fun, not just for the children, but also for us adults. It is very special when business persons help spread the joy. Many Chamber members have stopped by the Chamber office bringing homemade goodies to share with the staff and other visitors to the office. Several have had or are planning open houses. Restaurants are sharing their luncheon specials on the Chamber's LinkedIn and Facebook pages. Some have even Tweeted Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday messages. For these things the staff and I are very appreciative.

Yesterday I saw a sweater on a mannequin displayed at one member's store. I asked if I could possible try on the sweater in the window and the clerk said no, I'd have to try it on in the dressing room just like everyone else. More humor, more joy!

In the midst of seasonal cheer, the Chamber has had its moments of sadness. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of Terri Honneyball and Mike Miller and others who have lost loved ones this year as they spend their first holiday without their loved ones. Several have struggled with illness, but many of those are celebrating as they are now on the road to recovery.

It all boils down to caring! The Chamber and its family of members truly share in the happiness as well as the sadness of our members. We are a community united by our businesses but also by our love for each other. Take time this season to spread the compassion and the happiness. Make sure you pass it on to your customers and employees and take it home to your families and friends. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from all of us here at the Chamber office, from the board of directors, and from your business colleagues.

Some other Holiday Cheer

Q: What do elves learn in school?
A: The Elf-abet!

Q: If athletes get athletes foot, what do astronauts get?
A: Missletoe!

Q: What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire?
A: Frostbite.

Q: Why was Santa's little helper depressed?
A: Because he had low elf esteem.

Q: Why does Santa have 3 gardens?
A: So he can ho-ho-ho.

Q: How do sheep in Mexico say Merry Christmas?
A: Fleece Navidad!

Q: What do you get if you deep fry Santa Claus?
A: Crisp Cringle.

Q: What did the ghosts say to Santa Claus?
A: We'll have a boo Christmas without you.

Q: What's a good holiday tip?
A: Never catch snowflakes with your tongue until all the birds have gone south for the winter.