|
Message From the Chairman
Things
are rapidly changing in Cleveland County. Recent
elections have resulted in changes in political
leadership. The arrival of new businesses and the
expansion of existing firms has led to changes in
employment opportunities. The change to a global
economy has created intense, worldwide competition
for business.
In today’s world, success belongs to the committed
who work from the heart and invest themselves
enthusiastically in their work, and recommit quickly
when changes reshape their world.
We,
too, as a Chamber of Commerce, must be
prepared to change if we are to meet the challenges
ahead. We must catch on to what’s happening, invest
our energy in finding and seizing the opportunities
brought about by these changes, position ourselves
right, and take personal responsibility for our
future. As our membership adjusts to the challenges
of change, the Chamber leadership team is ready and
willing to provide the appropriate support and
assistance.
The
theme for 2008 is “WHISTLES DON’T PULL TRAINS.”
Just what is the meaning behind this theme? Having
grown up in Rutherford County near the Bostic
trainyard, I witnessed many trains coming in and out
of the yard. There was a slight incline as they
left the yard which caused the engines to labor and
struggle to pull the loaded coal cars to the top of
the ridge. The strain of the diesel motors sent the
message that they were working hard. But when the
whistle blew, I never saw the train move any faster
because the whistle was just along for the ride,
making a loud noise, and contributing nothing toward
getting the job done.
The Cleveland County Chamber
is much more than a whistle. I am sure you have
heard that “after all is said and done, more is said
than done.” Not with this active, involved, and
vibrant Chamber. As stated in the Chamber by-laws,
our purpose “…is to provide proactive leadership to
foster economic opportunity and enhance our
community’s quality of life.” This purpose is not
achieved with whistles, but with proactive
zeal, energy, and enthusiasm. The train is moving.
All aboard!
Sincerely,
Steve Padgett
2008 Board Chairman

|