Word from the Chair

Dear Chamber Members, Staff and Volunteers

As I begin a year of serving as the Chairman for the Odessa Chamber of Commerce, I am overwhelmed by the dedication and hard work of all of those associated with your chamber. When I attend Chamber of Commerce functions across our great state, I am continually reminded that the Odessa Chamber of Commerce is the best Chamber in the state of Texas and probably the United States. Our staff is second to none and the volunteers that give of their time and energy to this great city are some of the best to be found…anywhere! Thank you all so very much for what you do.

I want to congratulate Renee' Henderson Earls on her tremendous year as our Chair. It has been a pleasure to work with her and learn from one of the best. My father taught me a long time ago that when you take on a volunteer leadership role it is not a good idea to follow someone who is at the top of their game…someone who will be truly missed. Unfortunately, I have the luck of following Renee' and will be hard pressed to come even close to her leadership abilities. Thank you, Renee', for a job well done!

As a native Odessan, I have had the pleasure of seeing our community grow and prosper over the years. There have been some rough times, but I believe we are in a time of positive growth and prosperity brought on by hard work and the determination of many individuals to make Odessa the right place in Texas. We must stay diligent in our efforts and welcome with open arms those who have come to Odessa in search of a better place to live, work and worship.

This next year looks like a year of opportunity with both small and large businesses coming to town while existing businesses continue to grow and expand. The outlook for our community is very positive, and I want to encourage each of you to get involved with the Chamber as we continue to make Odessa the best place in Texas to call home.

Thank you for the opportunity you have given me and I look forward to the year ahead.

Sincerely,
Doug Chisum, Chairman
Odessa Chamber of Commerce 2010-2011