Wellington, What a Town! When my family and I moved to Wellington, we choose this western community because of its uniqueness – an equestrian jewel with an ambiance of international presence, prestigious golf and country clubs, and, foremost, the high and meaningful quality of life that it afforded to all its residents. There have been so many people who over the years have helped carve the shape of this town and who today continue to play major roles in the direction and maintenance of this distinguished community’s on-going progress. It is because of you that Wellington can boast about its quality schools, commitment to open space for ball fields, increasing medical presence, and its top level polo and equestrian competitions held in our own renowned facilities. This is Wellington, a collaboration of the unique and the main stream! The Wellington Chamber of Commerce proudly applauds your efforts and owes thanks to all of you for the key roles that you continue to exert so that our next Wellington generation flourishes.

Bob Dylan once wrote “The Times They Are A-Changing”. Boy was he right and how appropriate these words are in today’s economic environment. As the past few years have reflected, The Wellington Chamber of Commerce envisioned the need for change and felt the time was appropriate for it to become more directly involved with the future planning and growth of our community. This new emphasis was solidified when Darell Bowen, now Mayor of Wellington, and Mike Nelson became Presidents. Our job is quite simple. Help accomplish a healthy Wellington business environment which will foster job development and promote lasting business growth. The Chamber is Wellington’s business voice. During these trying economic times, we must make sure that the Chamber’s voice is heard. After all, when a person is sick, they call a qualified medical expert for assistance, and the Chamber is Wellington’s qualified economic specialist. We must continue to build and enhance alliances with our business leaders, government agencies, and civic officials. This is our job and we will continue this role as your Chamber. We will initiate and further positions that we believe will benefit Wellington’s business development as well as Wellington, a community. We all know and recognize that we will never obtain full agreement from our Members on all positions. When did this become not healthy and unexpected? How else can birth of new ideas and creativity be borne if not from disagreement and discussion?

The success of any Chamber of Commerce comes from the commitment of its Board of Directors, Committee Chairs and Members, and its Membership. Their success has been made possible due in great part to our Executive Director who ensures that the Board’s vision and the Chamber’s mission are fulfilled. We have this person with Michela Perilla-Green who has given her time and creative skills to accomplish our goals. Watch out for her programs!

I am honored to be a part of this dynamic team and thank you for your confidence and support. Together, I know that we will work tirelessly for the beneficial future health, economic success and viability of our businesses and the general community. It will be a challenge this year, but I know that we have the best team in place working for you. Let’s all make 2009 a Chamber year we can be proud of!