It's time again for us to put together candy bags for Santa to distribute after the Christmas parade to all the kiddies.  Donations of candy or money to purchase candy will be appreciated.  We place a card with contributors name on it into the bag and we run a thank you in the paper.  If you wish to donate, please drop donations by the Chamber office until Thursday, December 5.

The Chamber's annual banquet has come and gone for 2013, and was very successful. Our speaker, Greg Gaines, former radio DJ and motivational speaker, did an great job sharing with us his "Eight Keys to Successful Leadership".
1. Acknowledge that you have to move.  Nothing happens until you begin the process.
2. Have a plan.  It's not a plan unless it's written down.
3. Invest in you.  Be old fashioned.
4. Be careful with fear. Don't think you're not good enough. Nobody is better than you.
5. Be willing to apologize.
6. Check your watch. Take a vacation.
7. Expect trouble. Trouble builds character and compassion. Trouble can be a distraction. Sometimes the trouble has nothing to do with you.
8. Remember who you are. You have everything you need to succeed inside of you.

A few other pointers Greg recommends are: reconnect with your family and friends, take care of your health and take some time for yourself.

Recipients of the Chamber's 2013 Business Appreciation Awards were Firehouse Subs and Tractor Supply Company.  The Community Service Award winner for 2013 was Cathy Rhoden.

Please join the Chamber of Commerce in thanking all active duty, reservist and retired military and their families for all they have done and continue to do to preserve our freedom.  They all give so selflessly in so many ways to protect our nation and those of us who live here.  

We would also like to pay our respects to the servicemen and women, and their families, who have made the ultimate sacrifice and given their lives in the line of duty.  

We pray that God will continue to bless America in a mighty and powerful way. 

First Coast Cardiovascular Institute held its ribbon cutting/grand opening Thursday, October 3. They are open on Fridays only at 725 South Sixth Street in Dr Tecson's office.  First Coast Cardio opened in 2002 and have well established offices in Jacksonville and Lake City.