The President’s Scribbles - Jim Tobin, President

When I was a little boy, I would sit down about this time every year and write a letter to Santa Claus.  I had learned from experience not to wait until too close to Christmas to do so.  My letters began in the usual way, with some claims to having been good during the previous twelve months and therefore deserving of recognition.

Of course, I knew in my heart I hadn’t been all that good, but then I didn’t ask for widely extravagant toys either.  I had learned to be modest in my requests, asking only those things that I thought I might actually receive – kids are smart and somehow know that there are limits even to Santa’s benevolence. 

          It has been a long time since I’ve written a letter to Santa Claus, but every now and then I have an urge to do so – because I still wish for things, just as I did when I was little.

          Maybe it’s the time of the year, so close to Christmas and the beginning of a new year.  There is such a sense of expectancy and hope at this time of year that it is easy to dream once again about receiving your heart’s desire.

          What are the things on my “wish list” as we approach a new year?  Probably the same things that are on your list: the health, safety, and happiness of my family; greater balance and order in my life; the welfare of others, especially those in want and suffering in our economy.

          Somewhere near the top of my list, for myself and maybe for you too, would be the desire to make a difference.  Perhaps more than anything else, in 2010 I would like to make a difference in some person’s life, and would like for our Leadership Council to increase our efforts to make even more of a difference in our community – I hope that wish is on your list as well.

          I wish for our new Leadership Class that we have a huge number of outstanding applicants.  I wish we fill the Hilton for the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on Tuesday, February 15, 2010, with Sarah Palin (and remember we have Leadership tables).

I also want to take this opportunity to wish each of you a wonderful Holiday Season with those you love.  I hope you can slow the pace long enough to enjoy each other and the real meaning of this blessed season.  It will be history so very quickly.

          God’s blessing to you-all.  Thank you so much for allowing me to be your President. I am grateful for the friends who work to make our Leadership Council, our Chamber, and our community a wonderful corner of the earth.

          May the Spirit of the Season permeate your home and your hearts in the days ahead.

Jim Tobin

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CHAMBER STILL SEEKING APPLICATIONS FOR LEADERSHIP XXIX... we're looking for volunteers to become leaders in the Daytona Beach/Halifax community.  Applications must be in by January 15. 

We're also seeking ideas for community class projects. Do you have something in mind for the next class? Here’s your chance to have 30+ members roll up their sleeves and help your organization or cause.  Send ideas to Jim via email - jim@daytonachamber.com