Although daunting, the task is easier because of the leadership offered by Mark Miller this past year and, of course, because of the outstanding staff led by President Cindy Johnson.

The coming year is full of opportunities some continuations of efforts under way, some new and all exciting. We will see more and continuing efforts in the development of the work force in our great community.

Last year, a good deal of effort was expended to identify what needs are currently underserved for our many businesses. The answer that kept being repeated is more workers that are punctual, willing to listen and have good interpersonal skills. Further development of technical skills, such as welding, CNC operators and IT, are needed, also. We will continue our work with local schools, secondary and postsecondary, and our businesses to develop the lifeblood of any successful community its workers.

The ability to attract and grow our work force also requires a place to house them. This is one of the new issues that I want to further address in 2008. Affordable housing is a much-talked-about issue; it is time that we go beyond talking and start working collectively to do something. Home ownership is an integral part of the American dream. It builds pride and a sense of community that is so very important to our ability to come together to grow and make our community prosper.

And finally I must mention another effort that your chamber has taken the lead in pursuing moving the State Fair to Grand Island. This community effort has and will continue to consume the time and energy of many throughout the year. I think it is well worth the effort. Although it certainly is not a done deal, we are in the running and great momentum has been created to move the State Fair in the right direction to Grand Island!

Your chamber is about shared goals, vision and community. Please join me this year in continuing and enhancing the great work of the Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce in defining and implementing those goals and vision.

Don Dunn is chairman of the board of directors of the Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce.