Letter From the President, Sheila Merritt

As we begin 2009, I am reflective on what an interesting year we experienced in 2008, and I am hopeful for what 2009 has in store in this year of change.
 
Change is indeed in the air! Next week, our country will witness a historic inauguration of a new President whose administration has potential to effect great change. The finance, housing and banking industries have brought about change in how we all do business and the changes in the world around has given many of “ pause to ponder ” changes in how we live our lives.
 
Change is no exception for YOUR AGLCC!  Fortunately, many of the changes we have planned for 2009 are very positive and exciting.  Most obvious include the change in the Executive Committee, as I began my term on January 1st, the organization has a new President- and rounding out the new Executive Committee, we have Glen Paul Freedman, Past President; Ted Bruner, Vice President; and Michael Keller, Treasurer.  Over half of your 2009 Board of Directors is new- bringing with them new ideas, and new energy in this era of change.  We also have a new Administrator, Leah Gray.  Many of you met her at the Holiday Party- and if not, please make sure you say hello and welcome to her at the January 4th Friday event at Paris on Ponce!
 
We will also offer changes in our Programs in 2009.  Our WOW Wednesday events will now be held Quarterly.  We know that time and money are precious commodities, so in an effort to make the most of both of those for our members, we will be holding these programs less frequently, but are focusing on significantly increasing the profile of speakers, and the relevancy of the topics.
 
Our annual Community Awards Dinner will be held later in the year.  We want all of our members to have the opportunity to attend this phenomenal event, so we decided to move it to a Friday night – making it easier for many to celebrate a late night!  We also have moved it out of the First Quarter, a time where budgets are tight for many.
 
Our Member Orientations will now be held Quarterly.  Again- having them less frequently, but with more content will make better use of everyone’s time.  Additionally, this will increase the number of attendees, making it a significant networking opportunity.
 
We will be launching the new website soon, and we will have a new look to the newsletters.  
 
We will also be offering a new ‘Gay Community Card’ when the 2009 Directory is published.  This very exciting element will allow retailers to show their support to our membership, and will offer all of you discounts on a variety of goods and services all over the Metro area. It will be a wonderful addition to our benefits, and is in-line with our mantra of supporting those who support us!
 
Many changes indeed. I sincerely hope that you find at least a few of them of help to you.  I also encourage you to get involved and join us so that you can experience these changes first-hand.
 
If there is a change in the AGLCC that you would like to see- call me!  We’ll talk about it.  Change is most definitely good, and we want you to be a part of it.