Neither hurricanes nor real estate slumps can dampen the spirit of the Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce.
By Sept. 5 the Chamber’s membership drive had netted 106 new members, and they celebrated at De Charme Roux at Bon Secour. Since September the new membership has grown and the Chamber now boasts over a thousand members.
The annual meeting this year was again held at Perdido Beach Resort, and about 500 members and guests showed for the celebration. Following the success of the past January banquet, the Chamber showed slides picturing the events, people participating in a variety of situations and the host of ribbon-cuttings.
The big scissor had been in a record number of business openings.
There was a transfer of chairmanship as Computer Backup’s Lance Alexander stepped down and Sunny 105.7 FM’s Lee Hagan took up the gavel for 2008. Hagan announced his goals for the coming year, which included both the environment and the addition of high-tech companies. He wished to attract more permanent residents to strengthen the tax and participation base.
Lance Alexander described the “tale of three cities,” pointing out the coming together of Foley, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach whose chambers of commerce and visitors bureaus are working together to promote a region concept. He noted the strength that can be gained with these cities working together.
Gulf State Park Superintendent Hugh S. Branyon received the chamber’s Distinguished Service Award for his nearly 30 years of service to the park and community. In 2007 the Back Country (Catman’s Trail) was named the Hugh S. Branyon Trail in his honor.
