It’s been a wonderful year in Webster City and I’m very happy to be here. Each year goals are set, plans are made and we move forward along our path. I personally find three words that describe the direction of where I want to go. Last year was explore, become, serve. Those three words nicely fit how my year ended up.

This year I’m considering just one word for my work with the Chamber of Commerce. Compassion. It’s a feeling of understanding where the other person is coming from. It’s walking a mile in the other person’s shoes. It’s the golden rule. It’s not feeling sorry for someone, but really listening and looking for solutions and giving when you can. It’s working together for the betterment of all.

Let’s expand the word a little. Community passion. What if we all become passionate about living and working with each other in our community? What if we simply made this the best community to live in? Let go of the negative and be passionate about the positive. It can happen you know. I believe in this community and I’ve met a whole bunch of people who also believe.

“Finally, brothers (and sisters), whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8

Thank you, Webster City – and Merry Christmas.