Well, 2009 is nearly finished and the end of the year cannot come fast enough.  Many of us might be eager to put this year behind us and begin to focus on 2010 with new vigor and a new commitment to move our enterprises forward.  Without a doubt the economic turmoil and the challenges we faced in 2009 will leave a lasting impact on the way we manage our businesses.  Strategic plans for growth will no doubt reflect what we've experienced this last year and we may be tempted to be cautious.  But that is neither the entrepreneurial way nor the reason why so many Hispanics and minorities got into business in the first place. 
 
Economic turmoil may slow small business growth but it will not extinguish the drive to persevere and succeed.  We have invested much to get to where we are today and will put in much more, in time and money, to see our enterprises become what we have envisioned for our future generations and for us.
 
So on December 10 we invite you to bid farewell to 2009 and welcome the optimism of a new year.  The Chamber will be hosting our annual holiday celebration in Chicago and we hope to see you there.  (Details follow below)
 
Wishing you the best for this season and the coming year.

Saludos,