As November shifts rapidly into December, Fremont businesses grow entirely self-centered. Well, maybe "business-centered" or "family centered" would be more appropriate terms. Sure, a few of our businesses quiet down in winter and around the holidays - but ask something of a retailer after Thanksgiving and you may just get bit!

   Feliz Navidad

This is why the Chamber slows down in December - once we've celebrated the season. Let's be real - celebration is our specialty! However, we always make sure to pack our parties into the first two weeks.

The 2nd Annual Lenin Lighting happens on Friday, December 2nd, 2005. As kick-off to our monthly art walk, this festive and frivolous event has all the elements of a legendary Fremont happening. Where else can you see a notorious political leader strung in Christmas lights? It's a party for all ages, faiths and political persuasions. What else could you ask for?

Finally, on December 7th, we'll hold the anxiously anticipated, annually awaited Chamber Holiday Party. Besides being a great way to network among Fremonsters and spend an otherwise dreary, dark and stormy winter evening - we'll also hand out numerous End-of-the-Year community awards. Two awards, the Press On Regardless and the Big Bertha, go annually to two particular area heroes who've served far beyond the bounds of ordinary volunteersmanship.

This year's party at the new Fremont chocolate factory, Theo Chocolate, includes food and, of course, chocolate. We'll be treated to tours of the freshly-painted and fully functional facility. We'll also have a few wines and beers on hand, as this is a Fremont party after all.

   Vrolijke Kerstmis

By the morning of December 8th, the Chamber will have as thoroughly celebrated the holidays as anyone could expect. Members can then move on to the most important aspect of the season - stressing out! Seriously, the Chamber hopes to get our business out of the way early to make time to enjoy the holidays surrounded by the love of family and friends.

   Joyeux Noël

This is why I will leave you with a slightly shortened version of my regular ramblings. It is my heartfelt wish that your holidays bring you joy and pleasure. If I hurry, I may just get in some of that pleasure and joy all of my own.

   Happy Holidays!

   December 2005