Since I am the current president of the Havre Area Chamber of Commerce, I should have written something very inspirational and enlightening, but inspiration eluded me. My thoughts continually wandered to the Internet as my fingers ached to log-on and do some surfing. Isn't it amazing that we are living in a millennium where virtually everything we need is at our fingertips? With the daily expansion of E-commerce, one can only wonder what lies ahead for businesses which are firmly planted downtown.

I became actively involved with the chamber of commerce a few years ago and was stunned to discover how many hats the chamber wears. When I became a board member, I thought the chamber was all about "business." I soon learned the chamber is about the community and therefore is a strong voice for tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, politics, community service, and the list goes on and on. The chamber, like Havre, has something to offer everyone.

Once again, my thoughts have trailed back to the Internet. I wonder if I can sell hardware without ever leaving my recliner? Maybe, but I doubt personal service can ever be replaced by technology. When Jack comes in looking for that thingamajig that goes on the watchamacallit under the sink and remembers that Murray sold him one just like it five or 10 years ago, you can bet Jack is going home a happy man. In return, Jack will come back to buy the doohickey Jill's been nagging him about.

In any event, I look forward to another great year with the chamber and encourage you to get involved in the community and support your local businesses.