The following is a letter from the Chamber’s outgoing president. Presidents serve a one year term as the lead volunteer of our organization. Their responsibility is great, however they grow professionally from the experience.

Read more to hear parting words from Amy Dean, 2008-2009 Chamber president. Dear Fellow Apex Chamber of Commerce Member,

The 2008–2009 fiscal year is coming to an end at the Apex Chamber. As you well know, the Apex community has not been immune to the downturn in the economy. We have seen businesses close their doors with others barely surviving. But with adversity comes opportunity. The staff at the Chamber has worked very hard seeking out new memberships as well as fostering relationships with current members. They have been making visits to members to ensure that the Chamber is meeting their needs and listening to ways that we can enhance the services we offer to increase the value of a Chamber membership. I want to thank each of you for continuing your investment in the Chamber.

This year has been another great year for our Chamber programs. Each of your Chamber staff has been instrumental in growing the programs that are offered to you as a benefit of membership. Our Peak Performers have seen another year of great advertising for one price, the exposure they receive for the amount they pay is second to none. Our Business Expo was the largest ever both in number of exhibitors and attendees. Business After Hours events have been very successful as well as our Ribbon Cuttings and Business and Breakfast programs. The most recent Wake Up Apex Breakfast was outstanding. Our relationship with the Town of Apex Council Members and Town Manager Bruce Radford remains strong. This partnership offers many advantages for our Chamber members and the Town alike. I would be remiss if I did not take this time to recognize the staff of our Chamber. If you have called the Chamber in the past few months you have been greeted and assisted by a very pleasant, professional staff member, Wendy Allen. Wendy is our new Office Manager and is doing an excellent job both greeting the public and keeping things running smooth. Jim Stella, who handles economic development, has been working with the Town of Apex staff and elected officials to foster growth and relationships in the business community. Sue Mooney, Director of Member Relations, has worked tirelessly to grow the membership and to make sure that all of our events are successful. The work ethic of our Executive Director, Brenda Steen, cannot be expressed adequately in words. I have really enjoyed getting to work side by side with her for the last 12 months. Brenda is a wonderful leader for the Apex Chamber of Commerce not just in the direction she provides for her staff but with the way she represents the Chamber in the community. Her devotion to the Chamber is immeasurable and she has made my job easy.

I am proud to say that I have been fortunate to be the president of this fine organization and have to give thanks to the membership for giving me this opportunity; to the Board of Directors with whom I have served for providing me with guidance and support; and to all the committee members who work hard to get the job done. I also would like to recognize Lisa Naegelen, the office manager at L.G. Jordan Oil Co., for the extra work that she has taken on as a result of my many absences. Most importantly I have to thank my family; my parents, Larry and Candy Jordan for all of the help with my children; my children, Jordan and Carl for understanding when I either was home late or not at all before bedtime; and to my husband, Proctor, for providing support and understanding at home. Sincerely, Amy Dean Vice President L.G. Jordan Oil, Chamber President 2008-2009 The Annual Chamber Guide — Advertising Space Available The 2010 annual Chamber publication is in its planning stages and will be available the first week in January. As always, we look forward to unveiling this wonderful resource to not only our members, but to prospective businesses and residents. Advertising sales have begun, if you want to secure a spot in this year-round publication with a diverse distribution and more than 15,000 readers, contact us today. There is no other publication like this in Apex, jump onboard and prepare now for exposure you want in 2010. Upcoming Events The Apex Chamber will co-host a State of Apex event on September 25th with the Triangle Business Journal. The event will take place at Prince of Peace Episcopal Church on Salem Street in Apex. 7:30 -9:00 a.m. Visit TBJ.com for more details.

The Apex Chamber Annual Awards Ceremony will take place on September 29th at Prestonwood Country Club. Go to our website at www.apexchamber.com and click on the red carpet to learn more.

An Apex Town Council Candidate’s forum will be held on October 22nd at 7:00 at the Halle Cultural Arts Center. There are currently seven candidates vying for three seats. Come meet the candidates and ask questions. Election day is November 3rd, be prepared when you get to the polls. The event is free and open to the public, but RSVPs are required as space is limited. Please contact the Chamber at 362-6456 or apexchamber.com to learn more. Member News

The following businesses are members of the Apex Chamber of Commerce and as a benefit of membership are included in this publication. If you own or operate a business and want to know how we can help you, please contact the Chamber at info@apexchamber.com or 362-6456.

Apex United Methodist Church will hold its 25th annual Harvestfest event on Saturday, October 3.

Traditions such as the Flea Market will be back. Attic and garage treasures. Furniture, books (a great book store is part of this event and is a crowd favorite!), children’s games and toys – a plethora of treasures all priced to sell! Proceeds go to local missions.

Come hungry as this events boast the best food around. Breakfast cooked by the Methodist Men starting at 7:00 a.m., plus hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, homemade ice cream, and brunswick stew, all prepared by members of our church.

For the kids there will be pony rides and an exciting array of children's games.

Live entertainment to keep your foot tapping will take place on a flatbed outside with and inside the CLC/GYM a concert performed by Two or More will take place at 12:00-noon. All concerts are Ffree. Color your world when you come to Harvestfest and select your hardy fall mums…and see the health professionals who will check your blood pressure and other vital signs. There will also be the “Ask the Nutritionist” feature so you can find out what you need to eat to feel better and have more energy. Apex United Methodist Church is located on 100 S. Hughes Street.

Come see what this great community event has in store for you!