Ambergris Caye Chamber of Commerce - closing a chapter

Press Release – Ambergris Caye Chamber of Commerce - May 5, 2011 - The Ambergris Caye Chamber of Commerce came into being with the signing of documents on November 7, 2002 and was registered as a Non-Profit Organization December 17, 2002. The first officers were Tom Vidrine, Boatyard; Malcolm Hitchcock, Fido’s; Melanie Paz, Amigos del Mar; Keith Newton, Palapa Ventures; and Debbie Sharko, Iguana Gardens Apartments. We would like to thank these people (and others) for bringing this important organization to San Pedro Town. During the time of organization, a multitude of talented and thoughtful people gave leadership and direction to much needed subjects for our town. Accomplishments were many. They addressed beautification of the town, safety issues on the water and streets, safety of the citizens in working with the Police Department and national issues of importance, among others.

As personal agendas changed, the San Pedro Business Association splintered off to cover issues which they felt they were more in tune with. Mr. Vidrine continued to head ACCC, but a leadership role for a long time takes its toll also. June 2010, Tom decided to step down. He was also leaving the country for an indefinite time. At a moments’ notice, the roll of Acting President was given to me as the First Vice President. Sadly to say, it was during an extremely busy time for me while working on the Marco Gonzalez Maya Site Project. My dance card was full; I was not in a position to lead the Chamber. Although we tried to restart it over the last few months, no one else has agreed to take the Presidents’ position and form a new slate of officers. The San Pedro Business Association is, however, discussing merging with the Chamber.

Times have changed and the Chamber is now calling it a day for now. It is a good organization – a prestigious organization – for any town to have. When it is time and the need is there, leaders will again come forth to start anew. A quote from Chris Emmanuel last week was, “Make experience the only success and you will never fail”. He talked about the fact that we all like to win, but sometimes you have to accept losing as winning at times. To “embrace failure and see the wisdom from our efforts……and see the beauty of doing our best in all situations.”

The Ambergris Caye Chamber of Commerce was a winner. We did our best. Thank you San Pedro.

Very Sincerely Yours,
Jan Brown, Past Acting President

At the final meeting, Rebecca Arceo from the San Pedro Business Association (SPBA) attended and invited members from both organizations to attend a meeting on Wednesday May 11th, 4pm at El Divino. A discussion will be held regarding the possible merging of the organizations into the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce.