THE CHAMBER CORNER: INVESTMENT IN LEARNING IMPORTANT JOB

Few things we do in life are as important as the caring for, and participating in the learning process of, our children. This is the type of investment that will provide a return like no other investment can even hope to achieve, not just for the child, or even you, the parent. This investment will provide for the future as well.

The Chamber of Commerce understands the importance of preparing our future leaders to take their rightful place at the top of the hierarchical ladder, and we have made a commitment to assist in this process through a series of partnerships with our local school district and business leaders. This partnership has created the "Adopt a School" program, a scholarship fund, and ceremonies to recognize our other most valuable resource in the education of our future leaders, the teacher.

Recognizing the accomplishments of our teachers through the Educator of the Year ceremonies is fast approaching. The banquet is scheduled for 6 p.m., April 30 at the Route 25 Banquet Hall. At that time the educators nominated by their peers, and selected by our committee of educators, will be honored for their accomplishments this past school year.

Although there are only four awards presented, it is really a night to honor all those who shape and teach our children. No job is more important than training the work force and our leaders of tomorrow, which is why these awards are an important part of the Chamber of Commerce.

The Education Committee, consisting of Linda Puchbauer, First National Bank; Dr. Rita Fisher, Jackson R-2; Pat Schwab, Metro Business College; Liana Lehnert, Sylvan Learning Center; Al Lipke, St. Paul Lutheran School; and Tracy Dumey, Immaculate Conception School; has been hard at work in the processing of a record number of applications and anticipates a large turnout for the banquet. We understand that a banquet and awards ceremony are minor recognition for all the hard work teachers give to their profession, but it's a start.

So, to whom would you trust your most valuable asset and resource?

Because we have determined that our children are the leaders of the future, it should come as no surprise that our philosophy is that the people educating our "assets" are an equally important asset and resource.

People may attend the Educator of the Year banquet by calling the Chamber of Commerce at 243-8131 to make reservations.