Since it's beginnings in 1905 as the Board of Trade, the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce has been at the forefront of economic development in the Twin cities.
The business men and women and other concerned citizens who make up the chamber membership are invested in Texarkana. They want to the cities to grow and prosper.
And they think they've found the right man to lead the way for the future.
Last week, the chamber announced Michael Malone has been chosen as the new president and CEO. He is in the process of moving from Virginia to Texarkana and will take up his duties March 1.
Malone is one of 350 Certified Chamber Executives in the country. He has more than 28 years experience working in the field and has served as CEO of chambers in four states.
He is well versed in economic development and working with government to promote business and opportunities for the cities he has served. He also has a track record of civic and community involvement.
Texarkana has its challenges-having two cities with sometimes competing interests assures that. But there is potential here as well. Malone has his work cut out for him, but the opportunity to make both cities better places to live and work is there.
We welcome Michael Malone to Texarkana and wish him the best of success.