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The Magnolia Area Chamber of Commerce (MACC) is taking back-to-school to heart this fall, by launching new marketing and promotional programs. MACC Chairman Barry Tate of Edward Jones said the group is striving to better serve its membership.

"We are working to focus greater attention on our members and how we can better serve them," Tate said. "We recently sent surveys to all our members and are looking for their suggestions and ideas as to how the chamber can better serve them."

Last August, MACC hosted its annual Membership Appreciation Luncheon, which offered every member present an opportunity to present a brief "commercial" about their business at the gathering. The chamber is also adding a Business Spotlight to its monthly luncheons, which will highlight one to three businesses.                                                                                                                                   

With the success of the chamber's annual gala last month, MACC is now working to further promote its members and add benefits to enhance its members experiences. Tate said the chamber staff is developing a "buy local" program featuring rewards, values and savings, and possible member-to-member discounts. The chamber's website will also be receiving a new look. 

Tate went on to say MACC will continue being involved in government and transportation issues in the region, even stepping up the chamber's participation in organizations like the 249 Partnership.

"We feel it is very important to represent our members' business interests to government, at all levels," he said.

With this in mind, MACC delegates will travel to Austin next year to meet with Magnolia area state representatives when the 89th Legislative Session begins.

Christmas Parade

MACC recently announced its annual Christmas Parade theme, An American Christmas, for the Dec. 8 tradition.

"We feel this theme is wide-open to a variety of ideas, such as traditional ways of celebrating Christmas in America, and/or a show of patriotism on the part of our participants," Tate said. "I hope everyone will plan to come out for the day of festivities, beginning with the parade at 10 a.m. Come for the parade, stay for lunch and take in the activities at the depot."

Festivities include the Magnolia Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade and the Magnolia Historical Society's Hometown Christmas offering visits with Santa, the Christmas market, a chili cook-off, the Cookie Express and other family-friendly activities.

To register for the Christmas Parade or to learn more about the Magnolia Area Chamber of Commerce visit MACC online at, MagnoliaTexas.org or call, 281-356-1488. Also, look for the Chamber on Facebook where comments are welcomed.