2007 Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors of the Year

Lynwood Cain, the owner of Lynwood Cain Security Company, said there are many reason to join the Chamber of Commerce.  But the one reason he counts as his favorite - the one reason why he volunteers so many hours –  is simple: he has a good time.  Being named Ambassador of the Year adds to positive spirit that surrounds the organization, he said.

“When I came to open my business, I wanted to get involved with other business organizations and the Chamber was a good way to do it.  And honestly, it does not get any better than working with the crew at the Chamber of Commerce – they are best team of people, and they make advocating for business a lot of fun.”

Cain said he started as an Ambassador when he became self-employed.  He knew he wanted a way to network, and the advice of others told him that the Chamber was the best place to start.

“The chamber is a good place to start when you have a new business because you get your name out there,” he said.  “The website alone has so many hits a year – it’s incredible.  You meet other business owners who are able to help you, or who may need the services of your business.  If you like to volunteer, there are always opportunities.  And overall it’s a good way to go out and meet people, to learn about the city, and to learn how business works in the city.”

Cain said he did not expect the award, nor does he think he’ll pursue any bragging rights.

“I didn’t become part of the Chamber for an award,” he said with a laugh.  “I do what I do because of the people at the Chamber.   They represent everything about the Chamber.  When it comes to business, they get things done.”

Ambassador of the Year Brian Devaney believes in celebration.

In fact, even as he was awarded with his prestigious award this year, he was happier to celebrate the many faces of business in the audience.

“I love the celebration of success in business,” Devaney said.  “The business potential for any business is so much greater for a business when you join the Chamber of Commerce.”

Daveney’s link to business, Steamatic Corpus Christi, has been the family lifeblood for many years.  After he graduated from Texas A&M in College Station in 1996, he decided to move back to Corpus Christi and start volunteering for the Chamber.  Devaney is a graduate of leadership Corpus Christi Class 34, a project of the Chamber Foundation.  He said that experience, along with the countless ribbon cuttings, mixers, lunches and other events really affirmed his belief in the Chamber’s mission.

“As a Chamber Ambassador, I get to welcome new businesses, develop new members, and foster those relationships with existing businesses.  You also have the resources of the U.S. chamber of commerce at your fingertips online - you can not get that unless you are a member of the chamber of commerce.  It’s a unique opportunity to warm sell your product or service because the door is always open to the Chamber of Commerce.  If you have a business, you need to be a member.  It gives you great rewards.”

-bios written by Chamber Member Omar Lopez