Lake Fork, Texas: April 3, 2000    Lake Fork, one of the top destinations in the country for Trophy Bass fishermen received a helping hand with the announcement of the new "Lake Fork Area Chamber of Commerce".   Membership in the new organization is open to all business owners, guides, and concerned citizens living in or having an interest in the Lake Fork area.   Dues for a Chamber membership will be $50 per year and a membership drive is now underway, according to Ginni McCasland, President of the new Chamber.

McCasland further explained that promoting Lake Fork as a major tourist attraction will be a major goal of the organization.  Plans are underway at this time for new ways to showcase the area as a year-round vacation destination, rather than just the springtime when it's popularity peaks.  "One way we hope to accomplish this", added McCasland, "is to produce a weekly fishing show from Lake Fork".  The proposed TV show will provide nationwide exposure for Lake Fork on a weekly basis, and will feature top Lake Fork fishing guides each week throughout the year.   Tentative plans are to air weekly on The Outdoor Channel, which currently has a nationwide audience of over 11 million viewers in all 52 states.  With a combined joint effort of our members, the other area Chambers and development agencies in Wood, Rains, and Hopkins counties, our goal is to have a TV show that will be a significant factor in attracting additional tourism to our area.

Other projects the Chamber hopes to participate in are sponsorships for community programs, including fishing tournaments for kids and community awareness projects that benefit the youth of our community.  
Ms McCasland also added, "We need everyone's help, and would like to extend a personal invitation to every business owner, guide, or concerned citizen in Wood, Rains, or Hopkins County, to consider joining our new Chamber of Commerce".   For additional information,  contact LAKE FORK AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE at , 1-888-265-1822, or e-mail :  ginnimc@koyote.com.