CLEARLAKE – Members of the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce welcomed the New Year with enthusiasm Tuesday. The first dinner of 2009 enjoyed a healthy turnout with members expressing great optimism for the year ahead.
Joey Luiz, of Shannon Ridge Winery was introduced as the chamber”s new president. Chamber Associate Member Judge Richard Freeborn, retired, delivered the oath of office to the 2009 Board of Directors, which includes Luiz, Bob Rider, president elect; and board members Bob Alderman, Doug Coddling, Michael Horner (newly elected), Tom Hewlett (past president), Karen Karnatz, Lamont Kucer (newly elected) and Jenny Lynn Schell (re-elected). Board alternates include Betty Hudson and Jared Knowlton.
Past President Tom Hewlett offered gracious words in his departure as president. He was especially appreciative of the commitment displayed by Chamber Executive Director Lori Peters and her husband Jim. “As you can see the chamber has done quite well in the last year. This is the biggest turnout we”ve had, thanks to Lori,” he said as he presented her with a huge bouquet of flowers. He also extended gratitude for the muscle and man power Jim Peters has contributed in maintaining the chamber building. Jim Peters also received a gift, a portable jumpstart kit, which will undoubtedly ensure his prompt arrival to his wife”s beckon call.
The membership welcomed Luiz as president with a good-humored rouse, commenting on his youth and enthusiasm. “This has definitely been an interesting year for me,” he said commending the membership”s energy and excitement. “Lori is probably one of the best PR people I”ve seen, getting the word out. I think we are really set for some progress in 2009.”
The membership, consisting of a diverse compilation of industries, heard of a couple of community announcements during the meeting. U.S. Cellular Sales Rep Karlon Baker shared news of the company”s “Calling all Communities” campaign, which will award $1 million among 10 schools. She said Lower Lake High School is currently running in seventh place and could be one of the schools chosen for an award if the community continues to rally behind its students. Votes can be cast at any U.S. Cellular location. No purchase is necessary and you must be 18 years or older to vote. Only one vote per person is allowed. The contest ends Jan. 15 and winners will be announced in February.
Joan Mingori, who provides career services at Lower Lake High School, announced that the Lake County Office of Education will not be providing funding for the National Groundhog Job Shadow Day program this year. Mingori said she is trying to coordinate a local program herself and is seeking the support of business owners interested in hosting a student for the day. For more information contact Joan Mingori at 994-6471, ext. 2784.
The chamber is focusing on increasing its membership in 2009. To learn more about the networking resources available through the chamber, call 994-3600.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com or call her directly at 994-6444, ext. 11
