The Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce recently took time to recognize and honor the many individuals working behind the scenes.
The annual meeting, held on Sept. 16, gave chamber members, staff and officials an opportunity to say ‘thanks? for a year of success.
‘I’m very proud of the chamber’s unwavering commitment to enhance economic growth and community connections,? said past-President Dr. Al Roberts in his closing remarks.
As his final act as chamber president, Dr. Roberts presented the President’s Award to Tim Patterson of Booth Patterson P.C. and Louis J. Melone of Smith Barney.
‘When it came down to it, I had to pick two folks who meant so much to me,? said Roberts. ‘I tend to surround myself with individuals who bring the same intensity and creativity to the table that I do, and these two did exactly that.?
The Business Appreciation Awards were expanded this year to include all corporate or higher sponsorships of one or more chamber events. This year, 30 companies were honored.
Other awards presented during the evening included:
? Attitude Award to Kurt Kuehn of National City Bank for ‘exemplifying a very positive and effective chamber attitude when volunteering for and representing the chamber throughout the year.?
? Results Award to Dawn Horner of Clarkston State Bank, Desiree Heck of Max Broock Realtors and Carolyn Parcha of Standard Federal Bank. These individual’s ‘efforts deliver a significant financial impact to the chamber’s efforts.?
? The TEAM Award went to the Concerts in the Park Committee, chaired by Desiree Heck of Max Broock Realtors. The committee demonstrated ‘the chamber model of team work, pulling together for a common cause and producing incredible outcomes because of their united effort.?
? Donation of Time Award went to Deborah Paul of GMAC Mortgage. This award recognizes a member who volunteers on a committee level and whose donation of time, talent and service to chamber projects has greatly impacted the success of the event or project.
The annual meeting was capped off by the installation of the new year’s officers (President Sue Jackson Welker, Pesident-elect Steve Hyer, Treasurer Louis Melone and Secretary Dave Smith) and a word from new President Welker.
‘I am honored and I’m looking forward to an exciting year,? said Welker.
Welker said he theme for the year is ‘Wellness in the Workplace.?
‘We need to find some ways to relieve stress in the workplace,? said Welker. ‘We need to encourage health and wellness.
‘We need to stay member focused and work hard to meet our member’s needs.?