Lou Melone just picked up the reins as president of the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce, but he already had someone to thank.
‘I want to thank my wife in advance for all her patient support,? Melone said at the chamber’s Annual Meeting this past Saturday.
Officers, directors, staff, and activity chairpersons have a big year ahead, celebrating the chamber’s 20th anniversary.
Among his initiatives as president: a series of business education events for all chamber members. Topics will include business plans, management of balance sheets and cash flow, traditional and alternative financing, and how to grow a business.
‘Topics will build on each other, or can be attended individually,? Melone said.
Speakers will come from all over the state to make their presentations, which will be incorporated into monthly chamber luncheon mixers, he said.
‘I’m going to push this hard, to get everyone involved,? he said.
Stephen Hyer gave his final address as chamber president at the Oakhurst Country Club dinner meeting.
‘It’s with a great sense of satisfaction that I pass the gavel,? Hyer said. ‘I want to thank the membership for making this a memorable experience for me.?
Accomplishments include new vision and mission statement, successful events and activities, and involvement with Leadership Clarkston.
‘That was a monumental achievement,? he said.
He presented the President’s Award to Heidi Wood, secretary on the chamber board of directors.
‘One person stands out,? Hyer said. ‘Since the beginning of the year, she has provided guidance and perceptions on almost every issue.?