Chamber of Commerce for Greater Milford

MilfordChronicle Article- July 28, 2010Edition

From:  jo Schmeiser CCGM Executive Director

Photo:CCGM Treasurer Deanna Smith,  CCGM VP Mike Kazala, Gov. Markell, CCGM President Fred Rohm, CCGM Secretary Angela Dorey

Chamber Luncheon Largest Ever

As I joked on my Facebook page about the amount of people who planned on attending the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Milford 2^nd General Membership Luncheon because of me being there, I knew the truth of the matter was that the reason so many people were interested in attending was to hear what Governor Markell had to say.

Governor Markell spoke about three main points during the luncheon, and also took the time to answer questions. 

The first point the Governor discussed was, of course, the overall economy.  He says although we are still dealing with a bad economy, that we are bouncing back and Delaware is doing much better than many other states. 

Another point was unemployment.  Again the Governor said we are still dealing with our own issues here in Delaware, with a high unemployment rate, yet in comparison we are not as bad as many other areas.  He says they are working on bringing more jobs to Delaware and have had a lot of success finding new owners for businesses that closed.  The Governor was pleased to say the new owners will re-open the doors of these businesses soon, offering many jobs to Delaware residents. 

The last main point of discussion was education.  The Governor informed guests of the importance of education and how the state government not only supports educational programs, they make it a top priority in the state.

Close to one hundred chamber members and colleagues attended the luncheon that was held at the newly renovated Shawnee Country Club, and the feedback has been wonderful.

The CCGM Ex. Board members, along with several board of directors, including Bettie Campbell, Chuck Palmer, David Rutt, Jim Manna, Lynn Hammond, Rob Uebele and Ruth Abbate were among those who enjoyed the luncheon that included the “Governor’s Choice” on the menu.  For the record…the Gov’s choice is a turkey club, on wheat bread, no bacon.

Several other dignitaries who attended the luncheon include Mayor Ronnie Rogers, City Manager David Baird, Coucilman Doug Morrow, Senator Gary Simpson, Rep. of the 33^rd District Bob Walls, Rep. of the 35^th District Dave Wilson and Kent County Levy Court Commissioner Eric Buckson.  Linda Kurtz, from Kent County Tourism and Scott Thomas and Aubrey Manzo, from Southern Delaware Tourism also attended the luncheon, as did Melody Booker, representing Delaware Economic Development.

Representatives from Downtown Milford, Inc. filled a table of six and included President Scott Angelucci, Director Lorraine Dion, Administrative Assistant Elizabeth Purcell and several board members.

Shawnee Country Club President, i.g. Burton & Co. President and former CCGM President Charles Burton had an opportunity to speak to the group before the Governor, and he told the crowd that he’s seen first hand how the chamber has grown over the last few years and what an impact is has on the business community.  He says you could tell by the record-breaking crowd that the chamber is headed in the right direction.

For more information about the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Milford, or how to become a member, call 422.3344 or email milford@milfordchamber.com.