The Desert Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce met at Mission Lakes Country Club on Wednesday, September 26, 2012 for the installation of fresh officers and distributing awards, and enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by Chef Becky.
The brand-new officers were sworn in by mayor pro-tem Jan Pye. Special recognition was given to outgoing Chamber President Russ Augustine, whose many accomplishments included bringing Heather Coladonato on board as the Executive Director. Currently, the only paid employee of the Chamber, her accomplishments and were publicly recognized and applauded by those present. Heather showed a preview of the new website which will debut mid October.
The “Star Award” winners were as follows: George Fisher Citizen of the Year; Ocean Springs Tech Business of the Year; Desert Hot Springs women’s Club Non Profit of the Year; and Shirley Bales Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the year. Besides receiving the Chamber’s Star Award, certificates of recognition were given by State Assemblyman Manuel Perez and Darrin Schemmer, representing Riverside County Supervisor John Benoit. Heather also handed out certificates on behalf of State Senator Bill Emmerson.
City Manager Rick Daniels gave a very upbeat and up-to-the-minute state of the city speech, and several other leaders in the community were recognized, including councilmen Scott Matas and Russell Betts, mayor pro-tem Jan Pye, DHSHS principal Anne Kalisek and John Furbee, for whom the aquatic center at the soon to be opened Health and Wellness Center was named.
If you have not seen your face; just click the slideshow for all pictures of the event!
