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The Johnston Chamber held its Annual Banquet on February 12 at Stoney Creek Inn. This year’s event had a record attendance of 142. There were a number of dignitaries at the event who included: Mayor of Johnston Paula Dierenfeld, Johnston City Councilman Jon Kallen, Superintendent of Johnston Public Schools Clay Guthmiller, Polk County Supervisor E.J. Giovannetti, Larry Noble Iowa Senate-District 35, Walt Tomenga Iowa State Representative-District 69, and Ted Tran, representing Congressman Leonard Boswell. Scott Kahler provided the audience with a review of events in 2007. The Chamber had many accomplishments, but of particular note was the growth in membership - 254 members in 2007 including 44 new members. There were 19 Ribbon Cuttings, 6 Breakfast Before Business events, 1 Business After Hours event and 2 workshops. Lew Clarkson and Sue Harney were honored as the 2007 Citizen of the Year and Business Person of the Year respectively.
Lew Clarkson has been a resident of Johnston since 1954. From the start, Lew Clarkson became an ambassador for Johnston all over the greater Des Moines area. He and Margaret purchased additional land on NW Beaver Drive and developed the Hyperion Heights neighborhood, one of Johnston’s first residential developments. By building many new homes, Lew provided housing to fill the needs for Des Moines area residents wanting to move to Johnston. Lew was very instrumental in starting Cub Scout packs in Johnston and started the Johnston Little League Baseball program in the mid 1950’s. Hundreds of missionaries from around the world have dined in the Clarkson home over the past 50 years. Together, he and Margaret support ministries worldwide that provides food and clothing for those in need. He has served as an elder of his church for nearly 30 of his 88 years.
Sue Harney has embraced Johnston in a big way for over 10 years. During her 10 year tenure at Polk County Bank, Sue has championed Johnston and the Johnston Chamber in the following ways: Served on the Executive Board for nine years, Secretary of the Chamber for several years, Vice President this year (2008), involved in Green Days since the beginning and before it became a community event, Green Days Parade Chair for three years, Member of the Member Success Committee, which includes organizing the Luncheons, Lunch/Learns, and Educational Workshops, Helped to organize the Teacher Appreciation Event for the last six years, provided assistance to the Communications Committee, Leadership to the Outreach Committee. When Sue is not helping out with Chamber work, she works hard to make sure Polk County Bank supports important community events and organizations. Scott Kahler was recognized for his service to the community and the Chamber. Scott served as the Chamber’s President for two years. During his tenure the Chamber saw tremendous growth in terms of programming and membership. Speaking on behalf our entire membership, I would again like to say Thank You to Scott.
The evening was capped by a keynote address from Sandy Hatfield Clubb, Athletic Director – Drake University. She shared her experiences as a student, an athlete and an Athletic Director and what it takes to succeed in life. The Annual Banquet marks the start of the New Year for the Chamber. The planning and work done by the Chamber’s various committees will be seen in the very near future with our first Lunch and Learn, our Luncheon programs, and Before and After Work gatherings. As I mentioned to all in attendance at the Banquet, we encourage your participation in 2008. There is something for everyone on our program agenda.
Todd
Cate |
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JEDCO Annual Meeting Recap
Another highlight of the event was the re-election of Steve Scott (Ruhl Commercial) and Kevin Tubbs (Graham Construction) to the JEDCO Board of Directors. The members also welcomed a new member to the Board - Rick Helps (First Bank). Finally, a special thanks to Deb Bengtson (First Bank) who is leaving the Board as her community efforts with the Chamber continue to grow. Thank you Deb! You can view the PowerPoint slides presented at the event for more information. Please plan to attend the event next year on January 28, 2009.
You Are Invited! ^Top
Johnston Chamber Luncheon
Location: Stoney Creek Inn
Speaker:
E.J. Giovannetti Topic: Polk County's Hot Topics- (the Courthouse , the new Jail and the budget are just a few things that will be discussed)
Cost: $15.00 with an RSVP, $20.00 at the door. RSVP to the Chamber office at 276-9064 by Tuesday, February 26, 2008. You may also RSVP by sending an email to
Upcoming Community Events
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Chamber Leadership Seminars
Need Volunteers for Educator
Appreciation Committee
Date:
Tuesday, February 26, 2008 Please join us if you are interested in volunteering on this committee!! Business After Hours- Entourage Salon Date: Monday, February 25, 2008 Location: Entourage Salon 5525 Merle Hay Rd., Suite 185
Johnston, IA 50131
Sponsor of the Month Openings!
There are
still openings to be a Sponsor of the Month
If you are
interested in signing up please call the Chamber at 276-9064
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