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Update - January 31, 2008

Start Your Engines!

The Annual Zion Area Chamber of Commerce Installation Dinner was a great success last Saturday night as nearly one hundred and fifty ‘racers’ geared up to welcome the incoming Chamber President, Roger Whitmore.  It was also an opportunity to say a genuine ‘thank you’ to Debbie Lewis who is stepping down from the post after two terms in office. 

A banner reading “Welcome Race Fans” set the tone for the 2008 Nascar themed party.  Pennants, flags, racing jackets and posters were certainly expected but few could have anticipated an indoor racetrack complete with radio-controlled cars! Each table became its own racing team and once they had chosen their driver there was no stopping the action!

Cars flew around the track…and a few did it while driving backwards!  Each race eliminated two teams until finally two challengers remained on the field.  The crowd rose to their feet, cheering on their hero until in the closest race of the night a true champion was revealed! 

Executive Director, Diana Gornik, certainly had things rolling along with the Tire Relay, but the professional broadcasting team of Nick and Jerry of WKRS Radio’s Garage Talk kept the program on track with their unique brand of comedy and entertainment throughout the night.  And no theme party is complete without a Best Dressed Award and this year’s trophy went to Donna Flammini who outdid herself as an over-the-top, avid racing fan that only a photo can truly describe!  Thank you to all those who made the effort to add to the night’s colorful theme. 

The 2008 Business of the Year award was presented to Liberty Cleaners for outstanding customer service, community involvement and representing the finer attributes of the Chamber’s mission.  Congratulations to owner Sharon Finkel who also operates Liberty Tux Rental and Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Living at 2730 Sheridan Road in downtown Zion and graciously accepted the well-deserved recognition from her peers.  Sharon has also served as the chairperson for the annual dinner for the last six years and was co-chair this year with Julia Ramey, retiring Chamber Secretary. 

2008 promises to be a year of fun and challenge as the Zion Area Chamber of Commerce continues to work with area businesses and the City of Zion to keep members informed, connected and ‘racing’ to success in the New Year.  Consider joining as a member or just stay in touch by coming to the ‘Raisin’ Your Brand’ networking breakfast held at El Lago Restaurant on the 4th Wednesday of every month beginning at 7:30 a.m.  A great opportunity to meet fellow business owners, share information and enjoy a great meal. 

The Zion Area Chamber of Commerce is an exciting and vital organization that seeks to promote local businesses.  For more information concerning upcoming Chamber events or business resources please visit info@zionchamber.com.