Recognition and appreciation for contributions made by businesses and individuals filled the air during the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting.
You Rock shout outs and a token of thanks were awarded to volunteers who worked hard to make a difference in the community, including Jen Nagle, Concerts in the Park chairman; November Expo Chairman Angie Logan; Golf Chairman Tim Martin; and Elizabeth Egan and Dawn Kessler for supporting Taste of Clarkston this year.
“You rock,? Executive Director Penny Shanks told volunteers as they approached the podium one by one.
Keri Milner was thanked for many hours of volunteer time in the chamber office, filling in during various staffing gaps throughout the year.
Independence Township Trustee Ron Ritchie was thanked for his support and dedication to Placemaking and Oakland County Main Street.
Audrey Ray, from LaFontaine, was recognized for serving as a nightingale during Taste of Clarkston. Shanks said Kimberly Lighting provided the best and most elaborate ribbon cutting ever, complete with an elaborate food spread.
Six people, dubbed ‘Rock Stars? during the luncheon, included Molly Shamma, Angie Wathen, Grant Smith, Julie Nemeth and Andrea Beaudoin of The Clarkston News.
‘Andrea is on the front lines,? Shanks said. ‘She’s taken a beating for writing stories, but she leads with integrity and with her heart. Thank you for all the wonderful stories, columns, and everything you do. You are a rock star.?
Johnna Struck received special recognition and words of appreciation by Steve Hyer. Each ‘Rock Star? was presented a clock containing their photograph. Kevin Harrison, who was also sworn in as the new CACOC president, received the President’s Award. Julie Nemeth, a local business owner who is very active in the community, especially My Habitat Clarkston, was named a ‘Game Changer.?