On January 13, the Lake Sunapee Region Chamber of Commerce (LSRCC) hosted its annual Membership Meeting, sponsored in part by MJ Harrington and Company, Lake Sunapee Bank, Ledyard National Bank, and Mascoma Savings Bank, at Colby-Sawyer College in the Ware Student Center. This event attracted over 100 people to hear the annual updates from the Chamber.

Pete Fenton Jr., president of the LSRCC, presented the 2013 year-in-review and had a good time giving the membership an overview of the Chamber’s accomplishments and what’s ahead for the Chamber in 2014. Pete noted that membership grew over 50% in the last two years and the Chamber is looking forward to more growth in 2014.

Some of the other accomplishments that Fenton highlighted were the Chamber’s new ambassador program, new Web site launched in 2013, new events such as participation in last year’s New London Hospital Days (including a donation to New London Hospital for $1,500), and the Chamber’s new Meet the Chamber Night.

Over the course of 2013, the Chamber hosted more than 16 Business After and Before Hours events, and via a new education committee plans to host several relevant informational presentations this year. Plans are in process for a free community Affordable Care Act Forum on Thursday, February 20, from 5:30 to 7 PM in Colby-Sawyer’s Ivey Science Center Clements Hall, co-sponsored by the Chamber and New London Hospital. Confirmation of that date, along with notice of panel participants, will be sent to all those on Chamber e-mail lists. Also, look for announcements as we get nearer the date.

The Chamber also hosted guest speaker, Jim Snack of the Humor Project, who presented with magic and humor “The Magic of Collaboration.” He successfully tied in the theme of collaboration with that of the Chamber’s desire to collaborate with the community and businesses year-round to accomplish its goals. The message was one that any business or organization could apply to their own circumstances. The presentation left everyone with a smile!

Business and Community Awards

Capping off the night were the Chamber’s third annual Business and Community Awards. The Chamber awarded Business of the Year to Sunapee Cruises out of Sunapee Harbor, and the Community Member of the Year went to Karen Zurheide, Vice President of Community Relations and Development at New London Hospital.

Accepting the award for Sunapee Cruises was the Fenton family! The criteria sought was a business and individual who should be recognized for having made significant contributions to encourage and promote commerce that enhances the quality of life in the Lake Sunapee Region.

“Thanks to all who joined us and supported this special event,” said Jennifer Tockman, Executive Director for the Lake Sunapee Region Chamber. “We are looking forward to a great 2014!”