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2007 Annual Meeting Highlights The Year to Come
By Tracey A. Udas, Chamber Administrator
April 6, 2007 - The Windsor Locks Chamber of Commerce held their 2007 Annual Meeting & Luncheon on April 5, 2007 at the Skyline Restaurant in Windsor Locks. The event was a success, with over 70 members representing 46 businesses. “We are very excited to have seen the large turnout of Windsor Locks businesses and chamber members. Attendance is up significantly from that of last year, suggesting optimism for the coming year”, noted 2007 Chamber President, Michele Monk.
The Annual Meeting kicked off with time for members to network with one another over hors d’oeuvres and beverages including a cash bar. Members then enjoyed lunch as part of the Annual Meeting which included nominations and voting of the 2007 Executive Committee.
The meeting also included presentation of the 9th Annual Bob Taravella Award, which was given to Barbara O’Brien to recognize her commitment in “going above and beyond to Continued From Page 1 better the community while still completing normal business activities”. O’Brien invests her time into enhancing the growth and development of the Chamber through her involvement with events, membership and through serving as a Director on the Board.
Keynote speaker, Chief John Suchocki, Windsor Locks Chief of Police, gave a presentation outlining various safety initiatives. Suchocki spoke about crime levels throughout the town, mainly in the airport area, and of what has been and is being done to keep the crime rate low.
Kiren Jain, Director of Marketing for Bradley International Airport, spoke about the benefits the airport provides to Windsor Locks. Jain described predictions for expansion referencing the new international connection that Bradley offers to Amsterdam. Jain offered her thoughts on what the community can do to support the further development of the Airport as an economic resource.
Patrick McMahon, Economic Development Consultant to the Town of Windsor Locks, provided attendees with further insight on the economic development around town. McMahon stressed the town’s potential for growth, making mention of new housing developments. He added that new business ventures such as Pool Magic on route 75 and new restaurants will bring in visitors which can potentially turn the town into a tourist area. McMahon discussed that the congestion many experience on Route 75 may soon be relieved with parallel roadways. He also noted that bus shelters are in the works for commuters in the area.
The Annual Meeting concluded with many thanks to those who made the past year a success. Attending members received their membership packets at the meeting, which included a copy of the 2007 Membership Directory, a map of the town of Windsor Locks, membership sticker, certificate and letter. The Chamber thanks everyone who donated time in coordinating the event and looks forward to seeing everyone again in 2008!
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