Kevin Smith of Independence Television was honored with the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce President’s Award, based on his dedication to filming community ribbon cuttings, chamber events, and the CACOC television show, “Chamber Chatter.”
The award, given to a member who has made significant contributions to the chamber throughout the year, was the most prestigious recognition at the chamber’s 30th Annual Membership Meeting, Nov. 16 at the Pine Knob Carriage House.
Chamber Choice Awards were also presented to Small Business Leader of the Year, David and Fritz Jackson of Ideas For You; Young Professional of the Year, Keri Milner of Farm Bureau Insurance – The Milner Agency; Chamber Volunteer of the Year, Ginny Hechinger of Costco Auburn Hills; Non-Profit Organization of the Year, McLaren Oakland Foundation; and Rising Star of the Year, Cody Simpson of Bowman Chevrolet.
Charter President Dr. Bruce P. Mercado, DDS., opened the program with a history of the organization and its development in the past 30 years. He also recognized all past presidents at the event. Outgoing chamber President Tim Martin of Planned Financial Services recognized how the Chamber of Commerce benefits the community and was awarded the Past President’s Plaque.
Clarkston Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Rod Rock was inducted as the 2018 chamber president.
“People who give themselves to a community, is truly what it is all about. I did not understand what a community was until I came to Clarkston and this is truly a community,” Rock said.
His goal is for the community to do “the best we can to make sure this is a great place, not only for kids, but for us as adults, for business people, and everyone who is lucky enough to be here,” he said.
Award winners were selected based on qualifications, number of submissions by members, and relevancy to the award category. These awards were presented by Janelle Best, executive director of the CACOC, state Rep. Jim Tedder, and Deputy County Executive/CIO Phil Bertolini.
The presentation ended with recognition of Board member Bryan Cornwall of Advanced Petcare of Oakland, for his nine years of outstanding service.
Presenting sponsors were Bowman Chevrolet and St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital. Our Hospitality Sponsors were Nuview Nutrition LLC, Cislo Title Company, The Milner Agency, MSU Federal Credit Union, Lowrie’s Landscape Inc., Birmingham Bloomfield Credit Union, and Coats Funeral Home.