(Photo by Kress Communications)
ChamberSouth members, guests, and dozens of dignitaries stepped out to welcome Ken Kistner as the organization’s incoming chair during the 2017 Chairman’s Reception on Oct. 1 at the Mayfair Hotel in Coconut Grove. During the All-American-themed event attendees also saluted outgoing chair Joseph R. Gallaher.
Presented by Baptist Health South Florida, the “Chairman’s Red, White, and Blue Reception” was a veritable “who’s who” of business leaders, public officials, and South-Dade luminaries, including emcee Paul Vrooman, former Mayor of Cutler Bay. The program featured a silent auction, cocktails, dinner, dancing, and an annual award ceremony.
“I am humbled and honored by the opportunity to serve as the new chairman of ChamberSouth,” said Kistner, with CBT College and longtime ChamberSouth board member. “I only hope that I can serve the South Dade community and businesses we serve with the same energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism exhibited by our outgoing chair, Joe Gallaher.”
The 2017 L. Russell Norton Award was presented to the U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, whose husband, Dexter, accepted the award in the congresswoman’s behalf, while she attended to duties out of state as a new grandmother.
Longtime and dedicated chamber member Peter Jude was the recipient of the 2017 Steven J. Cranman Award. Jude has been with Kendall Regional Medical Center for 25 years, now serving as its marketing and public relations director.
Event Sponsor was Florida Power & Light, while Table Sponsors included First National Bank of South Miami; Muller, Lebensburger & Schwartz; NAI Miami Commercial Real Estate Services Worldwide; The Gavel Club, and The Green Companies Inc.
In related news, the ChamberSouth team has announced it is diligently working on a dynamic new breakfast program for its members, which will include vibrant speakers that are relevant to the small businesses and communities ChamberSouth serves. As a result, the chamber is canceling its General Membership Networking Breakfast program for the remainder of 2017. The program will resume in January 2018.
ChamberSouth maintains a leadership role in the community through programs, services, and events that enhance the quality of life and economic well being of South Miami, Kendall, Cutler Bay, Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and Greater South Dade. The 87-year-old organization prides itself on quality offerings that provide members with the opportunities essential to business such as various networking events, information updates, and discounted services.
For information about ChamberSouth, call 305-661-1621 or visit the chamber’s website at www.chambersouth.com.
