Members of the general community are always invited to Pine Bush Area Chamber of Commerce events and mixers as “non-members,” but holding the gathering at R.J. Smith’s race shop with Hentschel Motor Sports, drove attendance high.

President Brenda Otto was unable to attend, but Secretary Ellen Quimby and Vice-President Michelle England were both on hand to greet, network, and share what’s new in the Chamber for 2020.

Quimby explained, “We are collaborating with the Town (of Crawford) more and we now have an Ambassador, Michelle Rose, who will be working with new members to help them understand what we offer and how to utilize the Chamber.”

England added, “We are definitely growing and our key to working with the Town is Domani Ragni. With the new life we are putting into the Chamber comes new thoughts and one example is our adding some breakfast mixers to the schedule so we can start the day with some networking.”

As the rooms filled with guests and members, site host, R.J. Smith shared, “I’ve been an active member of the Chamber for over 40 years and I consider this space our clubhouse. We’ve also hosted the Boy Ccouts here and I’d love to extend an invitation to the Girl Scouts and others in the community.”

Among those in attendance, Mark Tierney, an 18 year member of the Chamber was asked his thoughts about the kick off being held at the unconventional location. He said, “R.J. is a successful native. He is very supportive of the Chamber, has helped to develop the community and many are not aware of his various philanthropic contributions behind the scenes. It’s good to see so many people come out tonight.”

The next Chamber event the public may be looking forward to is the Home Show which will be held March 21. More details will be announced soon.