I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the new executive director of the Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area Chamber of Commerce. I look forward to working with the chamber membership, along with other West End businesses and organizations, to showcase and enhance our community here.

I graduated from Northern Michigan University in ’95 with a bachelor’s degree in public relations, along with an associate degree in general business. Since that time, I have worked as a journalist, small business employee, youth program coordinator and outdoor recreation specialist.

Living in Negaunee for the past 12 years with my wife while raising our daughter has giving me a lot of pride in the opportunities and people of western Marquette County. There are so many resources and opportunities available to GINCC members. I look forward to helping them make connections with fellow members and other assets in our area.

I have been involved with many events including the Ishpeming Ski Club Annual Ski Jumping Tournament, Ore to Shore Mountain Bike Epic and the Noquemanon Ski Marathon. The enthusiasm and sincerity of the people in our communities makes these and all events successful and beneficial to the area.

On Thursday, Oct. 18, the GINCC will be hosting its Annual Dinner and Community Awards Night to be held at the Ishpeming Armory from 5:30-8:30 p.m.

It will be an occasion to celebrate with chamber members and the accomplishments of the past year. The event is open to the public. Call the GINCC office at 906- 486-1111 or email ginccmarketing@gmail.com for details on attending.

At the event Bell Auxiliary will be honored as Organization of the Year, TruNorth Federal Credit Union will be honored as GINCC’s Business of the Year, Jon and Jamie Clark, owners of Jerzi’s 41 will be named the Business Person of the Year, Katie Kern will be honored as the Volunteer of the Year, and Chamber Member of the Year is Mama Mia’s Italian Restaurant.

I’m looking forward to this opportunity to introduce myself to the chamber membership and other community members in attendance.

If you are unable to attend, please stop by the GINCC office on Hwy 41 by Jubliee Foods in Ishpeming, it would be great to meet you.

Editor’s note: Bob Hendrickson is the executive director of the GINCC. He currently resides in Negaunee with his wife, Laura, and daughter, Sierra. He enjoys mountain biking, skiing, fishing and hunting along with family time.