The Port Sydney/Utterson and Area Chamber of Commerce has its new executive.

Gord Haig of RE/MAX New Lifestyles Inc., Port Sydney is the new chamber president. He was named to the post at the organization’s annual general meeting on Feb. 12.

Haig has been actively involved with the chamber for two years as a director and is looking forward to his new role as president. He told the meeting that he is fortunate to be working with a great group of people who are committed to this chamber and work extremely hard for the community.

“Having just completed a successful 51st Winter Carnival event our visibility within the communities has been raised, and it is my hope that with our current board members, and new members, that we continue to grow and to provide promotion for our members and for our profile within the community to grow,” he said.     

Haig also paid tribute to outgoing president Dave Cayley of Port Sydney Auto Recyclers, who was tireless in his efforts for, and dedication to, the community.  

“This coming year we will continue to work and grow and will also continue the tradition of our Canada Day celebrations, winter carnival, Business After Hours, regularly updating the web site, sending out our newsletter and consistent recruiting of new members, and many other promotional indicatives for our members. I look forward to working with the businesses of Port Sydney, Utterson and Area over the next year. I know we will be moving in a positive and forward direction,” he said.

Adrian Azzopardi of Muskoka Fine Creations is the new vice-president of the chamber. He has been actively involved with the chamber for 18 months and said he is also looking forward to his new role.

Azzopardi is a strong supporter of this chamber and community and also works with Stephenson District Lions Club. He brings commitment to his new role and looks forward to the challenge.

Karen MacInnes is the new secretary. The Port Sydney resident actually joined the chamber last summer as a volunteer to help out in the office.  She very quickly became indispensable to everyone and brought with her the knowledge of the area and the local community.  

Returning to the position of treasurer is Sheila Petch.  

The chamber welcomed some new faces around the board table for this term.

Wendy Patriquin came to Port Sydney from Niagara three years ago with her husband of 16 years, John, and children Zachary (15) and Allura (13).  In Niagara she spent time operating her business, Patriquin Virtual Office, being involved in local politics as a councillor for the City of St. Catharines for nine years, and was a foster parent and volunteer driver with Family & Children’s Services Niagara.

She continues to operate her business in Port Sydney and is also a volunteer driver with Family Youth & Child Services Muskoka.

Sharon Berry came to Utterson from Caledon 18 months ago with her husband Tim.  She said it was time to leave city life behind and enjoy the peace of Muskoka.  

Berry worked for many years in the health care field in Georgetown and here in Muskoka is volunteering her time for the Parry Sound Muskoka Early Years System.

Returning to the board table for another term are Monique Heemskerk of Mary Lake Marina; Linda Low of The Gable Inn; Akos Toszer of the 141 Café; and Chris Zanetti of Zanetti’s General Store and Back Room Treasures.

The first board meeting will be held next week and at that time the future direction of the board will be set. As always, this board will continue to promote businesses in the area and will actively seek new business members.