The Valley Chronicle - Chamber starts 2017 in a judgment-free zonet

Hemet Councilwoman Bonnie Wright addresses the state of the city

[caption id="attachment_1024" align="alignright" width="576"] Photo by Debbie Vena
Hemet San Jacinto Chamber welcomes new member DCS Enterprises contractor David Smith.[/caption] ■ By Debbie Vena / Reporter Planet Fitness hosted the January First Friday meeting of the Hemet San Jacinto Chamber for a morning of light breakfast and networking. The gym, which markets itself as a “judgment-free zone” in bold yellow lettering across the walls, was a great location choice after a heated political season last year and interestingly, more than half the attendees represented political figures in the valley. Keynote speaker Hemet City Councilwoman Bonnie Wright kicked off the meeting. “I don’t know about any of you, but I am glad 2016 is over and we are looking forward to 2017 with great bigger and anticipation of bigger and better things happening for Hemet,” said Wright. “As you all know, we are in the process of obtaining applications for our oversight committee for Measure U; if you’re interested please contact our city clerk, Sarah McComas.” Wright also mentioned that Councilman K. Paul Raver resigned in December, and his council seat needs to be filled, and that the police and fire departments are already gearing up in anticipation of future tax revenue. “Also our police and fire departments are gearing up for recruiting personnel, which as you all know is certainly much needed and the reason we asked you to vote for Measure U,” said Wright. “So we look forward to this coming year, and your engagement. Keep on top of what is happening in the city of Hemet; we want to hear from you and we serve you. Best wishes for all your businesses and all the new economic development going on in the city. Thank you.” Wright was spotted networking with representatives from Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez’s office, Assemblyman Chad Mayes and State Senator Steve Morrell, all of whom are very active in the community and regularly attend Chamber events. Overall, it is clear that the city has much happening in the next few months and is encouraging more community members to step forward. Other attendees were primarily chamber ambassadors or employees and their attention was focused on the new businesses that recently joined the Chamber. They were honored with membership plaques to display in their offices. The morning was filled with many introductions and quality networking, including lots of private discussions on important opportunities like the upcoming Taste of the Valley and Business Expo events being planned by the chamber. Non-chamber members are encouraged to call (951) 658-3211 for information on participating in upcoming events. Sarah McComas, Hemet city clerk, can be reached at 445 E. Florida Ave., Hemet, CA 92543. Call (951) 765-2307 or email smccomas@cityofhemet.org for information on how to apply for Raver’s vacant council seat. The deadline is Feb. 2. [caption id="attachment_1028" align="aligncenter" width="576"] Photo by Debbie Vena
Political support at Chamber meeting for First Friday Breakfast gathering at Planet Fitness.[/caption]