OCT 2015 – President’s Article by Jill Riley

Jill Riley

The board of directors held its annual strategic planning to develop a course of action for upcoming year. Collectively we looked at the programs and services offered at the chamber and how they can benefit our members. Ongoing programs that keep members informed, and will continue as will networking opportunities. New programs and tasks have been established to further benefit the membership and business base in Redlands. The newly formed Hotel Industry Council will focus on tourism increasing overnight stays. Retail and hospitality industries directly benefit to increased hotel stays, making it worthwhile for all.

One of the goals the board has established is to spend time visiting and calling Redlands Chamber members and letting them know about all the programs and services available.

The chamber had its annual Cruisin’ Cuisine on September 19th and it was a great evening for my family and I. As we wandered the streets of downtown stopping at the ten restaurants that participated, we all decided we would look forward to revisiting these restaurants again in the future. You don’t need to leave Redlands when it’s time to dine there are so many great restaurants in town. I would like to thank all the restaurants who participated including Alfaro Catering, Benjarong Thai Cuisine, Dhat Island Caribbean Cuisine, Muffin Top Bakery, Oscars Mexican Restaurant, Royal Falconer Pub, Sizzler Restaurant, The Old Spaghetti Factory, The State, and Wok In Café. I would also like to thank Paul and Joann Barich, of Barich and Associates, for sponsoring the grand prize drawing of an iPad Air. A first time guest Wanda Anderson visiting from Moreno Valley was the grand prize winner. I hope to see you all again next year.