Submitted Photo Pictured, from left, are David Kleparek, Dunkirk Community Chamber of Commerce coordinator, Mayor Wilfred Rosas, Rebecca Yanus, city director of development, Journey Gunderson, executive director of the National Comedy Center, and Michael Pease, outgoing Dunkirk chamber president.

The Dunkirk Community Chamber of Commerce held its annual Appreciation Dinner at Shorewood Country Club last month.

The program included keynote speakers, Mayor Wilfred Rosas and Rebecca Yanus, Director of Development for the City. Both officials spoke about recent accomplishments in the city and upgrades to facilities and parks. Mayor Rosas also spoke to the crowd of 2019 plans including plans to increase retail business in the Central Avenue Corridor. Yanus indicated movement in industrial growth with some new business in the former Cliffstar headquarters and increased employment opportunities. She also spoke about the housing and water district projects that will improve the quality of life for area residents. A question-and-answer period followed with brisk discussion with attendees.

The National Comedy Center Executive Director, Journey Gunderson was also featured. She spoke about the direction of the Center from its opening in August and the projected numbers that have been established for the Center.

She said the goals have been met and the projections have been exceeded in visitations since opening their doors. Ms. Gunderson, also spoke about many of the opportunities she has to speak about the Center on the national spotlight, including a morning promotion on the “Today” show. The I Love New York TV commercial also highlights the National Comedy Center, and visitation from all parts of the world are expected at the Center.

The Dunkirk Chamber of Commerce also introduced its 2019 slate of officers including-President elect Elizabeth Booth of the JCC North Campus Director, vice president Michael Pease, CEO of the Chautauqua Center, Ellen Luczkowiak, Treasurer, from Key Bank, Branch manager, Westfield, and Meredith Patton, Secretary, of the OBSERVER. CCCC President thanked all for attending, and the evening was capped off with several items being raffled off courtesy of local chamber members including, DCCC, JCC North, The Fredonia Technology Incubator, Key Bank and Fredonia Opera House.

Event sponsors include: Bart’s Cove, City of Dunkirk, Dressed to Impress Doggie Spa, First Priority Mortgage, Graf Realty, Hall’s Hometown Insurance, Lake Shore Savings Bank-Dunkirk Branch, Main St. Wine and Spirits, Matt’s News, Ralph’s Pennzoil and The Chautauqua Center.