Photo Courtesy of www.friendsofgoletabeachpark.org

July's monthly B2B breakfast event brought returning networkers and an impressive group of new attendees. A long weekend of Independence Day celebrations inspired a few regulars to get some extra ZZZs in lieu of this early morning event, but many other brave souls answered the call of breakfast from Marmalade Cafe, delicious coffee from Zizzo's Coffee and an informative speaker presentation about a topic near and dear to the hearts of many in Goleta.

After the lovely meal, Chamber member Isaac Osborne of Motion Unlimited led the group in a stretch to work out their post-fireworks kinks, and a new Chamber member was welcomed.

Michael Rattray of the Friends of Goleta Beach Organization

Then Michael Rattray from Friends of Goleta Beach educated attendees on the pros and cons of the proposed Goleta 2.0 solution to protect Goleta Beach Park from erosion. The conceptual proposal was approved by the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors later that same day, contrary to the organization's recommendations.

His presentation was followed by a new twist on the usual 20-second self-promotion round. Kim "Max" White, the outgoing Director of Business Development and Volunteers for the Goleta Chamber invited returning guests to introduce a neighbor's company instead of their own, while first-timers had the opportunity to deliver their own pitches. The result was much creativity, hilarity and enhanced business connections.

It was announced that Max is soon moving on to new opportunities in Washington state. This was her last B2B event, which she established in February of 2009 with incredible success and has kept fresh and exciting with her contagious enthusiasm. The standing ovation she received proves how valued she truly is and how dearly missed she will be. Her outstanding efforts and countless hours spent organizing, promoting, speaking and volunteering will leave a lasting impression on this organization.

Also introduced to attendees was the Chamber's new Business and Communications Coordinator Cortney Hebert, who is replacing Vice President Valerie Kushnerov, now with the City of Goleta.

The next B2B Breakfast will take place on Tuesday, August 3rd. Be sure to pre-register by noon on Friday, July 30 to be listed on the Hot Sheet. This will be the perfect kickoff to Fiesta week...VIVA!