B2B Breakfast in Goleta.  Networking Fiesta!

With shouts of “Viva la Fiesta,” the August B2B got started with gusto and despite a marked lack of confetti or cascarone eggshell bits!

Board member Tony Vallejo (Palius & O’Kelley) got the party started by greeting the attendees, giving a shout out to other Board members present and hyping the upcoming Chamber events. Then he turned the microphone over to Drew Wakefield (Award-winning Ramada Limited), who, in keeping with the Fiesta theme, was sporting a cowboy hat. He tries. Anyway, it was Drew’s pleasure to introduce our honored guests: Fiesta’s La Presidenta Joanne “She put the fun in” Funari! Joanne, a former Goleta Valley Chamber of Commerce board president, was thrilled to be back, but especially proud and pleased in her new role, ramping up for Fiesta week. She mentioned upcoming events and even donated two tickets to the highly anticipated Dignatarios event at the Zoo – won by a surprised and delighted Christine LeBon! La Presidenta then introduced the Junior Spirit of Fiesta, Anais Crespo Pena. “When I told Anais she was going to be interviewed many times, she was nervous,” Joanne told the crowd. “But now she’s a pro!” True, that: Anais charmed the crowd with an amazing and flawless dance – a true professional.

Next up: The Spirit of Fiesta, Marisa Leon Haro. This lovely and experienced dancer (and accomplished recent high school graduate) used a fan in her dance. Her skill was rivaled only by her beauty and obvious pride and delight in performing. The two girls, both longtime Fiesta participants, then danced a duet.

Fiesta Networking!

Next, the highly competitive costume contest. With both a male and female winner planned, Warren Butler (Marmalade Café, Butler Events Center) easily walked away with 1st place – he was the only guy who wore a costume! The best-costumed woman was tougher to choose, as many ladies were dressed in their Fiesta finest. Finally, Tanja Reutimann (Department of Rehabilitation) clinched the prize – her “finishing touch” Fiesta-inspired purse helped her win!

Our sponsor for this high-charged B2B was Noozhawk. Led by Bill Macfadyen, a former Board member, Noozhawk started in 2007. Utilizing contributed articles from locals, non-profit organizations and a stable of journalists, Noozhawk has established itself as the “go-to” online news source for local and business news. “This generation isn’t reading print and they’re not even reading news on their computers – they’re reading it on their smart phones,” said Macfadyen. Therefore, “you can get Noozhawk on your smart phones by 4:15am, every morning.”

Shelby Sims, New Director of Business Development

Lastly, CEO Kristen Amyx thanked the performers, the Board, and the attendees. She was also happy to introduce Shelby Sim as the Chamber’s new Director of Business Development! Shelby’s first day is Monday, August 8th, and as a longtime Goleta resident (since age 6!), he is ready to go!

Next B2B date: Tuesday, September 13th (date moved due to Labor Day)