Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

There are two sorts of individuals on the planet, the Irish and those who wish they were. In case you are sufficiently fortunate to be Irish, then you are sufficiently lucky today. However, since everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, it seems appropriate to share this Irish blessing with you:

“May your contemplations be as happy as the shamrock. May your heart be as light as a melody. My every day bring you brilliant, upbeat hours that stay with you all year long.”

For our Chamber, we feel very fortunate to be surrounded not only by leprechauns but also by outstanding volunteers and friends who go above and beyond in their efforts to work with us in promoting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life in Northwest Connecticut.

A number of years ago, we created the Chamber’s Hall of Fame to honor the humble, dedicated people who surround us and work quietly behind the scenes to help us fulfill our mission and build a stronger business community. This year, the luck of the Irish is certainly upon us in that we will be celebrating two inductees at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on Thursday, April 11 at Chatterley’s Banquet Facility. Karen Kuhl and Paul Patch have contributed hours of time and energy and continue to strengthen the Chamber through their efforts and support.

Karen Kuhl, the Director of Business Development for the Geer Campus in Canaan has 38 years of administrative experience in the senior living industry. She has worked with the Chamber for twenty years in a number of volunteer positions. Karen has served on the Marketing/ Communication Committee for 4 years; the Membership Committee for 6 years; the Ambassador Committee for 3 years and currently is co-chair; represents the Chamber as the Canaan Liaison on the Board of Directors; assists with every Chamber initiative.

Paul Patch is a retired Professional having spent 36 years at O&G Industries as Assistant Corporate Secretary. Despite his retirement in 2016, Paul has continued his role on the Chamber Board that began in 2007. He was Secretary for 2 years; Treasurer for 2 years; Vice Chair for 4 years, Chair for 2 years and continues sharing his expertise on the Executive Committee. It is Paul’s beautiful rendition of the National Anthem that begins all of our special events.

Congratulations to Karen and Paul. Irish eyes are surely smiling making our “hearts happy and all the world bright and gay” today and every day. Happy St. Patrick’s Day.