The Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors recently elected its officers for the 2011-2012 year.

The Chamber elects its chairman, 1st vice chair and 2nd vice chair in March, allowing ample time for the officers to prepare for the new year that begins July 1.

Michele Oosterink, vice president and commercial loan officer at Columbia Bank, was elected chairman of the board for 2011-2012. Brian Berend, of Farmers Insurance, Brian C. Berend Agency, will be the 1st vice chair, and Ronnie Roberts, president of Gosanko Chocolate Art, will serve as the 2nd vice chair.

"We are pleased to see the caliber of individuals stepping up to lead our Chamber," said Nancy Wyatt, president and COO for the Chamber. "It is under their guidance and direction that the Chamber is able to offer a diverse range of programs and services for our members."

About the Chamber

Established in 1925, the Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce has been serving the communities of Auburn, Algona, Pacific and unincorporated south King and north Pierce counties for 86 years.

The Chamber is a private, nonprofit, member-supported, volunteer-led organization. Its primary purpose is to focus and direct the resources of the business community to maintain and expand commerce in our region.

The Chamber has 450-plus business partners and is governed by a 21-member board of directors. The professional staff consists of four full-time employees and two contractors who carry out the program of work as established by the board.

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