The Rocky River Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Business Expo on October 12, 2023, at the Don Umerley Civic Center. The event featured 90 exhibitors from various industries, a speaker series, a networking lunch, and a raffle. The expo also marked the debut of the new executive director of the chamber, David Lipinsky.
New director takes charge
David Lipinsky was appointed as the executive director of the Rocky River Chamber of Commerce in September 2023, succeeding Angela Dudek, who retired after 12 years of service. Lipinsky has over 20 years of experience in marketing, communications, and business development. He previously worked as the director of marketing and communications at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Lipinsky said he was excited to lead the chamber and help its members grow their businesses. He said he wanted to focus on enhancing the chamber’s visibility, value, and voice in the community. He also said he was looking forward to working with the chamber’s board of directors, staff, and volunteers.
“I am honored and humbled to serve as the executive director of the Rocky River Chamber of Commerce,” Lipinsky said. “The chamber has a long history of supporting and promoting local businesses and fostering a vibrant economy. I am eager to build on that legacy and create new opportunities for our members and our community.”
Expo showcases local businesses
The Business Expo 2023 was the first major event organized by the chamber under Lipinsky’s leadership. The expo attracted hundreds of attendees who had the chance to network with business owners and professionals from various sectors. The exhibitors included health care providers, financial institutions, educational institutions, restaurants, retailers, and service providers.
The expo also featured a speaker series that offered insights and tips on topics such as goal setting, personal branding, social media marketing, and customer service. The speakers were Kelly MacLean, a motivational speaker and coach; John Smith, a personal branding expert and author; Lisa Jones, a social media strategist and consultant; and Mark Johnson, a customer service trainer and speaker.
The expo also provided an exclusive networking lunch for exhibitors and sponsors, where they could mingle and exchange ideas. The lunch was catered by Rocky River Deli, one of the featured food sponsors of the expo. The other food sponsors were Rocky River Pizza, Rocky River Bakery, and Rocky River Coffee.
The expo also had a raffle that offered prizes such as gift cards, merchandise, and services donated by exhibitors and sponsors. The raffle tickets were sold at $5 each or $20 for five tickets. The proceeds from the raffle were used to support the chamber’s programs and initiatives.
Expo receives positive feedback
The Business Expo 2023 received positive feedback from both exhibitors and attendees. Many exhibitors said they were able to generate leads, make connections, and increase their exposure through the expo. Many attendees said they learned something new, discovered new products and services, and enjoyed the atmosphere of the expo.
Eileen Gorski, the chair of the expo committee, said she was pleased with the outcome of the event. She said she was impressed by the quality and diversity of the exhibitors and the speakers. She also thanked Lipinsky for his support and guidance in organizing the expo.
“The Business Expo 2023 was a great success,” Gorski said. “We are grateful to all our exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, volunteers, and attendees for making this event possible. We hope to see everyone again next year for another exciting expo.”
