Summer Greetings:
 
   For those of you who don't know me, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself.  I am Loretta Lodge and I will be taking over from Cindy Genther as the Executive Director for the Kent County Chamber of Commerce as of June 1st. 
   Cindy has done an extraordinary job in leading the Chamber over the past three years and I believe Kent County and the businesses here are that much better for having Cindy at the helm.  A great big thanks is due to Cindy for her efforts and accomplishments.  Though her shoes will be big ones to fill, I feel I am up to the challenge.
   As I expressed to the search committee during the interview process, I believe in accessing and utilizing all resources available to me, including not only board members, but all chamber members.  Each of you bring your own expertise and I view each of you as a valuable resource in your field.
   My husband and I have lived in Kent County since February 1987.  During that time we have seen the businesses and economy both grow exponentially and more recently, dwindle during the economic downturn.  I believe if we work together, we can weather the current economy and bring Kent County through this difficult time, and once again become the prosperous and economically stable community we have been in the past.
   As Executive Director, I believe a key responsibility is building and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships.  I take seriously my responsibility to steward the business community of Kent County and this beautiful inheritance nestled between the Sassafras and Chester Rivers and the Chesapeake Bay. 
   I look forward to meeting and working with all of the business owners in Kent County.  If you have any questions, comments, concerns or suggestions, please feel free to call me or stop by the office if you are in Chestertown. 
 
Sincerely,
Loretta