Steppin’ out! Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber Black Tie Gala and Expo

DAVE GORGON

The president and CEO of the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber said the organization’s annual Black Tie Gala and Expo continues to connect small businesses and nonprofit professionals with reliable vendors and potential customers.

In fact, with registration at nearly 400, Ronald Hinrichs announced that this year’s gala was the largest in his seven-year tenure at the chamber of commerce.

“We strive to stick to our vision, which is everything we do at the chamber is about having a positive and lasting impact on our regional community,” said Hinrichs, who lives in Riverview. “This is a regional celebration of our business community and nonprofits, but it’s so much more than that.”

The May 4 gala was held at Crystal Gardens in Southgate. Hinrichs said the growth in the number of vendors was significant, along with participating businesses and nonprofits. He said with restrictions eased from the days of the COVID-19 pandemic there are more opportunities for participants to connect with potential customers.

Krishelle Kohler, who owns Eldercare Home Care and Island House Senior Living on Grosse Ile has been a believer in the power of the chamber of commerce for about 30 years.

See GALA, Page 25