Last night business owners and industry pioneers came together downtown to celebrate the city’s success  and honor those who made an impact on the local economy and community at the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce 126^th Annual Meeting. The city’s greatest leaders began the night by gathering in front of The Florida Theatre, sampling some of the area’s best cuisine before the festivities began inside.

Janet Herrick, 2011 Small Business Leader of the Year

One of the highlights of the evening was when Janet Herrick, president and CEO of Onsite Environmental Consulting, was named the 2011 Small Business Leader of the Year.  Herrick and Onsite Environmental Consulting, which offers numerous industry-leading environmental services and information, were nominated for the award by the Chamber’s West Council.

Other highlights from last night’s meeting include:

• Hugh Greene, president and CEO of Baptist Health System, took the gavel as 2011 chairman of the Chamber’s board of directors. He cited the development of Jacksonville’s port, downtown, helping “second stage businesses” move to the next level and forging partnerships between the Chamber and the newly elected officials who will take office this year, as major initiatives for 2011.
• U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson addressed the gathering and said two top priorities for Jacksonville are bringing a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to Mayport and gaining funding for the expansion of JAXPORT.

It was an exciting night for the city of Jacksonville and an amazing opportunity to showcase downtown. We look forward to seeing what the chamber does in 2011!