Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) board member Derek Dukes has served the 501(c)(6) organization for the past eight years, a term he wrapped up by hosting a chamber breakfast at Southgate Lanes, 9700 N. Dixie Hwy. on December 10.

The bowling alley co-owner talked about his vision for Bluffton area shops and restaurants, where all work together to promote each other’s businesses. He also reviewed the past five years of fundraising events he has co-hosted with Brandon Falk to benefit the community. Events include: Mission Possible benefit for students in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, Battle of the Businesses bowling tournament, Food Pantry fundraisers, cancer victim fundraisers and multiple years of the Barley Memorial/Southgate Open golf tournament. A total of $35,000 has been raised for the Bluffton area community at Southgate Lanes events during this period.

As a member of the chamber board, Dukes has participated in monthly meetings that steer the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce. His committee work has included coordinating Business after Hours events and judging of the annual residential lights contest.

At the December 10 meeting, BACC treasurer Ryan Brauen invited members to consider joining the board, citing Dukes’ long tenure as evidence of the benefits that come with participation.

As of January 1, the chamber board will consist of 

President Mandy Gerken, Bluffton Paving Inc.-Bluffton Stone Co.

Treasurer Ryan Brauen, Wessler Engineering

Secretary Tony Pinks, Sumiriko of Ohio

Marlena Ballinger, The Dough Hook Meat Market

​Lauren Beasley, Citizens National Bank

Amy Byers, Bluffton Family Recreation

Ryan DeMarco, Edward Jones

Nicole Keuneke, Bluffton Hospital

Shelby Koenig, Bluffton University

​Stacy Stumbaugh, First National Bank

For more information on the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce and its programs, visit www.ExploreBluffton.com.