NORMAN — The new Noble Chamber of Commerce president was inducted at the annual banquet and auction recently.

Cathy Adams, director of the Noble Public Library, has stepped up as president to fill outgoing president, Robin Stead’s position.

The theme of the banquet was reflection born of a quote by Peter Drucker: “Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.”

Adams said with that quote in mind, and being inspired by Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” she envisions the Chamber Past that built a good foundation, the Chamber Present that is building on that foundation, evaluating the things it does and becoming member-oriented, and the Chamber Future, where she cited recently having had a planning session to plan things the chamber wants to do. Three main focuses are serving the community, the membership and the chamber.

“I am honored and feel very privileged,” Adams said regarding being inducted as chamber president. “I feel very excited for where we are going. We are prepared for action, to reflect and act. I want us to be action-oriented in all we do.”

“I’m very proud of what we accomplished in 2012, and I think under Cathy’s leadership, she will take us to even more spectacular heights,” Stead said.

Chamber Executive Director Dawn McNutt said the gala event, with silent and live auctions, was a success. Noble High School Band students, directed by Fred Queen, volunteered as entertainers.

The auction item bringing the highest bid was Sun Construction’s donation of a three-man crew to work eight-hours while providing all tools and equipment.

Steve Owens and Rusty Sullivan donated a football and a picture signed by three former OU football players and Heisman Trophy winners. Barry Switzer and Sullivan donated a football signed by Switzer.

“Other live and silent auction items donated included oil changes, gift cards and certificates, auto details, TV and a Keurig coffee machine, to name a few generous donations,” McNutt said, adding that all donors and recipients will be listed on the chamber website next week.

McNutt said the dessert auction was awesome again this year.

“I don’t know how many cakes there were. We had lots of pies this year in addition to the many cakes, cookies and cake balls donated by many community members. It was a delicious way to earn a little extra money for the chamber. I appreciate all the donations.”

Sullivan and Darry Stacy, county commissioners, and Dist. 20 Rep. Bobby Cleveland, several Noble City council members and Mayor Mark Easton attended the gala.

Stead presented the following awards:

· Matt Branstetter of Braevest Investments won Volunteer of the Year.

· Bob Wade won Chamber Member of the Year.

· MJ Brienan of Back Office Success and Karen Weigel Primrose Funeral Services won Above and Beyond Awards.

New board members include Holly Moreu of Loving Care, vice president of membership and president elect; Johnnell Jones of Republic Bank and Trust, vice president of member services; Robin Parker, president of Noble Now, treasurer; Jocelyn Pedersen of Great Writing works, secretary; and Robin Stead, attorney at law, immediate past president.

Current board members whose positions expire at the end of 2013 include Terry Beam, owner of Terry’s Market; Keith Springstead, Noble’s chief of police; and a recently vacated position, which will be filled soon.

Board members whose positions expire at the end of 2014 include Andrew Seamans, owner of D5 Architecture; Dr. Jacob Smith of Classic Vision; and Melinda Humphrey of GoSmallBiz.

Board members whose positions expire at the end of 2015 include Brian Houck, owner of New Leaf Nutrition; Russell Nabors of The Dental Lodge; and Tom Thomas of Farmer’s Insurance.

Non-voting, ex-officio board members who attend meetings and provide input and insight to the board include Bob Wade, Noble city manager; Jason Stewart of the Noble Public Library; Ronda Bass, superintendent of Noble Public Schools; Jan Moran of AT&T; Jack Ferrell of OEC; James Chappel of OG&E; and Tim Powell of ONG.

For more information about the Noble Chamber, visit nobleok.org or call McNutt at 872-5535.

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