Young professionals unite

The Claremont Young Professionals had their inaugural meeting last night at the Wine Merchant in the Packing House.

The newest subcommittee of the Chamber of Commerce hopes to get younger professionals in town more involved in business affairs and better connected with each other. The target age group is between 21 and 39.

I've been to my share of civic meetings in Claremont. Whether it's the League of Women Voters, Active Claremont, Chamber of Commerce mixers or the University Club, the median age at these events seems to be somewhere in the mid-80s. Of course I'm exaggerating, but you get my point.

It was nice to see so many young faces getting involved in town and excited about the new endeavor. There was a great turn out, probably around 100 people throughout the night, and many spoke about building lasting relationships that can serve them for years to come.

They hope they can pump some new life and fresh ideas into the Chamber while building connections and increasing charity work. The group is planning an event or mixer every 2 months.

In one twist of irony, the top raffle prize at the mixer didn't go to one of the many young professionals who showed up. The $100 gift certificate for Buca Di Beppo went to City Manager Jeff Parker, who's over 50 and clearly very established in his career.

No fair Jeff! Next time keep your business card in your pocket.