Monroe Chamber honors its ambassador: Lee Hossler

MONROE, Conn. — The Monroe Chamber of Commerce celebrated accomplishments from the past year during its annual holiday luncheon at the Chris Bargas Golf Club at Whitney Farms Thursday afternoon, while also honoring one of the organization’s most valued members.

Lee Hossler, who serves as the Chamber’s ambassador, works behind the scenes to organize ribbon cuttings welcoming new businesses to town, and has energetically secured sponsorships for the annual golf tournament, which raises money for scholarships for high school students, as well as other programs.

Monroe Chamber President Ray Giovanni said the organization markets its member business, and refers members to each other, as part of its free services.

“Most members don’t realize that these are opportunities that could help their business grow,” he said, “and Lee informs everyone clearly of those opportunities. The brochure we have doesn’t do the job the way that Lee can deliver the messaging. These efforts and results are valuable to our organization.”

“Lee, thank you for everything you’ve done for our Chamber and for our town of Monroe,” Giovanni said, before calling Hossler up to the front of the room.

State Sen. Jason Perillo, R-Shelton, presented a proclamation to Hossler from the Connecticut General Assembly, in recognition of his “commitment to Monroe,” while “enhancing the quality of life for residents.”

Of Hossler’s longtime involvement with the Save Our Stepney Task Force, Perillo said, “you played a pivotal role in saving the Stepney Green, as it stands today as a place for educational programming and cultural events.”

“You have been instrumental in preserving the overall history of Monroe through your writing and photography, but also helped the town thrive as Economic Development Committee chairman,” Perillo said. “The initiatives you’ve started are still practiced today.”

“This dedication is also shown in your role as Monroe Chamber of Commerce ambassador,” Perillo said. “Your tenacity to secure support of the student scholarship programs is a credit to your character. We thank you for your years of service.”

This is not Hossler’s first major honor. In 2017, he was named Monroe’s Outstanding Citizen.