This Issues Topics:
2022 • Ambassador • Ambassador of the month • Business Connections • June • Seattle to Portland • STP • Volunteer
Seattle to Portland, more lovingly known as STP, has been an area event for decades now. Thousands of bicycle enthusiasts prepare for and participate in this annual event in the Pacific Northwest. After 2 years on hiatus, the community is ready to come together again for this fun event.

There aren’t many other community members as familiar with STP as our friend John Camenzind. John has been volunteering for STP now for over 20 years! John grew up in Frances, WA and has lived in Lewis County over 30 years, working at Spiffy’s Restaurant for 9 years and then he had his own restaurant, Gemelli’s Italian Grill, for 5 years in Centralia.

He first got involved with STP while attending Centralia college taking business courses and got involved with the Rotary Club whose members were volunteering for the event, and he has been involved ever since! When John’s restaurant Gemelli’s was open in Centralia he would shuttle bike riders to and from the STP event for 5 years. He even hosted some riders at his home and had fun cooking for them as well!  When asked, John what his favorite part of volunteering is he replied, “The people. It’s just such a good time with the riders”. One volunteer he says he can’t live without is Twila Collins of The Cat’s Meow: Spay, Neuter and Adoption Clinic who has worked the event with him many times.

John’s 20-plus year commitment to STP as a Chamber Ambassador and his enthusiastic personality is why he was selected as Ambassador of the Month for June.  He is a wonderful example of how volunteering is a great way to connect with the community, make new friends and business connections too – while having fun along the way!!

To become a Chamber Ambassador email us at [email protected] or call us at  (360) 748-8885 to find out more!

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