These, days, when most people hear the word "network," they call their company's information technology specialist.
But the Potomac Chamber of Commerce's "Networking Event" at Normandie Farm March 30 was aimed squarely at the more old-fashioned kind of network — among people. Dozens of chamber of commerce members and guests traded business cards and mingled over hors d oeuvres and cocktails Wednesday evening.
Chamber president Andrea Alderdice thanked the participants and the businesses that donated door prizes before introducing several speakers who talked about projects and events of community interest.
Mark Livingstone and Katie Geinas of the Cabin John Park Volunteer Fire Department invited local business to partner with the department in a $1.5 million fundraising effort to expand and overhaul Station 30, on Falls Road near Oaklyn Drive.
Elie Pisarra-Cain and Don Harrison of Friends of Historic Great Falls Tavern talked about that group's fundraising effort to replace the Canal Clipper, which was irreparably damaged in April, 2003.
Anne Martinez and Kaushika Patel of Potomac Artists in Touch talked about that group's ongoing Pony Mania project, which will raise money for charity.
Following the presentations, the Normandie Farm bartender drew business cards from a basket to award the door prizes — including a massage and a vacuum cleaner — donated by Potomac businesses.