On Tues., Feb. 19, The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce sponsored the grand opening of LKNConnect.com at the Peninsula Club in Cornelius. Founder and CEO, Dr. Douglas Fitzgerald, cut the red ribbon, cheered on by LKNConnect.com staff, advisory board members, marketplace members, Chamber of Commerce members, and local dignitaries.

 

Fitzgerald explained the three phases of LKNConnect.com. Phase 1, which launched in Oct., is an online magazine featuring local businesses, outstanding citizens, restaurant reviews, business/money tips, things to do, and local government issues.

 

Phase 2, the local marketplace, is in its early stages and provides a way to advertise and sell products. This powerful platform will make it easier than ever to buy locally and have it shipped to your door.

 

Phase 3, the community health consortium, will launch sometime in the second quarter. LKNConnect.com’s Community Health is working with local healthcare providers to promote an educational program about preventative healthcare.

 

LKNConnect.com is also working with non-profit organizations to promote their services throughout the region.

 

Matt Panepinto, LKNConnect.com’s Integrations Webmaster, demonstrated the website and marketplace.

 

David Beard, who oversees LKNConnect.com’s sales and business development, discusses details of the marketplace with Douglas Marion, Chris Pape, and Dana Pape.

 

Mayor Pro-Tem Michael F. Miltich, Mayor Woody Washam, and his wife Sharon Washam were among the many guests who attended the event.

 

Rob Bennett (right) won the raffle prize of a free 6-month membership for a store in the LKNConnect.com marketplace.

 

Special thanks to staff member, John McHugh of Ocaid Photography, for his photos of the event.