Edward J. Thomas Chamber members and guests will hear about the current trends of the mortgage industry at its season kick-off luncheon on Wednesday, September 30, 11:30 a.m. at the Garden City Hotel. Edward J. Thomas, Regional Sales Manager of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, will discuss trends in past 2009; expectations in the 4th quarter; and going forward in 2010. Mr. Thomas will dispel myths that banks are limiting residential real estate lending; the status on the first-time home buyer tax credit; along with recent credit policy and product shifts in the market.

While Ed Thomas has spent 14 years as regional sales manager at Wells Fargo Home Mortgage located at 585 Stewart Avenue in Garden City, he has spent 22 years in the mortgage banking industry. In his position at Wells Fargo, Ed manages a sales tem of 400 sales professionals that do 7-8 BN annually in mortgage volume. A graduate of Queens College with degrees in economics and political science, he resides in Garden City with his wife and three collage-age children.

A highlight of the luncheon will be a special tribute to Robert Cangemi, owner-operator of the Garden City Shoe shop who will close his doors on September 30 following 40 years at 178 Seventh Street. Currently, the Garden City Shoe Shop is the retail business operating at the same address for the longest period of time by the same owner within the Garden City business districts. Bob and his wife Elizabeth will be special guests of the Chamber.

The program will begin at 11:30 a.m. with the traditional Business Showcase of various member businesses, combined with a reception-networking period. Luncheon will be served promptly at 12:30 p.m. Advance reservations are required at $60 per person for Chamber members; $65 for non-members. To reserve, call the Chamber at 746-7724, ext. 10l; or visit www.GardenCityChamber.org. Credit cards are accepted.