The Jerome Chamber of Commerce has a new executive director. Jon Melone started at the Jerome Chamber of Commerce last week and he's no stranger to the business world.

Melone said, "When we first moved here, we opened our own business, Vinefera Wines. Then after we sold that business, I was one of the original managers at Canyon Crest Dining before I took the position here."

Jon Melone took over for Dawn Tipton as executive director of the Jerome Chamber of Commerce. He's currently breaking in his new role.

He said, "I'm on a large learning curve right now, but things are going well." Currently he's trying to reach out to new members, saying, "Put the chamber's face, me out there with them."

Recognizing there are many Hispanic businesses, Melone is hoping to incorporate them into the chamber. "What I plan to do is to utilize those that are already members. They know the culture, they know the businesses, so we are putting a plan together to reach out to them."

He has a small staff…."It's me and one part-time person who comes in the afternoons"... But in the short time he's been at jerome, he's kept himself busy.

He said, "I'm been visiting a lot of businesses that are affiliated with the Chamber. It's been good. I've been well-accepted by all the businesses and business owners so far."