A NOTE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

Happy December! Whatever holiday you celebrate, we wish you tidings of great joy. This will be my final newsletter as my time as Board Chair has come to an end. As I reflect on the year, I think about the three goals that I set for my time in leadership. One was to champion a new program which was the Leadership Luncheon Series. This program was a smashing success and I tip my hat to Judy Johnson and the rest of the team for a job well done. I look forward to enjoying the 2024 season.

The second goal was to leave the Chamber in better financial shape than it was when I started. The Chamber has worked hard over the years to establish operating cost reserve goals to ensure the long-term financial health of the organization. We had great weather for our major events and outperformed 2022 revenue and 2023 budgets.  As a result, we reached our target goals and funding to support the Chamber members and staff.

My third goal was to add top-level talent to our board, which we did with Matt Schadow of Ameristar Agency, Inc., Tim Naumann of Luce Line Brewing Co., and Adam Thompson of FocalPoint Business Coaching. It’s with great confidence that I pass the gavel to Jim Camarata of Keller Williams Premier Realty – Lake Minnetonka. 

Finally, I want to thank 2022 Board Chair, AJ Meyer of Sanford, Pierson, Thone & Strean, PLC for the support and wise counsel, all who volunteered this past year, and the extraordinary staff for their tireless efforts to ensure the Chamber’s success!

There are still many ways to engage with the Chamber in December.  Attend the 2023 Annual Holiday Celebration on December 14 from 4-6 pm. We’ll salute our Chamber Stars, welcome new board leadership, recap 2023 milestones, and enjoy a toast to the year to come.