Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Chamber!

The year 2021 brought with it a sense of hope – hope that business would return to normal, hope that we would no longer carry the burden of others health and safety, and hope that the term “pandemic” would be a thing of the past. While the hope for a normal year faded in the early months, we still found ways to make the most of 2021. We took the challenges and lessons learned in 2020 and turned them into strengths for the year ahead.

The Chamber saw businesses, new and seasoned, anxious to learn, grow, and connect. Our members reached across the table and asked their neighbor for help and offered support to those in need. There was a sharing of knowledge and resources unlike anything we’ve seen before. The last two years have shown us that we are a resilient community. Though there is still more work to be done, I am confident that, together, we will continue to build a stronger economy and community for all of us in Jefferson County.

I would be remiss if I did not give credit to our former president, Tricia Maple-Damewood, for all of her hard work over the past seven years at the Chamber, but especially for her work throughout 2020 and 2021. For many of our Chamber members, Tricia was the sole source of support and encouragement throughout the pandemic. She worked tirelessly to not only keep the Chamber doors open, but also keep the doors of many of our local businesses open as well. We are indebted to Tricia for her leadership, foresight, and innovation throughout the pandemic.

While there is once again renewed hope for the year ahead, I recognize the shoes I have to fill in Tricia’s absence. As I step into the role of president, I look forward to continuing the work Tricia laid the groundwork for and am excited to bring new energy and ideas to our community. In 2022, the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce will continue working with our members, with community partners, and with local government leaders to ensure that you have the support you need to succeed. We will continue to look for ways to expand upon your member benefits, advocate on your behalf, and passionately promote your interests. As a community, we can continue our recovery by working together, to restore the health of our population, and the strength of our economy.

On behalf of our board, staff, and volunteers, I want to offer you our sincerest thanks for your on-going support of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce and your commitment to building a stronger and more resilient community. We look forward to working with you, and for you, in 2022!

Cheers,
Kate Sedgmer
President