Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce Hosts Spectacular James Bond-Themed Annual Meeting

Red Wing, MN – January 30, 2025 – The Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its highly anticipated Annual Meeting, transforming Treasure Island Resort & Casino into a Bond-worthy gala. Nearly 450 business and community leaders gathered for a night of celebration, recognition, and high-stakes networking, all set against the thrilling backdrop of a James Bond-themed event.
Mission: Business Success The evening, led by Chamber President & CEO Michelle Larson, kicked off with an engaging and immersive introduction, setting the tone for a night of celebration, resilience, and strategic vision. Attendees were encouraged to embrace the theme, with many dressed as MI6 agents, villains, or Bond himself.
As part of the festivities, ten local businesses participated in the Best-Dressed Table Competition, with stunning, themed displays that added to the immersive experience. The winner of the best-dressed table was Potter Ridge Senior Living. The event also featured an extravagant Dessert Auction, thanks to 16 generous sponsors, providing an indulgent selection of cakes and pastries. This fundraiser portion of the evening provides funds that support the mission of the nonprofit Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce specifically in the realms of education, workforce development, and economic growth.

Reflecting on 2024 Achievements

Outgoing Board Chair Brenda Stelter, owner of Anchor Promotions, Apparel, & Signage, highlighted the Chamber’s significant accomplishments over the past year, including:
•The successful launch of the Women’s Leadership Event, with the next one set for April 30, 2025.
•Increased advocacy efforts, engaging legislators and hosting vital Candidate Forums.
•The return of the beloved Duck Race during River City Days. Thanks to Falk Auto Body and Riverside Automotive for bringing the giant duck back to life!
•Active representation for Amtrak Borealis, ensuring strong business involvement in transportation advancements.
•A thriving local economy, with over $35,000 in Chamber Bucks circulating through the community.
•Over 50 Chamber events, attracting more than 2,700 attendees.
•20+ new Chamber members and an impressive 95% retention rate.

A Look Ahead to 2025

Incoming Board Chair Alyson Albers, of Falk Auto Body & Glass, outlined the Chamber’s key priorities for the year ahead, including:
•Continued advocacy efforts, ensuring legislative issues impacting businesses remain at the forefront.
•The development of a new leadership program, leveraging a grant from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.
•Expanding networking opportunities, enhancing events like Lunch & Learns, AM Expressos, and Business After Hours.
•Strengthening the Chamber Ambassadors program, fostering deeper community engagement.
•Exciting upcoming events, including the Annual Golf Tournament at Red Wing Golf Course and an elevated River City Days celebration, featuring a performance by fan favorite The Fabulous Armadillos.

Recognizing Excellence: The 2024 Chamber Awards

A highlight of the evening was the Chamber Awards Program, celebrating outstanding businesses and individuals who have significantly contributed to the local economy and community. With over 18,000 public votes cast, this year’s awards were more competitive than ever. Among the night’s top honorees:
•Ambassador of the Year: Jarrett Enevold
•Volunteer of the Year: Jim Ross
•Automotive, Boating, & Recreational Equipment Business of the Year: Falk Auto Body & Glass
•Beauty, Health & Wellness Business of the Year: Pearle Vision
•Building, Construction, and Design Business of the Year: Sargent’s Nursery
•Professional Services Business of the Year: Red Wing Credit Union
•Housing & Redevelopment Business of the Year: Potter Ridge Senior Living
•Manufacturer of the Year: Red Wing Shoe Company
•Nonprofit Organization of the Year: River Bluff Humane Society
•Restaurant of the Year: Kelly's Tap House Bar & Grill
•Retailer of the Year: Red Wing Ace Hardware
•Specialty Services Business of the Year: Black Dog Animal Hospital
•Tourism Business of the Year: Big Turn Music Fest

Mission Accomplished – But the Night Wasn’t Over

The night concluded with the legendary Dessert Auction, a Chamber tradition that brought excitement, competitive bidding, and generous contributions to the organization’s initiatives. A special thank you goes out to Bob Kubes who filled in as an auctioneer this year!

A Word of Thanks

The Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce extends its deepest gratitude to Treasure Island Resort & Casino, event sponsors, planning committee, Chamber Ambassadors, and the entire business community for making the night an extraordinary success.

For more information on upcoming events and Chamber initiatives, visit www.redwingchamber.com or follow the chamber on social media.