Chamber of Commerce holds annual meeting
The New Prague Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual meeting at The Lakeside Supper Club Monday evening, Jan. 17, with a large group of members and guests in attendance. A brief recap was given on the chamber’s successful 2005 and a written report was distributed. Two new board members were also elected.
Guest speaker
Following dinner a presentation was given by New Prague High School teacher Greg Tikalsky on the history of New Prague. Tikalsky, who authored the book, “New Prague Trivia,” shared portions of his book, focusing on people and happenings that helped shape New Prague.
Board members and officers
The two new members elected to the chamber’s board of directors are Brad Carlson, Allstate Insurance and Brenda Pint, Community Security Bank. They replace board members Patty Peterson of Patty’s Place and Rick Strand, associate member, whose terms have expired.
Chamber officers for 2006 include President Greg Aase of State Bank of New Prague; Vice President Monica Bartyzal, State Bank of New Prague; Secretary/Treasurer Patrick Goggins, Wornson & Goggins Law Office; and Past President DeAnn Puente, Bargain Betty’s. Jane Dittberner, ReMax Dynamic Associates, and Kathy O’Neill, The O’Neill Brothers, are also members of the board.
Annual report
There were 20 new chamber members in 2005 and 15 membership non-renewals, eight of those businesses closed or relocated. More than $17,610 of New Prague Czechs were purchased during 2005 and $18,735 worth were also redeemed at chamber-member businesses.
During 2005 the chamber donated more than $20,000 to various community requests.
The chamber has been able to distribute these funds, thanks to Marion Nelson, owner of Corner Bar, who has offered her business as a charitable gambling site to the chamber since 1998.
The chamber recognition program did not have any awards this year due to lack of nominations from the membership.
If you would like more information on the chamber or any of its activities, call 952-758-4360.
