By Aaron Vehling

When Kathy Lindo became the executive director of the North Branch Area Chamber of Commerce in 1999, the organization had 112 members.

Earlier this year, Lindo set her sights on welcoming 300 members by the end of the year.

On Oct. 12 the goal was met when Central Park Sports became the 300th member of the Chamber.
By Oct. 14 that number had already jumped to 302.

Lindo attributes the increase in memberships to a variety of factors, and is modest about her role in the matter.

ìWe listen to what businesses need,î she said. ìWe try to adapt and add chamber programs to meet those needs.î

The Chamberís presence in the community also plays a role in its success, Lindo said, naming Fall Harvest, Winter Fest and Santa Days as examples of community involvement.

Lindo said that many member business owners are locals, which further solidifies the Chamberís involvement in the community.
ìThey (the business owners) have a higher stake in the future of the community,î she said.

Lindo pointed out that promotions coordinator Arlys Walberg, who started Winter Fest, and executive assistant director Jeanne Duncan help out profoundly with such events.

Members comment
Chamber member Bill Young, general manager of Anderson and Koch Ford in North Branch, said that being a member of the chamber has allowed for the dealership to network with local businesses.

ìBusiness members are able to get together and talk with other business members in the community,î he said.
This builds camaraderie among local business owners, he said.

ìWhen you meet someone in the area, you see them around town and do business with them day to day, it builds a strong relationship,î he said.

Young said that the Chamber helped Anderson and Koch find services locally for which they had previously looked out-of-town.
ìWe are using a printer in town,î he said. ìWe are both members of the Chamber.î

Jim Nagle, owner of Central Park Sports, managed Tower Liquor, which is also a member of the Chamber. He said he joined the Chamber because of what they did for the liquor store.

ìI saw the services they offer and believe it is a good organization,î he said.

A resource for residents
Lindo asserted that the Chamber not only benefits businesses, but it is also a resource for residents. The Chamber publishes a business directory that residents new and long-term can use to find services they need right here in the community.

ìIt helps create a real sense of neighborhood,î she said. ìPeople do business with whom they know.î

Lindo said that while she does not have a number in mind for the future, she still has a goal for the Chamber.

ìMy goal is to maintain membership and improve programs and services we offer so that businesses can prosper.î

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