New La Ronge Chamber of Commerce has Community Focus

The La Ronge and District Chamber of Commerce saw overturn in a majority of its eight senior positions at its September annual general meeting (AGM); it was Dennis Caplette's (Manager, Giant Tiger) first meeting, and he was elected President. 

"I was very flattered and honoured that people though enough of me for this position" said Caplette, whose nomination was seconded by Past President Matt Klassen. "I think you have great experience and would be a great fit for this role" said Klassen a the AGM. 

The meeting adhered to social distancing measures, and was attended by ten persons -- with spacing. In their review of the 2019 calendar year, the 'Chamber highlighted:

- the Town of La Ronge Sign Corridor
- New Website (February 4)
- 2nd Annual Gala (April 27) - which sustained financial losses but in doing so acquired excess material for future use
- Kristy Mcdougall hired as Administrative Services Contractor - data collection, mailchimp campaigns, surveys
- Federal Election Forum: (Oct 10) Desnethe-Missinippi-Churchill River Candidates forum
- 2nd Annual Christmas Gathering Event (Dec 1)
- And other activities

Despite running their first deficit in three years, the Chamber of Commerce's 2019 year in review still carried forward more than three times those losses into 2020 ($10,891.57 as of December 31, 2019).

Those stepping away from the 'Chamber include: Crystal Everestt (President), Matt Klassen (Past President), Jamie Chester (Executive), Jude Ratt (Executive), and others.

Everest stated that her legacy would be a better membership experience: creating a directory of members/non-members, and leveraging tools (like MailChimp) that allow members them to stay better informed, provide data that can shape business in the community. When asked, Crystal Everest said she is not leaving the community, and will remain available to act as Past President, although in more of an auxiliary role.

Several citizens in attendance were recruited into larger roles, some for the first time, including:

Nathan Stradeski, of Watt Agencies - Nominated by Matt Klassen to the joint role of Secretary and Treasurer, a first for the Board. Accepted.
Sonny Montilla, Manager of The Source, La Ronge - Accepted an Executive/board position.
Dennis Caplette, Manager of the Giant Tiger, La Ronge - Nominated as President, Seconded by Matt Klassen, and Accepted.

"I believe La Ronge is the hub of the North" said Caplette referencing the common moniker for Prince Albert. "I think its really important that we get the ability to do that (be positive, contributing members of community), so I will be reaching out to all the business owners in La Ronge to try and create that opportunity".