By Denise Lana,
Lisa Lantz, president of the chamber’s board of directors and Executive Director Jessica Rilling held a crowd-sized ribbon cutting to launch the next 100 years of business excellence in Decorah. (Photo by Denise Lana)
Decorah’s Chamber of Commerce rolled out the red carpet for its inaugural Business Awards event Tuesday, Sept. 24 at the Vesterheim Museum, an event which also marked the chamber’s 100th birthday.
“Started in 1924 by prominent business leaders and first called the Decorah Commercial Club, this non-profit organization is a longstanding force for community improvement and a trusted partner in business success,” Lisa Lantz, president of the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, said.
Gold and black decor elevated the museum’s commons as business owners and community leaders gathered to indulge in canapés and antipasto while sipping champagne. Outside on the large terrace, attendees talked and enjoyed the cool Iowa evening, while listening to music provided by Rhapsody String Quartet.
“This event tonight is so we can recognize businesses and individuals who go above and beyond,” Lantz said. “Celebrating the hard work of our businesses and our people is a valuable effort — one worth establishing a new tradition.”
Awards were presented to outstanding businesses, young professionals and volunteers selected for their excellence, innovative practices and significant contributions to the community.
Joe Hammel of Hammel Jewelers was recognized for his 27 years of service as an ambassador with the chamber. Hammel has reportedly been present for more than 400 ribbon cutting events throughout his tenure as ambassador, earning him the chamber’s first Ambassador of the Year award.
Spark Joy awards — in the form of engraved zippo lighters — were awarded to businesses and people who have spread happiness and smiles across the community in unique ways. The Decorah Fareway Meat Department was awarded a Spark Joy award for their meat and cheese trays — officials highlighted the business’ salami roses.
“For more than 40 years … in days leading up to holidays, the meat department of 17 men and women will prepare more than 30 trays each day,” Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce Exeutive Director Jessica Rilling said, adding the trays are often ordered events like weddings, funerals, backyard parties and birthday celebrations.
As the evening came to a close, Rilling and Lantz invited the audience to join in a collective ribbon cutting to launch the next 100 years of business excellence in Decorah.
“Decorah remains a special place to live, work and visit, in part because it is rich in natural resources, and in part because the people who live here actively invest their financial resources to ensure it,” Lantz said.
Submit A Comment
Fill out the form to submit a comment. All comments require approval by our staff before it is displayed on the website.