Believe It or not folks it has been 5 years for me at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.  There have been so many wonderful experiences being part of Monroe. I was honored with a beautiful gift from the board of directors.  A hand made sign with photos of a variety of businesses logos spelling out “Monroe” and a beautiful bouquet of fresh flower. It’s been an honor to serve the community and see so much happen in our city.  It doesn’t take long to think of my favorite moments.  Usually, it happens when I am helping businesses and residents in unexpected ways.  Things I think should just happen but end being special enough to change someone’s situation.  Sometimes, it’s just knowing who to call, or writing letters of support for a growing business. The absolute best part of my job is when I am working with people and we just find ourselves in a full belly-laugh session.  Eyes tearing up and we forget what we were event talking about. Good times make all the difference when we need to face the not so good times.  There’s been a lot happening and each month seems to fly by faster and faster. I am grateful to say the least. 

 So, I thought it would be great time for a mid-year update!

Since the first of the year, we have welcomed 17 new businesses and organizations to the Monroe Chamber Of Commerce and Industry. The variety of members is impressive. Professional services that are much needed, retail shopping ad dining as well as religious organization and public safety related nonprofits. 

 In wake of some very extreme economic crisis, many would think that it is best to find stability and continue their careers in their current rolls. Many people do feel that way but those that are entrepreneurs at heart look at these tumultuous time as an opportunity to strike out on their own. Some feel they have to take a chance while they can or they realize they need to refocus attention on what is important.  Companies Like Sunrise Donut Café, Vintique Junque, and Midwest Soapery& Artisan Market took an uncertain future and created their own, great new stores are bringing wonderful shopping and dining experiences to Monroe. 

We also have several well establish businesses expanding to offer services in and around Monroe.  Existing companies like Equine Empowerment, INC, Shoe Sensation, Mt. Pleasant Perry Middleton Mutual Ins., Six Point Services, Steffes Group Auctions, Monson Septic and Portable Restrooms have been important to the state line area and have now brought their services to Monroe.  

We’ve also seen companies venture off on their own and form new businesses, with some very recognizable retirements, Daniel Bartholf form his own law firm.  We look forward to Bartholf Law Offices continuing their legal services throughout Monroe and the surrounding area. Evolve Salon has grown since relocating to the downtown Spring Square. 

There is a famous poem by Robert Frost.  “Nothing Gold Can Stay.” This is certainly true as we say thanks for all you do to Barb’s Kitchen,  quietly Barb Newcomer closed her doors which puts an exclamation point on a career well played.  We will miss Barb’s kitchen and all the wonderful meals she can created over the years.  

If you want to learn more about the new members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, we post our new members monthly on our website. Monroechamber.org and you can also see the entire list of members on our directory page or any time you purchase Monroe Money so you can keep shopping local as easy as possible.  

Thanks again Monroe, I am looking forward to seeing what the next 5 years brings us. 

— Melissa Even is the executive director for the Monroe Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at melissa@monroechamber.org.