Manson Chamber of Commerce members set priorities for 2026 at board retreat

MANSON — The Manson Chamber of Commerce launched the new year with a board retreat Jan. 21, bringing together its leadership to set priorities and outline goals for the year ahead.

The retreat was hosted at the home of newly appointed Executive Director Mary Lynn Thompson, who began her role Jan. 1. Thompson said the gathering provided an opportunity for board members to clarify roles, establish timelines and focus on initiatives aimed at strengthening the local business community.

“I’m truly inspired by this group, especially our new young officers and the energy they bring. This retreat offered our Board a meaningful chance to connect and focus on our priorities for 2026. After clarifying roles, responsibilities, and timelines for key initiatives, everyone left with a renewed sense of purpose and genuine enthusiasm for the year ahead,” Thompson said.

Thompson brings experience in marketing, event management and strategic partnerships, with a career that includes work with Nancy Welts Productions, Group Health Cooperative and Windermere Real Estate. Her background includes involvement in major regional events such as the Sonics Championship Reunion, the Seattle Boat Show and the Windermere Cup. After moving part time to Chelan in 2017 and settling in Manson in 2023, Thompson focused on supporting local wineries and small businesses, an experience she said deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by local entrepreneurs.

The Manson Chamber of Commerce traces its roots to 1987, when it was founded as the Manson Development Council. It later became Manson Merchants in 1992, transitioned to the Manson Business Association in the early 2000s and adopted its current name in 2013. The organization operated as a volunteer-led group for much of its history before hiring its first executive director in 2015. Today, it continues as a nonprofit focused on supporting the Manson business community.

The chamber’s 2026 board includes 11 members. Returning board members are Mariah Koester of Four Lakes Winery, Joanne Brown, Sarah Hart of Von Hart Bakery, Mike Kirk of the Manson Community Council, Tara Kalian, Suzanne Copitzky of KOZI Radio, Josh Allensby of 12 Tribes Lake Chelan Casino and Timi Starkweather, a former Manson Chamber executive director.

New board members for 2026 are Chris Dandridge of AgHawk Dynamics, Colin Banghart of Manson Distilling and Pam James of North Shore Bible Church.

“Our retreat was incredibly productive, and it gave us the chance to truly get to know one another,” Thompson said. “The day flew by, and while a few items remain on our list, we’ll tackle those soon. We devoted much of our time to identifying goals that will strengthen our business community and enhance the vitality of the Manson area.”

According to Thompson, the board identified several priorities for 2026, including increasing economic vitality, strengthening member engagement, developing innovative fundraising strategies and hosting family-friendly events and activities.

“This is an exciting time for collaboration and growth, and I encourage business owners throughout the Chelan Valley to consider joining the Manson Chamber,” she said.

Chamber President Chris Dandridge said long-term financial stability and increased community involvement are central to his focus for the coming year.

“As President of the Manson Chamber of Commerce, my top priority is ensuring long term financial stability for the organization. I’m equally committed to increasing community involvement by creating more opportunities for residents to stay connected with what’s happening in Manson,” Dandridge said. “Strengthening youth engagement is also a key focus, with more programs and events that help kids feel rooted in their community.”

Vice President Colin Banghart, who is serving his first year on the board, said he plans to focus on events that highlight the area’s character while supporting local businesses.

“As Vice President, my focus for 2026 is to strengthen our events and support local businesses by celebrating Manson’s roots and showcasing the unique culture that defines our community,” Banghart said. “I’m also committed to expanding child friendly activities across all Chamber events to ensure families and visitors enjoy memorable experiences throughout the year.”

Pam James, who serves as membership director, emphasized outreach and collaboration.

“I care deeply about this community, and I’m committed to helping Manson continue to grow as both a must visit destination and a place our locals are proud to call home,” James said. “I’m eager to connect with our business owners and community leaders, listen to their needs, and collaborate on ways to strengthen our local economy.”

More information about the Manson Chamber of Commerce and membership opportunities is available at www.mansonchamber.com.