As a Chamber of Commerce we are often faced with issues of all shapes and sizes. Recently our community has faced an onslaught of media attention across the nation from Seattle to New York. We believe it is our responsibility, as an advocate for the business community, to bring to the forefront the great people and businesses we have in our community. This year alone the Mount Vernon Chamber has celebrated with more than 10 businesses as they hosted ribbon cuttings and grand openings. We have seen our downtown become a recognized Main Street Community. Skagit Valley College opened the doors to a state of the art Laura Angst Allied Science building. Community leaders joined together to create a very successful marketing campaign – Get a Great Life in Mount Vernon. Our members are survivors and spend countless hours providing valuable services for customers near and far.
Our message is clear and simple, neither the Chamber nor the business community had any involvement in the decision to host the Glenn Beck event. We have members who support the Mayor’s decision and others who do not. The threats of boycotting the entire business community in Mount Vernon is misdirected and will only hurt the hard working business owners who not only employ workers in our community but faithfully volunteer time and donations to give back to charities and non-profits. It would be unjust to punish those who had nothing to do with this decision.
Business is the engine that drives our community. Support our local businesses and shop Mount Vernon!
On behalf of the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Kristen Whitener, IOM
President/CEO
Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce
105 E Kincaid Street Mount Vernon
