Exec Bits

I wanted to start this column by recognizing and thanking Karen Miller, our longtime Visitor Center Manager. Karen's last day was yesterday, ending a 17-year run at the Chamber. While I only worked with Karen for the last 17 months of that run, I truly appreciate all that she has meant to our organization and more importantly our members and the Cody community.

Karen's steady hand, cheerful demeanor and commitment to serving our members and visitors was clearly evident each and every day - from the busiest summer afternoon to the quieter times when she could be found volunteering her time for the Santa House.

Karen shared her enthusiasm for Cody with thousands of people each year, leaving them with a greater appreciation of all there is to do here. She resolved the occasional conflict with a combination of grace and diplomacy and was a wonderful ambassador that Buffalo Bill himself would have been proud to have on the front lines in promoting this great place.

In her usual quiet way, Karen didn't want us to make a fuss over her, but thank you to so many of you who turned out to wish her well at the Business After Hours last night. She will be missed, but we wish her and Dave much success and happiness in retirement.

On to business.

First, the Cody Chamber is taking over management of the Christmas parade, which will be held Saturday, November 24th at 6 p.m. downtown. If you want to enter a float or volunteer to help, we would love to have you involved. Just give us a call and we'll get you set up.

Speaking of Christmas, don't forget that "Cody Bucks" make an outstanding gift. Whether for your employees or that special someone on your list, let's keep our dollars in Cody and support local merchants and services this Christmas. Contact the Chamber for more information or to place your order.

Men, if you missed the opportunity last year to shave off your facial hair for a good cause, I have good news for you. "MOvember" is back! The Prevention Office at West Park Hospital has brought back this tradition for 2nd year as a way to raise awareness about men's health issues. Things get started with a "Shave Off" November 1st in the Cedar Mountain Room at the Hospital. For more information contact Wendy Morris at wmorris@wphcody.org or call 587-2707.

Thanks to all of you who have donated candy and money for downtown trick-or-treating. If you still want to drop off a bag or two, please do it as soon as possible so we can get the candy distributed to our downtown merchants.

Finally, the Chamber Board of Director held its annual retreat this week. I'll be excited to share some new programs, projects and events we have coming up for 2013 in the near future.

Have a great weekend!

Scott Balyo

Executive Director