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Guest column by John Double

As the summer season approaches, the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for a season full of signature events — and meaningful transitions.

First, we want to extend our sincere thanks to Shari Sprague, our outgoing executive director, for the positive impact she has made on our chamber members and the broader community. We wish her and her family the very best in their future ventures.

The chamber’s board of directors is currently moving through the search process to fill both the executive director and administrative assistant positions. We are grateful to our members and the community for your patience and support during this important time of transition. As we navigate this next chapter, the board remains committed to ensuring stability, transparency and continued engagement. Information on these positions can be found through links on the chamber e-blast, our chamber website or in the Albert Lea Tribune.

This is also a time of renewal. In April, the board began a strategic development process to reflect, rebuild and refocus our efforts. Our goal is to strengthen connections, support local businesses and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth that reflects the evolving needs of our region.

While every organization evolves, our mission remains rooted in serving as a hub for commerce, collaboration and community. Behind the scenes, we’re doing important work to rebuild, reenergize and reposition the chamber to better serve our members. You’ll see some changes. You’ll see fresh energy. And most importantly, you’ll continue to see our dedication to the businesses and people of Albert Lea and Freeborn County remain front and center.

Supporting summer events that bring us together

As our community prepares to gather for one of the most beloved summer traditions, we want to thank all those who have contributed so far to our annual Fourth of July

fireworks fundraising campaign. We’re close to meeting this year’s goal — but we’re not quite there yet. If you haven’t had the chance to give, we invite you to help us complete the financial commitment needed to keep this treasured celebration going strong.

We also encourage those interested in participating in the annual Third of July Parade to register early. With the office in transition, early sign-up helps ensure smooth planning for an event that draws thousands of spectators from across Freeborn County and beyond. It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together and show what makes our community shine.

Looking ahead

As we move deeper into the summer, chamber members are encouraged to save the date for one of our favorite events of the year — the annual Chamber Ambassador Golf Outing. Team slots are filling fast, and hole sponsorships are still available for members who would like to be recognized for supporting this great event, which helps fund our chamber scholarship opportunities.

We’re also looking ahead to the Freeborn County Fair Livestock Auction and are seeking support for this vital tradition. This event directly benefits students in our community who have invested time, care and effort in raising animals as part of their 4-H projects — gaining valuable life skills along the way. Your contributions help recognize and support their hard work.

The Chamber Board is also evaluating our capacity to continue offering the Leadership Albert Lea program for 2025–26. With new staff transitions underway and the timing of this important learning experience, we are reviewing potential options to continue the program this year. A decision will be made — and communicated to the community — in the coming weeks. Please be prepared with participants for this outstanding chamber program, as our enrollment timeline will likely be highly compressed.

Our commitment to you

This summer, you’ll see the chamber continuing to engage in the events and traditions that bring our community together. At the same time, we’re working intentionally behind the scenes to prepare for a stronger, more connected future.

As always, our focus is on championing the success of local businesses by building strong connections, igniting collaboration and delivering customized support. We’re excited for what lies ahead — and we’re grateful for your partnership along the way.

We’re incredibly grateful to our board members, volunteers and interim team, who will be stepping up to ensure continuity during this time. Their commitment to keeping programs, communications and services moving forward is a testament to the strength of our chamber community.

We also welcome input from our chamber members and the broader community as we continue our search for the next executive director. If you have thoughts on the skills, attributes and qualities you believe are important in this leadership role, we invite you to connect with any of our board members. Your feedback is valuable and will help guide us in selecting a leader who reflects the needs and values of our business community.

In addition to your thoughts on leadership, we’re always open to hearing your ideas for how the chamber can better support you — whether through events, advocacy, visibility or networking. Let’s keep the conversation going.

Now is a great time to lean in. Whether it’s through supporting an event, offering your input or encouraging someone to join the chamber, we invite you to be a part of this exciting new chapter. When local businesses thrive, our whole community rises — and that’s the future we’re building together.

John Double is chairman of the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce board of directors.