With fall comes the opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of the past year. Of the many achievements and progress the chamber has made 2013 brought one of particular significance for the future of this community. At the 2012 Board of Directors retreat, the board voted unanimously to form a Government Affairs Committee. The hard work and countless hours of GAC members is admirable, and just last week, they presented their “Tahoe Future 2020 Vision” at our Economic Forum. Out of this vision will come the framework to analyze candidates past and present, to support business friendly policies and programs, and to continue to move toward our goal of creating a strong local economy, with sensitivity and respect for the environment.

At the Oct. 16 TahoeChamber board meeting, seven new board members were duly elected, and they will join 14 other business leaders in carrying the 2020 Vision forward. Members of the chamber board represent the diversity of the local business community being comprised of small businesses, professionals, health care, gaming and resort representatives from California and Nevada. Their diverse business expertise, partnered with their enthusiasm, ensures that the 650-plus members are well served. The board and staff of TahoeChamber will gather for an annual retreat in just a few weeks to assess success and establish goals for 2014 and beyond.

While welcoming new board members is exciting, it’s also bittersweet as we say goodbye to several whose terms have come to an end. Thus I hope you’ll indulge me and permit my using this column to thank Deb Howard, Casey Blann and George Echan for their tremendous contributions.

On Nov. 14 we will present the 6th Annual Blue Ribbon Awards dinner and ceremony to recognize businesses making significant contributions to the South Shore economy. I look forward to this event because it applauds businesses in the community going above and beyond to provide exceptional services and experiences for residents and visitors. These individuals and businesses deserve to be showcased as a model for great business practices and serve as inspiration for all. Thanks to those who took the time to nominate, and I look forward to seeing all of the nominees at the dinner as the community comes together to celebrate the winners.

Before we know it, snow will be on the ground and holiday shopping underway. I challenge each of us to support our local retailers during the holiday season and seek out unique and authentic gifts and experiences. As in years past, TahoeChamber will host a December Winter Wine Walk at the Shops at Heavenly Village to provide inspiration to get in the holiday spirit, and commence your explorations as there are several new shops and restaurants worth a visit as you stop in to see old favorites.

For more information on any of these events or to see a complete list of Board members visit http://www.tahoechamber.org.

— “B” Gorman, B.S., J.D., A.C.E., is the president and CEO of TahoeChamber.