Manson Chamber of Commerce begins new year with new focus

Manson Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Mary Lynn Thompson, left, Timi Starkweather, Chamber Director of Community Development.

A new face will greet you at the Manson Chamber of Commerce beginning Monday.

Mary Lynn Thompson succeeds Timi Starkweather as the Chamber’s Executive Director. Starkweather will assume the position on the Chamber Board of Directors as Director of Community Development.

"I'm excited about using my past skills to make an impact where I can," said Thompson, who brings a background in marketing and event planning to her new role at the Chamber. "I think there are creative ways to bring in some new revenue, just betting more people involved."

Thompson credited Starkweather, local businesses and stakeholders for building a great foundation to build upon.

"We've just opened two new businesses in December, we've got another ribbon cutting in January (1:00 p.m., Monday, Jan. 5 at Chelan Hot Tubs and Pools at 69 Wapato Way in Manson)," said Thompson. "Things are moving along. We just want to make sure that we take a look at things and figure out best opportunities for the businesses and vitality of the downtown area as well as all the surrounding wineries."

"The Washington State Main Street program, paying homage to the history of the area as well as celebrating traditions, as well as creating new opportunities for the businesses," added Thompson.

Starkweather will remain on the Chamber Board of Directors , focusing on Community Development.

Starkweather, raised in the northeast U.S., a Manson resident for over two decades and Chamber Executive Director since April 2024, looked back on her career heading up business activities.

"We're a community that's alive and vibrant," proclaimed Starkweather. "I think in creating Manson One Voice Coalition, our governance program for the unincorporated community, with the Manson Community Council, the Manson Historic Main Street program, the Chamber, and with our stakeholders, we have created something that is unique."

"People are excited about Manson, as they should be," added Starkweather. "I'm just really excited about this next year."

"All of the amazing businesses in this community, I can't even begin to tell you what this community means, and has meant to me over these last couple of years.," said Starkweather as she pondered leading the Chamber of Commerce. "It's just been one of those journeys in my life that I will never forget. It's a great opportunity to serve and I feel really blessed to have done that."

Learn more about the activities of the Manson Chamber of Commerce here or on Facebook.