Photo caption: Top left to right: Treasurer Jim Cabral, Directors Steve Bracety, Jose Bautista, Scribe Eric Strobel, Director Donna Laxson
Lower left to right: Past Chair Erin Vredeveld, Chairman Chris Graff and Chair-elect Kevin Ray
Not pictured: Directors Dan Streeter, Robbie Houle and Frank Almendarez
by Marnie Uhl, President & CEO, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce
Forty-five years ago on March 15, 1974 a group of businessmen got together to form the Prescott Valley Businessmen’s Association, Inc. It was incorporated as a not-for-profit community service organization for the general purpose to: “Unite businessmen in the Prescott Valley area and to encourage civic improvements within said community, to promote and organize community involvement and betterment activities; to engage in promoting in the common good and general welfare of property owners and businessmen in the aforesaid Prescott Valley area.”
The following year, the name was officially changed to the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Since that time, Prescott Valley has grown from a small rural town to one of thriving business and economic growth, a hub for major manufacturing, distribution and small-business success. In addition, Prescott Valley has become a center of educational excellence with award-winning K-12 schools, JTED (Joint Technical Education District), Yavapai College and NAU-Prescott Valley. Prescott Valley also is in the professional sports industry with the G-League Northern Arizona Suns, the development team for the Phoenix Suns.
Staying true to the original purpose of the organization, the chamber has been a leader in supporting and encouraging development and in representing the business community at all levels. Many exceptional individuals have served on the board of directors and have given time, expertise and provided outstanding leadership and direction to the chamber as it became the leading organization for business and in the community.
The chamber has been led by several executive directors and CEOs throughout the years, each making specific and valuable contributions to the programs, products and services. Keeping connected with ongoing changes in Prescott Valley and abreast of current business trends was and continues to be an exciting challenge.
This is a celebration year for the Prescott Chamber of Commerce. There will be special events, signature activities and a remembrance of our founders as we plan for the future. Join us as we celebrate 45 years of serving the dynamic business community and the Town of Prescott Valley.
