It was a great morning of connection and community at our Quarterly Coffee on March 20 at the Surf Ballroom & Museum
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Stacy Doughan; Clear Lake Community School District Superintendent Ian Dye; North Iowa Corridor Economic Development Corp President and CEO Chad Schreck; and new Clear Lake City Mayor Mark Ebeling provided updates on their respective organizations
Plus, new employees and new members were introduced, upcoming events were shared and business accomplishments and updates were celebrated
Miss the event? Find the full video online here, and mark your calendars for our next Quarterly Coffee on June 19!
Upcoming Chamber Events
Saturday, April 18 | 8:30 AM
Earth Day Youth Mile and 5K/10K City Park
Specialist Maddie Anderly and Tourism Director Libbey Hohn for this opportunity to take your social media game to the next level and unlock new opportunities for your business! Limited spots available, so RSVP to libbey@clearlakeiowacom
Fridays, April 10, May 8 & June 12 | 10
AM
Monthly Senior Chamber Coffee
Clear Lake Athletics & Wellness Center
➡ This program is offered to Support Level members who want to stay connected to the Chamber It features community updates, conversation, and coffee and treats from local businesses If interested in learning more, reach out to ashley@clearlakeiowacom
Friday, April 17 | 10-11 AM
Membership 101 Chamber, 306 Main Ave
➡Learn how to maximize your member benefits, optimize your business directory listing, and more RSVP to stacy@clearlakeiowacom
➡ Get ready to lace up your running shoes and join us for a day of fun, fitness, and environmental awareness Register here
Saturday, April 18 | 10 AM-1 PM
OutdoorFest
City Park
Get outside and celebrate OutdoorFest, part of Clear Lake Earth Day! This free, family-friendly event is packed with activities to get everyone moving and enjoying the great outdoors, including bounce houses, gaga ball, Strider bike course, family games, and more Plus, take advantage of the outdoor play equipment exchange Learn more here
Tuesday, April 21 | 4:30-6 PM
Business After Hours
Snow Construction, 2500 S. 8 St. Clear Lake th
➡ Join us at Snow Construction for an evening of networking, great drinks, and a look inside their stunning showroom Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow Chamber members, unwind after the workday, and learn more about one of our local businesses
Thursday, April 23 | 4-7 PM
North Iowa Green Expo & Farmers Market
Surf Ballroom, 460 North Shore Dr
➡ This free, public event is all about supporting North Iowa’s wellness, saving money, connecting with the community, and helping the planet Shop a variety of local food producers and vendors offering products and services related to the outdoors, conservation, sustainability, and more
Friday, April 24 | 8:30-10 AM
Corridor Connect
Surf Ballroom Music Experience Center, 468 North Shore Dr.
➡ Join our regional partner North Iowa Corridor Economic Development Corp to hear the latest updates on North Iowa’s economic projects and how they impact local businesses and our region RSVP to jheiar@northiowacorridorcom
Friday, May 1 | 2-4 PM
Rising Tides Lake Leadership Alumni Program
TBD
➡ Stay tuned for details on our upcoming alumni program!
Upcoming Chamber Events (Continued)
Tuesday, May 19 | 4:30-6 PM
Business After Hours
Images Photography & Fine Arts
➡ Join Images Photography and Surf Market as they host a special night bringing together creativity, community, and connection Don’t miss this opportunity to network and experience two unique businesses in one stop.
Thursday, May 28 | 6-9 PM
Thursdays on Main begins
Downtown Clear Lake
➡ A fun, family-friendly weekly festival featuring live music, food and retail vendors and more on Main Avenue For additional dates and the entertainment schedule, visit here
Friday, May 29 | NOON-5 PM
Chamber Grand Opening & Ribbon
Cutting
Chamber & Welcome Center, 205 Main Ave
➡ The wait is over! After more than a year away, the Chamber team is back home, and we’re excited to welcome you in and showcase a space designed to serve as a hub for businesses, residents, and visitors alike
Thursdays, June 4, 11 and 18
Thursdays on Main
Downtown Clear Lake
➡ The fun continues with the weekly summer festival featuring live music, food and retail vendors and more on Main Avenue For additional dates and the entertainment schedule, click here.
Friday,July24|10:30AM-5PM
ChamberGolfFUNdraiser
VeteransMemorialGolfClub,2000N ShoreDr
Tuesday, June 16 | 4:30-6 PM
Business After Hours
Clear Lake Yacht Club, 103 Main Ave.
➡ Hosted by the Association for the Preservation of Clear Lake, Clear Lake Yacht Club and the Clear Lake Sailing Center Beverages and light appetizers will be provided
Friday, June 19 | 7:30-9 AM
Quarterly Coffee, sponsored by Pritchard Companies
Surf Lounge, 460 North Shore Dr. ➡ New hire, promotion, award, recognition or event you'd like to share? Email ashley@clearlakeiowacom to get on the agenda
New member? Remodeled or relocated? Commemorating a business milestone?
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce First Mates want to celebrate with you!
Call Stacy at 641-357-2159 or email her at stacy@clearlakeiowa.com to get your ribbon cutting or groundbreaking on the calendar
Educational Opportunities
Are you an innovator, inventor, and creator? Have you ever wondered if your big idea can be patented? Learn more about patents, the patent application process, and patentstrategiesforentrepreneursandsmallbusinesses atthisfreein-personworkshop.
Whether you’re preparing to launch a new business or exploring a patent strategy for an established business, this workshop will provide insight into the costs, timelines, benefits, limitations, and strategies related to patents Spaceislimited Registerhere
Clear Lake: A Destination Through the Ages Long before Clear Lake became known for its jam-packed event calendar and the Surf Ballroom & Museum, it was a natural stopping point for explorers and travelers Learn more about why From Volunteer to Rookie: My First TRI Clear Lake Rachel Wumkes shares her journey from longtime TRI Clear Lake volunteer to first-time participant, reflecting on the inspiration, energy, and courage it took to step off the sidelines and into the race Plan Your Summer in Clear Lake, Iowa Summer in Clear Lake doesn’t just show up It fills up If you’re going to plan your summer in Clear Lake, Iowa, now is the time Let’s map it out!
Get Weiss: Making the Most of Your Chamber Benefits
By Ashley Weiss Membership Engagement Director
This month, I celebrated five years with the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, a milestone I’m incredibly grateful for
Before joining the Chamber, I spent nearly a decade as a newspaper reporter, most recently covering Clear Lake for the Globe Gazette While my career path shifted, storytelling never left and it’s still a big part of what I do today
In fact, it’s something I’d love to do more of for you
Through our Membership, Sponsorship and Marketing Guide, we offer a Featured Blog & Social Media Post written by “Newspaper Ashley.” For $250, I’ll conduct interviews and write a 500–750 word story about your business or organization, which is then shared on our website, Facebook page, and at the top of our weekly events email reaching nearly 5,000 subscribers
I’m also more than happy to provide guidance and proofread printed materials like menus, brochures, and more at no cost as part of your Chamber membership Sometimes a second set of eyes can make all the difference
I also encourage you to take a few minutes to explore our Membership, Sponsorship and Marketing Guide It outlines a variety of free and paid opportunities designed to help you maximize your visibility Whether you’re looking to reach visitors, locals, or fellow businesses, there are options built to connect you with the right audience.
When I joined the Chamber, Stacy recognized that my background in journalism could strengthen how we communicate with our members. In 2023, I stepped into the Membership Engagement Director role and launched this newsletter giving me another way to tell the stories that make our community special
I’d also like to begin featuring more member news in this newsletter If you have a special announcement, milestone, or update, please send it my way by Friday, June 19, to be included in the June quarterly newsletter
As always, if you have questions about your membership or want help identifying opportunities that make sense for your business, don’t hesitate to reach out at 641-357-2159 or ashley@clearlakeiowacom
As a member of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, you can promote your products, services, sales and specials in our Clear Lake, Iowa - SHOP • DINE • DISCOVER Facebook group. This group is more than just a marketplace, it’s a place to connect with and support our local business community The public group has more than 8,600 engaged members and it's growing Get your content in front of more eyes through this benefit.
Volunteers Needed
Looking for an easy way to get involved in Clear Lake’s biggest events? The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has launched a new, centralized webpage designed to make finding volunteer opportunities simple and convenient
From the July 4th Celebration and TRI Clear Lake to Harvest Festival and Earth Day, these events rely on volunteers and now it’s easier than ever to get connected
Whether you’re interested in helping with Bingo during the July 4th Celebration, supporting TRI Clear Lake, pouring wine or beer at Harvest Festival, or assisting behind the scenes, you can now find opportunities all in one place.
Find the volunteer opportunities here or contact Jenny Fasbender at 641-357-2159 or jennifer@clearlakeiowacom to learn more
Member Spotlight: Happy Trails Wrecker Service
When you’re stuck on the side of the road, it’s more than an inconvenience, it’s a moment when you need someone you can trust For 20 years, Happy Trails Wrecker Service has been that call for drivers across Clear Lake and North Iowa, showing up with experience, care, and a commitment to helping their neighbors.
Founded on March 1, 2006, by Larry and Bonnie Small, Happy Trails began out of their home on 32nd Street with a flatbed truck, years of experience, and a vision to serve the community.
Like many small businesses, the early years came with challenges, but their commitment to serving the community never wavered
“It means a lot when people support small local businesses,” Larry said “Without that support, we wouldn’t be here today, 20 years later.”
In 2015, the next generation joined the business when Larry and Bonnie’s son, Justin, and his wife, Gretchen, came on board Today, Happy Trails remains a true family operation Larry now serves in a consulting role, Bonnie manages the bookkeeping and Justin and Gretchen help lead day operations Gretchen’s father, Richard “Gunny part of the team.
With two young grandsons already part of th the future looks bright for this family-run busi
We caught up with Larry and Bonnie to lear about their story:
Tell us a little about your business and wh do.
We are a towing business that provides serv vehicles and motorcycles in need of ass including accident recovery, jumpstarts, lockouts, winching, and towing classic cars We can also haul a variety of items beyond vehicles We take great pride in handling personal property with care during their time of need!
What inspired your family to start Happy Trails?
With many years of experience in the towing industry and already owning a flatbed truck, we felt we could provide a great service to our area through a family-run business.
What’s one thing people might not know about your business?
We can tow more than just vehicles If it fits on the truck bed and meets height requirements, we can haul it even out of state We also offer long-distance towing
How long have you been a Chamber member, and why did you join?
We’ve been Chamber members since opening in 2006
We joined because we wanted to be part of the local business community in Clear Lake
What do you love most about being part of the Clear Lake community?
We appreciate the many family-focused events that bring the community together throughout the year
How has Chamber membership benefited you or your business?
Being a Chamber member has opened the door to connecting with other members, sharing our story, and supporting one another within the community
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received (or would give)?
From experience, we’ve learned the importance of having a backup plan for unexpected expenses, especially repairs It’s something every business owner will face at some point.
Just for fun what’s your favorite Clear Lake spot or activity outside of work?
We enjoy heading downtown and taking part in the many events held throughout the year
When you see the Happy Trails crew out and about, be sure to give them a honk or a thumbs up and congratulate them on 20 years of serving the Clear Lake area community
Our Member Spotlight showcases the people and businesses that make Clear Lake thrive Each quarter, we’ll feature one Chamber member to share their story, insights, and community connections in a quick Qand-A
Tupperware by Michelle HartmanCrazy Tupperware Lady
Brothers Ace Hardware
TAP'd
S and K Trailers
I-35 Auctions
Lake Fireplace & Spa
Underwood Consulting
10+ YEARS
YSS of North Iowa
The Historic Park Inn Hotel
Pampered Chef
Clear Lake Jaycees
Association for the Preservation of Clear Lake
North Iowa Events Center
Alice Hanley
Jim Hunt Electric LLC
American Solutions for Business
ITC Midwest
CLASS Car Club
Celebrations Party & Rental Store
Clear Lake Farmers Market
Marco Technologies, LLC
MJ'S Cheesecakes
Clear Lake Pediatric Dentistry
Shannon Latham
McKesson
Lake Time Boat Rentals
IOOF Home and Community
Therapy Center
5+ YEARS
Harvest Bible Chapel
Clear Lake Beach Cottages LLC
Share Life - Share Shop
Cerro Gordo County Farm Bureau
Roger & Lee Walston
Jane Fischer & Associates LLC
Accord Architecture
Midwest Duct Works/Iowa
Chimney
NIP Fitness
Kick USA Karate
Cerro Gordo County/CG Public
Health
Don's Body Shop
Poet - Hanlontown
Brickhouse Cottage
Northwestern Mutual
Swarty's, LLC
Midwest Sled Fest
Rachel Smith Books, LLC
MP Home Design
Card Custom Audio/Video
Hidden Lakes Campground
Legacy Ranch
Glen Oaks Community
Heartland Asphalt, Inc
United Beverage, LLC
Clear Lake Fishing Club
Bennigan's Clear Lake
Kabrick Distributing Co, Inc
Rookies Rockin' Sports Bar
Seven's Restaurant &
Steakhouse
CLB&T Insurance and Financial Services, Inc
Truck Center Companies
Veterans of Foreign Wars
25+ YEARS
Moorman Clothiers
One Vision Thrift Store
PetroBlend Corporation
Flashing Thunder
Raymond James
Kiger Fine Jewelers
Larry & Helen Svoboda
Clear Lake Area Concert
Association
Images Photography & Fine Art
Steve & Susan Nicklaus
Cookies, etc
Coloff Media
Hogan - Hansen, PC
Clear Lake Church of Christ
Absolute Waste Removal
Charlie Zirbel
Athletico Physical Therapy
Larson's Mercantile
North Iowa Cooperative
Century 21 Preferred
Lehmann Family Dental
Reagan Outdoor Advertising
Curries - ASSA ABLOY
Shore Fun Rental
Cancun by the Lake Titanium Lunchbox
Boyer Pool and Wellness Center
Payteva
14 Karat Studio
Deb Sharar
Next Generation Technologies,
LLC
Smokin' Mana's
Andi and Brian Tisor
The ScribbInn's
Fizz Co Sips & Sweets
Scooter's Coffee
The Window Source of Mason City
Lake Life Rentals
Leadlight
Twnty Fore Seven - Indoor Golf & Sports Lounge
The Fox Den
Lake Design & Co
Legacy at the 19
Wells Fargo Advisors - John Rowe
North Shore Chiropractic
The Schoolhouse Vacation Rental
Midwest Construction
Travel Leaders / Destinations
Unlimited
Crisis Intervention Service
Main Event Catering
Dahley Designs
Blush Salon and Spa
O2 Laser Spa
ZenBusiness
Blooming Lotus Pottery
University of Clear Lake
Mason City Red Power Inc
The Clausen House
Fairfield Inn & Suites and Clear
Lake Events Center
SEH, Inc
3rd&Surf
MCT Construction LLC
Studio 65 Tattoo
Lashier Graphics & Signs
Surf Ballroom Music Experience
Center
Grace & Strength Boutique
Gary Laabs
1+ YEARS
North Iowa Children's Museum
Merlyn and Julie Tiedemann
Papa's Place By The Lake CL
Lake Pin & Play
Dazzling Diamonds
Katie Casey Designs
North Iowa Corridor Economic
Development Corporation
Valvoline Express Care / Roberts
Quick Lube
Pro Shield Epoxy LLC
Still Waters Day & Scalp Spa
Men's Acapella Chorus
Renewal by Andersen of Albert
Lea
Corn To Compass-Island Sailing
Adventures-
Creative Sound
T's Sweets
Mort's Water Company
Lillie Mae Chocolates
Marcy's Munchies
She Blooms Flower Farm
Cobb Construction, LLC
Georgette
Real Deals Home Decor & Boutique
Clear Lake Getaway
Blazek Electric, Inc
Iowa Independent Film Festival
M & R Lakeview, LLC
Quality Roofing
Welcome to this Quarter’s New Members
Dandy’s BBQ
215 S. Madison Ave.
Mason City, IA 50401 (641) 424-4944
Moe Socials Clear Lake, IA 50428 (641) 512-1244
Hope 4 Women International Thrift Store
35989 U.S. Hwy 69, Suite C Forest City, IA 50436 (641) 251-4015
Joy Supply Co. Party Rentals 19786A 280 th St. Mason City, IA 50401 (641) 541-2025
Phoenix Consulting Mason City, IA 50401 (641) 420-0518
N. Eden Creative Clear Lake, IA 50428 (515) 320-3997
Monster Eats Clear Lake, IA 50428 (641) 220-2265
North Iowa Power Wash Mason City, IA 50401 (641) 832-0348
Terri’s Homecare
610 6th St SE
Mason City, IA 50401 (641) 425-0390
Axis Therapy Centers 1020 Buddy Holly Pl
Clear Lake, IA 50428 (641) 352-7671
Cookie Dough’tique
Charles City, IA 50616 (641) 330-0350
News + Upd
Lake Bookkeeping 211 S. 3rd St. Clear Lake , IA 50428 (507) 837-9026
Oh, Yum Garner, IA 50438 (641) 430-1584
Kitcheneez with Lynne V. 113 N. Madison Ave. Mason City, IA 50401 (641) 420-8348
Vonderohe Bees
13 N. Madison Ave. Mason City, IA 50401 (641) 430-8673
Hall’s Homemade Kitchen 746 342nd St Hanlontown, IA 50444 (641) 797-2100
Anderly completes first year at the Institute for Organization
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and North Iowa Corridor Economic Development Corp Marketing Specialist Maddie Anderly completed her first year at Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at Winter Institute in Tucson, Arizona, earlier this year.
“One of the most valuable parts of the experience was building connections with chamber leaders from across Iowa and around the country sharing ideas, challenges, and solutions that we can bring back to our own communities,” Anderly said “The sessions covered a wide range of timely topics, all of which were incredibly relevant and immediately applicable to the work we’re doing Overall, it was an energizing experience that reinforced the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in advancing our region”
Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively
Management
Institute for Organization Management is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals
The US Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization
2026 Destination Clear Lake Visitor Guide unveiled
The 2026 Destination Clear Lake – The Official Clear Lake Visitor Guide arrived early to mailboxes on Tuesday, Jan. 6, ahead of its official launch during the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting & Awards Celebration at the Surf Ballroom.
The guide was the culmination of months of behind-the-scenes preparation, organization and content creation led by Tourism Director Libbey Hohn to showcase what makes Clear Lake special for residents and visitors alike.
This year’s cover photo, taken by Maddie Anderly, features Ana Starbeck, a Clear Laker, wakeboarding on the city’s nearly 3,700-acre namesake
The visitor guide is packed with everything you need to plan your visit, including a full lineup of 2026 events, free family fun, information about the local parks, and lots of great images to inspire the next Clear Lake adventure
This year’s visitor guide was designed and printed by Farm and Home Publishers of Clear Lake.
The Chamber prints and distributes 40,000 Destination Clear Lake visitor guides each year.
Request a 2026 Destination Clear Lake Visitor Guide to be mailed to you or view a digital edition of it here
A difficult but necessary decision for Color the Wind
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce made the difficult decision to cancel the 2026 Color the Wind Kite Festival in February due to unsafe ice conditions on Clear Lake
After closely monitoring conditions in partnership with local safety officials, it was determined that the ice is not stable enough to safely host the event. The festival is traditionally held on the frozen lake, and ice safety is essential for both attendees and performers
“Safety has always been our top priority,” Events Director Trish Fundermann said “Without confidence in the ice conditions near the shoreline, we cannot move forward with the event”
Fundermann and the Color the Wind Committee explored the possibility of relocating the festival to land; however, several logistical challenges made that option unfeasible. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations require kite flying to take place at least four miles from the airport, limiting available locations. In addition, no alternative site could accommodate the size of the event, including necessary space, parking, and access to electricity for operations.
Color the Wind is one of the Midwest’s most unique winter festivals, drawing visitors from
across the region to experience large-scale kite displays over the frozen lake Planning for the event takes months, and the decision to cancel was not made lightly.
A special thank you to the event’s sponsors, including ATURA Architecture, Bank Iowa, Cabin Coffee, CL Tel, Clear Lake Bank & Trust, Clear Lake Rotary Club, Clear Lake Noon Lions, Cookies etc, Curries ASSA-ABLOY, Fareway, Hall Realty, Laird Law Firm, Larson’s Mercantile, Livonia’s Coffee Bar, NextEra Energy, Rookies Rockin’ Sports Bar, Sevens Restaurant & Steakhouse, TAP’d, Scooters Coffee, Surf Ballroom & Museum, The Other Place and Titan Pro
The Chamber appreciates the continued support and enthusiasm from the community and looks forward to welcoming visitors back for the festival on Feb. 20, 2027.
Building a Bright Future: Chamber celebrate t
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce brought together business and community leaders at its Building a Bright Future Annual Meeting, Visitor Guide Launch and Awards Celebration on Thursday, Jan 15, at the Surf Ballroom & Museum
More than 230 people, representing more than 50 member businesses and organizations, attended the afternoon event that featured a happy hour and appetizers, awards presentation, and progressive Chamber bingo to raise funds for its “Building a Bright Future” capital campaign.
The 2025 award recipients are as follows:
Starboard Market, Business of the Year
This award honors a business that consistently uplifts our community through quality, service, and generosity. Starboard isn't just a delicious lunch spot, it's a place that brings people together, sparks joy, and leads with heart
Gyro Place, Entrepreneur of the Year
Yeshua and Raul Juarez have turned Gyro Place into a downtown favorite, and they’re always among the first to step up and support the Clear Lake community This award honors bold ideas, relentless hard work, and the kind of creativity that turns vision into impact. The Juarez brothers and their family embody all of that and more
North Iowa Community Action Organization, Spirit of North Iowa
This award recognizes people and organizations who strengthen our region through trust, collaboration, and service NICAO has done this work compassionately for 50+ years to make a positive difference in North Iowa
Taylor Barragy, Larry Luker Volunteer of the Year
The Larry Luker Volunteer of the Year Award was created to recognize an individual or group whose volunteer efforts have made a significant impact on the North Iowa area Taylor's reliability, positive attitude, and genuine love for this community reflects the very best volunteerism.
Drew Walswick, First Mate of the Year
The First Mate of the Year is an individual who demonstrates significant contributions to the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce during the preceding year both in attendance and engagement Drew has shown up with consistency, humility, and heart, and it doesn't go unnoticed
Nelson Crabb, Service Above Self Award
This year’s Service Above Self Award was presented in recognition of a leader who has spent decades serving with quiet strength, steady humility, and a deep love for his community Nelson never sought the spotlight, but he always showed up, led with heart, and put Clear Lake first
In addition to the awards presentation, the Chamber named three new Chamber Board members, recognized outgoing board members, and announced its 2026 board officers
Those new to the board are Phil Meekins, Curries ASSA-ABLOY; Andy Meyer, Bergland + Cram and Plain Ol’ Pumpkins; and Nicole OIson, First Citizens Bank.
The Chamber Board and officers for 2026 were introduced: Robert Barber, Cabin Coffee Company and 2026 Chair and Vice Chair of Tourism and Marketing; Mark Dodd, One Vision and Past Chair; Natalie Plagge, Clear Lake Bank & Trust and Chair Elect; Liz LeFevre, First Gabrielson Agency and Treasurer; Krystal Thoe, Legacy Healthcare and Vice Chair of Membership; Austin Pehl, ATURA Architecture; Carrie Shannon, Hall Realty; Amanda Kasten, Kingland; Chris Fischer, Athletico Physical Therapy; Candi Karsjens, NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center; Ben Nedved, 173° Craft Distillery; Collin Davison, Laird Law Firm; Vernon Johnson, CL Tel; Michael Knorr, Accord Architecture; and Pam Pitkin, MBT Bank
Sarah Nielsen, First Citizens Bank; Kristi Miles, Pritchard’s Lake Chevrolet; and Ryan Amble, Curries ASSA-ABLOY; retired from the board.
Nelson Crabb, Service Above Self
morial Day weekend to late summer
If you’re used to seeing TRI Clear Lake take over Memorial Day weekend, you may notice something different this year The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has moved the 2026 TRI Clear Lake Triathlon to Saturday, Aug. 29.
The shift comes after feedback from participants, with the later date offering warmer water, more consistent weather conditions, and additional time for training and open-water swim practice throughout the summer.
Moving the event off Memorial Day weekend already a busy time in Clear Lake and across North Iowa also creates another opportunity to welcome visitors later in the season and generate an additional strong weekend for local businesses. The weekend will kick off with the Youth Splash & Dash on Friday, Aug 28
The change is also expected to provide more flexibility in recruiting volunteers TRI Clear Lake requires more than 200 volunteers to safely and successfully host the event each year.
The 2026 race also marks a milestone as the 10th TRI Clear Lake Triathlon and will once again serve as a USA Triathlon State Championship race
While you won’t see the event this spring, we look forward to welcoming athletes, volunteers, and spectators back r an exciting rac o register for the
Lake Leadership Class of 2026 ne
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce’s Lake Leadership Class of 2026, comprising 24 individuals representing area businesses across North Iowa, is in its final months.
Lake Leadership is the Chamber’s flagship program, meeting once a month from September through May on the third Wednesday. The program is designed to educate civic-minded individuals by using the community as a classroom Participants go behind the scenes in the Clear Lake area, gaining opportunities to network with peers and learn more about the community and area businesses.
In January, the class got an inside look into Clear Lake’s thriving businesses and industries during “Made in Clear Lake Day.” In February, they learned the broader impact of agriculture on the local economy and society during Agriculture Day, and March, the class participated in North Iowa Day on the Hill in Des Moines.
In April, they’ll gain insight into the workings of our local government and the services their tax dollars support, like law enforcement, emergency services, water quality and more, before graduating in May while making up portions of Economic Development Day and Business and Industry Day
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce thanks its member businesses for helping make Lake Leadership a program that’s talked about for years to come
Interested in growing as a leader while learning more about the Clear Lake area? Applications for the Lake Leadership Class of 2027 will open later this year Email Stacy Doughan at stacy@clearlakeiowacom to learn more Space is limited and usually fills up quickly.
Rising Tides Lake Leadership Alumni Program visits
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its second Rising Tides: Lake Leadership Alumni Program on Friday, Feb 13, at McKesson in Clear Lake
About 30 alumni gathered for lunch, a leadership message from Brad Barber, co-owner of Cabin Coffee and founder and CEO of United to Serve with Passion and Purpose, and an optional guided tour of McKesson’s 340,000-square-foot Clear Lake distribution facility
This new initiative is designed to bring together graduates of our flagship leadership program, offering opportunities to stay connected, learn, and continue making an impact in our community
February’s event was the second of what the Lake Leadership Alumni Committee hopes will be quarterly alumni programs featuring networking, education, and unique experiences at area businesses and organizations Keep your eyes out for upcoming programs in May, July, and October
Want to connect with other Lake Leadership Alumni, but aren’t sure where to start? We’ve created a Facebook group called Rising Tides: Lake Leadership Alumni and we’d love to see it used as a place for our graduates to connect, or in some cases reconnect, with each other
Have an idea for an alumni gathering? Feel free to reach out to Stacy Doughan at stacy@clearlakeiowacom or Ashley Weiss at ashley@clearlakeiowacom
Members of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce’s Lake Leadership class recently joined Leadership North Iowa and regional partners at the Iowa State Capitol for North Iowa Day on the Hill
Participants toured the Capitol, heard from Iowa Chamber Alliance Executive Director Dustin Miller on key issues impacting North Iowa, and experienced the region’s advocacy work firsthand The day was filled with meaningful conversations and strong representation, with opportunities to connect directly with legislators to share priorities and advocate for the businesses and communities we serve.
A highlight of the day was seeing Lake Leadership and Leadership North Iowa participants actively engaged in the process gaining a firsthand look at how public policy is shaped and how business leaders can play a role in influencing it
The day offered valuable insight into the power of collaboration and the importance of showing up, speaking up, and working together to move North Iowa forward.
Take a look at the day’s activities here.
North Iowa shows up at the Capitol
Three new faces join Chamber First Mates
Andrew Cobb, owner of Cobb Construction; Colton Clark, project designer at ATURA Architecture; and Lisa Prochaska, loan officer at Farmers State Bank, are the newest members of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce First Mates
The First Mates, or ambassadors, play an important role in promoting the Chamber’s mission among members and throughout the community. You’ll find them celebrating member businesses at ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings, and events, as well as volunteering at Chamber events and helping deliver community calendars
In addition to welcoming new members, we’ve also had First Mates step away in recent months, including Zarren Egesdal of Creative Sound, Krystal Thoe of Legacy Healthcare, and Amanda Korenberg of Stephany Insurance We are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and heart they’ve given to the Chamber Their support has made a meaningful impact, and while we’re sad to see them go, we understand that seasons change. They will always be a valued part of our Chamber story
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a First Mate, please email to Stacy Doughan at stacy@clearlakeiowacom
Please jo when yo i the Cham
s in Venture School, earns award
The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce recently participated in Venture School through the NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center, culminating in a Launch Day competition on March 26 with seven teams.
After seven weeks of virtual training, customer discovery, and business development alongside local entrepreneur coaches, the Chamber team Libbey Hohn, Maddie Anderly, and Stacy Doughan earned the Best Non-Profit Award for their Clear Lake Chamber Marketing Studio concept
The idea centers on a member-exclusive, package-based service offering strategic marketing support and hands-on content creation to help local businesses save time and connect more effectively with customers
Venture School, a statewide program through the University of Iowa Venture School, is designed to help entrepreneurs test ideas in real time by engaging directly with customers and refining their business models through hands-on learning.
A special thank you goes to the more than 60 Chamber members who shared thoughtful insights during the team’s customer discovery interviews, your input helped shape this concept Stay tuned!
Entrepreneurs interested in participating in a future cohort of Venture School or serving as a coach are encouraged to contact Ashley Page at ashleypage@niaccedu
Andrew Cobb Cobb Construction
Colton Clark ATURA Architecture
Lisa Prochaska Farmers State Bank
Chamber CEO takes the stage for record
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Stacy Doughan took the stage alongside Amy Hogg, Bank Iowa Community Bank President, during this year’s Dancing for the Dream
The event, hosted by 43 North Iowa, took place Saturday, March 28, at the Surf Ballroom & Museum and raised more than $200,000 its most successful year to date Dancing for the Dream is 43 North Iowa’s signature fundraiser, blending a “Dancing with the Stars”-style competition with an evening of energy, entertainment, and purpose Proceeds support North Iowans with disabilities as they work toward independence, meaningful employment, and strong community connections
Doughan and Hogg’s energetic performance to Queen’s “Don't Stop Me Now” earned them the Best Use of Props award.
The sold-out event featured unforgettable performances, creative fundraising efforts, and incredible community support, all coming together to make a meaningful impact
Missed it or want to relive it? Watch the video online here.
Chamber & Welcome Center project nears completion
Exciting progress continues at the new Chamber & Welcome Center at 205 Main Ave, with several key interior elements coming together in recent weeks.
Crews have been finishing the ceiling grid throughout the building, with lighting now installed on the first floor Cabinets and countertops are also being installed, including at the front desk in the main-level visitor center
A standout feature taking shape is the acoustic wave ceiling in the second-level boardroom bringing both function and visual impact to the space
In the basement, preparations are underway for the next phase of work, including painting and epoxy coating on the walls and floors.
Furniture, appliances and merchandise have been ordered, and some neat visual elements have been decided
With each passing week, the building is moving closer to completion The Chamber team plans to move back into the space in early May and be fully operational by Memorial Day weekend.
We look forward to welcoming members, residents, and visitors into this new space soon and will continue to share updates as the project nears the finish line
Learn more about the project, view floor plans or donate at wwwclearlakeiowacom/future
u to our three board members!
The Chamber appreciates the time and talents
Sarah Nielsen, Kristi Miles, and Ryan Amble have dedicated to the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce as board members, including their support of the Building A Bright Future capital campaign for the new Chamber and Welcome Center, which opens in May.
Welcome New Board Members
In January, three new and three returning board members started their three-year terms on the Chamber Board of Directors
Board of Directors 2026
Robert Barber, Board Chair and Vice Chair, Tourism and Marketing Cabin Coffee Company
Mark Dodd, Past Chair One Vision
Natalie Plagge, Chair Elect Clear Lake Bank & Trust
