Dear Members, Colleagues and Friends~
In 2005 a group of small businesses and visionary college students came together and founded our alliance. They adopted the name Metro Independent Business Alliance, but quickly became known around town as MetroIBA. Many from that original group are still involved with our movement, and for that I am very proud. The founders defined the mission and laid a foundation that was ready for additional structure when I came on board in 2009.
I had been a business owner myself in the late 90’s, but when I came to MetroIBA it was after having spent a number of years as a full time mom. During that time I had stayed active as a volunteer and in civic organizations, but it was with trepidation that I reentered the workforce at a time when so much had changed. Office technology had evolved drastically. Thank you to those of you who were patient with me and generous with your time.
My first day back to work was a day much like it is now as I write this. It was seven degrees and dark out as I reported for duty at a morning networking event hosted by Magers & Quinn Booksellers in Uptown. Lucia’s had catered the event with Peace Coffee, fresh squeezed orange juice and house made pastries. There I was in a second generation, family-owned business surrounded by the smell of new and used books. I soon warmed up from the winter chill thanks to the greeting I received. Kirk Gryder called the assembly to attention with his booming voice, the hammer story, and a self-depricating joke. I knew I was where I was supposed to be.
From the start I was inspired by the mission and agenda of the organization, directed by a board of successful and dedicated local business owners. Many of them had well known establishments that were jewels in their communities. It energized me to shore up what resources we had, mostly consisting of people power, and add to our educational, marketing and advocacy efforts. With so much support and encouragement, it was an easy task. I looked forward to work every day, and believe me, it was easier than being home with two rambunctious elementary school aged boys.
Eight years later, I have reached a new fork in the road. I believe I have brought the organization to a formidable, yet transitional juncture. My boys are now young men, and I just celebrated a milestone birthday. I have been drawn to seek a new challenge and feel clear that this is the optimal time to pass on the torch.
To call it “bittersweet” would sound cliché, but that is how I feel, and,… I like chocolate metaphors. I have grown close to many of you, and have so appreciated your support, whether it has been as a mentor, volunteer, financially, or just a laugh we shared.
I hope that you all continue to stay involved with MetroIBA. We have gained great momentum, but there is still much work to do. There is no organization in the Twin Cities better positioned to work at all levels of government, and to represent such a variety of sectors of locally owned, independent businesses than MetroIBA. You are in great hands with our board of directors, longtime staff member, Jill Peuranen, and our interim Executive Director, Roger Meyer. I promise to not stay too far away.
Please join us for my farewell networking event on Tues, Jan 3 at 4:30 at The Loop Restaurant West End in St. Louis Park.
Fondest regards,
Mary Hamel
Dear MetroIBA Members,