Economic development group celebrates 20 years
Economic development group celebrates 20 years
Annual meeting is set for Monday
By STU MERRY
“I feel like I'm at home. I feel welcome.”
Those are the thoughts of the owner of one of Garrison's newest businesses when talking about the community and help he received from members of the Garrison Area Improvement Association (GAIA).
GAIA will host its annual meeting Monday at the new North Shore Inn & Suites conference room.
The theme for this year's event is “New Horizons.” The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. with a meal. A short business meeting will follow with election of four new board members. The meeting will also include an open forum discussing Garrison's “New Horizons.” For more information or for reservations, call 463-2631.
The man who said he feels welcome and that he feels right at home in Garrison is Jeff Gerhart, owner of Sakakawea RV. Gerhart said if not for the help of GAIA, he might not have set up shop in the community.
“They (GAIA) were very receptive and helped me navigate through some of the potential roadblocks that a person would encounter in establishing any business,” Gerhart said.
Over the past 20 years, numerous other businesses or individuals have walked through the GAIA door to inquire about opportunities in the community.
Gerhart tips his hat to Glen Huettl, outgoing GAIA president, for being instrumental in convincing him to put down roots in Garrison.
