January 7, 2025
Dear Members and Partners of the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce,
As we close another remarkable year, I am honored to reflect on the progress, growth, and sense of community we’ve experienced together. Serving as your Board 1st Vice President, under President Karen Ristuben, has been an incredible privilege. I am excited to share the highlights of the past year with you, introduce an exciting new initiative designed to strengthen our local businesses, and also recognize the significant contributions of our outgoing President, and CEO.
This past year, we’ve continued to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by a rapidly changing world. Our Chamber has remained resilient in the face of adversity, all while focusing on supporting the heart of our community – local businesses. We have fostered connections, advocated for economic growth, and embraced innovation as we move forward into a new era of opportunity.
As I enter my first year as Board President, I am excited to share an exciting new initiative designed to strengthen our local economy and highlight the incredible businesses that make Cape Ann such a special place to live, work, and visit.
Introducing our Powered by LOCAL campaign!
The heart of our community lies in the vibrant, diverse businesses that call Greater Cape Ann home. From unique shops and artisan makers to innovative service providers and world-class restaurants, our local businesses contribute not only to the region’s economy but also to the distinctive character and charm of our towns. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that we come together as a community to support these businesses and help them thrive.
Shopping local matters. We know that when you spend your dollars locally, the benefits are far-reaching. By supporting the Greater Cape Ann’s businesses, you help create jobs, bolster local services, and keep our region’s economy healthy. Local businesses are the backbone of our community – they support local schools, contribute to civic organizations, and provide the unique products and services that make Cape Ann an exceptional place to live and visit.
2024 was a very challenging year for retailers and restaurant owners in Cape Ann. This is evident by the number of vacant storefronts and the closure of restaurants, some of which have benefitted our communities for over a half-century. Our primary focus in 2025 will be to introduce programs and initiatives that make it easier and incentivize everyone to shop locally. Our goal is to help change the mindset of the community from shopping online or at big box stores to supporting our local businesses. Please help us make this happen.
We look forward to working with all of you to make Powered by LOCAL a cornerstone of our community’s future success. Thank you for your continued commitment to Cape Ann’s businesses and for your partnership in this exciting new venture.
Finally, as we reflect on the past year of success, it is with deep appreciation that we recognize the extraordinary leadership of our outgoing President, Karen Ristuben. Karen has been a driving force behind the Chamber’s vision and its ongoing commitment to the Greater Cape Ann community.
One of Karen’s most important accomplishments as President is the establishment of the Arts & Culture Alliance. Newly formed in 2023, the Arts & Culture initiative is comprised of a group of artists, arts and culture leaders, creative businesses, gig workers, and non-arts business leaders. The purpose of the alliance is to promote connections between businesses and Cape Ann’s working artist community, cultural heritage, and creative economy.
In addition, I would like to take a moment to recognize the outstanding leadership of our outgoing CEO, Steve Buckley.
Steve’s vision and dedication have been instrumental in strengthening relationships within the business community, providing steadfast support during challenging times, and in the development of one of the strongest internal teams that this Chamber has ever enjoyed. Steve has been an unwavering advocate for the Cape Ann region, and his commitment to promoting local businesses and fostering a collaborative environment will leave a lasting legacy.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, the staff, every member of the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, and the community, we extend our heartfelt thanks and deepest gratitude to both Karen and Steve for their unwavering commitment, leadership, and dedication.
Let’s make this year the year we all commit to shopping local and supporting the businesses that make Cape Ann a truly special place.
Warm regards,
James T. Brown
President, Board of Directors
Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce