MCED annual dinner celebrates progress, looks to future
Havlicek Trucking was recognized for 80 years in business at the Monona Chamber and Economic Development, Inc. (MCED) annual dinner on April 10. Owner Dan Havlicek accepted an award from MCED Board President Ryan Johnson. (Photos by Audrey Posten)
MCED Board President Ryan Johnson recognized NAPA Auto Parts - T&K Cahoon for its 35th anniversary. He is pictured with members of the Cahoon family: Cassie, Kathy and Todd.
Monona Veterinary Hospital was one of two businesses honored for their 30th anniversaries.
MCED Board President Ryan Johnson recognizes Family Dentistry Associates of Monona for 40 years in business. Accepting the award were Drs. Chase Bruner, Jessica Wilke, Mark Fohey and Daphne Hoefler.
By Audrey Posten | Times-Register
Community leaders and business members gathered at the Ferme de la Rose event venue near Monona on April 10, for the Monona Chamber and Economic Development, Inc. (MCED) annual dinner.
“We gather not only to enjoy the good food and fellowship, but to celebrate progress, share ideas and look ahead to the future,” said MCED Board President Ryan Johnson during an audience address and awards presentation.
Following recognition of city officials and staff, as well as chamber board members, Johnson spoke about MCED’s upcoming events. City-wide garage sales are slated for April 24-27, then the farmers market will get underway in late May and music in the park the first week in June. Hay Days is June 14 and MCED’s golf tournament fundraiser on June 28. Later in the year is Halloween Trunk or Treat and the Holiday Craft Fair.
“And something we put back into rotation this year is Business After 5,” noted Johnson. “Our objective moving forward is to do what we do now and try not to expand too far out of what we can accomplish. Stick with some core things that are very popular.”
According to Johnson, MCED has 63 paid members, up from the year before. After learning earlier this year about debate surrounding MCED’s role and the value the organization provides to businesses and residents, the board developed a survey to gather feedback.
“We jumped on that right away and said, ‘Hey, we need to figure out what are we doing and what aren’t we doing for our membership,’” Johnson said.
Data is helping MCED determine what businesses need from them and the city in order to maintain or improve what they are doing.
Among the findings, Johnson said 74 percent of members surveyed indicated MCED supported their business goals. Sixty-three percent were very satisfied with the overall chamber membership experience.
The biggest challenges members identified and need help with are economic concerns.
“That was pretty prominent across the board—prices going up, goods going up, having to charge more for less, declining population,” Johnson explained. “Monona has an older population and we don’t have that turnover of younger persons coming into town, buying homes and staying here.”
Other concerns were limited incentives from both the chamber and city.
“There aren’t things that incentivize people to come here, build here. They want some sort of incentive to help make their business better,” Johnson shared.
Workforce shortage was another common challenge, as was advertising and marketing—more of it and how to reach younger generations.
“These are things we are working at,” Johnson said. “We are trying to figure out a way to incorporate technology into our local businesses. Workforce shortage is a tough one because everyone is fighting that. We’re constantly trying to bring people here. We have good paying jobs.”
He is hopeful MCED Director Ardie Kuhse’s reinstatement of a job board on the MCED Facebook page will help.
In addition to business feedback, Johnson said the survey gauged resident thoughts. Results showed they saw the most value in live music and family events.
“They want us to build on those strengths but not expand any more. They don’t want this to be a Nashville where there’s something going on every night and day,” Johnson said.
To better align MCED and city goals and maximize resources, Johnson shared the two entities have developed a committee—with two chamber members and two council members—to meet as needed to discuss what each entity is doing.
“We’ve had a couple of those meetings, and they’ve been progressive,” said Johnson. “To me, as a president of the board, that’s a key piece that’s been kind of missing for years, bringing the city back on board and bringing us on board with the city so we have that connection.”
The program concluded with recognition of business milestones and the 2025 Person of the Year.
Signature Styles and Salon and Joe and Matt’s Plumbing, Heating and HVAC both marked 10 years and Garden View Place 20 years. Monona Veterinary Hospital and Sincerely Yours - Interiors by Kay are celebrating 30th anniversaries, while NAPA Auto Parts - T&K Cahoon is at 35 years, Family Dentistry Associates of Monona 40 years and Vorwald Enterprises, Inc. 45 years. It’s the 70th anniversary for Spook Cave and Campground and 80th years in business for both Havlicek Trucking, Inc. and Bruns and James Insurance.
Jo Amsden, who recently retired as Monona Police Chief, was named Person of the Year.
“Her compassion and fairness defined her leadership,” Johnson remarked. “Though Jo cannot be with us tonight, we want to express our deepest gratitude for her for nearly four decades of service in public safety. Jo, thank you for everything you’ve done. You’ve made a lasting difference.”
Johnson also thanked the community for making a difference.
“Thank you for your time and support and commitment to our community. Together, we build a vibrant, connected and prosperous Monona. Let’s continue that work side by side,” he said.
