 It has been a month of many changes for the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce. Our Josh Peterson spoke with both the outgoing and incoming chamber presidents to get their thoughts on this time of transition. While under the watchful eye of Paul Bunyan, there has been continuous activity over at the Tourist Information Center where the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce has been hard at work to ensure a smooth transition between outgoing president Laurie Parris and incoming president Deb Faff. For Laurie, these last few weeks have given her a chance to reflect. Well that this is a very incredible community and I had 18 years of privilege to work with that. This has been an awesome organization to work for and I firmly believe in the Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce. When Laurie started as chamber president 18 years ago, the city of Bemidji was a very different place and throughout the years became a driving force for growth. It's amazing to think back of all the changes that have taken place in the community. We've got the Sanford Center, Sanford Health came into town and has just exploded with expansion. Incoming president Deb Faff has already been on the job since November 27th and is excited to step into her new role. With the economic growth and the new the new businesses coming into town, I really see that as a plus for the city. With so many areas to oversee, the chamber hopes to put local business back in the spotlight. One of the things that we're really going to drive forward as the chamber is putting our members in the spotlight and showcasing all of the vitality that we have right here in this growing community. With a new year right around the corner, the Bemidji Chamber is already looking to the future. In Bemidji, Josh Peterson, Lakeland News. Laurie Parris will have her official last day as chamber president next week. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.