THIS ARTICLE APPEARS IN THE RED ROCK NEWS

December 22, 2023

 

It’s  hard to believe that 2023 is ending!  Where has the time gone?

During this time of year, it’s always good to take a moment and reflect on the last 12 months — especially with all the changes that took place at the Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau.

In evaluating where we’ve been and where we are going, I genuinely believe that we are now in a better position to serve our business community.

In a recent article in Psychology Today on “8 Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude,” one of the proven benefits of gratitude is that it’s a key factor in building resilience. Researcher and author Shawn Achor explains that resilience is about how you recharge, not about how you endure. Resilience is the ability to take events in stride, even when they are stressful and to be able to sustain your energy, even in highly demanding situations and tasks. Your resilience levels are fueled by qualities like optimism, which is where gratitude comes into play.

Our team at the SCC&TB has displayed resilience at every level and is optimistic about our future. Because of this, I have asked each team member to share their thoughts on the things they are grateful for.

Gary Stewart, Finance Director says, “I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet and work with the dedicated and talented folks that make up the Chamber, past and current, coworkers, volunteers and board members.”

Donna Retegan, Director of Partner Services shares, “Working for the SCC&TB means learning about every issue, every organization and every leader shaping our community. The Chamber takes networking to a higher level, and we create amazing relationships that will hopefully last a lifetime. Business leaders and their teams need our connections, our knowledge, our advice and our support. Our employees are the leaders that make a positive difference in our community. Every day is a wonderful adventure.”

Eric Nguyen, Digital Marketing Manager reflects, “I’m incredibly grateful to have such an amazing circle of love and support from my wife, family, and friends — they truly light up my life. Collaborating every day with the fantastic team at the SCC&TB and the hardworking and passionate businesses in the Sedona Verde Valley is an adventure I enjoy; it’s a vibrant, ongoing celebration of community and connection. I’m living my life with an open heart and reminding myself to be grateful each day, always staying curious and eager to learn something new about our amazing Chamber partners!”

Carol Kahn, Communications Manager notes, “I always look at adversity as an opportunity. The challenges we faced this year allowed us to create new ways of doing business with our partners. We implemented novel programs and found innovative ways to assist our local businesses. We established new relationships in the process. I am grateful for the opportunity to be on the team at the SCC&TB and proud of the work that we have accomplished.”

Shanandoah Sterling, Events and Partnership Manager was raised with small mom-and-pop businesses and believes they are the heartbeat of our nation. “I am grateful for all the businesses — small and large — that offer employment to many people in our Sedona community and beyond. These thriving businesses are the heartbeat of our greater Sedona Verde Valley and offer a rich environment for families to thrive. The great employment opportunities allow employees to feed their families, send their children to school and participate in our eclectic community!”

Victoria Latunski, Director of Visitor Services says, “I am grateful to assist the SCC&TB by supporting their goals and programs through the Visitor Center.  I am so grateful for our Chamber staff who are both professional and passionate! I am also inspired by our volunteers who are happy to give their time and share their gifts with visitors and locals alike!”

As each of us reflected on this past year, I can add that I’m most grateful for the people in my life, both professionally and personally.  When I think of the biggest successes and the most memorable moments, it all comes down to relationships.  None of life’s milestones would’ve been met if it wasn’t for my family, my husband, my friends, my workmates, our chamber partners, my board members, or my community. The impact we have on one another is remarkable. We thank you for all of your support.

–Michelle Conway Kostecki, President/CEO
Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

---