First Gentleman Mike Gregoire, Chamber CEO Caldie Rogers and Chamber Board president Al Aldrich helped celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce.

The Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce demonstrated its impact on the community while celebrating its 100th anniversary at a gala event December 4. More than 250 members and guests attended the centennial party at the chamber offices at Quil Ceda Village.

"As of December 2008, the chamber has fielded one million inquiries on behalf of Marysville and Tulalip," said Chamber CEO Caldie Rogers. "We remain the only Chamber of Commerce in the state that is open seven days a week, and the only chamber to officially partner with a sovereign Native American nation."

In recognition of the organization's contribution to the economic health of north Snohomish County, representatives from many levels of government were on hand to offer congratulations on the centennial milestone.

Mayor Dennis Kendall and Tulalip tribal chairman Mel Sheldon both spoke about the positive impact of the robust chamber, and each presented Rogers and chamber president Al Aldrich with official proclamations.

"I won't read all the 'whereas-es'," promised Kendall, "but the City Council has proclaimed the week of December 1 through 5 as Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce Week."

Sheldon added, "We come together to remember important relationships and to continue to honor them."

Snohomish County was represented by County Council chair Dave Somers along with Peter Camp from the executive's office, both of whom offered proclamations for the Chamber.

"Unfortunately, with all the budget cuts at the county, we couldn't afford a frame," joked Somers as he presented a single piece of paper to Rogers.

U.S. Representative Rick Larsen countered by promising an economic stimulus package that includes "frames for each and every one of you."

Larsen added that members of Congress "don't have the authority to make proclamations, either under this president or the next one," but he congratulated the local chamber leaders for their efforts on behalf of small business owners.

First Gentleman Mike Gregoire reminded the audience of the efforts of the Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce on behalf of military families and local business owners.

Speaking to Rogers, Gregoire said, "This chamber is unbelievably impressive and encouraging. You inspire folks out there by doing this."

On behalf of the governor, First Mike presented Rogers with a document that joined the local City Council in declaring December 1 through 5 as Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce Week.

In the fall of 2007, the chamber developed and began promoting the Military Family-Friendly Employment Initiative, urging business owners to consider hiring military dependents. The project has gained national recognition and earned kudos from military officials all the way up to the Pentagon.

Partnering with North County Outlook, the Marysville Globe and The Herald, the chamber has begun a Buy Local program to encourage shoppers to patronize small businesses in our area.

Taking a cue from the chamber's military partners, Rogers and her staff presented commemorative coins, created by retired Navy officer Jody Dillinger, to chamber members attending the centennial event. She also recognized the many hours of volunteer time provided by the Centennial Committee under the leadership of Deb Loughrey-Johnson of Grandview Village.

Diane Wilson-simon of White Owl Arts Videography donated her time and talent to produce a special centennial video presentation, showcasing chamber members, office staff and volunteers, and the local area. The 30-minute video played during the event on the lobby TV screen.

Appetizers for the event were provided by local businesses, all members of the chamber, including Village Inn Restaurant, Bob's Burger & Brew, Boston's Pizza & Pasta, Fred Meyer, Maxi's, Garlic Jim's, GA Maxwell's, Kafe' Neo, Domino's, Rhodie's BBQ, Coca-Cola, Grandview Village, Marysville Care Center & Let's Dish! Willis Hall Winery offered liquid refreshments.