On October 16th, 2024, we hosted the 98th Annual Celebration of Business & Community at the Elks Lodge #1216. The event brought together local business leaders, community members, and elected officials to honor achievements throughout the community in 2024. The Devils Lake Area Chamber of Commerce shared highlights of 2024, including the successes of annual community events, such as the Chamber Fishing Tournament, Wine Walk, and more. The Lake Region celebrated groundbreakings for the Woodland Resort Event Center, Ramsey County Event Center, and Dockside Family Entertainment. Many businesses in the Lake Region celebrated ribbon cuttings, open houses, and renovations this year thanks to the dedication and hard work of our local residents. The Chamber of Commerce shared exciting news and projects coming up in 2025 with the Regional Workforce Impact Program Grant being awarded to the Chamber in 2024 as well as the new Walleyes and Wheelchairs Project to be installed at Lakewood Park.
While at the Annual Celebration of Business & Community, the Board of Directors passed the gavel from outgoing Chamber Board President Jack Yunker to incoming President Terra Eriksson. Jack was recognized for his exceptional leadership and dedication to the Chamber over the past year. Terra expressed her enthusiasm for taking on the role of President before being joined by Outgoing Past President Erin Wood for the presentation of awards, which are listed and pictured below.
New Chamber Business of the Year, 583 Therapy
Our New Chamber Business of the Year Award recognizes a business that has made a significant impact on our community within their first two years of operations. Our community is fortunate to have a growing number of businesses that offer essential services here. Today, we celebrate a business that has filled a critical need, providing physical, occupational, and speech therapy services for residents of all ages in the Lake Region. Since joining the Chamber last October, 583 Therapy and their team of skilled therapists have made a positive difference in the lives of many. As Ray Dalio said, “the greatest gift you can give someone is the ability to help themselves”. This quote perfectly captures the work that 583 Therapy does every day.
Excellence in Small Business, Jerome Wholesale
The Excellence in Small Business award recognizes exceptional growth, innovation, and positive impact within the Lake Region every year. The Jerome family’s legacy in Devils Lake dates back generations. What once began as a dream has evolved into a thriving, fifth-generation family business. Jerome Wholesale has been a cornerstone of the local economy and has expanded its reach to include nearly all of North Dakota, spanning into South Dakota. Their commitment to community involvement is evident through their active participation in Chamber events and their service on various community boards and committees. For their outstanding contributions to our community and their commitment to growth and excellence, I am honored to present the Excellence in Small Business Award to Jerome Wholesale.
Woman-Owned Business Award, Total Skin Dermatology and Aesthetics - Jennifer Laframboise

Our next award recognizes a woman-owned business that has demonstrated exceptional leadership, resilience, and spread positivity throughout the community. Total Skin Dermatology and Aesthetics and their team has been actively involved in the Devils Lake community, participating in Chamber events and seizing every networking opportunity that has come their way. Prior to establishing her own business, Jennifer served the Devils Lake community for 10 years as a medical professional. Seeing the need in the area for specialized services, Jennifer has brought convenient access to dermatology and aesthetic care to our front door, making it easier for residents to maintain their health and wellbeing. For her dedication to expanding the quality of life and care in the community and her entrepreneurial spirit, we are proud to present the Woman Owned Business Award to Jennifer Laframboise and Total Skin Dermatology and Aesthetics.
Long-Standing Chamber Member of the Year, Farmer's Union Oil - Tom Haahr

The Long Standing Chamber Member of the Year Award is presented to a member business that has been a vital part of our Chamber community for 25 years or more. This award recognizes the contributions of said business to both the Chamber and the community throughout that time. This year’s recipient has been a continuous sponsor of community and Chamber events. Beyond their financial contributions, Tom and the rest of the Farmers Union Oil team have gone above and beyond, providing valuable resources, time, and a helping hand whenever it is needed. For their exceptional service and enduring commitment to Devils Lake and the surrounding communities, I am happy to present Tom Haahr and Farmers Union Oil for with this year’s Long Standing Chamber Member of the Year award.
Chamber Member of the Year, Terry Wallace

Each year at our Annual Meeting, we take the time to recognize an exceptional individual or business with the Chamber Member of the Year Award. Over the years, Terry Wallace has been a dedicated servant of the Devils Lake community. Terry played a pivotal role in the development of key projects, such as the Lure ‘Em for Life Fishing Camp and Dockside Entertainment Center. His commitment to the community and its growth is evident through his dedication of over 30 years to the Devils Lake Park Board, where he served as Superintendent. He has been inducted into the North Dakota Hall of Fame three times in the categories of Referee, Babe Ruth, and the North Dakota Recreation and Parks Association. Even in retirement, he is an advocate for the people of Devils Lake, remaining active in many of his activities and lending a hand when needed for community and Chamber events. For his unwavering dedication, his leadership, and his countless contributions over the years, I am honored to present the Chamber Member of the Year Award to Terry Wallace.
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