ARTICLE
The Madison Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Richard Ice as New Executive Director of the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce starting on April 14. “The Chamber board is looking forward to working with Richard to continue to serve Jefferson County businesses by providing support and resources”, Board President, Cari Morrison-Bear. “I am excited to be selected as the new Executive Director of the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce” says Ice. “Over the years, the Chamber has been a leader in helping to bring major events and initiatives like Soup, Stew, Chili and Brew and the Venture Out Business Center to life. When Jeff Garrett was Executive Director of the Chamber 20 years ago, he laid out a vision of what Madison could be. A lot of people, in a lot of different organizations, have worked hard to make that vision a reality and to make Madison the best small town in Indiana. I would like to see the Chamber take a leadership role again in helping to take Madison to the next level. I'm thrilled that I get to help lead the Chamber in making Madison an even greater place to live and work.” Richard has experience working with both small businesses and larger companies. He began his career in business at his family’s Gateway grocery store on Madison’s hilltop. As a boy, Richard spent many hours working at the store, developing a love of retail, promotions, and advertising, and business development. Richard graduated with a B.S. in Radio/TV/Film from Indiana State University and started his career selling advertising at WORX radio in Madison. He worked at stations in Elwood and Anderson, Indiana before returning to his retail roots working for 30 years in the drug store and building material industries, including both the retail and wholesale/manufacturing sides. Richard is a member of the Madison Elks lodge where he has been both the Exalted Ruler and District Deputy. He is a past member of the Kiwanis Club and Habitat for Humanity of Jefferson County, and served as president of both organizations. About Madison Area Chamber of Commerce Founded in 1924, the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce is a member-driven organization that connects businesses with the support and resources to develop, sustain, and grow. The Chamber is a place for all who share in the desire to improve the community and the conditions under which business is conducted. It directs the energies of those who believe that a community worth living in is a community worth improving. An investment in the Chamber is an investment in the health of the local economy and improves the quality of life for everyone. Investment returns include an exclusive member referral service, promotion in our online Business Directory, inclusion in our popular Guide to the Madison Indiana Area magazine, networking opportunities, business education, a voice in business issues, and much more at an affordable price.