May 27, 2025 - The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Shelby County Class of 2024-2025 visited several locations impacting the quality of life in Shelby County. Quality of Life Day was the final session in the nine month program.
The Leadership Class began the day at The Lily Farm with Mark Carpenter learning the history of The Lily Farm and enjoying all the beautiful plants, flowers and yard décor. Mark Carpenter’s annual Mother’s Day fundraiser recipient was the Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library. The Leadership Class participated in the check presentation to Sandra and Roy Davis, for the Library.
After The Lily Farm tour, the class enjoyed some time at Hawkeye Hunting Club. Manager Jason Wiegenga toured the group around one of the lodges and the kennels. Jason talked about the renovations, activities Hawkeye has to offer and upcoming events. The group visited the Center Municipal airport where Chad Nehring and John Soltise talked about the airport history, current use and future plans.
The Leadership Class enjoyed a delicious picnic lunch at Portacool Park. Jason Mitchell, Director of Parks and Recreation, talked about all the City parks and future goals and plans. At the Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library, Roy Davis talked about the renovation and walked the group around the beautiful newly renovated Library. Mr. Davis talked about all the activities and events the Library offers including the year round programs as well as the very popular Summer Reading/Discovery Program, sponsored by the Center Noon Lions Club. The Program will start on May 29th and end on July 18th. This year’s theme is “Color Our World”.
The Leadership finished the day enjoying tea and coffee at Center Floral.
Thank you to the following for helping make the day a learning success: Mark Carpenter, Jason Miegnenga, Chad Nehring, John Soltise, Jason Mitchell and Sandra and Roy Davis. Also, a huge thank you to Cheryl with Center ISD transportation department.
Leadership Shelby County is a year long program presented by the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce designed to identify potential leaders and develop within these individuals the knowledge, skills and vision necessary to enable them to actively participate in the enhancement of the quality of life in their communities.
