Chamber CEO resigns

WASILLA -- Ed Brittingham, the Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce executive director, has resigned from his position at the chamber and began working in management at Settler's Bay Lodge last week.

"I'm stepping out of staff and stepping into the chamber volunteer realm," said Brittingham, who plans on remaining active in the chamber as a member.

Brittingham, who worked at the chamber for more than seven years, learned of the Settler's Bay position when putting together the chamber event "Murder on the Iditarod Trail" that took place at the lodge March 6. Brittingham worked in the restaurant business in Maine before moving to Alaska in 1996. The Peters Creek resident said he has had his eye on Settler's Bay for many years, and believes that the reopening of the facility will bring more business into Wasilla. He said by remaining active in the chamber, Settler's Bay will be another vital business helping with the Valley's growth. In the near future, the facility will not only be set up for events, but will also include a restaurant that Wasilla visitors and residents can enjoy.

The chamber has not chosen a new executive director, but Brittingham said a number of applicants are being looked at by the chamber board of directors. Brittingham said he hopes his enthusiasm for the job will carry over to the next chamber director.

"I think the next person who fills my shoes will have as much fun with it as I did," Brittingham said.

Contact Jen Ransom at jen.ransom@frontiersman.com.