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Meet the board

Our board is comprised of dedicated professionals who are passionate about fostering business growth and community development in West Duluth. Get to know the individuals who drive our mission forward, bringing their diverse expertise and commitment to making our community a vibrant place to live and work.

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Russ Salgy

President

I am a lifelong West Duluthian and care about what happens in our community. I have been the Executive Director of the Valley Youth Center (Welch Center Inc.) for the past 25 years. Our business district has been the heartbeat of what drives our micro economy. My personal goals are to connect the West Duluth Business District with resources to assist in boosting economic growth, curate relationships with our community's economic development partners, and fill our vacant storefronts. Together, we can make that happen.

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Amber Brostrom

Vice President

I am the owner of Glitterati Events, Coordinator of Spirit Valley Days, and Director of Building and Events at the Aad Shrine Event Center. My husband and I also run a home business, Etched, specializing in laser engraving.

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As the Spirit Valley Days Coordinator, I regularly attend West Duluth Business Club meetings to stay engaged with local businesses and ensure their interests are represented. I hold an Associate of Science degree in Business and Financial Services from Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College.

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My main goal for the West Duluth Business Club is to see our community grow and thrive. Outside of work, I enjoy spending weekends with my family, including our two kids, two dogs,  at our camper.

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Dawn Thums

Treasurer

I bring years of experience in retail management, having managed both jewelry and clothing stores. Currently, I work as a Universal Banker at the National Bank of Commerce.

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My involvement with the West Duluth Business Club began when a board member encouraged me to join while I was working in West Duluth. My first bank emphasized community engagement, which led me to join various groups and clubs.

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I hold a degree in Fashion Merchandising and Marketing and have a strong desire to see West Duluth thrive and become a prime destination spot.

In addition to my professional work, I am a landlord and also create stained glass art.

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David Huntley

Membership

I've been in HR consulting for about five years. Previously, I was a recruiter for federal sub-contracts. I live in West Duluth and understand the importance of supporting our local business community. My educational background is in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, which drives my passion for helping West Duluth's entrepreneurs and businesses prosper because we all benefit from a prosperous community. Like everyone else in Duluth, I really enjoy getting out on our local hiking trails.

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Paige Larson

Secretary

Paige has been a dance educator and choreographer in the Northland for over 22 years, specializing in classical ballet training for all ages. A former professional ballerina and performer, she has choreographed musicals all over the Twin Ports, including at The Duluth Playhouse, UWS, Denfeld, East, Marshall, and Harbor City schools. She is the owner of Raise The Barre Ballet Studio here in West Duluth, which opened in 2021 in the long-vacant Danish Bakery building. Shortly after opening, she was invited to a West Duluth Business Club meeting where she saw the need for more board members and became the club's secretary. She enjoys volunteering her skills in organization and outreach to the community where she not only owns a business but also lives. She loves seeing all the new attendees and members each month and is excited to see Spirit Valley Days regain its strength since COVID.

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Susan Coen

Member at Large

Susan Coen opened her State Farm Insurance and Financial agency in the heart of Spirit Valley in 1991, and she has operated at the same location at 5600 Grand Ave ever since.

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Susan fell in love with Lake Superior when she moved to Duluth to attend The College of St. Scholastica in the 1980s. She has lived in the Morgan Park community for over 32 years, actively involved at St. James Catholic Church, supporting youth at Denfeld High School, and volunteering at various community events.

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Susan has been involved with the West Duluth Business Club since 1991, serving as a board member, past president, and supporting both the membership and speaker committees. When she’s not engaged in the West Duluth area, you’ll find her gardening or camping on Trout Lake in Bovey, MN.

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Scott Youngdahl

Member at Large

I've had a 30-year consultative, outside sales career. During this time, I've been able to solve problems, meet new people, and drive my competitive spirit. Currently, I'm a Project Sales Manager for Advanced Design Awnings and Signs.

 

When asked to join the Board of Directors, I never hesitated. I love helping promote West Duluth. Some lifelong friends own businesses here, and it's rewarding to help them move forward. Also, I've enjoyed seeing the progress of the Lincoln Park Craft District and want to make sure West Duluth doesn't get left behind. With a new WeDu slogan promotion, a newly expanding recreation area, the cleanup of the St. Louis River, and the future Kmart development, it's an exciting time in West Duluth.

 

Something you may not know about me: I love to travel, mostly to Europe.

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RaeAnn Hamlin

Member at Large

Rae Ann Hamlin’s love for music started early, and by 15, she was teaching piano and performing with the Accordion Ambassadors. After earning her BA in Piano Performance from the College of St. Scholastica, she opened her own music studio and became a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM). A member of the Music Teachers’ National Association since 1993, she also teaches at St. Scholastica and has served as president of the Arrowhead Music Teachers' Association. Dedicated to her community, Rae Ann has been involved with the West Duluth Business Club and Spirit Valley Days for decades, contributing as a board member.

We meet on the last Tuesday of every month at Mr. D's at 11:30 AM and welcome you to join us.

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