Yellowknife (Oct 29/03) - A mixed message was sent out during the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce annual general meeting Friday.

Membership has increased by 22 per cent over the past year and all the bills are current, said past president Dave McPherson, in his opening address to members at the organization's AGM, held at the Explorer Hotel.

However, the incoming treasurer, Kevin McIntyre, noted in an address reviewing the financial statements that the organization was $65,000 into its line of credit.

Newly-elected president, Jerry Jaud, said the chamber would work on that.

"We're going to carry on the good work ... and focus on getting this chamber back on its feet financially," he said.

But there was good news when the financial committee announced a $10,000 surplus.

Outgoing president McPherson was happy with the job he did over the year and expressed faith in the chamber.

"I look back with pride and satisfaction over the past year. The Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce is one of the strongest and most vibrant in the country," McPherson said.

Chamber executive director Dale Thomson echoed McPherson's sentiments.

"It's been a phenomenal year. I've never enjoyed a job more," Thomson said.

"In 2004, to see the same success continuing we have to keep the good news flowing," Thomson said.