President’s Perspective

GOING ALL IN

For those who may not have had the chance to meet me either on the campaign trail or during our past Fall Convention & Trade Show in Appleton, I would like to introduce myself. Hailing from the tip of Lake Superior, my wife, Emily, and I are the owner/operators of Jimmy’s Saloon, a small local bar located in the business district of Billings Park. As a second-generation operator, I purchased the saloon from my mother, Renee, and late father, Michael, in 2016, after being affiliated with the business since its purchase in 1996.

Over the last decade, I have been involved with the TLW both locally as president and as a state board director. I’ve also contributed my energy to the Superior City Council for the past six years, as well as made a run for state assembly where I unfortunately lost by 139 votes. I have been very fortunate with many opportunities over the years, but sometimes an opportunity comes along like this, where it’s time to push the chips to the center of the table and go all in, and that time for me is now.

After taking a few days after the convention to let things sink in, I hit the ground running. This position has no manual or guidebook to follow, but we are fortunate to have some of the best people in the business working for us and helping with the transition. Trying to fill the shoes of our past presidents will be no easy task; I commend every one of them for their service and sacrifice, making our association what it is today, and I intend to continue that pattern and precedent during my term.

Taking the oath during the convention lit a fire inside me like I’ve never experienced before. What this association has dealt with — while still being able to accomplish much for our members — over the last 20 months has been truly amazing! We must not slow down, however. It’s time to roll up our sleeves, and continue our message to both the public and our lawmakers. I strongly believe our brand — our public image — is the key to our success, and we must continue to show that we are not just a favorite watering hole or distinguished supper club.

We are SafeRide, providing thousands of rides each month and getting people home safe. We are the first to help pitch in for a local fundraiser or a family in need.

We are the glue for many of the communities in this great state.

Continuing this message, providing exceptional member services and fighting to maintain industry sustainability are my top priorities. Communication is another area I plan to develop. It’s a crucial component for the Tavern League, so we can continue making the best, calculated decisions for our association.

Lastly, to our league leaders on all levels, I commend you for your service. As I pledge to offer my all as your president, I will also be here to help each of you be the best in your positions. If there is anything I can do to help any of you, I’m always either a phone call or email away. As my schedule begins to build, I look forward to having the opportunity to visit local meetings and events, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Being elected president to arguably the strongest association in our state, if not the nation, is truly an honor. As we move closer to the holiday season, I want to wish everyone a successful, safe and prosperous time. Until then, there is still plenty of work to do.

Cheers!

Keith Kern TLW President

To our league leaders on all levels, I commend you for your service. As I pledge to offer my all as your president, I will also be here to help each of you be the best in your positions. If there is anything I can do to help any of you, I’m always either a phone call or email away.