THURSDAY, May 28, 2026 |
Photo – Announcement of the new director of Saratoga Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce – Courtesy Chamber of Commerce
The Saratoga Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce has a new Director of Operations.
Earlier this year, former Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce Director Amanda Knotwell was arrested for allegedly embezzling over $77,000 from the organization. Knotwell was charged with theft and is scheduled to appear in court on September 22nd.
After Knotwell’s removal, Stacey Crimmins, the chamber’s previous CEO, resumed control of the organization until a permanent replacement could be found.
On May 21st, the Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce announced that Gabrielle Johnson is the new Director of Operations. Johnson, who is the daughter of Saratoga Middle High School Principal JD Johnson, told Bigfoot99 and Bandit102 that she moved to Saratoga roughly six years ago.
After graduating from Saratoga Middle High School in 2023, Johnson said she chose to attend college in Norman, Oklahoma.
Johnson said after receiving her degrees, she was preparing to move back to Saratoga when she learned about the open Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce Director position. She applied for the job and was hired.
Now in her third week as director, Johnson said she is excited to use her skills to improve the chamber’s upcoming events, including the 4th of July 5K marathon and the 30th anniversary of the Steinley Cup Microbrew Festival.
Johnson said she was unfamiliar with organizing a 5K marathon before taking the job. However, with help from the Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Johnson said she was able to improve how this year’s race will be carried out.
As the new chamber of commerce director, Johnson said she will take her time to learn how the organization operates before making any major changes. However, she said she would like to start by improving the chamber’s community involvement and online presence.
Johnson said she is excited to serve as the Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce Director of Operations and thanked former interim director Stacey Crimmins for helping her get started and the community for their welcoming support.
Johnson invited residents to stop and speak with her around town or call her at 326‑8855. She calls it Gabbin’ with Gabi.
