The St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce ends its fiscal year in August, and with that comes a time of reflection on the past as well as excitement for what the future holds. The 2021-2022 year was full of growth in many forms. We celebrated the one year anniversary of Julie Lunning taking on the role of president in September, and we're so appreciative of the warm welcome she's been given. We said a heartfelt see-you-later to Gail Ivers after 34 years of dedication to the Chamber. We launched a new website, introduced new events and programming, gathered back in person completely, made impactful relationships within the Central Minnesota business community, and continue to grow and learn each day. We are so thankful for your continued support, cheers to another fantastic year ahead!Â
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Whether you're new to the Chamber or would like to meet some new members, come and hang out at the New Member Mixer on September 13 at Midtown Bar & Grill.
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Lunchtime Learning kicks off the fall season on September 7th with a session on Developing an Enforceable Social Media Strategy with speaker Betsey Lund Ross - don't miss it!
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Here are a few more important dates to put on your calendar, but don't forget to check out our full events calendar for even more.
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With the goal of keeping members informed and up to date, these news bites feature local, regional and national news items that relate to the business community in Central Minnesota.Â
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LOCAL
- BREAKING NEWS: The St. Cloud Downtown Council has been disbanded, and a new Downtown Alliance Advisory Board has been formed by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce. Learn more
- Attend this seminar from Career Solutions for hiring and retention advice as it relates to diversity, equity and inclusion in your workplace. Register now
- Did you know that you can stay up to date on St. Cloud economic development projects at any time? Check out this dashboard to stay in the know.Â
STATE
- This report from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce takes a deep dive into Minnesota's position in the national and global economy, along with recommendations for a stronger economy in Minnesota's future. View the report
- The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis released findings from their July business survey, you can view the results here.
NATIONAL
- September is National Preparedness Month - are you prepared for a natural disaster at your company? Here are some tips.
- The US Chamber highlights six things for employers to consider when hiring individuals with disabilities. Learn more
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Get your tickets now!
The Paramount Center for the Arts has released their 2022-23 season schedule, and tickets are now on sale! Great for gifting or for yourself, check out the calendar and purchase tickets now!
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Congratulations and thank you to these businesses who celebrated Chamber anniversaries in July, 2022. We appreciate your continued support and partnership!
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A Note from Outgoing Chamber Board Chair Bernie Perryman
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Bernie Perryman
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Thank you for a great year, Bernie! Perryman will stay on the board in the Past Chair role for the 2022-2023 year.Â
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It is with gratitude and pride that I look back on my year as the Chair of the St. Cloud Area Chamber Board of Directors and all that we accomplished. We welcomed in new President Julie Lunning, we helped to grow membership and retain existing members, we built relationships with members of local and state government, and most importantly we fought for the voice of the Central Minnesota business owner to be heard. I was fortunate to oversee a hardworking, supportive board and could not have asked for a better group to help lead this organization forward. I am so thankful for the time I?ve been able to give to this role, and look forward to continuing to help businesses connect, learn and grow well into the future.
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As the Eagles said, ?You can check out, but you can never leave." I'll see you around soon!
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Chamber Board of Directors: Farewell and Thank You!
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A huge thank you to all of the retiring Chamber board members. We are so appreciative of your service to this organization and to the St. Cloud Area business community.Â
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An Evening with the Stars
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The Star Celebration is coming up on October 4th at the Park Event Center. This evening of fun and entertainment is dedicated to honoring the volunteers with the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce. This year you can nominate a volunteer who you think went above and beyond, click the link below to nominate your Shining Star Chamber Volunteer!
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