Hello members, local residents and friends, 

I am struggling to find the right words to greet you today. There is so much I want to say, but I don't want to be too sappy or dramatic. I do, however, want you all to know how much I enjoyed working in Lanesboro and Whalan the last year and a half. I was energized and delighted to collaborate with community members, business owners and city leaders to promote this wonderful town and especially liked helping visitors plan their stays and discover the treasures that exist in the Lanesboro area and southeastern Minnesota.

As I leave my position as the LACC Executive Director to pursue new opportunities, I have a high level of respect and a deep affection for the people who live and work in this welcoming community. I learned a great deal over the last year and I am so grateful for the love and support I received.

As I begin the new year, I will be joining the staff of the Spring Valley Public Library as its director. For many years, I have wanted to work in a library and have the resources and platform to promote the love of reading and life-long learning.

The LACC Board has quickly started its search for a new director and I know they will choose wisely. I have learned so much from each member of the board and have been impressed and grateful for their level of commitment to Lanesboro and Whalan. There are also a few open positions on the board, which will be filled during the annual meeting in January, so please consider submitting a letter of interest if you feel you would like to serve your community in this way.



As I say goodbye, I just want to thank you for reading and supporting this newsletter. I know Jonathan and members of the board are committed to seeing this continue. It serves as a vehicle to share information and highlight what is truly special about Lanesboro. Among all the things we have worked on this past year, resurrecting this forum has been one of the most enjoyable and satisfying accomplishments of the year. Jonathan has been writing a great deal of the content and compiled all of this week's news, so I know I am leaving it in good hands.

I wish you all the most joy-filled holiday and send you much love and appreciation as we begin our new year. I will visit often and continue to support this Lanesboro community that embraced me and helped me grow. If you happen to be in Spring Valley, make sure to pop into the library and I will help you find the perfect book.

As always, I hope you have a wonderful day,

Melissa

Lanesboro is the place to be when ringing in the new year with celebrations of all sorts taking place on Saturday, Sunday and Monday of that weekend. Come on down to Lanesboro for a truly good time. Here are just a few of the activities you can indulge in this year:

Junipers Masquerade Soiree: Come on a food journey on Saturday, Dec. 30. Executive Chef Tyler Shipton has been thinking about the menu for this annual tradition for months. This 5-course pre-fixe menu is a food experience. The theme this year is "Masquerade" and costumes and masks are encouraged. Spontaneously launching into the top of Act 2 of "Phantom of the Opera" is maybe less encouraged.  

On Saturday, Dec. 30, from 12:30 to 2:30 pm Paddle On and Leafy Legacy are hosting a Christmas Tea. Enjoy high quality herbal tea blends put together by Leafy Legacy and dainty sweet and savory treats from Paddle On. There will also be a collection of hats and scarves available for you to get fancy for high tea! Dress up! There will also be a live violin performance by Isabelle Ekstrom. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Buy your tickets at https://paddleoncoffee.com/. Tickets for the event are also available at the coffee shop. Remember, it closes at 1 pm. Reserve a table with friends or join a large table as an independent. Space is limited, so reserve today!

On Sunday, New Years Eve, go all around the world and all around Lanesboro! Paddle On Coffee and Makers Emporium is hosting the New Years Around the World Celebration! This family friendly event will feature ball drops with Cape Verde (7 pm, Iceland (8 pm) and Brazil (9 pm). 

Once you get the kiddos to bed, having celebrated the Brazilian New Year, it’s time to head over to Sylvan Brewing (open from 12-10 pm on New Years Eve). Clouds so Swift will be providing live music in the scale room, delivering American classics. Sylvan will be turning on the Vikings Game at 7:20 in the tap room. So there’s no reason to stay home. 

Finish out our New Year's festivities at The High Court Pub and/or the Root River Saloon for your late night libations. Both are open until 1 am on News Years Eve.

Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce

begins search for new Executive Director

It is with a sad, but understanding heart that we are looking for a new Executive Director. This last year was a struggle for our organization, but we would not be where we are today without the steady hand of Melissa Vander Plas. She guided us through the stormy chaos of 2023 to lead us to a brighter and fiscally sound future. Needless to say the next Executive Director of the Chamber has some big shoes to fill.  

Think you got the chutzpah to take on the challenge? Check out the Job post on our website and apply. 

LACC returns to in-person meeting for 2024 Annual Meeting of Members

SAVE THE DATE: The Lanesboro Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 23, at Cedar Valley Resort's Rustic Hearth Event Center. You must be in person in order to participate in giving feedback and voting. We will go over our 2023, present the 2024 budget and elect new board members. If you plan to attend, please RSVP here.  

Board of Directors Elections to be held in January

Speaking of the election of the Board of Directors, in addition to our usual three, three-year term rotation, we also have an open, one-year board seat. This year we return to in-person voting at the annual meeting. If you are interested in serving on our Board of Directors, please fill out this form. 

Chill-Inn Core Group gives capstone recap

The Chill-Inn Lanesboro group gave its capstone presentation on Wednesday morning, presenting the work it accomplished over the past year. Those things include: This hilarious video starring everyone’s favorite trivia talker and 2 fantastic Commonweal Theatre Alumni. The “Chill-Inn” webpage that lives on our website: https://www.lanesboro.com/chill-inn-lanesboro. It is there that you can find the Itineraries put together through a combination of details from the survey and study conducted by the University of Minnesota Extension and the work of the arketing company. That includes multiple feedback sessions with the community. Feel like your idea is missing, or do you have an idea for a fun winter event, please submit that information to this form and we will find a way to include it in our itineraries!

Congratulations to Mitchell Wallbridge, our new city administrator. He made the cover of the Fillmore County Journal this past week.

The story, by Wanda Hanson, includes this excerpt: "When asked specifically what he finds unique about Lanesboro, Walbridge replied that, while Lanesboro has challenges, the amount of support and positive comments have been great. He shared that he feels having the trust of the community is extremely important. According to Walbridge, the amount of commitment and volunteerism in Lanesboro is impressive. Although all the organizations are separate entities, they have great communication between them. Each group and organization have been so inviting and have welcomed him as he visited with them."

Read the entire article by Clicking Here.

Check out a really fantastic resource published by The Cottage House Inn. Alison Leathers really took some time to think through some amazing last minute gift ideas for folks on your list. Here’s an excerpt:

“…And when you consider those last minute gifts, don't forget our downtown businesses in Lanesboro, or the small businesses in your own community. Supporting a small business keeps our communities vibrant. Here are my favorite items and shops in Lanesboro, including unique gift ideas:

• E2 Boutique - I can always find the best gifts for the favorite women in my life - cute purses, essential oils, cozy jammies, cardigans and fuzzy socks.
• Amish Experience - this store is packed with something for everyone - I love the kids' stuff (Ty stuffed animals, books, magic ink coloring books), candles for my sister, and kitchen gadgets for my sister-in-law. Poo-pouri stocking stuffers - check! There are the cutest hand-drawn Lanesboro cards too.
• Lanesboro Arts - when I want to find really nice note cards to send or gift to someone - I have to go to Lanesboro Arts. There are beautiful earrings, bracelets, and necklaces too.
• Root River Rod Co - the highest quality outdoor gear, like SPF long sleeve shirts, sandals and pants for fishing, camping or hiking!
• Windy Mesa - you probably know someone in your life that will appreciate a calming salt lamp or a nice pair of MN moccasins!...”

Read the entire listing by Clicking Here. There are a ton of great ideas as you round out your holiday shopping in Lanesboro! Getting great gifts and supporting our local businesses is a win-win-win-win: you, the gift recipient, the business owner, and our community all win when you shop local in Lanesboro.

"She Loves Me" is closing this weekend at the Commonweal Theatre! There are Just a few more shows and if you haven’t seen this one, you really owe it to yourself to get tickets while you still can (there are just a few left)! It’s such a fun show and the performances are fantastic. This effervescent musical comedy was eventually adapted into the movie “You’ve Got Mail,” and is the perfect winter escape. Two combative clerks in an elegant parfumerie are constantly butting heads at work. As each begins developing a written romance thanks to answering a “lonely hearts” newspaper ad, what happens when they find out who has been writing these love letters? Quippy one-liners, holiday themes, extravagant dance numbers, and a beautiful score make this show the perfect holiday event for the whole family!

At the time of this writing there were still tickets available to the 17th Annual Old-Fashioned Holiday Sing Along. Dan Chouinard returns to the St. Mane Theatre in downtown Lanesboro, produced by Lanesboro Arts. Honestly, I don’t know how long that will remain to be true – so get your tickets while you can! The 2023 Holiday show will feature a collection of songs, poems and stories from familiar faces, as well as the musical talents of Dan and his special guest, Connie Evingson! Tickets are on sale now for this heart-and-hearth warming evening for $28 ($25 Lanesboro Arts Members). This show is likely to sell out, so don’t wait!

Lanesboro Arts will also be hosting the 2024 Juried High School Art Show from January 13-28 in its gallery. The 2024 Annual Juried High School Art Show celebrates the immense creative talents of local high school students! This show will be on display at the Lanesboro Arts Exhibition Gallery. See artwork created by 9th-12th grade students from Chatfield, Fillmore Central, Lanesboro, Mabel-Canton, and Rushford-Peterson High Schools. The show features a variety of art works, including paintings, drawings, stained glass, mixed media sculpture and more. There will be an Opening Reception on Jan. 13 from 5 to 7 pm to celebrate these young artists.

On Saturday, Jan. 20, Lanesboro Arts presents Ann and Andy Lowe, AKA “Needy Dog” at the St. Mane Theatre at 7 pm. Performing original music from their “Time Will Take Us” and “Truckin’ Along" albums as well as some new songs, Ann and Andy will move you with their soulful harmonies, complementary guitar work and personal lyrics. Tickets are on sale now for $20 ($15 Lanesboro Arts Members). For Ann and Andy, it’s all about drawing rich, complex harmonies from a mixture of original music and songs by their favorite artists. Their music is accompanied by guitar, harmonica and banjo and is best characterized as contemporary acoustic folk. Performing under the moniker, Needy Dog, the duo are a share a mutual love of harmony and complementary guitar work. Their songs are deep, honest reflections on their lives and experience, and sure to touch their fans.

Winter Rock Climbing is back at Eagle Bluff! Learn the fundamentals of Rock Climbing as you work to reach your climbing goals on the 30 foot-high indoor wall with routes that suit every level of climber. No prior experience required, as the indoor wall offers over 35 routes, ranging from beginner to expert. The 30-foot wall has various features including multiple overhangs, cracks and a chimney. Eagle Bluff staff will be there to provide belay services and ensure safety and success. Climbers of all ages are welcome. Eagle Bluff will provide harnesses and helmets. Climbing shoes will be available if desired, but tennis shoes work fine. Personal climbing shoes are allowed, but please refrain from bringing in any other outside equipment (i.e. harnesses, chalk, belay devices). Tickets are $10 a person and can be purchased here: https://eaglebluffmn.org/event/winter-rock-climbing-2024/2024-01-20/

Jokes on Tap at Sylvan Brewing continues its year-round mission of bringing laughs to Lanesboro. Join hosts Ryan Stock and Andy Holt at an evening of hilarity, a regional comics showcase their talent, try out new material. Watching comedians work in real time is a real treat and this show always delivers. If you want to try your hand at stand-up, arrive a little early to check in with the host to sign up! Otherwise just show up early to get a seat, grab a pint, and get ready for some laughs! No cover charge. The next Jokes on Tap is Friday, Dec. 29.  

Sylvan Brewing’s Workshop Series is back. Just about every Sunday, local artists teach workshops on various things they like to make! The next workshop on Sunday, Jan. 7, is Soy Candle making. Back by popular demand, from like a couple weeks ago. Jamie is back to lead another fun afternoon of crafting while drinking some craft (beer). The $30 charge covers the costs of the materials, which will be provided. You’ll go home with five candles. Payment due at the time of the class.

The music continues at the High Court Pub through the end of the year! (and after that as well–the "tuneage" just doesn't stop at the High Court pub)!. Roots Rock, R&B, Pop and Country will be a part of the Fool’s Getaway when they perform tonight, Dec. 22. Mankato-based Jason Helder returns on Saturday, Dec. 23, for some Dylan and Prince covers along with his own, thought-provoking originals. We round out 2023 with Tom and Barb Schramm on Dec. 29, always a fun-as-hell night when Tom and Barb are on the stage. And musical savant Ryan Howe returns on Dec 30 to play some energetic, multi-instrumental covers and originals.

Of course Tuesday Trivia continues uninterrupted at the High Court Pub. It will continue through ad infinitum, never ending through time or memorial. There are (normally) three rounds of (usually) 10 questions that truly fit that Goldilocks rule - fitting just right in the middle where it’s accessible to everyone, but still feels good when you get it right. Be sure to like and follow the High Court Pub on Facebook for weekly freebie questions of the week! Like and comment on those posts for a chance to win a free drink token. The winning team gets $25 in drink tokens and there are trophies and other prizes as well. Truly, a fun time will be had by all. December topics include: On Dec. 26, we’ll look back at the year 2023 and ask…What happened? And the Trivia gods rest for no one. We’re back on Jan. 2 with 23 year in review, which sounds a lot like “What happened?” but it’s more like a "best of" list with 30(ish) of Wyatt's favorite questions from 2023. Then on Jan. 9 we’re talking food, we’re talking pyramids, and we’re talking baby schemes. Yeah, you heard me and there is nothing lazy about that portmanteau…or is it just a before and after? Anyway Jan 9 for Food Pyramid Schemes. A surprise guest host on the January 16 will also have a surprise topic. Then on Jan. 23, we’re talking about the best new (ish) board game sensation “Villainous,” or at least I think that's what it is? Because that game rules. But knowing Wyatt, he will branch that out to be a broader subject, I am sure. Finally, we end the month with a bang- No S#!t Sherlock – so probably poop and Holmes.

The Lanesboro American Legion has a new line-up!: Monday is Soup du Jour, starting at 3 pm until it’s gone, and bucket beers, five beers for $12. Taco Tuesdays is two tacos with fixings for $6 from 3 to 7 pm. Ladies' night is Wednesdays and men’s nights on Thursdays see $1 off drinks, respectively. Meat Raffles are on Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30. Family Fun Day is Saturday with $1 kiddy cocktails, $1 off a large pizza and a variety of games.

Remember to swing by Granny’s Liquor every Saturday from 12 to 3 p.m. for a Complimentary Tasting.

Melissa Vander Plas

Executive Director

Jonathan Levine

Office Administrator

Phone: (507) 467-2696

Web: lanesboro.com

Email: chamber@lanesboro.com

Events: Calendar