Chamber Links: news and updates | | January 28th, 2026 | Volume 8 Issue 1 | | This Newsletter is Powered by Catalyst Member | |
Full Steam Ahead
A new year always brings a renewed sense of energy, focus, and possibility—and 2026 is already shaping up to be an exceptional year for the Lake City Chamber of Commerce.
This January, we’ve hit the ground running with a clear commitment to organization, innovation, and modernization...
Read more from Heather's blog here
| | Some Happenings in the Lake City Area | | |
Jeff Bordes and Friends
February 14th, 7pm
(Widespot Performing Arts Center)
This Valentine’s Day, The WideSpot welcomes jazz trumpeter Jeff Bordes for his Wabasha debut, bringing a show that blends romantic ballads with the joyful spirit of Mardi Gras. Expect a night that’s tender, funky, and full of New Orleans flair.
Bordes, a nationally touring artist known for fiery horn lines and soul-soaked performances, create a sound that brings together blues, brass, and heart. His WideSpot premiere will feature love songs, second-line grooves, and music that invites you to slow dance one minute and let loose the next.
Get tickets here
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Candlelight Hike and Ski
January 31st, 6-8pm
(Frontenac State Park)
Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight! Snowshoe, ski, or hike the trail along the bluff top with beautiful views of the Mississippi River Valley, lit by dozens of luminaries and the light of the full moon. Warm up at campfires at either end of the trail or enjoy some light refreshments by the wood stove in the warming shelter. Refreshments provided by the Frontenac State Park Association volunteer group.
Vehicles entering the park are required to have a State Park vehicle permit. If you have questions, call Frontenac State Park at 651-299-3000.
Learn more about the event here
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Ice Fishing Tournament
February 21st, 9am-7pm
(Lake City Sportsman's Club)
Can you believe that Lake City has been celebrating this venerable winter event for 58 years?! Join the Lake City Sportsman's Club on February 21st for their annual Ice Fishing Tournament!
This event is about so much more than catching fish, it's about community, it's about fun, it's about family, and it's about supporting one of the areas most beloved organizations!
Enjoy a bloody mary bar, a raffle and silent auction, kid's events, and great food, and much more!
There's no entry fee for kids under 15 and only $5 for the adult contest. Get there at 9am when the fun kicks off!
See the schedule here
| | Lake City Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Celebration | | |
Step into the shadows of the 1920s and enter The Moonlight Club — a hidden speakeasy where deals are made, jazz fills the air, and a little mischief may be lurking. Join the Lake City Chamber of Commerce for our Annual Dinner & Awards, an unforgettable night of food, entertainment, and recognition.
Learn more and register here
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Personal Finance for Real Life
Financial stress is one of the most common—and most distracting—challenges employees face today. When employees worry about money, it impacts focus, morale, absenteeism, and even retention. Minnesota State College Southeast's Personal Finance for Real Life 3-part course is a practical, no-pressure course designed to help employees build confidence and control around their personal finances—skills that directly support a healthier, more engaged workforce. Register here
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Minnesota Chamber Podcast
EPISODE 111: HOW ONE MINNESOTA MANUFACTURER IS NAVIGATING WORKFORCE CHALLENGES IN THE STATE
Increased immigration enforcement creates uncertainty in the state's construction sector. Michele Tafoya announces her bid for U.S. Senate. Later, hear how one Minnesota manufacturer is navigating workforce challenges in the state. Find the podcast here
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Immigration Enforcement Toolkit
Immigration worksite enforcement remains an important consideration for many employers. Staying informed about changes in immigration laws and enforcement priorities is essential to maintaining compliance and reducing risk. Regularly reviewing trusted resources and preparedness materials can help employers anticipate potential challenges, implement effective mitigation strategies and respond confidently and proactively.
This overview highlights resources to support employer awareness and preparedness regarding immigration enforcement. Organizations should consult qualified legal counsel for guidance specific to their circumstances. Get the toolkit here
Read the open letter from 60 Minnesota based CEO's about the difficult situation in Minnesota here
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January Business After Hours
Join us for Business After Hours hosted by KLCH – Lake Hits 95 on Thursday, January 29, from 5:00–6:30 pm!
Business After Hours is a fun, casual networking event open to the public and a great way to connect with local business owners, professionals, and community members in a relaxed, after-work setting. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle, make new connections, and get a behind-the-scenes look at Lake Hits 95, one of Lake City’s longtime local media staples.
We look forward to seeing you there! See the Facebook event post here
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Workforce Development Forum
Workforce Development Inc, in partnership with CareerForce, the Workforce Development Boards of Southeast Minnesota and Winona, and the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, are pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 Workforce Development Forum taking place on April 9, 2026. Sports broadcaster, entrepreneur, author, and 19-time Emmy winner Joe Schmidt will deliver the keynote speech and the 2026 Best Places to Work winners will be celebrated and recognized. Register here
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On 1/9/2026, Lake City Chamber of Commerce staff, ambassadors, and community members gathered at Dilly Dallies to officially welcome them as a new Chamber member with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony.
Dilly Dallies owners Brad and Michelle Austin are excited to open their new store, Dilly Dallies LLC, in Lake City. Opening a shop has been a long-time dream, with many locations considered over the years, but none matched the warm welcome they received in Lake City.
With more than two decades of collecting antiques, vintage treasures, and unique thrift finds, Brad and Michelle are thrilled to finally share these pieces with the community instead of keeping them tucked away in storage. Each item sparks conversation and nostalgia, bringing memories of decades past to life.
The vision for Dilly Dallies is to offer a thoughtfully curated variety of goods that reflect the wants and needs of the community, ensuring there’s something special for everyone. Coming soon, the shop will also feature men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel, with plans for a grand opening in spring 2026.
More than just a store, Dilly Dallies is designed to be a welcoming gathering space where community connections can grow. Events and activities are planned, and ideas are always welcome. Stop in, say hello, browse around, or simply relax in a comfy chair—they look forward to seeing you soon!
Ribbon Cutting events bring together Chamber staff, board members, ambassadors, and local business leaders to celebrate new Chamber member establishments, showcase their offerings, and encourage the community to support them.
Pictured Left to Right: Heather Thomas (LC Chamber), Melissa Krier (New Image Windows, Siding and Roofing), Noah Austin (Dilly Dallies), Dave Breitenfield (Lake City Boat Club and Rentals), Brad Austin (Dilly Dallies) Mary Santelman (Ambassador), Michelle Austin (Dilly Dallies), Vicki Krage (Lakeshore Real Estate), Bella Austin (Dilly Dallies), Nancy Denzer (Lakeshore Real Estate), Kevin Beauvais (Lake City Port Authority), Doug Grout (Lake City Port Authority), Annie Freid (LC Chamber), Cole Tousignant (Wagner Oehler, Ltd.), Amy Henderson (The Lake City Graphic)
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