During their quarterly meeting last week, Clear Valley Business Connection (CVBC) members discussed upcoming events, including the reintroduction of Music in the Park and the annual Explore Clearwater/Clear Lake Business Expo and community guide.

Music in the Park

Members were updated on recent preliminary meetings regarding the reintroduction of Music in the Park to Clearwater this summer, which the CVBC would host. The first event is tentatively planned for the evening of May 27. 

The goal is to have two to three performances this year and then request feedback from the community. The event is planned as a way for local businesses to give back to the community as well as getting everyone outside and together. 

Bands and musicians have been contacted for information on rates. Different genres of music will be featured each time.

Although still preliminary, Cale Leiviska informed organizers that he is interested in hosting the first Music in the Park at his business, Airborn Disc Golf Preserve. 

Business Expo

Because it was necessary to cancel the event last year, CVBC members are especially excited to hold the annual Explore Clearwater/Clear Lake Business Expo this year on May 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will again take place in the back of the Clearwater American Legion to coincide with their omelet breakfast.

Participation in the event is free for businesses that have paid their yearly CVBC dues. Nonmembers can purchase a table for $50, which also covers the annual membership to the organization. Organizers will be looking at capacity to ensure they meet gathering restrictions.

Along with information on who they are, participating business are encouraged to have games, raffles, freebies, and employment information at their tables. Some will also have products for sale. Event setup will be at 9 a.m. that morning.

The CVBC, which hosts the event, will be running an advertisement in the Patriot for three weeks, along with placing signs inviting the community to the event. Member businesses that have electronic signs will also post the information. 

Community Guide

Mary Nehring of the Patriot newspaper informed the group that the paper will be publishing the 2021 Clearwater/Clear Lake Community Guide in May. Businesses that have paid their annual CVBC dues will have their name listed in the CVBC advertisement.

Businesses interested in placing their own individual advertising in the guide should contact Nehring by the end of April at adsales@patriotnews.com. 

Other Business

The next CVBC meeting will be 11:30 a.m. July 8 at the St. Cloud/Clearwater RV Park.