The quarterly meeting of Clear Valley Business Connections (CVBC) took place Thurs., April 11 at Rejoice Lutheran Church in Clearwater. 

On the agenda was discussion of the annual CVBC Clearwater/Clear Lake Business Expo, which will be held  Sun., May 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Clearwater Legion. There is still time to reserve a spot for your business at the annual business expo. Email CVBC Vice President Morgan Nicka for details or to sign up: morgan.nicka.07@gmail.com.

An update was given about the cities of Clearwater and Clear Lake, as well as an update from the EDA. 

CVBC Social Media Coordinator Chris Vasecka shared information about the four Thursday night CVBC Music In The Park events planned for this summer at Eldorado Park, 900 Kelsey Ave., Clearwater. The music events are offered free of charge (sponsored by CVBC and other local businesses). 

The schedule for Music In The Park is as follows: Thursday, June 13 from 6 to 8pm will feature Donny Brang (blues rock, country rock, easy listening and soft rock) Thursday, July 18 from 6 to 8pm Singleton Street will take the stage (bluegrass, Celtic, gospel and Americana music); Thursday, August 1st from 6 to 8pm will feature The Farmer’s Daughter country act and the fourth and final Music In The Park event will take place Thursday, August 22 from 6 to 8pm with Cruise Control performing easy listening and dance music. 

Food and beverages will be provided for sale by local Clearwater youth groups. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and/or a blanket to enjoy the music. 

Clearwater-Clear Lake Food Shelf Board President Mary Abraham talked about the long awaited groundbreaking on their new facility. Abraham has been busy writing grants and helping secure enough funds to move forward with construction on the new building with a goal to break ground early this summer. 

Since its inception 26 years ago, the Clearwater-Clear Lake Food Shelf has occupied a space of approximately 400 square feet in the Clearwater Lions Community Building. More space is desperately needed. Client usage has steadily grown. Because of rising food costs, the organization has seen an increase of 20% of those in need. The new building will provide a safer environment, be handicap accessible, and have public rest rooms. The building design has been completed.

For anyone in need, the Clearwater-Clear Lake Food Shelf is currently located in the Lions Community Building under the Clearwater water tower at 1100 Co. Rd. 75. Hours of operation are Mondays 5:30 to 7 p.m., Tuesdays 9 to 11 a.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., and Wednesdays 3 to 5 p.m.

An update was given on the possibility of starting a Clearwater Farmer’s Market. Watch for more details in the future. 

Pastor David Fogal of Tri County Alliance gave an update on the welcome packets being distributed through the CVBC. 

CVBC Treasurer Eron Bordson gave a report. 

The next meeting of the CVBC will be held Thurs., July 11 at St. Cloud/Clearwater RV Park from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.