Events for December 2018
Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce
Dec 1    Volunteer Information Session

Join Kids 'n Kinship in building a stronger community through youth mentorships!

Kids 'n Kinship is a non-profit organization making successful mentoring matches for over 45 years in Dakota County. Individual, couple, and family mentors are needed to provide friendship to youth ages 5-16 in need of a positive role model. Caring, encouraging role models are needed. As a volunteer mentor you would get together with your mentee for an hour or two each week doing low cost or now cost actiities like biking, playing catch, board games, drawing or arts and crafts, going to the park, eating dinner together, or visiting the library. You can also become a mentor in our School-based program where you would meet with your mentee at school for one hour/week and work on reading, spelling, math, or have lunch together. Mentoring is fun and rewarding and can make a huge impact! Find out more at an upcoming Information Session:

Saturday, December 1 from 4:00-5:00 pm at the Robert Trail Library in Rosemount

The Information Session is the place to hear about the children who are waiting for mentors, the volunteer screening process, and the activities and benefits provided by Kids 'n Kinship. We schedule Information Sessions every few weeks, so if this date is not convenient, we'll plan a date and time that works for you. 

Please RSVP at dakinship@aol.com. See also www.kidsnkinship.org 

Date: December 1, 2018
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Website: http://www.kidsnkinship.org/
Location: Robert Trail Library 
14395 South Robert Trail, Rosemount    
Contact: Debbie
EMail: dakinship@aol.com
Date/Time Details: Saturday, December 1 from 4:00-5:00 pm
Fees/Admission: No Charge
Dec 2 - Dec 31    Giving Tree @ Chuck & Don's-West St. Paul
Chuck & Don's in West St Paul is collecting items to benefit the animal residents of the Leech Lake community in Northern MN. By partnering with Leech Lake Legacy, we hope to cross many items off their wishlist this holiday season.

Leech Lake Legacy is an animal welfare organization that empowers Native American communities to enrich the lives of animals by providing resources and sharing information.

To help them continue in their efforts, pick an ornament from our Giving Tree listing a needed item by stopping into the store during Decembe. Purchase/donate that item that is listed. Return it to the West St. Paul location to be delivered in January.

Lend a helping paw. Support animal welfare in MN!
Date: December 2, 2018
Location: Chuck & Don's-West St Paul
2069 S Robert St
West St Paul, MN 55118
Contact: Alisha Balzer
EMail: mgr030@chuckanddons.com
Date/Time Details: December 1st through 31st
Dec 5    Business Owners Roundtable
The DCR Chamber Business Owner's Roundtable provides fellow business owners with a forum to develop successful business strategies, engage a sounding board, and hear new tactical ideas. We promote open exchange of ideas through group discussion and individual expert presentations.

Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7:30 a.m. at the Dakota County Regional (DCR) Chamber office.

You must be a DCR Chamber member to participate.  This is an invitation only group.
Date: December 5, 2018
Time: 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Location: DCR Chamber Office
3352 Sherman Court, Suite 201, Eagan MN 55121
Contact: Jeffrey B. Larson
EMail: jeffreyb@jblcompanies.com
Date/Time Details: 1st Wednesday of the Month
7:30 am - 9:00 am
Fees/Admission: Free to attend.
Dec 5    Member Listed Event: VIRTUAL REFINE Gathering

 



A networking group where like minded women meet to grow personally + professionally + in their faith.  

An awesome space where you can connect, collaborate and grow your business/career and invest in yourself.  

At the Refine Gathering you will be:   
 •  renewed by get grounded in the word  
 •  encouraged, understood and empowered   
 •  fulfilled by being a blessing and be blessed by other women  
 •  inspired to embrace who you are unapologetically  
 •  nurtured by connecting with amazing like-minded women   
 •  equipped to take action and your next steps with purpose

Come as you ARE!  Do life with us!  Together we grow personally, professionally, and in our faith! 

To Register for the Refine Gathering »» http://refinecommunity/vipguest
*use the name Kim Leqve in the "who were you referred by box and be my guest for FREE*

Date: December 5, 2018
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Website: http://www.keepingitpersonal.com/gatherings
Location: From the comfort of your own home, office or where ever you choose to log onto your computer and join us! 
Contact: Kim Leqve
EMail: kim@keepingitpersonal.com
Date/Time Details: The first Wednesday of each month
9:30am to 11:00am CST
Fees/Admission:

 

To Register for the Refine Gathering »» http://refinecommunity/vipguest
*use the name Kim Leqve in the "who were you referred by box and be my guest for FREE*

Dec 5    It's A Wonderful Life Benefit Performance
It’s A Wonderful Life, based on the classic movie of the same name, is considered one of the most inspirational and best loved holiday stories. This performance, set as if it were a live radio broadcast of the film from the 1940’s, is full of emotion, humor, sound effects, and lots of classic holiday music. It will have you counting your blessings during the holiday season. Thanks to the generosity of the cast and The Saint Paul Hotel, all ticket sales will go toward the emergency and supportive services programs at Neighbors, Inc.
Date: December 5, 2018
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Website: https://www.picatic.com/WonderfulLifeNeighbors
Location: The Saint Paul Hotel 350 Market Street St. Paul, MN 55102
Contact: Heidi Satre Marketing & Events Manager 651-306-2154
EMail: heidi@neighborsmn.org
Date/Time Details: Wednesday, December 5th 6:30pm Social Hour 7:00pm Doors Open 7:30pm Performance
Fees/Admission: $35 General Admission $25 Volunteer Rate Tables are also available for purchase.
Dec 6    Joint Coffee Break: Town Square TV
Start your morning off right with a fresh cup of coffee, a business card, and a visit to a DCR Chamber member at a joint event with River Heights Chamber of Commerce.

The monthly Coffee Break was established to casually network while gathering in a comfortable relaxed atmosphere.  Join us for a great morning of networking.

We encourage you to bring one non-perishable food item or cash donation to benefit the efforts of Neighbors, Inc. for families in need this holiday season!



Note: This event is open to ALL MEMBERS. 

Date: December 6, 2018
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Website: https://www.townsquare.tv/
Location: Town Square Television
5845 Blaine Avenue
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
Contact: Nicole McCarthy
EMail: nmccarthy@dcrchamber.com
Date/Time Details: Thursday, December 6th
8 a.m. - 9 a.m.
Fees/Admission: FREE!
Dec 6    Ribbon Cutting: Mana Bakery

Ribbon Cutting for Mana Bakery!

Mana Bakery has opened in Burnsville! Mana (spanish for "Bread from Heaven") Bakery specializes in Ecuadorian and Mexican treats! Come to help us celebrate their new business!

The schedule is as follows:
 
3:00 - 3:30 p.m. Reception
3:30 P.M.  Ribbon Cutting
4:00 p.m. Event Concludes


We’d love for you to be there!!

Date: December 6, 2018
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location:
Mana Bakery
2006 County Rd 42 West 
Burnsville, Minnesota
Contact: Nicole McCarthy
EMail: nmccarthy@dcrchamber.com
Date/Time Details: Thursday, December 6th, 2018
3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Fees/Admission: FREE!
Dec 7     2018 December Public Affairs Breakfast

The Republican Party has dominated Minnesota's politics for much of the state's history. Today's party, though, is very different from the progressive Republican Party that came to power with Harold Stassen in 1938, had its heyday in the middle of the twentieth century and faded into near-obscurity by the 1990s.  But from the ideas and ideals of that dynamic political movement sprang modern Minnesota's success story.  

Please join us as we hear from co-authors of, "When Republicans were Progressive," former Senator Dave Durenberger and longtime political reporter and award-winning author, Lori Sturdevant. Be sure to join us and get your copy; the book will be available for purchase.​​


Dave Durenberger is a retired three-term United States Senator and the Retired Chair of the National Institute of Health Policy.

Lori Sturdevant is an editorial writer for the Star Tribune and has written several books on Minnesota History.

 
Date: December 7, 2018
Time: 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Website: http://dcrchamber.com
Location: Lost Spur Golf and Event Center 
2750 Sibley Memorial Highway
Eagan, MN  55121
Map it
Contact: Diane Mavis, Director of Programs and Events (651) 288-9202
EMail: dmavis@dcrchamber.com
Date/Time Details: Friday, December 7, 2018
7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Registration
and Breakfast Buffet

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. 
Program
Fees/Admission: Member:  $25
Non-members: $40
Prices includes breakfast
Dec 10    Good Day Dakota County, DCR Chamber Holiday Party
 
 

Registration for this event has closed. 
Please call 651-452-9872.


We're excited to have the Rosemount High School Choir join us to share their talents and sing us into the 2018 holiday spirit. 

We'll also have some of our nonprofit community service members in attendance to remind us of the importance of the "reason for the season."  We will be giving a portion of our proceeds to these organizations as part of our fundraising for 2018.  

Some of the nonprofit organizations joining us include:

DARTS - A community-based nonprofit organization serving seniors (ages 55+) and their families since 1974, helping them to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.

Kids 'n Kinship - Kids 'n Kinship provides friendships and positive role models to children and youth ages 5-16 who are in need of an additional supportive relationship with an adult.

Neighbors, Inc. - Neighbors was established by local churches in 1972 and relies on nearly 1,500 volunteers to provide almost all the services. It has been a tradition at Neighbors to connect generous holiday gift givers to families. To adopt a family this holiday season: Neighbors' Holiday Gift Program provides gifts for families.

360 Communities - Founded more than 45 years ago by a group of volunteers, 360 Communities provides hope and support to about 17,000 individuals each year with various programs, including food shelves, domestic violence shelters, resource centers and programs.  

The Open Door Pantry - The Open Door—with the support of the community—is able to assist thousands of local individuals each month through a variety of programs designed to connect those in need with fresh, nutritious options.  

Elevate Life USA - Is a life-affirming, non-profit organization that provides an affiliated network of pregnancy resource centers and clinics.  

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with other Chamber members, enjoy a delicious lunch and toast for the new year!

*Subject to change without notice.

Date: December 10, 2018
Time: 11:15 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Rosemount Community Center 
13885 S. Robert Trail
Rosemount, MN  55068
Map it
 
Contact: Diane Mavis, Director of Programs and Events - 651.288.9202
EMail: dmavis@dcrchamber.com
Date/Time Details: Monday, December 10, 2018
11:15 a.m.  to 1:00 p.m.
Fees/Admission: $30.00 Chamber members
$45.00 non Chamber members
*Registration is required.
Cancellation Policy:  Substitutions are welcome.
Dec 12    Peer2Peer Roundtable
Peer-to-Peer Development Roundtable provides the opportunity to network with your business peers; stay abreast of new developments through learning and sharing at each meeting; and achieve personal growth through educational topics relevant to your professional responsibilities. This group accommodates only one member per industry and total size is limited to no more than 25 members.
  • Meets twice per month on the second and fourth Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
  • Four social events will be held with other networking groups each year
  • Application required with approval
  • Attendance required - Must attend 75% of the bi-monthly meetings and one-half of the social gatherings.
  • Non-Competitive; Industry Exclusive unless approved by industry peer
  • Free to Chamber members in good standing
If you are interested in participating, please contact Jim Probst for more information.
 
Date: December 12, 2018
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Location: DCR Chamber Office
3352 Sherman Court, Suite 201
Eagan
Contact: Jim Probst, 651.455.4559
EMail: jim.probst@fastsigns.com
Date/Time Details: 2nd & 4th Wednesday's of the month
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Fees/Admission: Free for Chamber members
Dec 12    ChamberLead
ChamberLead is performance-based and designed for sales-oriented business professionals interested in growing their bottom line through good quality referrals. This group accommodates only one member per industry and total size is limited to no more than 20 members.
  • Meets twice per month on the second and fourth Wednesday from Noon to 1:00 p.m.
  • Four social events will be held with other networking groups each year
  • Application required with approval
  • Attendance required ? Must attend 75% of the bi-monthly meetings and one-half of the social gatherings. 
  • Group members must provide a minimum of two qualified leads per month
  • Free to Chamber members in good standing
If you are interested in participating, please contact Chris Dixon, 612.432.1021, for more information.
Date: December 12, 2018
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:15 PM
Location: DCR Chamber Office
3352 Sherman Court, Suite 201
Eagan
Contact: Chris Dixon, 612.432.1021
Date/Time Details: 2nd & 4th Wednesday's of the month
Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Fees/Admission: Free for Chamber members
Dec 12    Holiday Open House

Please join us for our Holiday Open House!

Stop by to enjoy:
• Refreshments
• Giveaways/Prizes
• Travel Specials
• And More

We hope to see you there!

Date: December 12, 2018
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Website: http://www.tvlleaders.com
Location: Travel Leaders Mendota Heights Office
750 Main St, Suite 105
St Paul, MN 55118
Contact: Call the Mendota Heights Office for details: 651-686-9903
EMail: MendotaHeights@tvlleaders.com
Date/Time Details: Wednesday, December 12 from 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Fees/Admission: FREE
Dec 12    Ribbon Cutting: Home 2 Suites by Hilton
Join us for a Ribbon Cutting celebration to celebrate the
Grand Opening of Home 2 Suites by Hilton!

Home 2 Suites by Hilton has just recently opened its doors! Home 2 Suites is an extended stay hotel that's perfect for every traveler; located next to the Twin Cities Premium Outlet Mall.

The schedule is as follows:
 
4:00 P.M. Reception
4:30 P.M.  Ribbon Cutting
5:00 - 8:00 P.M. Grand Opening 

Light appetizers and drinks will be served! We’d love for you to be there!!

Thank you to our Ribbon Cutting Sponsor:
Date: December 12, 2018
Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Home 2 Suites by Hilton
3939 Cedar Grove Parkway
Eagan, MN 55122
Contact: Nicole McCarthy
EMail: nmccarthy@dcrchamber.com
Date/Time Details: Date:
Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Time:
4 P.M. - 8 P.M.
Fees/Admission: FREE!
Dec 15    Pet Photos with Santa
Celebrate the season with photos of your pet with Santa!

Our ametuer photographer would be thrilled to capture the magic of your pet meeting Santa. They are able to accomodate pets of all shapes and sizes, as well as multiples. Your images will be conveniently available online for easy printing and downloading.

The fee for this event is a $20.00 donation per session to our Pawprint Fundraiser benefitting 3 local non-profits. Beneficiaries include; MnSNAP, Heading Home K9 Rescue and Ruff Start Rescue.

This is a first come, first served event. Please call the store for more details.
Date: December 15, 2018
Time: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: Chuck & Don's-West St Paul
2069 S Robert St
West St Paul, MN 55118
Contact: Alisha Balzer
EMail: mgr030@chuckanddons.com
Date/Time Details: Saturday, December 15th
12pm-3pm
Fees/Admission: $20 Pawprint Fundraiser Donation
Dec 19    Meet the Chamber
Interested in being engaged with the DCR Chamber? Come check out our monthly Meet the Chamber event.

Meet The Chamber (New & Prospective Member Orientation) is a monthly meeting to provide an opportunity for new members, new company representatives and prospective members to meet and learn all about how to get the most from their DCR Chamber membership.

Involvement in committees, monthly networking and special regional events, and marketing/advertising opportunities are just a few of the topics discussed at meeting.

Each attendee is also given the opportunity to introduce themselves and give a 30 second commercial about their business or position.

Coffee and a light breakfast will be served.

Come check us out!

RSVP to 651.452.9872 or online. 

Date: December 19, 2018
Time: 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Location:
Spire Credit Union
1251 Town Centre Drive
Eagan, MN 55122
Contact: Nicole McCarthy (651) 288-9200
EMail: nmccarthy@dcrchamber.com
Date/Time Details: Last Wednesday of the month.
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Fees/Admission: Free to attend.  RSVP Required.
Dec 24 - Jan 1    DCR Chamber Office Closed
DCR Chamber Office Closed

Happy Holidays!
Date: December 24, 2018