Great News and Great Events

Last week I talked about the importance of taking the time to vote. It is, indeed, democracy at work.  I’m hoping you’ll take the time today, if you haven’t already, to show up in this way! Last week, several media reached out to the Chamber asking for our comments on the City of St. Paul’s sales tax proposal. I reiterated our member’s concern, the negative economic outcomes to be considered, and other ways to address this long-standing disinvestment of city infrastructure.
 
As we look ahead through to the end of the year, we see so much to engage in and celebrate!
 
Last week we also received extraordinary news from the GroundBreak Coalition: they have announced investments of nearly $1 billion to expand wealth building opportunities in the Greater MSP region. This is a significant step toward the coalition’s goal of mobilizing $5.3 billion over the decade to expand equitable wealth-building through an innovative approach shaped by community members. 
 
Also: the St. Paul Downtown Alliance and Visit Saint Paul have partnered on a really fun video campaign, Your Place. If you haven’t seen the series yet, check it out, and share, here on LinkedIn!
 
Great events are ahead as well:
First, our regular Lunch With Leaders – Economic Development update is this Wednesday, Nov 8, at the University of St. Thomas.  Great projects are underway! We will hear from Dr. Bill McGuire on United Village and Chris Sherman, Sherman Associates, on Landmark Towers and The Heights.   
 
Second, from our friends at Visit Saint Paul and the St. Paul Downtown Alliance: this Friday is the official kickoff and return of the “Saint Paulidays” in downtown! Please join us all on Friday evening at 5:30 p.m. in Rice Park as we throw the giant switch on hundreds of thousands of twinkle lights in downtown. Partners at the Salvation Army are back again this year with the 40-foot-tall tree, and for this year's event they're bringing Vikings legend Cris Carter with them. There will be music, treats and more, and we hope to see you and all your families there. The park lighting marks the start of the festivities and holiday season which is shaping up to be another absolutely magical one in downtown Saint Paul. The GLOW Holiday lights show is back and better than ever at CHS Field and opening its gates a week earlier this year. Beginning Nov. 16 you'll be able to spend an evening completely immersed in the incredible interactive displays in Lowertown.
 
Third, our 6th Annual Equity Summit VI: Transformation, presented by Wells Fargo, is fast approaching on Nov. 14. Please join us, as we explore what it takes to truly transform ourselves, our organizations, and our communities.
 
Finally, mark your calendars for our annual Holiday Chamber Connect, presented by the MN Timberwolves and SPIRE Credit Union, on Tuesday, Dec 5, at Landmark Center.  This event is a partnership between the St. Paul Area Chamber, MN Black Chamber of Commerce, and MN Hmong Chamber of Commerce. Come experience fun food, beverages from local restaurants, caterers, breweries and more, and fabulous people!  Feel free to come dressed for the season!
 
See you in the trenches!