Be 110% ALL IN with a $110 donation or another amount. Large or small, every contribution adds up to make a tremendous difference. You are helping your community while also maintaining the great tradition of Clear Lake’s events. Your generosity is very much appreciated.  Thank you for your continued support. Together, let’s be All in Clear Lake. Click here to donate now!

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Dear Clear Lake,

Clear Lake has had a long-standing tradition of events throughout year.  As we are often considered a summer destination for tourists and travelers, it’s a true testament to the community that we continue to host events during the ‘off season’ for our year ‘round residents as well.

It is because of our local Chamber of Commerce that these events happen.  Their mission is to establish activities for the betterment of the whole community; residents and businesses alike.

While the year started out strong, we could never have predicted it would take such a drastic turn.  Many countless hours of planning and preparation were ruined with the onset of strict restrictions due to COVID-19. While the early postponements were disappointing to endure, it was the cancellation of our beloved 4th of July Extravaganza that hurt the most.

They say you don’t know what you’re missing until it’s gone, and that statement has never been more truthful.  Activities on July 4th, Thursdays on Main, and all the other events put on by the Chamber are truly a blessing to this town.  I don’t know of any other communities around North Iowa who provide a full carnival for days on end, along with free concerts in the park and a spectacular firework show over the lake at sunset – and that’s just for one event!

And while the sadness looms from the many cancellations, our local Chamber Team powered through.  They thought outside of the box to create new events to meet the safety protocols in order to establish some sense of normalcy for our community.  Their innovation, coupled with their constant upbeat, positive attitude, have made this pandemic a bit more bearable for many of us.

To combat the loss of income for our local businesses, they jumped into action with the “Buy-In” gift card campaign, creating a boost to our economy and lifting the spirits of many people in Clear Lake.  When Thursdays on Main could not be safely held, they created Thursdays Online, a virtual event with ‘live’ music, vendor market, and a shout out to the Class of 2020.   Food Truck Friday was added for those missing that fabulous, comforting cuisine uptown.

In the Spring, Earth Day went virtual, even holding the run/walk in an individual manner for participants.

To encourage people to “Be a Tourist in their own Backyard” Libbey created the Family Fun Pack and distributed them to 300 individuals.  It was filled to the brim with local goodies and awesome activities.

We touted to folks in the Midwest that Clear Lake was here, open to visitors who felt comfortable.  A hospitality toolkit was created and left just outside the Chamber office for people who wanted information on our incredible restaurants, activities, attractions and more!

Our Chamber has always been here for us, and now it’s time for us to be there for them.

I encourage you to donate now, so we can continue these traditions for years to come.

Sincerely,

Denni Sue Erickson
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce First Mate & Board Chair