Hello everyone and welcome back to the council update. We are here today with council member Mon'nique Garza to talk about an exciting event coming up in Cottage Grove. So council member Garza, thanks for joining us. >> Hey Phil, thanks for having me. I am really excited to talk about this one. >> So why don't we just jump right in. So, Council Member Garza, what is happening on Saturday, April 25th? >> Well, on Saturday, April 25th, the Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual community showcase, and it's one of the best opportunities all year to connect with our local business community. >> And you are connected to the local business community and the Chamber of Commerce. I I believe you serve on the board, correct? >> Yes, I do. I love the opportunity to serve on our Cottage Grove Chambers board. It's a really great opportunity to connect with over 250 businesses that we have registered with our chamber. >> That is so cool. And so for someone who's never attended before, what can they expect from the showcase? >> The community showcase brings together local businesses, nonprofits, service organizations, and community groups all under one roof. You'll have the chance to meet business owners, learn about new products and services, discover local resources, and make great connections. It's really a celebration of everything that makes Cottage Grove such a vibrant and growing community. >> And speaking of vibrant community, if somebody wanted to get involved at the showcase, how do they do that? >> Yes, I will let you know right now that we are still looking for vendors and sponsors. So, if you would like to get your business out there amongst four, five, 600 people. It may be more than that. I'm not really sure. So, if you're interested, you can reach out to Lori Lavine of the Cottage Grove Chamber. And I know this opportunity is open one week until the event begins. >> That is really fantastic and thank you for sharing that, Council Member Garza. And just in general, why is the event like this uh an important one for our city? >> Well, you know, and I know supporting local businesses is critical to keeping our community strong when we shop local and build relationships with our business community. We're investing right back into Cottage Grove. Events like this create energy, collaboration, and opportunity. and they remind us how much talent and innovation we have right here at home. >> And who should attend? >> Everyone, honestly. Families, residents, business owners, and anyone interested in getting more involved in our community. Whether you're looking to network and find services or just enjoy a fun and welcoming atmosphere, there's something for you. >> And at Memory Serves, there's a bingo card involved. >> Yes. A lot of fun. So on this bingo card, there's a lot of local businesses. So, if you want to stop by each one, drop that bingo card in a raffle and you can win a really cool prize. I know in the past they've given away Mall of America packages, bikes, scooters, like all sorts of fun things. So, I would encourage you to get out there, stop by, say hello to me. I'll be there. >> Are you supposed to shout bingo if you get or no? >> You know, I'm not sure. >> Maybe just turn the card in. >> If I got bingo, I would shout bingo. I would. >> Well, it sounds super fun and it really does sound like a great event. >> Yes, definitely. So, I would say get out there and have a lot of fun. I encourage everyone to mark their calendars for Saturday, April 25th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Park High School in the activity center and come out to support our local businesses and connect with neighbors. I'm looking forward to seeing you there. >> That is really great, Council Member Garza. So, we will see you all at the community showcase. And that is going to do it for us for this month's council update. Thank you to Council Member Garza for joining us and thank you to True Lens Community Media for producing these videos. We will see you next time.