Member FDIC

At the Chamber, we love seeing the antics of Citizens Bank staff as they do “cash mobs” and other events that promote the “Shopping Local” message.  I like to say, “when you can, get what you can, in New Ulm!”  Obviously there are purchases that need to be made elsewhere or online, but one of our Chamber priorities is to promote what is available in New Ulm.  From groceries to gifts, cars to carnations, we enjoy a solid retail environment on a daily basis.  We are also a retail destination for people from other communities and guests or visitors who are coming to participate in our festivals and see our attractions.

One of the ways the Chamber promotes shopping in New Ulm is through the Chamber Dollars program.  Chamber Dollars can be purchased at the Chamber Office at 1 N. Minnesota and can be used or redeemed at over 300 businesses in New Ulm that are Chamber Members.  They are available in denominations of $5, $10, $20 & $25 and there is no activation fee or additional cost to the person buying the Chamber Dollar.  Also, the program is designed so that there is no additional cost to the businesses to participate.  Chamber Dollars make great gifts for the holidays for spouses and service providers.  Area employers like to use them as customer appreciation or to recognize employee effort.  Every year, approximately $150,000 in Chamber Dollars is circulated through New Ulm businesses.   If you haven’t ever bought or used one, please stop in at the Chamber and we’ll help you see how easy it can be!

Upcoming New Ulm Happenings!

New Ulm has a long tradition of hosting fun events for women during the first two weekends of November – otherwise known as the “Shopping Opener”.  2014 will be the 11^th year of the Annual New Ulm Women’s Expo and Craft Fair on Saturday, November 8 at Jefferson Elementary School. This event has free admission and over 100 vendors are participating.  The GnomeMade Artisian & Vintage Market (November 7-8) is hosted in 17 historic locations or artisan homes in New Ulm.   Other events include retail store open houses, music at the Grand Kabaret and plenty of eats at our local restaurants.  For more information go to the www.newulm.com website or call us at the Chamber.  We are gathering more information about the activities as we get closer to the date.

Just a few short weeks later, New Ulm’s Parade of Lights will be Friday, November 29. This family holiday tradition includes 60 units decked out in holiday lights and features the arrival of “you know who” to New Ulm. Start time is 6pm and the parade goes from 4^th South and Minnesota to 4^th North and Minnesota Streets in New Ulm’s historic downtown.  See you there!

By: Audra Shaneman

President & CEO New Ulm Chamber