'Surf's up' is the theme at Jan. 29 Woodbury Chamber Gala

The Woodbury Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Gala Friday, Jan. 29 at the Prom Center in Oakdale. The event, which begins at 6 p.m. features dinner, silent auction and community awards. Platinum sponsors include Tiger Oak Publications (Woodbury Magazine) and Woodbury Bulletin. The chamber is looking for additional sponsors.

Guests will enjoy a “tropical get-away” setting in the dead of Minnesota winter as the Prom Center transforms with island music, delicious tastes, smells and colorful scenes of warmer climes and states of mind. The annual gala celebrates accomplishments and provides an opportunity for businesses and residents alike to come together for a time of networking, camaraderie and fun. The entire community is invited to attend this major fundraiser that helps sustain the Chamber of Commerce.

The event begins at 6 p.m. with a social hour and silent auction offering great deals donated by local businesses. Dinner is served at 7:30 p.m., followed by the annual chamber awards ceremony honoring Business, Citizen and Educators of the Year. Nominations forms are available at www.woodburychamber.org and will be accepted through Nov.20, 2009.

Tickets are $50 per person or $400 pertable, and can be obtained by calling Nancy Kennedy in the Chamber office, (651) 578-0722. Formal invitations will be mailed in early January.

“I’m really excited about this year’s theme. The kid-at-heart in me wants to say ‘hang ten, dudes!’ I believe Woodbury business owners and residents are ready for positive messages. Surf’s Up! Catch the Wave! expresses optimism that things are looking up after a rough couple of years,” said Chamber Board Chair Greg Watson, CEO of ARC Builders. “Again this year, we’ll be going with business attire, and guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for Christian Cupboard, the community food shelf based in Woodbury Lutheran Church.”

The Gala Committee is seeking silent auction items from area businesses and residents including products, themed gift baskets, gift cards, certificates for services, time shares, creative theme parties, etc. All donors will be recognized in the auction catalog and on bid sheets. To donate an item, e-mail Nancy Kennedy at chamber@woodburychamber.org.

Tags: woodbury chamber of commerce, business, gala, woodbury