Carson Valley Showcase helps businesses reopen doors

After a two-year hiatus due to the coronavirus lockdown, many businesses just want the community to know they are still open and available.
Sixty businesses and organizations had that chance during the 20th annual Carson Valley Business Showcase at the Douglas County Community and Senior Center on Thursday.
The showcase was organized by the Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce.
“The 2022 Carson Valley Business Showcase was a resounding success,” Chamber Director Alicia Main said. “Local restaurants and caterers shared their delectable items, professional services companies outlined their products, and you could even play a round of golf, miniature style.”
Around 1,000 visitors attended the showcase where they were able to get acquainted with and receive information and resources, while providing the businesses with new prospect opportunities.
As a new business in the community, Lizzy Kirkpatrick owner of Carson Valley Kids said the showcase was a successful opportunity for her.
“It’s great to get the word out and let the community know we are here and available,” she said.
Located in Minden’s Ironwood Center, Carson Valley Kids is a gently used boutique for everything for children from newborn to teenagers.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, East Fork Fire and Paramedic and Carson Valley Medical Center were on hand during the showcase.
“It helps us to be a part of the community, to get to know them and help provide better service to our community,” said Carson Valley Medical Center Marketing Manager Heidi Saucedo. “Our patients are our neighbors, and we want to get to know our neighbors and friends.”
As a business under new management Russ Levinson from Ironwood Theater featured posters of popular movies playing at the theater and served popcorn to visitors in an effort to let the community know the theater is still open.
“There’s been some changes, but not much,” he said. “More like just fixing things up. We just want the community to know we are here.”
New residents to the Carson Valley Bob and Carol Stearns said the showcase was informative and helpful.
“We’re fairly new to the community, as we only moved to the area two and half years ago,” said Carol Stearns, “and it was a great event to get to know the businesses that are available. It seems like a great community.”
The chamber thanked supporters including the Carson Valley Medical Center, JOIN Inc, The RecordCourier, Douglas County and all the businesses and visitors.
“The chamber would like to thank all of the people who came to see what our members have to offer,” Main said. “Also, a big thank you to the members who attended the showcase. We look forward to another great event next year.”