Is it August already?

By LYNNE CONLAN

Executive Director, Sun City Center Area Chamber of Commerce

So what exactly happened to summer? As I’m sure you’re aware, next month is August. And if one more person tells me there are only 152 days left until Christmas, I will scream. I haven’t even finished my Columbus Day shopping yet. 

But before we look forward to this next month at the chamber, we’re going to first take one last look at July. This Friday, July 27, from 8 a.m. to noon, plan to join us for Eggs & Issues. We’ve invited candidates running for office to come on out to the chamber’s events room to talk to you one-on-one about where they stand on the important issues. Admission is free and so is the continental breakfast — while it lasts.

First stop in August is our monthly coffee. On Tuesday, Aug. 14, our host will be Cypress Creek Assisted Living. Come join us for a shot of networking before you head off to work. This is a “members only” event, but it’s a freebie. 

The Exchange, our weekly networking group, meets every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the chamber events room — BYO-lunch. Another free event, but it’s open to members and nonmembers alike. You must come in to meet an incredible group of networking pros. 

August’s lunch is a member favorite. The board of directors is the sponsor — and the event is free, as in, no charge to our loyal members. It’s just our way of saying “thank you” for all your support. Members: Join us Thursday, Aug. 16 starting at 11:30 a.m. 

As always, our Ambassadors meet the third Tuesday of the month at the chamber. Members wanting to learn more about this amazing team of chamber influencers should join us Aug. 21 from 4 to 5 p.m. 

Our Business After Hours on Aug. 23 will be sponsored by the Firehouse Cultural Center – just down the road from the chamber off College Avenue. I’ve heard from Beth and Georgia that they’re planning something special that our members won’t want to miss. The fun starts at 5:30 p.m.

And to wrap up the month, an event open to members and nonmembers alike. Our Military & Veterans Affairs Committee meets Friday, Aug. 24, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the chamber events room. We are looking for veterans and those interested in honoring our military personnel to help us meet our goals and objectives.

Save these dates! And in one month, I’ll be back complaining that it is already September, and that I still haven’t started shopping for the holidays — any of the holidays.