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Minnesota DECA (Association of High School Marketing Students) hosted the Central Region Leadership Conference at the Minneapolis Hilton Hotel the weekend of December 4-6. The Central region is 13 states and over 3,000 students from DECA chapters. The conference theme was "Text It Up!" It was loaded with powerful presenters, activities, networking with other states, and fabulous hotel amenities within the downtown Minneapolis area.

The opening session was keynoted by national speaker, Judson Laipply, known for his motivational, energetic and humorous style and his seven minute "The Evolution of Dance" act. It is the most watched video in the history of YouTube at over 130 million views! Check it out.

Saturday's agenda was very busy with business executives from large corporations speaking and interacting with the attendees in six mini-sessions. Companies represented included; Chipotle, Red Bull, The Minnesota Timberwolves, Aveda, Del Monte, and several others. Students got tips on leadership, communication, selling, branding, self-improvement and how to be successful. Saturday evening included a dinner at Buca De Bepo Restaurant, the Holidazzle Parade, a trip to the Mall of America via the Light Rail and a late night dance in the grand ballroom of the hotel.

All attendees dressed and acted professionally, met students from other states, and got a unique educational experience in a professional business setting. The next big Chisago Lakes DECA event is the District 4 Competitive Events Conference in February, with the top eight students in each event qualifying for state.

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