WARREN AREA CHAMBER MEETING Wednesday, January 3, 2018
Lunch provided by The Wagon Wheel Cafe
Prayer led by Ethan Stivers
Introduction of chamber members and guests
Minutes of Previous Meeting
Treasurer’s Report
Old Business:
- Downtown Park – They will begin the next phase in the spring.
- Jeff Souder has been talking with the Town about purchasing a large pine tree to plant at the Downtown Park to use for the Annual Lighted Christmas Tree which they put the bows on. The total cost is projected to be $1150 and includes relocating one of the small trees to accommodate the new tree. It has been discussed with the town to use the bow money first, then split the balance with the town. Josh Heim made a motion to move forward with the purchase of the tree, and to use up to $300 out of the general fund to finish the Chamber’s portion of the cost. Joanie Paxson seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
- Bylaws – The proposed Bylaw revisions were voted on and passed unanimously.
- Member Applications for 2018 – Due January 31st in order to be included in the updated website, social media and updated banner. Ethan Stivers asked that we please update and post our banner with all of our current members listed. Calendars were sent around for each business to sign up for Spotlight presentations at the monthly meetings, and facebook spotlights.
New Business:
- Wine/Beer Tasting Committee – We are asking for new members and fresh ideas. If you are interested in serving on this committee please contact a board member.
- Chamber Bucks – We plan to promote these monthly. They may be purchased at First Merchants and may be used at any local business, including paying for utilities, and phone. We will be ordering more checks in February, which will include the current 2018 business names where they may be cashed just like a regular check. Robert Neuenschwander and the library utilize chamber bucks as prizes for their summer reading programs and they are very well received.
- Ideas/Volunteers for this year’s events – thank you for your help and willingness to serve!
Updates:
- HC Community Foundation – Michael Howell reminded us that the
- Scholarship deadline is 3/26/18
- Grant deadline is 4/16/18
- United Way – Joy Koch shared that applications to 501c3’s and are asking for “letters of intent” for health and wellness, and financial stability will be accepted until 2/2/18.
- Historic Warren – Festival of Trees was a huge success. Out of towners plan to return next year. Good reviews, and comments were made that teens brought their friends to “show off the Town of Warren.” The next meeting will be 1/11/18.
- WCAO –The Warren Creative Arts Outreach has decided this was their first annual soup dinner during the Holiday Walk and Festival of Trees; proceeds will be used for the WCAO to fund their upcoming events. Bruce Winters will be offering classes in their new home this spring. They plan to put back into the community the money raised. Their next meeting will be 1/8/18 at the KBC.
- Salamonie Summer Festival – Cheryl DeWeese reminded us that the 2018 SSF Theme is “The Spirit of a Small Town” and noted the next meeting will be on January 9th at 6:30 p.m. at KBC. The SSF dates are June 29th – July 4th, 2018. Fireworks will be on Tuesday, 7/3/18.
- Bravo’s Restaurant – Opened 1/2/18, and Emanuel Bravo came and presented their new business. Their hours are: Tuesday – Saturday 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM, and Sunday 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM. They are closed Mondays, and serve breakfast from 7:00 – 11:00 AM and will have some daily specials.
Announcements or Additional Comments:
- Son-Rise Bakery – Krysta is serving soup for lunch during the week and is now open:
- Tuesday – Friday 7 AM – 3 PM, and Saturday 9 AM – 12 PM located at 114 N. Wayne St.
- National Give Kids a Smile Day – Abigail Colclasure promoted this opportunity for kids ages 4-16 who do not have dental insurance and are low income. This event will be on Saturday February 10th, 2018 from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM. She asked for help in promoting this event, so kids who will not otherwise have dental care available, may utilize this opportunity for free dental care during this event.
- Special Thanks – Joyce Buzzard is so thankful for the wonderful out pouring of support and help on 12/22/17, the day of the fire.
- We are a blessed small town – Jeff Souder shared that a local business owner was interviewing a new employee who had done his research about our town, in an effort to evaluate the potential new living area for he and his family, and he gave rave reviews about our small town. He was very impressed with the condition of our town and the many resources, services and businesses available locally.
- Welcome to Bippus State Bank – new Bank manager Patti Bustos. Congratulations, and welcome to you in your new position!
The next meeting will be held on February 7th.