Astoria Area Chamber of Commerce

May 8, 2003

Pres. Bridges called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. at the town library. There were 11 members present and one guest.

The treasurer’s report showed a current balance of $2053.67. Gary Sheets made the motion to accept the treasurer’s report with Barry Beck seconding.

A motion to approve the minutes of the April meeting as read was made by Rod Price and seconded by Bill Branson.

The guest speaker for the evening was Kevin McGuire from U of I Extension office, Fulton County. His position is one of economic educator. He helps to facilitate projects and is currently working a lot in the area of nature bound tourism. He will be conducting tourism workshops in the future. He is in the process of analyzing data from Fulton County such as population and economic trends. He will use this information to help communities decide in what directions they should try to go. He is willing to help us in any way that he can.

Committee Reports:

Retail and Promotion – The Spring Fling was declared a success. We hope to make this an annual event. A committee was also formed to pursue the possibility of hosting a Hunting Classic which would also include something for the ladies in the early spring. The committee consists of Bob Bridges, Ryan Baker, Nancy Carithers and Arletha Dowacter. More info later. It was also approved to have an ad in the Graduation Edition of the South Fulton Argus.

Public Relations – Bonnie White has done an extensive amount of work on the brochure. She asks that the member businesses get the information that would like included to her as soon as possible in order for the brochure to be completed in a timely manner. Barry Beck complimented on the yellow bows and thanked everyone involved.

Parks and Recreation – Karen Lowe, Pam Merrill and the 4^th grade have planted flowers in the park. They look very nice. Mulch will be spread on the butterfly garden at the appropriate time.

Cleanup – Everyone was reminded of the all town yard sales on May 16 and 17 with cleanup day being May 19.

President Bridges reminded all members that the annual dues are now past due. Please get yours paid as soon as possible. You may pay your dues to Steve Butler.

Some upcoming events in Astoria are: June 1 – The Astoria Christian Church will be celebrating their 140^th anniversay. A civil war enactment will be conducted in the church yard and the park, and Abe and Mary Todd Lincoln protrayers will make an appearance. June 8 – The Astoria Gardens will be having a Founder’s Day Celebration and will be honoring Ernest Bubb and Francis Senger.

Ryan Baker made the motion to adjourn the meeting and Bonnie White seconded. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.