Pres. Beck called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. at the town library.  There were 17 members present and 2 guests.

The treasurer’s report showed a current balance of $2360.11.  Kathleen Behymer made the motion to accept the treasurer’s report with Rod Price seconding.

A motion to approve the minutes of the November meeting as read was made by Misty Thomas and seconded by Rosemary Perdew.   

The guest speaker for the evening was Senator-elect John Sullivan. Mr. Sullivan introduced himself as married and the father of four.  He lives just north of Rushville, IL.  He was elected to the State Senate on November 5 and will be sworn in on January 8, 2003 at noon.  He has been involved in the family actioneering business for over 20 years during which time he also spent 5 years in banking.  He thought his schedule was business during the election but that was nothing compared to what it is now.  He spent 4 days in Springfield the previous week attending “Senator School” as he called it, learning how bills are passed, what it is like to be on the Senate floor and just becoming acquainted with Springfield.  He has met with numerous business people, educators  and people in the medical fields since he has been elected.  He is trying to get to know the people of his district so that when they call he knows who they are.  He indicated his main goal this first year is to do what he feels is right.  Raising taxes is what he called a “last resort” but may be necessary.  He will be opening offices around the district to be more accessible to the people of the district.  Office hours and numbers will be announced in all the local newspapers and other media.  He is very much looking forward to the new challenges coming his way.

Committee Reports:

Special Events – Ryan Baker reported that the deer contest was very successful and winners will be announced the week of Dec. 16.

Christmas with Santa – Everything is ready for the big day.

Habitat House – The family moved in the afternoon after the dedication and are getting settled in.

Carriage Night – This event was deemed successful by all the businesses involved.  We hope to make plans for another event in the spring.

Sally Bair made the motion to adjourn the meeting and Bonnie White seconded.  The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.