Osage City Chamber of Commerce

Osage City Chamber of Commerce Member Meeting
March 15, 2016 – Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room

The March 15, 2016, meeting of the Osage City Chamber of Commerce was called to order by vice president Jan Ogleby at the Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room, with the following in attendance: Dee Robert, Tara Azwell, Dave Azwell, Kenna Burns, Thelma Humerickhouse, Joe Humerickhouse, Jeremy Gaston, Jan Ogleby, Jodi Smith, Jennifer Hudson, Jeanette Swarts, Wayne White, and guest Alex Mosakowski.

Minutes of the Feb. 16, 2016, member meeting were approved on a motion from Dave Azwell, seconded by Jodi Smith.

Alex Mosakowski, Sojadi District executive of the Jayhawk Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, told about the area council and the Sojadi District, which serves the counties of Osage, Lyon, Greenwood, Wabaunsee and Coffey. Alex said the district is based in Emporia and he works out of Topeka. He is reaching out to communities served by the Sojadi District to inform of the positive effects of Boy Scouts, and is seeking support for camperships or camp scholarships. He noted that Osage City’s longtime scoutmaster, Don Bailey, has been involved for more than a decade and has a great program in the area. Alex said the Lyndon pack received a governor’s award last year. Local scouts continue to be involved in community activities. Statistics for the Sojadi District for 2015 included 579 youth members served through 15 Cub Scout packs, 13 Boy Scout troops, and two Venturing crews; 2,604 community service hours; 1,100 volunteers engaged; 357 merit badges earned; 142 scouts sent to camp; and 11 new Eagle Scouts. Jeanette provided Alex with a list of Chamber members.

The treasurer’s report presented at the March board meeting was discussed. Dave asked Jeanette to check with Chamber treasurer Mike Telhorst to confirm the Chamber’s registration for the Kansas Sampler Festival.

In an update on the membership drive, it was noted that 64 members had paid dues for 2016.

Jeanette passed around the letter sent by the Chamber in support of the state Highway 31 project to the governor, area state representatives Peggy Mast, Ken Corbet and Blaine Finch, and the state secretary of transportation. Responses from the governor, Mast and Finch were also reviewed. (The letter is also available here on the Chamber’s website.)

Jeanette reported that the Osage County Fair Association is asking for more community involvement in the fair this year, which runs June 29-July 2, 2016. Dave suggested the Chamber could host a business expo in the community building. Businesses could have tables or booths to promote their services or products. Other suggested activities that could be sponsored by the Chamber included barnyard olympics, lip sync or talent show, or a street dance. Possible location of a street dance, available volunteers, and cost of musical talent were discussed. Jeanette is to look for musicians or a band that might want to play for minimal cost at such an event. Wayne noted Chamber volunteers also organize the annual fair parade, and the Chamber has donated $1,000 for fireworks for this year’s fair.

Jeanette announced the Chamber will be the recipient of a $500 grant from the Osage County Community Foundation, with the funds to be used for expenses of sending Chamber representatives to the Kansas Sampler Festival. The foundation is to have its spring awards presentation on March 24.

Jodi Smith announced that Osage City’s citywide garage sales will be April 16, 2016. She has sent press releases and is seeking sponsors and sale listings for the map. Contact Jodi at Vintage Park at Osage City for more information.

Jodi also reported that Vintage Park is getting ready for the Easter egg hunt March 19. At least 1,200 eggs were loaded with goodies, and bicycles will be given out to several age groups. She said she has received great community support for the egg hunt and activities.

Dave announced Taste of Osage City and Smoke in the Spring will be April 8-9, 2016, with this year having the most number of competitors in the history of the contest at 102. Twenty-four teams will cook at the Taste of Osage City the evening of April 8, and new BBQ Bucks have been designed. The Twin Lakes Cruisers will host the 12th Annual Cruis’n & Cook’n Car Show 8 a.m.-4 p.m. April 9 in downtown Osage City. Also planned is the Wings in the Spring aircraft fly-in at the airport.

Dave reported that 299 exhibitors had signed up for the Kansas Sampler Festival, May 7-8, 2016, at Winfield. He encouraged Chamber members to provide promotional items to be given away from the Osage City booth at the festival, such as key chains, pens, notepads, or brochures about Osage City and Osage County.

Kenna announced the Harvester’s food distribution would be Thursday.

Dave announced the Osage City Arts Council would be presenting the Emporia Community Choir at 7 p.m. April 7, 2016, at the Presbyterian Church.

Members were invited to attend a ribbon cutting after the meeting in celebration of Ag Choice’s new facility.

Meeting adjourned on a motion from Joe, seconded by Tara.

Lunch was purchased at Jerry’s Thriftway. Next members meeting is April 19, 2016.

Submitted by Wayne White, Chamber secretary.

By Dave Azwell

The Osage City Kiwanis Club supports the children of USD 420 with a number of service leadership programs (SLP’s) at the various schools. Faculty advisors some of whom are also club members and other staff members provide invaluable guidance for the students in the high school, middle school and elementary school. The purpose is to promote service and leadership as integral parts of their education. It also requires that they become familiar with fundraising as a way to help provide funds for their activities and to support special events or organizations.

The Key Club is made up of high school students. Their activities include recycling miscellaneous papers/magazines each month, helping with the Kiwanis pancake breakfast and supporting school and community activities. Imaginative club fundraising activities for a variety of causes and attending the Kiwanis Key Leader conference are also a part of the Key Club experience. It’s not all work as they hold progressive dinners, Christmas parties, eat  pizza and participate in other fun activities.

Builders Club involves the middle school students. Some of their activities have included recycling papers/magazines each month, working the concession stand, babysitting at church nurseries, working at Pomona State Park Haunted Trail, helping with the conservation dinner and, also, working the Kiwanis pancake breakfast and chili feed. People have made note of the great help provided by the kids. Some prolific fundraising projects have been a part of their activities.

March

8^th – Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting, 12:00 noon, Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room

15^th – Chamber of Commerce Member Meeting, 12:00 noon, Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room

19^th – Easter Egg Hunts: Osage Nursing Center – 10:00 a.m.; Vintage Park at Osage City – 12:00-2:00-Photos with Easter Bunny; Hunt begins at 2:00 for age groups 1-2 year old followed by 3-4, 5-7, 8-11.

April

2^nd – Conrad Carlson Charitable Foundation Youth Turkey Hunt

7^th – Emporia Community Choir, First Presbyterian Church sanctuary,  7:00 p.m., Presented by the Osage City Area Arts Council

8^th – Smoke In The Spring – Taste of  Osage City – 5:00 till food is gone

8^th & 9^th – Smoke In The Spring Sanction BBQ,  www.smokeinthespring.com

9^th – Cruis’n & Cook’n Auto Show – 8:00-4:00; www.cruisnandcookn.com

9^th – Wings In The Spring Fly In—Osage City Municipal Airport, in conjunction with Cruis’n & Cook’n  Auto Show

12^th – Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting, 12:00 noon, Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room

16^th – Conrad Carlson Charitable Foundation Dinner/Auction Fundraiser

16^th – Spring City Wide Garage Sale

19^th – Chamber of Commerce Member Meeting, 12:00 noon, Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room

May

7^th & 8^th – Kansas Sampler Festival, Osage City/County sponsored booth – Winfield, KS

10^th – Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting, 12:00 noon, Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room

17^th – Chamber of Commerce Member Meeting, 12:00 noon, Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room

By Dave Azwell

The Osage City Area Arts Council kicked off its 13th season with a with a sold out vocal concert by OC native Nick Stoppel in January. Upcoming performances were announced for 2016.

On Thursday, February 25, the United States Air Force Academy Band Rampart Winds, a five member wind ensemble, will perform at the Grace Lutheran Fellowship Hall at 7:00 p.m.

The Emporia Community Choir will perform on Thursday, April 7, at 7:00 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church sanctuary.

On Saturday, June 4, the Arts Council will host a return engagement of Claude Bourbon, Spanish guitarist and vocalist,  at 7:30 p.m. in The Depot.

The Army National Guard Band will perform for the 11th time in Osage City at 3:00 p.m. in the OCHS auditorium on Sunday, June 26, at 3:00 p.m.

Hiroya Tsukamoto will bring his eclectic collection of acoustic music to Osage City at a date to be determined in the Fall of 2016. He features a mixture of guitar, poetry, stories and Japanese folk music.

The Osage City Area Arts Council is a member of the OC Chamber of Commerce and appreciates the effort taken to promote the businesses and organizations in Osage City.

February 26, 2016

Osage City Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 56
Osage City, KS 66523

Governor Sam Brownback
Capitol Building
Room 241-South
300 SW 10th Street
Topeka, Kansas 66612

Re: Chamber of Commerce Support for K-31 Highway Project

Dear Governor Brownback:

On behalf of the businesses of Osage City, the Chamber of Commerce wishes to convey their support for the KDOT K-31 Highway Improvement Project which is to begin construction in 2017.

The Osage City Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to bring business and professional men and women together to collectively promote the interests and growth of the Osage City business community. It is vital to the community to have safe & adequate access to the community to accomplish the Chamber’s mission. The safety issues of the current highway with the hills with no visibility, no shoulders to pull over for emergencies, and heavily traveled with semis, super loads and farm machinery is of utmost concern to everyone that travels the highway.

Osage City offers a business district, industry, quality school district, airport, recreational opportunities, including a municipal golf course, aquatic center, baseball/softball complex and many ongoing community events. Osage City is located in northeast Kansas, with convenient access to Topeka, Emporia, Ottawa and Kansas City. The future for Osage City is dependent on having a quality highway that will be safe & adequate for the everyday traffic.

Your time and consideration in continuing with the K-31 project is appreciated. The businesses of Osage City thank you.

Sincerely,

Jeanette Swarts
Executive Director
Osage City Chamber of Commerce

 

Osage City Chamber of Commerce Member Meeting Minutes

Feb. 16, 2016 – Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Room

The Feb. 16, 2016, regular meeting of the Osage City Chamber of Commerce was called to order at 12:09 p.m. at the Flint Hills Beverage hospitality room by Chamber President Jim Lohmeyer. In attendance were Jim Lohmeyer, Ann Lusk, Josie Bosse, Hannah Crowl, Tara Azwell, Dave Azwell, Dee Robert, Don Shaw, Thelma Humerickhouse, Joe Humerickhouse, Corey Linton, Casey Mussatto, Nancy Durbin, Jodi Smith, Jodi Stark, Nancy Washburn, Jennifer Hudson, Lana Richards, Jeanette Swarts, and Wayne White. Lunch was purchased at Casey’s General Store. Members and guests introduced themselves.

Minutes of the Jan. 19, 2016, meeting were approved on a motion by Tara Azwell, seconded by Jodi Stark.

A treasurer’s report was not reviewed due to absence of treasurer Mike Telthorst.

Jim noted a number of businesses had signed up to host after hours mixers throughout 2016, including Lusk Properties, April or May; H & H Appraisal, August, pool party and cook out; Flint Hills Beverage, October, sampling; COF Training Services, anytime; Jodi Stark, State Farm Insurance, later in year; Edward Jones Investments, anytime; Ecumenical Christian Action Team, later in year.

Jim reported the Chamber received a thank you note from Janet Steinle, of ECAT, for the donation given from proceeds of Christmas on Market.

It was noted that Jim was selected to be the 2016 president by the Chamber board at the Feb. 9, 2016, board meeting.

Jeanette reported that about 40 memberships have been paid for 2016, and she has sent reminders to some others who have not paid yet, and is working on new memberships.

Jim asked for a motion to approve a change in the Chamber’s bylaws, which would change the term of officers from two years to one year. The membership voted to amend the bylaws at the Jan. 19, 2016, regular meeting, with a final vote to be taken at this meeting. On a motion from Jodi Smith, seconded by Dave Azwell, the membership approved the bylaws change as follows: Article V: Officers/Section 1: Determination of Officers – The Board of Directors (new and retiring) at its regular January meeting shall reorganize for the coming year. All officers shall take office on the first day of the new fiscal year and serve for a term of one (1) year or until their successors assume the duties of office. They shall be a voting member of the board of directors.

It was noted that directors’ terms will remain at two years.

Members heard from Josie Bosse, representing the Osage County Fair Association, who reported the Osage County Fair will be held June 29-July 2, 2016. She said this year’s fair board is hoping to make the fair more than a 4-H fair by adding other events to the exhibits, carnival and other fair activities. The fair board will be encouraging participation by local groups and organizations. It was noted the Chamber board had agreed to donate $1,000 toward the fireworks show for this year’s fair.

Casey Mussatto reported that he had received an inquiry from Sen. Anthony Hensley’s office about community support for the planned state Highway 31 reconstruction project. He said there had been some vocal opponents of the project, which is currently scheduled to begin next year. He told of the history of Osage City’s attempts to get improvements to the seven-mile stretch of highway that connects Osage City to U.S. Highway 75, north of Lyndon. Discussion was held on the pros and cons of the project, including the need for a safer route to Osage City, the current highway’s effect on the city’s economic development, and negative impacts on landowners with property adjacent to the highway. Wayne White offered a motion that the Chamber send a letter expressing support for the project, seconded by Dave Azwell, and approved by the members present. Casey Mussatto and Joe Humerickhouse will work with Jeanette Swarts to draft the letter and send it to Sen. Hensley, state representatives Peggy Mast, Blaine Finch and Ken Corbet, Gov. Sam Brownback, and the secretary of Kansas Department of Transportation.

Corey Linton reported 97 barbecue teams had signed up so far to compete in Smoke in the Spring, with a goal of 102 teams. Smoke in the Spring weekend will be April 8-9, 2016, with Friday night being the Taste of Osage City community barbecue celebration. Corey said Stafford Street will be closed to parking during this year’s event to alleviate congestion around Jones Park, and a shuttle will be provided to allow people to park elsewhere and catch a ride to the event.

It was reported that Robyn Williams has arranged for scholarship applications to be distributed at Osage City High School, and committee members are needed for deciding scholarship recipients. Nancy Washburn and Thelma Humerickhouse volunteered to serve on the scholarship committee with Robyn.

Jodi Smith announced that Vintage Park of Osage City will host an Easter egg hunt and festivities beginning at noon on the afternoon of March 19. Jennifer Hudson announced Osage Nursing Center will also host an Easter egg hunt earlier the same day, beginning at 10 a.m.

Dave Azwell reminded members the Kansas Sampler Festival will be May 7-8, 2016, at Winfield. He encouraged local event organizers to provide flyers to be given away at the festival. Dave also announced the Osage City Area Arts Council is sponsoring a performance by the U.S. Air Force Academy Band Rampart Winds at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, in the Grace Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, Osage City.

Wayne White announced that Osage County News celebrated its third anniversary this month and is now reaching thousands of readers each week, and thanked readers and sponsors for their support of the local business.

On a motion and second from Jodi Smith and Jodi Stark, the meeting adjourned at 12:55 p.m.

Submitted by Wayne White, Chamber secretary.

The final tally of Christmas on Market fundraising allowed the Osage City Chamber of Commerce to donate $966.15 each to the Osage City Warmth Fund, East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation (ECKAN) and Ecumenical Christian Action Team (ECAT). Checks were presented to the organizations’ representatives at the Jan. 19, 2016, Chamber meeting.

By Dave Azwell

The Osage City Area Arts Council kicked off its 13th season with a vocal concert by Osage City native Nick Stoppel on Jan. 16. The Grace Lutheran Church sanctuary was filled to capacity as Nick sang a variety of songs. Refreshments were served afterwards as friends were greeted by the Stoppel family and Nick.

Upcoming performances were announced. At 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, the United States Air Force Academy Band Rampart Winds, a five-member wind ensemble, will perform at the Grace Lutheran Fellowship Hall.

The Emporia Community Choir will perform  at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7, in the First Presbyterian Church sanctuary.

At 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 4, the Arts Council will host a return engagement of Claude Bourbon, Spanish guitarist and vocalist. The venue will be announced at a later date.

The Osage City Area Arts Council is a member of the Osage City Chamber of Commerce and appreciates the effort they take in promoting the businesses and organizations in Osage City.

Minutes of the Jan. 19, 2016, regular meeting of the Osage City Chamber of Commerce

With the vice president absent and no president yet appointed for 2016, Chamber executive director Jeanette Swarts called to order the Osage City Chamber of Commerce regular meeting at noon Jan. 19, 2016, at Flint Hills Beverage’s meeting room. The following were present: Dee Robert, Thelma Humerickhouse, Joe Humerickhouse, Dave Azwell, Tara Azwell, Troy Hutton, Kenna Burns, Patrick Gardener, Jim Lohmeyer, Jeremy Gaston, Nancy Durbin, Alice Purvis, Janet Steinle, Ann Lusk, Rod Willis, Casey Mussatto, Corey Linton, Jodi Smith, Jeanette Swarts, Wayne White.

Minutes of the Dec. 15, 2015, meeting were approved on a motion from Dave and second by Tara.

A treasurer’s report was not reviewed due to absence of the treasurer.

Jeanette passed around a sign-up sheet for businesses that would like to host a Chamber After Hours event; several signed up.

Jeanette noted that final tally of Christmas on Market fundraising allowed the Chamber to donate $966.15 each to the Osage City Warmth Fund, ECKAN and ECAT. Photos were taken of Chamber members and directors presenting the donations to the organizations’ representatives following the meeting.

Jeanette reported the Hometown Santa during the month of December was well received by the community. There were four business Santas and one Santa at large, Dave Azwell, who was not discovered. All of the business Santas were found, including T.J. McCoy, Brian Giesy, Mary Sue Atchison and Matt Harmon.

Jeanette said she had been working on increasing membership, having visited more than a dozen businesses and left membership forms.

Jeanette noted the new officers for 2016 as selected by the board are: Jan Ogleby, vice president; Mike Telthorst, treasurer; Wayne White, secretary; the president’s position remains vacant.

Jeanette noted the board of directors includes Jodi Stark, Jodi Smith, Jim Lohmeyer, and Chandra Dunbar, in addition to the above named officers.

Jeanette reported that former secretary Cindy Wymore had submitted a letter of resignation as secretary and as a member of the board of directors.

Joe’s nomination of Kenna Burns as a director to fill the current vacancy on the board was seconded by Jeremy and approved by the members present.

Jeanette noted that some members have volunteered to serve on Chamber committees, but other volunteers will be welcomed to any committee in which they have an interest. Committees so far include:

• Annual banquet – board members
• Nominating – Casey Mussatto, Joe Humerickhouse, Thelma Humerickhouse
• Budget – Robyn Williams, Casey Mussatto, Mike Telthorst
• Membership – Jeanette Swarts
• Scholarship/garage sales – Jodie Smith
• Kansas Sampler – Dave and Tara Azwell
• Summer concessions – Jeanette
• Fair Parade – Chandra Dunbar
• Beer Fest – Jim Lohmeyer, Becky Siljenberg, Jodi Stark
• Christmas on Market – Chandra Dunbar
• Website – Wayne White, Mike Telthorst, Jeanette Swarts
• Facebook – Chandra Dunbar, Jeanette Swarts
• Advertising/signage – Casey Mussatto, Rod Willis, Dave Azwell, Joe Humerickhouse, Jim Lohmeyer.

Dave made a motion, seconded by Jim, for the Chamber to donate $750 to Smoke in the Spring as a sponsor of the community event; approved by members. Corey, who is the Smoke in the Spring organizer, thanked the Chamber for the annual contribution. He reported that 39 barbecue teams had signed up to compete so far, and he was preparing to send out invitation letters to about 250 teams. He has set a goal of 102 teams competing this year. Smoke in the Spring is April 9, 2016. Corey reminded Chamber members that Taste of Osage City will be April 8, and he has already lined up barbecue teams to cook during the Friday night community barbecue party.

The membership considered a bylaws change as recommended by the board, that being to change the term of officers to one year. On a motion from Casey, seconded by Tara, and approved by members, the suggested bylaws change will be included on next month’s agenda for a vote by the membership.

Jeanette reported the Jan. 9, 2016, Chamber mixer at the Osage City Santa Fe Depot had 23 attendees. Snacks and beverages were enjoyed by everyone. Jerry’s Thriftway, Buzzard’s Pizza and Casey’s General Store showcased food items for the event.

The meeting was opened up to members’ announcements.

Nancy, of the Osage County Senior Center, announced the center will host a soup luncheon at noon on Valentine’s Day; a cupcake contest will be held in conjunction with the luncheon. She also reported Osage County Economic Development is taking applications for home rehabilitation grants and encouraged everyone to apply.

Kenna reported that ECKAN continues to provide a food pantry, and has recently begun a new program to help people get back on their feet, “Stepping Stones to Success”.

Jodi reported that Vintage Park at Osage City had been acquired by a new company, Grace Management, Minneapolis, Minn. She said the assisted living facility’s services are not changing and the only changes expected will be administrative.

Dave Azwell reported the Osage City Arts Council has scheduled several upcoming concerts, one of which will be a five-member woodwind ensemble of the U.S. Air Force Band that will perform at area schools and give a performance for the public at 7 p.m. Feb. 25, 2016.

Meeting adjourned about 12:30 p.m.

Next Chamber regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016.

Submitted by Wayne White, Chamber secretary

The Osage City Chamber of Commerce has another Home Town Santa recipient.  Santa Matt Harmon, Harmon Dental, was revealed by Will Kerns.

December 18, 2015

Dear Chamber Member:

It is time to renew your membership investment in the Osage City Chamber of Commerce. On behalf of the Board of Directors, THANK YOU for your support and continuing participation.

Your renewal is VITAL to accomplish the many important services provided through the Chamber. Even though we thrive on volunteer support, and even though we have a modest staff, renewals ARE VITAL to our success!

Your Chamber is actively involved in planning community events and fundraisers, and providing a coordinating point for community information.

Please join us in our effort to make Osage City a better place to live and work!

Renew your membership today!

Thank you,

Michael Telthorst

Treasurer

Membership Investment Form 2016

2016 Annual Chamber of Commerce Mixer
Santa Fe Depot ~~ January 9, 2016

A simple “after hours” mixer from 6:00-8:00 p.m. President will give a summary of the year’s events at 7:00.

Hors d’oeuvres
Desserts
Beverages
Membership Drive – 2016

Current members can pay their yearly dues which remain the same for 2016. A “first time” member incentive is being offered.

We would like to encourage existing members to invite potential new members.

Looking forward to seeing you.

RSVP by January 4.

785-219-2510

osagecitychamber@gmail.com

“Are you the Home Town Santa?” has been well received by the home town shoppers. The Chamber board would like to thank the select businesses and individual for agreeing to be a Home Town Santa.

To date, three of the Home Town Santas have been revealed. Santa TJ McCoy, McCoy’s Home Electronics, revealed by Chenoa Casebier;  Santa Mary Sue Atchison, Osage Hardware, revealed by Delores Rieck; and Santa Brian Giesy, Jerry’s Thriftway, revealed by Susan Smith.

The recipients received $20 Chamber Bucks  to be used locally at one of the fine businesses.  The Home Town Santas will be around till the 24th,  so continue asking anyone that you see, “Are you the Home Town Santa?”

Meeting Minutes – Osage City Chamber of Commerce – December 15, 2015

Flint Hills Beverage Hospitality Conference Room

In Attendance:  Dave Azwell, Kiwanis Club; Tara Azwell, Osage City Area Arts Council;   Robyn Williams, Edward Jones Investments; Joe Hummerickhouse, H&H Appraisals;  Thelma Hummerickhouse, H&H Appraisals; Jeremy Gaston, Osage County Herald Chronicle; Jan Ogleby, Osage County Herald Chronicle;  Jennifer Hudson, Osage Nursing Center; Corey Linton, Osage City- Parks & Recreation; Jim Lohmeyer, Flint Hills Beverage; Casey Mussatto, Flint Hills Beverage; Patrick Gardner, COF ; Jennell Tebbetts, United Way; Katie Hodge, City of Osage City; Kathy Ayers, First National Bank Of KS.; Nancy Washburn, Ramblin’ Rose.

Officers/Director present: Cindy Wymore, Secretary; Jeannette Swarts, Executive Director.

Lunch by Buzzard’s.  Lunches are ordered from food businesses who are Chamber Members.

Meeting opened at 12:00 p.m. by Jeannette Swarts.

A motion was made by Jennell Tebbetts and seconded by Kathy Ayers  to approve the November meeting minutes.  Motion passed unanimously.

The Treasurer’s Report was unavailable.

Unfinished Business:

• Christmas on Market was a success despite inclement weather.
• Jeannette Swarts announced that the Chamber of Commerce Mixer will be held on January 9^th between 6 – 8p.m. at the Santa Fe Depot.  She will be emailing and hand delivering invitations to local businesses.
• Casey Mussatto updated the members on the By-Laws which states that the Nominating Committee “propose a slate of Directors sufficient for the members to elect 8 Directors to 2 year terms each. The Directors then decide who will be the Officers for the year at each initial meeting of the year in January.” The Directors completing their 2^nd year of their 2 year term next year are:  Chandra Dunbar, Cindy Wymore,  and Wayne White.  The proposed Directors to be elected for a 2 year term are: Jim Lohmeyer, Jan Ogleby, Mike Telhorst, Jodi Smith, Jodi Stark.  A motion was made by Jeremy Gaston to accept the slate of directors as presented,  seconded by Nancy Washburn.  Motion passed unanimously.

• Jeannette Swarts instituted the “ Hometown Santa” program between December 9^th and the 24^th which encourages people to ask anyone in town if they are the” Osage City Hometown  Santa” and receive chamber bucks on the spot.  So far, T.J. McCoy was the Hometown Santa and Chenoa Casebier was the lucky recipient.

Under Member Announcements:

• Dave Azwell announced that Nick Stoppel will be performing in Osage City on January 16^th, 2016 at the Lutheran Church at 7pm with refreshments afterwards. Everyone is encouraged to attend.
• Corey Linton spoke about the “Smoke in the Spring” event. He hopes that the Chamber will continue to be a Class Champion Sponsor for $750 again this year. He has 15 teams already signed up with a goal of reaching 102 teams this year.
• Casey Mussatto said that we have verbal agreements with landowners regarding new signage at the US75 & K31 Highways. Also, he gave a brief update on the Motel status.  Pro formas are being reworked and will be presented to potential investors.

Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully,

CINDY WYMORE, Secretary                                                                         NEXT MEETING:  Tuesday, January 19^th , 2016

Submitted by Jodi Stark

In spite of the of inclement weather for the 5th annual Jingle Bell Run, the 5K walk/run was a success, thanks to the number of sponsors for the T-shirt and the 47 registered participants. Every year the amount of money the Jingle Bell Run raises for the Warmth Fund, ECAT, ECKAN and the Chamber of Commerce has grown, and this year is no exception, the 2015 Jingle Bell Run raised almost double the amount raised in 2014. Thank you to all the sponsors, participants and volunteers, without you this tradition would not be a success.

The 19 & Up winners were:  1st – Jim Griffin, 2nd – Will Kerns, 3rd – Jessie Kirkpatrick

The 18 & Under winners were: 1st – Jace Keim,  2nd – Dalton Shaffer,  3rd – Tanner Theel

By Jeanette Swarts, Chamber Executive Director

Christmas on Market 2015 was a very successful event despite the inclement weather that Mother Nature provided on Nov. 28. The response by everyone that came out in the cold and ice, and the participation of the businesses for the day was tremendous.

The events including Kiwanis pancake breakfast, library concession stand, Pride Committee auction and cookie sale, Friends of the Library table settings and Christmas collections, retail poker run, craft show, cancer benefit luncheon, gingerbread building/Santa visit, chili cook off, chili feed, were very well received and attended. Due to the weather, the 5K run/walk and lighted parade were rescheduled for the following weekend (Dec. 5).

Business events

Several businesses hosted events in their stores throughout the day including: Artfully Quilted by Barbs, Bank of Osage City, Edward Jones, Furniture Loft, Gibson Pharmacy, Grandma’s Attic, J’adore Salon and Spa, Landmark National Bank, Meadowlark, McCoy’s Electronics, Osage County Farm Bureau Association, Osage Ace Hardware, Osage Family Care, Osage Nursing Center, Peterson Health Care, Schroeder Drug, Sowers Pub and Grub, Theel Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, Ramblin’ Rose, and Vintage Park.

Many winners in Chamber raffle

Businesses that donated merchandise, services, and other prizes for the raffle include: Artfully Quilted by Barbs, Ag Choice, Bank of Osage City, Branine Chevrolet, Citizens Insurance, Country Canine, Dr. Jacoby, Edward Jones, Flint Hills Beverage, Harmon Dental, Haskins Conoco, Ink, Jerry’s Thriftway, John’s Barber Shop, Landmark Bank, Liquor Market, Osage Hardware, Pizza Hut, Ramblin’ Rose, Salt Creek, State Farm Insurance, Spencer Thompson, Theel Plumbing, TNT, First National Bank of Kansas.

Winners of raffle prizes were: Jeff Lohmeyer, Kari Bloomquist, Robert Youngers, Becky Siljenberg, Shannon Addington, Moe Mullins, Shirley Schreyer, Donita Payne, Juanita Kolbaba, Hunter Ayers, Joan Sloop, Dee Attkinson, Muraini Rivera, Darlene Haskins, Wesley Blacketeer, Dee Thompson, Deb Fagan, Rhonda Harmon, Joe and Thelma Humerickhouse, Judy Heward, Carol Pearson, Susan Smith, Micaela Buchman, Levi Punches, Will Kerns, and Silva Mounkes.

By Jeanette Swarts, Chamber Executive Director

Osage City’s Hometown Heroes nominees were showcased in a display downtown in the former Duckwall’s store window during Christmas on Market 2015. The honored nominees and their nominators were:

Rachael, Veronica and Olivia Estes nominated Jeremiah Bomberger for his dedicated service for his state and country.

Chenoa Casebier nominated Mandy Gibson, who has operated a hometown pharmacy in Osage City for more than 10 years. She is very involved with her church and participates in projects and events put on by the church.

Rick Totman nominated his father, Earl Totman, who served in the Korean War, helped raise six children, and delivered meals on wheels.

Casey Mussatto nominated Mike Gilliland for representing Osage City in the state utility boards and serving Osage City in his role as utilities superintendent for decades.

Dena Paul nominated the Osage City Elementary School teachers, who are dedicated, caring, knowledgeable and energetic, and give the students the social, emotional and academic foundations needed to be successful in their future endeavors.

Tony Heward nominated the Osage City Police Department for keeping our town safe and for the thankless hours they put in. The force cares about the pe0ple of Osage City.

Robyn Williams nominated Gary Lowman, who gives unselfishly a lot of his personal time, energy and money to supporting the youth of Osage City in all of their many activities via pictures and his Facebook site.

Judy Heward nominated Quinn Boyce, who is a senior at Osage City High School and is passionate about his role as a firefighter. He has become a role model for many students interested in the junior firefighter program, and has decided to become an official firefighter during his senior year.

Christine Flynn nominated Bob Harmon for his generosity to the community.

Ronda Harmon nominated the volunteer firefighters of Osage County Fire District No. 2, Osage City, for their dedicated service.

Kelsey Jones nominated Chandra Dunbar for her caring and outgoing personality and dedicated service to the community in numerous events and activities.

 

Shop in your hometown, ask anyone that you meet on the street or in the businesses, “Are you the Hometown Santa?”

If you are lucky and the person you ask is the Home Town Santa, you will receive $20 in Chamber Bucks to be used locally at one of the fine businesses that serve you.

Event period includes December 11-24.