LAGRO CARRIAGE DAYS COMING TO TOWN!

A new venue will be introduced by the Lagro Township Tourism group when Lagro Carriage Days comes to town on June 5, 2010. On that weekend, horse and carriages, drivers and handlers will come to the area to enjoy the scenic beauty of the township.

The tentative schedule includes:

Friday afternoon - Drive at will

Saturday, June 5, 2010 - Poker Drive from 9 am to noon.
Parade through town at 4 p.m.

Other activities include: Log cabin open for the day with root beer floats and t-shirts for sale.

Hog Roast 4 -8 p.m. at Lagro Cafe. Pay at door and proceeds will go to the Lagro Township Tourism group for ongoing community enhancement activities.

From 7-11 p.m., "Goldmine Pickers", a group of Americana Blue Grass players from across the state will perform. This group is well-known statewide and has a full slate of shows across the tri-state area for this summer. Come and clap your hands and enjoy the music!!

Bring your own blankets, lawn chairs, etc. for all events located downtown and at the cabin.

We hope to see you !!!!

Novembet 24, 2009 Meeting Minutes

President John Lawson called the Lagro Township Tourism Board meeting to order on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. at the Lagro Community Building. Those attending were: Larry and Mary Ross, Kathy Bradley, Justin Gillespie, Monica Sparling, Chuck Schafer, Kathy Stephan, Lou and JoEllen Studio, Jodie Pefley, Julie White, Tammy Siders, Jim Watkins Camp, Maxine Baker, Becki Wagoner, Carolyn Hegel, and John Lawson.
Carolyn Hegel, secretary treasurer, read the minutes of the November 17, 2009 meeting. Jo motioned to approve with a second by Becki.
Committee reports followed.
Commemorative Christmas Decoration
Kathy B. reported that work on the craft items is moving along. She is planning to have another work session next Monday, November 30, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. She said that our Wabash County Historical Museum has graciously offered to sell our items in their gift shop and donate the entire money received to us. Motions and seconds were made by Jo, Chuck, Tammy and Kathy B. with this outcome to charge the following for our items:
Coasters $10.00 per set
Interurban $ 5.00 each
Easel $ 2.00 each
Glass ball $ 5.00 each
Living Nativity
John reported the lot at St. Patrick’s is available
Lagro United Methodist Church
Monica said that they have approximately 20 "angels" from kindergarten to 5th grade planning to be in the Angel Choir.
St. Patrick’s Church
Becki reported that their church has been decorated for Christmas.
Lagro Café
Mary said the café has changed the event menu and is not planning to serve Reuben’s. They are planning to serve Irish Stew and Bratwurst and Sauerkraut and have the café open until 6:00 P.M.
Log Cabin/Locks Area
Jo stated her committee was planning to decorate the log cabin next Sunday, November 29, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. They would appreciate any one who can help. She said she has talked with the health officer and has been given an okay to serve apples with caramel sauce. They are planning to sell this delicacy for $2.00 a dish. Jo said they need help to work the booth and are planning one-hour shifts. They also asked volunteers to prepare the caramel sauce: 14 ounces caramels, 1 can Eagle Brand Milk, 1 stick butter. Microwave until melted. John said that the electric pole had not yet been installed.
Carriage Rides
Justin is planning to go over the route with Mr. Schuler. After much discussion, the group agreed to have a "tip bucket" on the carriage instead of charging people to ride. Justin is also going to check with Northfield about the window art and would check about lighting.
Media
Kathy S. said she had talked with Wabash Radio "The Bash". They agreed to run information next week. Becki has been working with The Paper and the Wabash Plain Dealer. Chuck motioned we run the following ads:
Wabash Plain Dealer Ad Thursday, December 3, 2009 $120.00
The Paper Ad Tuesday, December 1, 2009 $200.00
Vendors
Carolyn passed around a vendor’s list. Nine slots are filled, with the remaining vendor not sending a confirmation to date. However, there is another vendor waiting, if the person reserving the slot does not accept. One vendor would like to set up earlier than 10:00 A.M. As soon as she returns Carolyn’s message questioning what time is needed, Carolyn will contact Joel to see if this can be arranged.
Luminaries
Jim is storing almost 100 luminaries in his garage.
Inn at Salamonie
Carolyn read and passed around an email she had received from our Indiana Department of Natural Resources concerning an inn at the Salamonie. The message stated that the State of Indiana is not building new inns at this time. However, if a group can raise interest in the private sector and operate an inn on the reservoir, the DNR would be receptive to discussing ground lease options for private development.
Next Meeting
Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. at the Community Building.
Adjournment
Chuck moved and Kathy S. seconded to adjourn.

Lagro Twp. Tourism Meeting Minutes 11-17-09

President John Lawson called the Lagro Township Tourism Board meeting to order on Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. at the Lagro Community Building. Those attending were: Becki Wagoner, Janet Poole, Kathy Stephan, Lou and JoEllen Studio, Jodie Pefley, Chuck Schafer, Tina Stout, Jim and Debbie Watkins Camp, Kathy Bradley, Maxine Baker, Carolyn Hegel, and John Lawson.
Carolyn Hegel, secretary treasurer, read the minutes of the November 10, 2009 meeting. The minutes were corrected to read: Jodie reported the owners of the old fire station and the house across the street gave permission to have their buildings decorated. A motion to approve the minutes as corrected was made by Janet, seconded by Chuck Schafer.
Community Decorating Contest
Maxine reported we have four entries in the contest. She is hoping for at least twelve. Jim said flyers had been delivered on the Lagro The Paper route.
Lagro Calendar
Becki passed a calendar around for all to review. The consensus was that is very well done. After discussion, Janet motioned that we charge $5.00 for one calendar and $12.00 for three. JoEllen seconded. The motion passed.
Commemorative Christmas Decoration
Kathy Bradley displayed the attractive ornaments she had made. Becki suggested we have two tables at the Bazaar the morning of our event to sell our craft pieces and calendars. It was decided to make more of the tiles, as they were so nice. Kathy wasn’t sure of her cost for the coasters. She is to check on this, and we will plan to establish a price next week. Carolyn Hegel mentioned we needed something to put the items in when they are sold, so they won’t be damaged. She said it might be possible to get plastic tourism bags from Trula Cramer’s office. Maxine already has some of these bags. She will check to how many more we will need and contact Trula.
Living Nativity
It was reported that the Living Nativity might be moved near the front of St. Patrick’s.
St. Patrick’s Church
Janet reported on the 2:00 to 3:00 P.M. program. Honeywell’s is loaning costumes for some of the participants. Mr. Bever will make his presentation. There will be songs and instrument music provided by the Driscoll children. Coffee and cider will be available at the church. John is to thank everyone for attending and announce the winners of our Community Decorating Contest.
Lagro Café
John said he had sampled Mary’s mini-Reuben sandwiches at the café and reported they were very good.
Log Cabin/Locks Area
JoEllen said work had been started on the building. She showed a picture of Mr.Voyles, from Hebron, Indiana, who portrays an old-fashioned Santa. He works all day at our event for $120. Kathy Stephan offered to pay this fee. JoEllen motioned and Chuck Schafer seconded to hire this person. The motion carried. Mr. Voyles’ wife is also planning to be a vendor. JoEllen also reported they would serve free ChiDer. They are planning to sell sliced apples and caramel sauce. She has cleared this with our county health official. Lou offered to dress as an elf, take on this persona and drive the gator. Carolyn mentioned the Bethel United Methodist Carolers would sing at the log cabin from 2:00 to 2:15 P.M.
Luminaries
Becki is having some paper bags designed to use as luminaries.
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Media
Becki will check with the Plain Dealer about advertising.
Miscellaneous
John passed around pictures of him and Justin, in western attire, riding horses and pictures of "Annie Oakley" (Karen Eppley).
Next Meeting
Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. at the Community Building.
Adjournment
JoEllen motioned and Chuck seconded.

November 10, 2009 Meeting Minutes

President John Lawson called the Lagro Township Tourism Board meeting to order on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. at the Lagro Community Building. Those attending were: Janet Poole, Maxine Baker, Justin Gillespie, Rod Stouffer, Larry and Mary Ross, Joyce Speelman, Kathy Bradley, Jodi Pefley, Lou and JoEllen Studio, Pastor Joel Murray, Jim and Debbie Watkins Camp, Tammy Siders, Deb Frieden, Carolyn Hegel, and John Lawson.
Carolyn Hegel, secretary treasurer, read the minutes. A motion to approve was made by Rod, seconded by Pastor Joel and seconded by the group.
John said this would be the last meeting for brainstorming. We should make all of our decisions by tonight, as the time is getting short to our event. John asked for any new information from committees.
Community Decorating Contest
Maxine reported she already has two entries. Carolyn said Becki Wagoner wanted to know the feelings of the group of putting the entry form for this contest as a flyer in The Paper. This would be only for the Lagro area. The cost would be $16.00. Deb moved that we do this. Jim Watkins Camp said he would check into $100, $50, and $25 prizes.
Commemorative Christmas Decoration
Kathy said there would be another craft meeting at the Community Building on Monday, November 16, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. Deb said easels have been donated.
Living Nativity
Deb reported that this activity is on track and will be behind St. Patrick’s.
St. Patrick’s Church
Janet said that the Friends of St. Pat’s group planned to meet November 23 to decorate the inside of their church.
Lagro Café
Mary is getting cans for luminaries from Ponderosa. She needs help making them. She is planning to serve Irish Stew and Mini-Reuben sandwiches at our event. She will set the hours next week that the café will be open. She is starting to get food donations.
Log Cabin/Locks Area
Jo announced the decorating of the cabin will be Sunday, November 29, 2009 at 1:00 P.M. Jodie will take care of decorating the old fire station and the house across the street. Chuck Schafer will help build the small building. John said the cabin floor was not in good shape for people to enter at this time. Jo has checked on the Santa outfit at Honeywell’s. We have been given the opportunity to use it, but it will need to be cleaned before returning to them.
Carriage Rides
Justin said he would check with Maxine about insurance. John said we need a board member/members at each station to assist. After much discussion, the group decided to stop at the various venues. Justin said at some point in the afternoon, perhaps 3:00 P.M. we will need to move the starting point from the Community Building to possibly the Café. A motion was made, amended, and seconded by Tammy Siders that we charge $1.00 a person for each ride. This was approved. Jo reported her brother has a "stretch limo" gator that can be used to move people also.
Receipt Books
John said he is collecting receipt books if anyone has any they aren’t using.
Checking Account
John stated that he and Carolyn would see about setting up a checking account for our group. The group, by consensus, agreed that using Beacon Credit Union would be fine.
Sweatshirts
The board discussed sweatshirts for the board to wear for our event but made no decision.
New Lock on Stephan Farm
John said he had been to the site of the canal locks on the David Stephan farm east of Lagro. He is receiving guidance from the Historic Landmarks group and a canal society. Papers can be filed and sent to Indianapolis to register this historic area. John would like for all of our board to visit the lock area, however, he asked that we respect the farm family’s private property rights. John also suggested that we might want to have some form of identification. A motion was made by Rod to wait until our January 2010 meeting to discuss some type of identification card.
Adjournment
Jo motioned and Mary seconded to adjourn. Approved.

November 3, 2009 Meeting Minutes

President John Lawson called the Lagro Township Tourism Board meeting to order on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. at the Lagro Community Building. Those attending were: Rod Stouffer, Kathy Bradley, Justin Gillespie, JoEllen and Lou Studio, Monica Sparling, Pastor Steve Witt, Brad and Deb Frieden, Larry and Mary Ross, Maxine Baker, Arlene Wolfgang, Becki Wagoner, Carolyn Hegel, John Lawson and Chuck Schafer, and Scott Siders.
Carolyn Hegel, secretary treasurer, read the minutes. A motion to approve was made by Becki Wagoner.
John asked for any new information from committees:
Lighting Contest
Becki reported information is going out.
Vendors
Carolyn said that she contacted Stephen Clouse, who supplies coffee to Modoc’s. He
said he only sells wholesale. Rod had obtained a food service permit to give to food vendors. He said non-profits do not need a permit. Lynn Dannacher, Wabash County Health Officer, has been told that our 501-C3 status is pending.
Media/Public Relations
It was suggested that churches be asked to mention our event on their marquees. Monica said that WMEE would give free advertising of our event. Becki asked Monica about taking a picture of the Angel Choir for media use. Rod will get brochures made. Kathy reported that the Wabash County Historical Museum would display our material. Becki said Mark Bever wants to sponsor our website for the first year.
Luminaries
Scott displayed some attractive luminaries he had made. More cans are needed. Possible suppliers would be schools, nursing homes, hospital, etc.
Commemorative Christmas Decoration
Kathy said she had a supply of clear plastic balls to use as ornaments. It was suggested that whatever we decide to sell, we have one design each year. She also displayed an easel. Anyone wanting to help make the tiles should meet with Kathy at the Community Building on Monday, November 9, 2009 at 1:00 P.M.
Living Nativity
Pastor Witt said the corner lot at St. Patrick’s would be used for the Living Nativity. He said some of his congregation was building a stable.
St... Patrick’s Church
Kathy’s husband, Jay, will video tape Paul Bever’s presentation.
Log Cabin/Locks Area – Lighting and Decorating
Jo reported on prices of professional lighting. It will cost $80 a pole, and eight poles have power to them. Scott displayed a lighted wreath that had been made locally. After much discussion, Justin motioned and JoEllen seconded that we use the professional lighting on the eight powered poles. The motion was approved. Those who are sponsoring poles are: Lou and JoEllen Studio, Jodie Pefley, Velva Powell, Lundquist Realty, Monument Chapel Church, David Pefley, and Carolyn Hegel. The group also supported using previous lighting material and new decorations being made. Rod Stouffer said he would sponsor one of those. Kathy said she would check garland prices. Scott said he would meet about power for our event tomorrow. Scott will also get a picture of Hanging Rock. In addition, John asked Justin to check on barn siding.
Carriage Rides
Justin reported that Jim Schuler has a team of horses and wagon that can haul six adults. He uses sleigh bells for a festive touch. Jim feels he can use his team for 3 hours, let them rest an hour, and then continue. He will come for $200. The cost to ride would be $2 for an adult and $1 for a child. Justin will check for insurance. Monica said that they had used them for Kids Klub, and Jim was very good. Deb suggested using the team between noon and 2:00, let them rest an hour, and then continue from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Maxine suggested we use just one team.
Banner
It was decided to table the banner contest for this year.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. at the Lagro Community Building.
Adjournment
A motion by Scott with a second by Deb adjourned the meeting.

Lagro Township Tourism Board Meeting October 27, 2009

President John Lawson called the Lagro Township Tourism Board meeting to order on October 27, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. at the Lagro Community Building. John asked for introductions of those attending: Kathy Bradley, Kathy Stephan, Julie White, JoEllen and Lou Studio, Gary and Susan Hunter, Deb and Brad Frieden, Monica Sparling, Pastor Joel and Betty Murray, Jim and Debbie Watkins Camp, Rod Stouffer, Jodie Pefley, Larry and Mary Ross, Maxine Baker, Becki Wagoner, Carolyn Hegel, and John Lawson. .
Carolyn Hegel, secretary treasurer, read the minutes. A motion to approve was made by Pastor Joel Murray. The motion carried.
John asked for any new information from the following committees:
Cabin/Locks Area
JoEllen Studio reported that Julie White had a supply of icicle lights that they planned to use on the cabin and fence area. They plan to use greenery, candles, and luminaries. Carolyn Hegel mentioned that the area around the locks needs to be secure, so no one would fall in. Jim Watkins Camp said he and Debbie had a supply of new rope lights that could be used. John mentioned that he was going to build a small building like Jo had suggested. Rod Stouffer reported that he had checked with Bobby Cash, and it was okay to use his land at the cabin area and have a fire pit. Jo suggested her daughter Ashli could contact Michel Wible to obtain a costume for our St. Nicholas. Also, Richard Day is planning to have kettle corn at the Locks. Rod said that food vendors would need a $10 health certificate. Mary said that food prepared at her establishment or the churches are prepared in certified areas.
St. Patrick’s Church Activities
Becki Wagoner said she would see that luminaries are made at the church. For future reference, she mentioned that St. Patrick’s will have mass on St. Patrick’s Day 2010. They usually have 125 to 150 people attend this event.
Living Nativity – Dora Christian Church
Brad and Deb Frieden said their church is thinking of using statue-type figures at first and then switching to real people later. They are securing people to assist.
Street Carolers
Monica Sparling said that she would need the new schedule for the Sharp Creek Singers.
Commemorative Christmas Decoration
Kathy Bradley showed a new luminary she had made. She also showed a clear ball that could have pictures put inside. She plans to make a demo for our next meeting.

Downtown Windows
Becki reported that Kelly Schuler’s art class would paint the plywood to be used in windows of some of the empty buildings.
Vendors
Pastor Joel said there would be room for 10-12 tables in the basement of Community Church. Vendors should contact him for information. He said he would check with his congregation concerning refreshments at this venue. Someone from Roann plans to have their rug loom at the church. Also, a soap maker will be there. Rod said there would be a $10 electricity charge to outside vendors using power. Jo motioned that vendor hours be 12 Noon to 5:00 P.M. Deb Frieden seconded. The motion passed. Carolyn said she had contacted vendors from the Pioneer Festival but had not received any confirmations. It was suggested to contact Steve Clouse, the coffee supplier for Modoc’s.
Donations
Jodie Pefley asked about what was the procedure for donations to our new organization, Lagro Township Tourism. John is going to ask Joe Eddingfield if we can set up a checking account before we have our official papers. Maxine said she could take the donations and hold them in a special account until our account is set up. Kathy Stephan said she would donate the earnings from this year’s St. Nick pictures to our organization.
Downtown Christmas Lights
Jo said the contact person for this is Allen Fox. John and Scott Siders will talk with him.
Banner Art Contest
Kathy Stephan suggested having a banner contest each year. It was suggested to have both adult and child categories. Kathy generously offered to sponsor the contest this year.
Lagro Calendar
Becki said she hoped to get the calendar to the printers tomorrow. Kathy Stephan said she is working on pictures for our 2011 calendar. John said Rex Price is willing to help research historical information we plan to use to be sure that it is correct.
Community Christmas Decorating Contest
Rules for the contest were discussed. Deb suggested making it eligible for all homes in Lagro Township. Entry forms will be needed. The deadline for the contest was suggested to be the Wednesday (November 25) before Thanksgiving. Deb mentioned that we could use local radio to advertise and postures can be hung at Marsh. Jo suggested the entry form be printed in The Paper. Maxine said that Lafontaine awards prizes of 1st $50, 2nd $25, and 3rd $15. She also stated that someone/business could sponsor the contest.

Media Outreach
Gary suggested putting brochures in businesses. It was also recommended to put brochures in the schools. As inserts in newspapers are very expensive, approximately $900 for 16,000 pieces, prices will be obtained for yard signs. Becki said she planned to have a news item to publish every week.
Interurban Building
Rod reported that this building is owned by Doug and Judy Martin and under contract to Mr. McNear. Rod will continue to research this.
Next Meeting
It was decided to meet every Tuesday evening at 6:30 P.M. at the Community Building until further notice. This will make our next meeting Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 6:30 P.M.
Adjournment
John Lawson adjourned the meeting.

Lagro Township Tourism Board Meeting, October 20, 2009

Dora School, built in the early 1900's.

Carolyn Hegel, secretary treasurer, read the minutes. A motion to approve was made by Becki Wagoner and seconded by Justin Gillespie. The motion carried.

John asked for the following committee reports.

LOG CABIN/LOCKS AREA

Lighting and Decorating: JoEllen Studio reported that work continued with this committee. They are planning to serve light refreshments. She also said that they hope to have soap makers and spinners. Lou Studio said that they would have greenery for decorations. Scott Siders is to work on the power to the area. Rod Stouffer mentioned that Scott said there would be a cost for this service. Rod also mentioned the need to check with Bobby Cash about permission to use his property for a part of our event. In addition, having a fire outside the cabin needs to be checked. JoEllen had not heard back about the cost of renting Christmas lighting for the town.

Carriage Rides: Justin Gillespie said he had talked with Joe Vogel about horses. Horses would need to be rotated every two hours. Cost of the horses would be between $100-$200 for a team. He also stated that we needed to select a decorated route. Maxine Baker said the town insurance would cover the carriage rides, but we should be sure that those with horses and carriages also have their own insurance.

Living Nativity: Rev. Steve Witt reported that Dora Christian Church was working on the Living Nativity to be close to St. Patrick's Church. They will have enough participation to change people during the event.

Lagro Cafe: Mary Ross said she was saving cans for luminaries. It was mentioned that people could bring a non-perishable food item to the Cafe and receive a free luminary. "Come with a gift and leave with a glow." Mary still needs recipe ideas. Carolyn said a friend had recommended a recipe that he said was very good. It is for Chocolate Gravy. Carolyn gave Mary and Becki the recipe to try. Mary will check with Lynn Dannacher concerning any food health issues that need to be brought to our vendor's attention.

Lagro United Methodist: Lavonne Sparling reported everything was on track for the Kid's Klub Angel Choir and that they would have carolers for street corners.

Commemorative Christmas Decoration and Luminaries: Kathy Bradley displayed a luminary she had made.

Vendors: Pastor Joel Murray said that his Community Church would host vendors that want to have inside booths. A motion was made by Joyce Speelman and seconded by Maxine Baker for our vendor';s fee to be $10 for outside booths and $20 for inside booths. The church would receive half of the inside booth fee for their food pantry. Noon to 6 pm was suggested for the time for the vendors. Carolyn said she had heard that the local people who were asked to have a honey booth were not available that day and asked if it was okay to ask a vendor form the pioneer festival. Permission was granted. Lou said he would help Pastor Joel with determining the tables and booth space at his church. Rod Stouffer said he would also assist. It was mentioned that Susan Hamilton should be asked to have a booth with her historical items.

Decoration of Downtown Empty Buildings: Justin Gillespie mentioned getting permission from the building owners from the bank to the American Legion to paint the windows or paint on other materials and cover the windows during our event. Lavonne Sparling said she would contact Kelly Schuler, art teacher at Northfield, to see if her art class would like to do the project.

Media: Becki led the discussion on our media campaign. It was suggested that we contact The Paper, the Wabash Plain Dealer and Wade Weaver at radio WJOT. Becki mentioned the possibility of using inserts in the newspapers for the township and by particular zip code. She said she would call and check in to the cost and take care of all our media campaign.

Miscellaneous

Carolyn mentioned that she had contacted neighbors who sponsored an alp horn concert in the area last summer and made them aware of our ventures.

Brainstorming

John led our group in brainstorming projects we might want to cconsider. Future projects could include: Locks, canal boat, cabin, interurban building, Hanging Rock, Salamonie State Park Inn, Hopewell, Deer Falls, Enyeart Cave, waterfalls, and Lincolnville Civil War Monument. John mentioned his dream was to rebuild the Dora Covered Bridge.

Guest Speaker, Cathy Wright, Historic Landmarks Foundation

Cathy mentioned several things we might consider, such as: brochures, driving brochures, listing natural things in township, audio tour, cell phone tour, and work with ACRES and ask what they would promote. Cathy mentioned there is not a lot of money available for grants. She thought the canal area might be eligible for being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There could e some grant money available, up to $50,000. We also could contact Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman and the Office of Community and Rural Affairs. Cathy told of a group at Greentown, Indiana, who worked out a tax credit with their town. Our local Community Foundation is also an option. They could possibly help with brochures. The Ft Wayne Library has a non-profit resource center. Cathy said she would email us a list of options.

Next Meeting will be Tuesday, October 27 at 6:30 pm at the Community Building.

John Lawson asked for a motion to adjourn. JoEllen did this with a second by Justin. The motion passed.