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.