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Chamber approves annual budget

During their regular meeting last Thursday, the Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Board approved their budget for the 2018-19 fiscal year. According to the report, the budgeted total income is $141,660; the same figure is reflected in the total expenses.

In other action, the board approved the resignation of member Toby Homi. According to a letter from Homi, he’s enjoyed the opportunity to be on the board but did not have enough time to commit to it. His term was already set to expire this year.

Also at the meeting, Chamber Executive Director Meri Ann Rush reported on the handshake program through the University of Wyoming. She explained the program allows employers to list what openings they have, then students and graduates can look at the list and apply for anything that might interest them. Rush said the program provides an opportunity to highlight Thermopolis and what we have not only for graduates but students who might be looking for summer jobs. It also allows employers access to the university job fairs.

Looking at this weekend’s rodeo, it was noted the Chamber Ambassadors would be in the parade on June 23, pulling the “welcome wagon.”

The board also discussed a promotional video. Rush said it was suggested a new television be put in the chamber office to promote different businesses. However, in further discussion it was suggested word of mouth might be more effective as people might have to wait a long time to see all the ads and likely wouldn’t wait that long. There was also a question as to whether this method would be cost effective.

Regarding the Economic Development report, Robin Griffin pointed out the work being done on the murals in the 500 block of Arapahoe, which were done through a partnership between the Thermopolis-Hot Springs County Economic Development Company (EDC) and Smoking Waters Art Guild. She suggested murals might be done at other locations as well.

Phillip Scheel reported for the Hot Springs County Commission, noting the county is looking to appoint people to the Travel and Tourism Board, as Rick Tudor was an appointee and did not re-submit his application. Scheel said people could pick up an application at the county clerk’s office “with the only caveat that the Travel and Tourism board is extremely picky about who they want.” The comment was in reference to Scheel’s recent appointment to the board and the issues it raised.

Griffin, in her executive officer’s report, reminded everyone that summertime affords everyone the opportunity to showcase our town and treat visitors with respect, as they will tell their friends about the experience they have. “We do have a lot to offer,” she said.

Rush provided a reminder about the upcoming Cycle Greater Yellowstone event, as the cyclers will be Monday, Aug. 13. Everything is coming together, she noted, and the school district, businesses and town organizations are coming together to help set up tables, provide food and transportation and even bus people out to Legend Rock.

 

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