The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce met Tuesday, March 3rd covering a full agenda of upcoming community events, new ideas for summer promotions, and concerns about a possible minimum wage increase in Illinois.
The Spring Open House is underway which runs from now through March 31st. Each participating merchant can tailor the event to fit their business, and “Shop Spring Sale Here” signs will be displayed to encourage residents to shop local.
In new business, merchants discussed the need for a fresh summer promotion after previous efforts did not meet expectations. Suggested ideas included a “Treasure of Savings” contest, where shoppers could win prizes by unlocking a treasure chest, and a “Shop Hop,” where visitors would receive a special gift at each store. Discussion was tabled until the April meeting for further consideration.
A patriotic window display contest was also proposed to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary from June 14th to July 4th. Participating businesses will decorate their windows and submit photos, which will be posted on Facebook for a community vote. Mindy’s Sew Shop, Christina Copeland, Grace and Bloom, Uniquely Rustique, and Help at Home have already committed to participate.
Planning for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day promotions was postponed until next month, with merchants asked to bring ideas to the next meeting.
The annual Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for this Saturday, March 28th at 11:00 a.m. at Leo French Park. Volunteers are invited to help hide eggs at 9:00 a.m. and assist with prize distribution and traffic control at 10:30 a.m. The recreation committee will provide inflatables from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Walmart has pledged to donate two bikes again this year.
Michelle Brooks, a representative of the Small Business Development Center and a local business owner, informed the group that Illinois lawmakers are considering raising the minimum wage to $27.00 per hour. She encouraged merchants to contact local legislators Dave Severin and Terri Bryant to share their opinions. Chamber staff will provide contact information for both representatives.
Due to a scheduling conflict, the next Chamber meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 31st at 8:00 a.m. at the Chamber Office. All local business owners and interested community members are welcome to attend and share their input.