Hardin County BPW Club Hears from Chamber and Tourism Director Deb Phillips

On October 28, Pres. Sandy Moore of the Hardin Co. Business & Professional Women’s Club welcomed 3 members and guest Deb Phillips to the dinner meeting at 5:30 p.m. she thanked Connie Dietz for being the hostess.

After the delicious dinner at Kenton’s Royal Buffet, Phillips was introduced as the Director of Hardin County’s Chamber of Tourism. Her team consists of Audra Meyers, Holli Underwood, and Tabitha Young. The team’s purpose is to be strong and creative to bring business and more money into Hardin County using 4 pillars of focus. 1 is becoming a chamber membership 2 is community development 3 is economic development 4 is tourism. They arrange levels of sponsorship: $100 for Silver, $200 for Gold, $4000 for Platinum, and $5000 for Diamond. They are so pleased with the newest business in Kenton named The Bagel Bar.

Presently they have about 256 members who are within 7 levels of membership. They try to keep communication with these members as much as possible. They arrange a community coffee the first Tuesday of a month that is open to anyone. A membership breakfast is the third Friday every other month. The next is November 20 with speaker Nicole Scott and Jenna Litsey to speak from the education of Rhodes State College of Small Business Development Center. They welcome 18 to 45 year old people to come the second Wednesday of a month from noon to 1 p.m. for discussion with business questions.

Being active is important to the county’s growth. There is an annual meeting by the end of February. A Gala is planned separately. Her office has placed roadside signs outside the county saying “Discover Hardin Co.” She stated that they were lucky to have an intern this summer who wrote information about the different villages and business for Facebook. Its purpose was to draw in more people and business. Her job also includes working with the Lion’s Club to arrange the Christmas Parade at the end of November. She is open to anyone who can help.

Phillips answered questions, then Pres. Moore led the group in thanking her for her information. Moore began the meeting as Sec. Norma Frederick read her report from September 23. It was accepted. There was no correspondence. Treas. Connie Dietz had her report filed for audit. There was no pin fine. Donations were voted to be added to the scholarship fund.

It was discussed that the members would consider attending the Celtic Dance show at Kenton’s High School auditorium on Dec. 15. More information is needed. All will be notified when information is found.

Director Sandy Moore, Director of the Helen Mabrey Shoe Fund, gave her October report. There were no donations. She paid $463.98 for 12 pairs of free shoes for needy students in Hardin Co. The CD will renew on Nov. 2. All accounts agree with the bank.

Frederick reminded all to take socks/slippers to Kenton’s Home Savings & Loan around Thanksgiving. They will be displayed on the Santa Train until the collection will be taken to Helping Hands. The collection will be gathered around the second week of December. These items will be part of the Christmas gifts for needy children and their families at Christmas.

Having no other business, the next meeting is March 24 at Kenton’s Royal Buffet at 5:30 p.m. Sandy Moore is the hostess. Pres. Moore adjourned the meeting and wished all safe travels and happy holidays.