Chamber Corner: Fall Fest wrap-up, Celebrate 50/50, BV Board decision

We have certainly been spoiled, with the absolute best of Fall weather. Lots of work done in yards, and major projects are progressing nicely as Mother Nature continues with bonus unseasonal weather. It was a joy last week to see how many people came and harvested the Mum’s and grasses out of the boxes uptown. I heard many positive comments from people that were thrilled with the idea of gleaning these Fall treasures at no cost to them. This is all due to the generous Chamber business members that were a major part of decorating main street, as well as supporting our Fall Festival. I once again remind you, shop Walnut whenever you can. It is these local business that make all good things happen.

Last comments on Festival, as I am sure you are all getting tired of hearing about it. I have to tell you the over-all enthusiasm was still very much alive last week at our monthly Chamber meeting. Positive results financially, good time had by all, good music, food and beer. The Apple cider and Apple doughnuts were a huge success, as well as the games for the kids. Sandy Green commented, it was the best turn out for Bingo in many years. This new Fall celebration is just the beginning of new and good things to come. It is well underway with plans for next year already. I have to applaud our committees, for the best of job done, and foremost our Chamber Director Brent Jamison. Brent did a tremendous job, and with a smile on his face. Thank you for all of your hard work.

The town wide 50/50 drawing is now underway. There was a very good reception at the Festival for the kick off for the yearlong project. There are signs at business’s in town inviting you to buy a ticket. What the heck, buy a book. Why not go all the way, and buy several books? OK, no one hates trying to sell donation stuff worse than I do. Here’s an idea, don’t sell the books. Buy some ticket books, and give them as gifts? What better small gift than giving a friend or loved one a chance to win Thousands of dollars all while supporting a great cause? Stop into many of our retailers in town and buy some books of tickets. 6 chances for $5, that’s better than the state lottery, and your chances will be better. Drawing is next October. Buy a book of 6 a week, and put the tickets WHERE YOU WON’T LOSE THEM. By next Fall, you will have 300 chances to win. To get those chances, it will cost you $ 250 over the 50 weeks of the contest year. Spread out the chances, and best of all, you are helping 4 major project / organizations in town. It’s a no brainer people. Start the routine this week. Thank you.

The BV school board made some major inroads this week concerning the ongoing building and facility needs for the district. After what I heard was major discussion and ideas, a vote was taken to build a new K – 8 in Sheffield, maintain Wyanet school, and leave Walnut K-8 as well. Buda and Sheffield students will attend a new building in Sheffield. These are not easy projects, and we are all concerned about what is best for our students’ education and how the communities are affected. What are the fiscal responsibilities, and how are we effected? Please be vigilant on what is going on, and how it will be a part of the future of your family, and the Walnut community. Our students, teachers, and the presence of a school in our town are all very important to the future prosperity of our community. Make sure you are a part of the dynamics that will assure the continuing of Bureau Valley school in Walnut. I do want to thank all of the BV school board members, as this is a very difficult job. Juggling education, community concerns, personal agendas, and funding challenges all enter into decisions. It is not an easy assignment. Thank you again for your work for all concerned.

That’s it people, for this week. Harvest and Fall work still in full swing. Had a great week last week, with company here and Event of the Season. I am blessed with the best of friends and family. Have a great week, shop Walnut whenever you can, start the buying of the 50/50 tickets! Thanks for your efforts.