Chamber discuss derby attendance

At the November 14 Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce board meeting, during old business, CEO Meri Ann Dorman and the board discussed their Demolition Derby event. Part of the discussion included concerns about the drop in attendance and drivers’ participation, as well as the idea of changing the rules. The board decided to continue the discussion in a subcommittee.

Dorman and the board discussed the October 24 Moonlight Madness event. Dorman said it “went well” and there were about 200 participants in the costume contest. The board also mentioned that the ages 9 and up group had a lot of participants and found that encouraging.

Dorman and the board discussed their Thermopolis Got Talent scheduled for February 2. There will be more information about it coming later. However, they discussed the different potential age categories and soliciting for prize money.  

Dorman also discussed that on January 6 at 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. there will be board training at Big Horn Federal. This training is open to any board in Hot Springs County. Lunch will be catered.

In new business, the board discussed the Chamber Banquet scheduled for March 15. They are looking for new ideas to “change it up” where guests “won’t want to miss this event”. The board will continue their planning for the banquet in December.

In January, the board will hold their strategic meeting and use their SWOT analysis information they will gather at their December meeting. The SWOT analysis will cover the chamber’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. 

Howie Samelson, representing Main Street Thermopolis, said they will be redoing the lighting that was damaged in a recent storm. They will also hold their Shop Small Shop Local on November 30. 

In the Director’s Report, Dorman said the Chamber will be closed on December 23-27. Also, she said the Lodging Tax PAC passed with 74% approval. Dorman noted that the Hot Springs County Tourism board members and director cannot solicit or promote the Lodging Tax initiative per status, therefore the Chamber stepped in to educate the public about the lodging tax and promote it. 

The chamber will be lighting up the tree in Bicentennial Park, including the Veteran’s Tree, with red lights this year.

The next board meeting will be on December 12 at Big Horn Federal.