At the January 9 Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce board meeting held at Big Horn Federal, during old business CEO Meri Ann Dorman said the State/Local Civic Bee is “moving forward” and will be a “fun and exciting time.” The Civic Bee will involve essays submitted by sixth through eight grades, who will write about problems in their community and how to fix them. There is first place for $500, second place for $250, and third place for $150 locally. Those will go to the state competition to potentially win $1,000. The state winner will advance to nationals for a $100,000 prize in a 529 account for college. The Civic Bee will be on April 6.
Dorman added that they are looking for judges to review the students’ essays. The deadline to submit the essays is February 4.
The chamber also discussed that instead of holding their annual banquet, they will do a concert instead. Music artist Bryan Elijah Smith will perform on March 14 at the auditorium. Dorman said Smith’s music is featured on Netflix’s “Virgin River” and has 200,000 followers. He also writes a new song once a month.
Tickets are $25 each. There are also 100 VIP tickets at $40 each. The VIP ticket holder will be able to meet Smith from 9 to 10 p.m. during an after party and have light refreshments. Tickets can be purchased at the Chamber’s website or in person at the office.
The chamber board and Dorman discussed the coming Leading with Excellence event on February 10. This is for any local or regional board that can receive training. Dorman said that some boards from Riverton are coming and hopes that local boards will also attend. The deadline to register is January 31.
In new business, the board voted and passed the approval to accept the resignation of Stephanie Mohr, who has moved onto Thermopolis Rehabilitation and Wellness and does not have enough time to dedicate to the board. Mohr’s seat will be up in June 2026 and an appointment will need to be made to fill her seat.
In the community organizations, Dorman said that the Travel & Tourism board is holding a seasonal photo contest. Also, Main Street Thermopolis recently did their Shop Smart in November and a quilt raffle. They are also planning their Brewfest on June 7.
During the director’s report, Dorman and the board decided to move their chamber board meeting to March 6.
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