Du Quoin chamber rethinks projects

The Du Quoin Chamber of Commerce Wednesday night filled slots on its board of directors and put some of its major projects of the year on the table for possible makeovers.

It was a good start for Robyn Laur-Russell who begins the first year of her two-year tour as chamber president. It also saw the election of Pinckneyville Chamber of Commerce president Jessica Holder to the Du Quoin chamber board. That may provide some opportunities for cooperation between the communities.

Members met Wednesday at the "W" Restaurant in Du Quoin. The membership elected newly appointed City Clerk Andrew Croessman to the board along with Jessica Holder, Fred Huff, Dane Mason, John Tilley and Greg Showalter. Showalter replaces board member Tracy Fenton, who becomes second vice-president. Chip Banks becomes first vice-president. Doc Holladay serves as secretary-treasurer and Dr. Gary Kelly will continue to serve the chamber in several ways as past president.

Committee structure will be condensed to three main committees--activities and events, membership and marketing and governance and operations. Members are reminded to get your dues paid.

The chamber discussed whether to continue the Merry Money Shop Du Quoin program, ending the home and garden show or holding it every second year and the possible addition of a local car show and cruise in cooperation with the Street Machine Nationals.

These projects will be discussed again in November.The annual Veterans Day parade will be held Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 10 a.m. in downtown Du Quoin. The chamber discussed plans for a joint Christmas party with Pinckneyville and discussed the annual chamber banquet on January 27, 2016.