PRESENT: Libby Oliver, Larry Shroth, Linda Ellis, John Pickering, Sandy Stokes, Marvin Rodenbaugh, Tim Hooton, Laura McLane, Nancy Hance, Ken Orf, Jackie King, Carol Powelson, Matt Vehige, Dave Monahan, Peggy Alexander, Allen Rone, Kari Monsees, Phil Reid, Michelle Smith, Jack Sanford, Jackie Stewart

Guests: Charlie Denn, former Editor of the Warren County Record Bonita Loness, Jungermann Realty

Marvin Rodenbaugh gave the blessing and lunch was served.

President Larry Shroth called the meeting to order at 12:00 p.m. and welcomed the members and guests. Those in attendance introduced themselves and who they are representing.

Minutes:
The minutes of the December 1, 2009, meeting had been distributed prior to lunch. President Larry asked for any additions or corrections to the minutes. Being none, a motion was made by Ken Orf and seconded by Sandy Stokes to approve the minutes as presented. Motion carried.

Treasurer's Report:
Treasurer Nancy Hance presented the Treasurer’s Report. The current account balance is $3,545.15. The winner of the 50/50 drawing was Marvin Rodenbaugh. Marvin split a pot of $14 with the Chamber. Jackie King, Massage Therapy by Jackie King, won the drawing for Business of the Month to be featured on the Chamber website for February.

City Report:
Sandy Stokes thanked everyone for their contributions and donations for the City’s Holiday Open House. It was a well attended event and turned out to be a success. MFR Tire Service is now in the old Hoods building and Cheap N Cheap Liquor is now open. Sandy said that the Foristell Board of Alderman passed the budget for 2010 with no serious cuts and were able to give a salary increase to the employees.

School District Reports:
Kari Monsees, Wentzville School District C.F.O., reported that the new Timberland High addition is open. Kari briefly talked about a second GPS Meeting to discuss the goals and future direction of the district which include a full time kindergarten schedule and discussion of a third high school.

Jack Sanford, Facilities Operations Director of Wright City School District, said that work continues on the athletic complex at the High School. The district hopes to add additional parking and air condition to the entire High School.

Program:
President Larry introduced our guest speaker, Charlie Denn, the former Editor of the Warren County Record. Charlie spoke with the members about different ways of promoting and advertising your business. Some of the different types of media he discussed were newspaper, radio and television, internet and direct mail. Most newspapers are looking for and wanting local businesses and organizations news and happenings. Charlie suggested inviting them to ribbon cuttings, chamber meetings and to send articles on such things as open houses and award ceremonies. This is a direct and cost effective form of advertising for many business, clubs and organizations. Charlie emphasized to be proud of not only who you are but also what you do and promote it.

New Business:
It was discussed that the Chamber’s tables and chairs are available for use to the members but to please keep in mind that if they are borrowed to return them as soon after your event as possible.

Announcements:
Jackie Stewart of Interstate Subs announced that the sub shop is now open for business Monday – Thursday 10:00 – 8:00 and Friday – Saturday 10:00 – 9:00. Interstate Subs is located at 10 Wildcat Center in Wright City. A ribbon cutting will be on Saturday, January 16, 2010, at 11:00 am.

There be no other business, a motion was made by Ken Orf to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 12:50 pm.

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 2, 2010.

Respectfully submitted,

Carol Powelson, Secretary