The Billings Chamber of Commerce held their monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 19, 2020 in the Billings Community Center where social distancing protocol was observed. President Beth Bierig welcomed those attending. Mark Branson led the flag salute and Karen Culp offered the prayer. Members answering roll call were Beth Bierig, McKayla Bohon, Mark and Melinda Branson, Candy Oller, Karen Culp, Eileen Learned, Aimie Learned and John Baker. McKayla read the minutes from the previous meeting which were approved.
Beth Bierig gave the Financial Report on behalf of Treasurer Gerri Cochrane Lemings. The financial report was approved as presented. Beth reported Gerri regretfully resigned her Treasurer position due to her current health concerns. Karen Culp volunteered and members voted to appoint her as interim Treasurer.
Candy reported the July/August Yard of the Month was awarded to Scott and Kay Ranney.
New Business was discussed: Members voted to forego purchasing the insurance normally obtained for the Wheat Festival as it was cancelled at this time due to the Covid Pandemic.
Beth brought up ideas for possible community events that could be held while following CDC guidelines for social distancing during the pandemic. She stated Brown-Dugger Funeral Home has offered to work with the Chamber sponsoring an outdoor movie night in October. Other possible events discussed were a School Halloween Carnival, and Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt. John Baker proposed having fundraisers and putting out donation cans at businesses around town now to raise funds to purchase fireworks for the 2021 Fourth of July Celebration. . Beth stated she would have more information on possible events at the September meeting.
Beth also reported the Perry Chamber of Commerce had decided to hold the Cherokee Strip Parade only and there would not be vendors or any of the other events normally held in conjunction with the parade.
School News: Aimie Learned reported Billings Public schools began on August 13th. She reported students are all wearing masks in the halls and desks are placed apart for social distancing. Aimie also reported a number of Jr. High and High School athletes are going to Lamont daily to practice football. There are also plans to have a 5-6th grade fast pitch softball team.
Town News reported: Mark Branson reported Randy Bailey was hired as the new city maintenance person and Kelly Rupp hired as assistant maintenance person replacing Ed Darger and Hiram Phelps respectively.
Beth adjourned the meeting and announced the next monthly meeting would be Wednesday,
