New Executive Committee for the Madoc and District Chamber of Commerce The Madoc and district Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting was held in the evening of Tuesday March 20 in the main hall at the Madoc Baptist Church. The enthusiastic gathering of Chamber members and guests enjoyed a roast beef meal catered by the auxiliary of the St. John’s Anglican Church. Guest speakers included Bob Sager, Reeve of Madoc Township and Tom Deline, Reeve of Centre Hastings. They provided updates on a number of significant developments, and proposed developments in the area. According to Reeve Sager, the development at hwy # 62 and 7 should underway in a matter of weeks not months. Redevelopment of the O’Hara Mill homestead as a high profile “destination” tourist attraction is well underway. This work has been taken on by a small army of enthusiastic volunteers. Reeve Deline spoke about the positive results from the cooperation between the municipalities. He also expressed appreciation for the work of the local Chamber of Commerce and recognized that we get “250% leverage from our tax dollars from the contributions of time and effort we receive from the volunteers in the community”. Deline went on to review some of the highlights from the proposal for 128 long term beds to be allocated by the province. The decision on where to award the facility was originally to be handed down in April, but now it is not expected until June. Outgoing Chamber President Rob Price spoke about the many events, projects and committees that the local Chamber actively supports from economic development to the Village Market, to manning the Tourist Centre in the off season, to supporting the local radio station and many others. The principals for two new businesses attended and introduced themselves. John Bailey is opening a new collision repair franchise operation with plans to be opened by May 1. Dianne Ramroop is offering professional office administrative services to local businesses that do not have the necessary experience, skill sets or need for full time staff. Dalton Barnes from the Angels in Madoc store shared their positive experiences in utilizing the effective, lower cost advertising opportunities available on the local broadcast radio operation CKOL 100.7 FM. An important part of the meeting was the establishment of the Chamber executive for 2007. They are: President John McDonnell, Vice President Rob Price, Secretary Dianne Ramroop, Treasurer Judy Smith, and Council Members Connie Robinson, Ellen Wilson, and Richard Peck. Jim Bakker continues as Coordinator. For those wishing to make use of the excellent facilities at the Madoc Baptist Church, contact Chris Burke at 613-473-2228 and anyone in need of catering services can contact Betty Danford at 613-473-0417.
Jim Bakker
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