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CANTON — The Canton Chamber of Commerce met at Watson Diesel on Thursday, June 4 at noon.
Those present included: Eric Schoonover of Schoonover Plumbing & Heating, Mary Beth Schoonover of Rockgirt Bed & Breakfast/Rialto Theater, Amy Seeley of Canton Borough, Robin Cummings of Bradford Tourism Agency, Glenda Watson of Watson Diesel, Kim Bailey of Chemung Canal Trust Company, Leon English of the Garden Club/VIA, Steven Lambert of Gannon Associates, Misty Machmer of First Citizens Bank, Dean Vanderpool of Canton Auto Supply, Frank Watson of Watson Diesel, Crystal Salsman from the Endless Mountains Pregnancy Center, Colleen Ritz of Stoll’s Flowers, Mary Ann Porter with the Canton Fitness Center, Rachel Heitzenrater of the Canton Independent Sentinel, Pastor Laura Kyler.
“It’s nice to see everyone again after our little hiatus,” said president Eric Schoonover.
A big topic of discussion at the meeting revolved around COVID-19, social distancing guidelines, and how they are affecting local businesses.
Events held by chamber members unfortunately got cancelled, such as Wine & Cheese Festival and Frank Watson’s open house and motorcycle show.
“It’s like trying to crunch a whole year of work and re-doing all of it in three months, with what will be 6 months remaining of the year,” said Robyn Cummings, when describing the Bradford Tourism Agency work. Due to COVID-19, the agency has had to re-write grants and develop a recovery plan for local organizations and businesses for Bradford County. “We’ve re-done our budget, advertising contracts, custom content pieces focusing on outdoor recreation, social distancing. Luckily, when things get back to normal, this is an area tourists are going to be looking for, when they want relaxation and time with family, but still social distancing,” said Cummings. “We’re really focusing on those type of events and outdoor opportunities.”
Cummings did say COVID will impact the agency, but they are “sound” and “financially OK.”
There will be options as to what organizations who received grants may do with them this year. They can pre-pay for advertising next year or use it on additional events they may be using this year.
“We want to keep a clean process too for their closeouts so there isn’t a confusing with rolling dollars.”
Mary Beth spoke on behalf of the Rialto, stating that they are planning a drive-in theater at the Manley-Bohlayer farm beginning June 19. They are still doing popcorn sales every Friday to help raise money for the theater.
Popcorn sales are from 5-8 p.m. ever Friday evening. The cost is $10 for a big bag of popcorn.
“You can purchase our screen and speakers for your own private event as well,” she said. “For $250 you’ll get the screen, speakers, and two staff people to help set it up right at your home.”
Mary Beth also spoke about a campaign that Vessi Footwear is doing, in which it allows people to submit a “cause” they would like to financially help with $100. It’s free to enter and she encouraged the Canton community to submit an application stating they are helping the Rialto Theater.
Proceeds from these events and the campaign will help the Rialto first buy a new projector, which is needed, and then help paint the front of the building for a face lift.
Other news
Dean spoke about the car show briefly, which is tentatively scheduled for Friday, Aug. 7. The Lions Club will be selling food. Posters will be made and an ad in the paper will be done for the event. Prizes are still being discussed.
Pastor Laura Kyler announced her last meeting, as she is moving ministries and someone will be replacing her from here on out.
Coleen says that Stoll’s Flowers on Main Street is open as an “E-commerce,” which means phone and computer only; however, walk-ins are fine as well.
Kim Bailey stated that Chemung Canal is not open in the lobby yet, but allowing customers in one at a time. She believes the company (based out of New York) is complying with standards there.
Leon stated that someone had cleaned out the barrels for the flowers before new ones were planted. He asked that the person who did it come forward so they may be thanked. Businesses who have barrels out front are asked to please water them and keep them looking presentable.
Crystal Salsman from the Endless Mountains Pregnancy Center announced a golf tournament on June 24 at Corey Creek to help with costs. Volunteers and sponsors are needed for the event.
Canton Fitness Center, Gannon Associates and First Citizens all reported being open for business.
Leon asked that LaVonne McNett be honored for being the caretaker for the “mini park” on Main Street. Chamber agreed.
Zachary Rentzel, 2020 Canton High School graduate, won the chamber’s scholarship award this year. He will be attending Lee University for business.
Concerns for the “Hometown Heroes” banners and their condition also rose during discussion.
Chamber spoke briefly about Canton borough and the recent meetings. Amy Seeley encouraged those present to come to the meetings, as borough business does affect them, even if they may not live in the borough.
“If you can, go to a borough council meeting, talk to a borough councilman,” said Frank Watson. “Right now, our town is wounded. We have lost industries, Apple & Cheese, Rialto is on life support,” he said, naming a couple examples.
Seeley also announced that the Canton pool will be opening, but with restrictions to accommodate social distancing.
Canton Chamber has 99 members, with four new.
Towards the end of the meeting, Frank gave a demonstration on his new “wing plow” which was on display in the building.
The next meeting is Thursday, July 2, at noon at Greener Pastures on Armenia Mountain.