Chester Chamber of Commerce meet
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ The monthly Chester Chamber of Commerce meeting was held February 17, 2009, at Reid's Harvest House.
A different and fun annual dinner is in the planning stages. This year's event will be held at the Chester Country Club Friday, June 19. The casual evening will include a BBQ dinner and entertainment. The Chamber's Citizen of the Year will also be announced that evening. Nominations are being accepted and may be sent to the Chamber Office at 214 Opdyke Street.
A motion was made and carried for a $100 sponsorship of this spring's Regional Leaders' Breakfast on April 30, at the St. Patrick Parish Hall in Ruma, Illinois.
The Chamber and City's River City Main Street Project is in its first phase. Eight litter containers were purchased by the Beautification Commission, City and Chamber. The containers were placed at various locations along the main streets.
This year's annual meeting schedule includes several lunch meetings. On March 24, at noon, a meeting will be at the Chester Eagles Club, from 12:00 to 1:00. Several new initiatives will be shared by the River City Main Street Project Committee. Members, friends, and any interested citizens are invited to attend.
The directors approved a $1,000 educational scholarship to be given to a Chester High School graduating senior. Applications will be available at the High School. The reviewing committee will be chaired by Director Richard Allison, along with Directors Bertha Mae Blechle and Don Stallman.
This year's annual fish and shrimp dinner will be at the Chester Knights of Columbus Hall, Friday, February 20. The buffet style dinner is from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. An adult ticket is $7.00 and children $5.00. Carry outs are available by calling 826.3316.
Directors will be contacting 2008 members who have not yet paid dues for 2009. The Chamber welcomes individuals and businesses. For information call 826.2721.
On March 25, a Spring Mini Job Fair will be held at Southwestern Illinois College Red Bud Campus, at the Career Activities and Employment Center. Businesses wishing to participate should contact Kelly Bione at 618.282.6682 or email at kelly.bione@swic.edu.