We are thrilled to announce that River Arts Alliance, led by President Loyce Akers, will be taking over staffing the Visitors Center in downtown Newport. Along with area and member-specific information, they will also be showcasing artwork from local artists as they share their knowledge of local attractions and treasures with visitors, tourists and locals alike. We look forward to working with them and thank all applicants for their interest in serving our community in this fashion and also the Historical Society for working with the Chamber to find a solution that works for all. The Visitors Center will be staffed by River Arts Alliance volunteers (many of whom have previously volunteered at the Visitors Center in the past) and will be open 9-4pm Tuesdays through Saturdays during the summer season and then Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10am-2pm through the winter. Welcome!
Our Chamber
Hooray - the Benches are Back!
Just in time for Who Let the Girls Out!?, Newport's semi-annual shopping extravaganza, seven refurbished benches made their appearance along Washington Ave. in downtown Newport. And were they a godsend for the ladies who spent the day power shopping and needed a quick breather before hitting the next stores on their list.
The most recent project of the Beautification Committee, led by 2011 Citizen of the Year Nancy Thompson, the benches represent a true collaboration among various community groups. The City had removed them years ago due to vandalism. But Nancy and her crew were convinced that benches were an integral part of a vibrant downtown. So she assembled a team and tackled the project with gusto. The Chamber of Commerce applied for the necessary grant funding from the EDC to finance the project. KCTC students, led by Fritz Fox, disassembled, sanded and refurbished the benches. Nancy and 2012 Citizen of the Year Sue Scobby, in consultation with business owners and the City of Newport, determined their placement, and the PUD's Line Crew #1 handled the actual installation. Ta da! Benches for downtown for all to enjoy!
Next up is signage and a color palette for downtown Newport. Stay tuned for an announcement on that front soon.
Chamber seeking Executive Director to Support Members
The Greater Newport Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking a candidate to fill the position of Executive Director. This is a high profile position that reports directly to the Greater Newport Area Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors. Applications will be accepted until the later of May 31, 2013 or when the position is filled.
2013 Rodeo Parade Entry Forms
Rodeo is coming to town and with that comes the annual Newport Rodeo Parade through downtown Newport. This year's event is slated for Saturday June 22, 2013 starting at 11am (parade participants must be present at 9am (for judging) or 10am otherwise). If you want to be judged, you must complete and submit this form (click here to download it) on or before Monday, June 17th.
April Members' Meeting Cancelled
Due to the timing of spring break and the Mardi Gras-induced hangover we're all still recovering from (that's the sign of a REALLY fun party btw), we have decided to cancel our April members' meeting, originally scheduled for Tuesday April 2nd at 6pm. We'll see you all at our May members' meeting which is set for Tuesday, May 7th. Details to follow. Happy Easter and Spring Break everyone!
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- Finalists for 2012 Citizen of the Year
- Vote Now on the Finalists for 2012 Chamber Awards of Distinction
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