ORLEANS—Joseph Lannan, Executive Director of the Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), was the featured guest at the Orleans Chamber of Commerce’s April “Breakfast Chat,” held last Thursday morning. Lannan updated attendees on the CVB’s ongoing initiatives to promote Orange County and its diverse attractions to visitors. Mindy Rogers also represented the CVB at the meeting.
During his presentation, Lannan announced that a rebranding effort is underway for the organization formerly known as “Visit French Lick-West Baden.” He also shared plans for a new funding model designed to provide marketing resources for local business owners.
Chamber Executive Director Robert Henderson followed with updates on the Chamber’s activities and upcoming events. He highlighted the successful launch of the new “Food Truck Frenzy,” which occurs downtown every Thursday night from 4 to 8 p.m. This initiative, a collaborative effort between Hometown Scoops and the Chamber, will feature a variety of food trucks and family-friendly activities throughout the summer and early fall months.
Henderson also informed the group that final preparations are being made for the 55th Annual Dogwood Festival, which runs from April 19th through Parade Day on April 26th.
A popular Chamber tradition, the Silent Auction, will return to the festival lineup this year after a one-year hiatus. This event is a crucial fundraiser for the Chamber, with proceeds supporting various community enhancement projects and special events throughout the year. Due to the recent tornado damage to Unity Hall, the Silent Auction has been relocated this year and will be held at the Orleans Wesleyan Fellowship Hall from April 24th through April 26th. A wide array of new and unique items donated by area businesses are expected to be available for bidding during the three-day event.
Looking ahead, the Orange County Economic Development Partnership (OCEDP) will host Chamber members and their guests for a “Business After Hours” event on May 7th from 5 to 7 p.m. at Hometown Scoops.
Attendees also learned about the return of the Homegrown Orleans Farmers Market to historic Congress Square for another season, starting on May 17th from 8 a.m. to 12 Noon. The market will operate every Saturday through late October.
Other upcoming events announced include a Spring Garden Tour planned for June 14th and an Antique Tractor Show set for July 12th.
Additional updates included the ongoing Railroad Mural Project planned for the grain bins owned by Springer Farms on the north end of town and continued improvements being made at the town’s Monon South Trailhead.
The Orleans Chamber of Commerce is scheduled to hold its next meeting on May 18th.
