Looking forward to rejuvenating the spirit of downtown Laceyville by creating a new events-based organization are (above, from left) Henry Laboranti, Debra Osborn, Traci Slater, Joe Lech, Jeanne Deremer, Jenn Bluhm, Tony Deremer, and Dawn Bluhm. The group invites other like-minded Laceyville area residents and business owners to join them for a second meeting tonight at the borough office building.
By Rick Hiduk
(Also published in the Rocket-Courier)
The wheels are turning in Laceyville to set into motion a new organization that will be able to keep traditional holiday activities going and generate a renewed interest in the downtown area. At the May 1 meeting of the Laceyville Borough Council, Dawn Bluhm and Tracy Slater brought news that the Laceyville Business Association (LBA) had apparently dissolved. Council suggested that they consider starting a new group before the embers of the LBA faded completely and offered the use of their offices room for a May 8 meeting of the minds.
Participants included Dawn Bluhm and Slater, councilman Henry Laboranti, Debra Osborn, Joe Lech, Jeanne and Tony Deremer, Jenn Bluhm, and council treasurer Ken Johnson. The first matter of business, Dawn explained, was to figure out what they hoped to accomplish, then what kind of structure would be most effective in the long run.
“We all have the same goals to build up the community and hometown feel,” Dawn stated. “But we also know that a lack of volunteers makes events in Laceyville hard to pull off.” Most importantly, the group agreed that any new organization should have a broader appeal and be more “guest friendly.”
“Most people don’t realize that they are welcome to come to our meetings because they think it’s only for local business owners,” Dawn related. While the new name isn’t official, those in attendance were leaning toward the Laceyville Community and Business Partnership.
Structurally, the new organization will operate under as an executive administration to spread the responsibilities among its members. “We are going to work closely with the Laceyville Borough Council and fire company to make sure that the lines of communication are never split again.” Dawn remarked.
As they departed with plans to meet again this evening (Thursday, May 17) at 8 p.m., they were looking forward to a new weekend event sponsored by the Kitson Arts Alliance (KAA) called a Pop Up Art Gallery. Despite some rain on Sunday, the inaugural event featuring local artists and live music was well attended.
“It was a sensational day,” said KAA director Dan Tompkins. “A dozen artists really enjoyed the event, especially the networking opportunities.”
“We had a bunch of happy artists and customers,” Dawn concurred.
Goals for the May 17 meeting include establishing a clear mission statement and an event itinerary. Those unable to attend but interested in the organization may call 570-240-5740 or email LupherDawn@yahoo.com.