Paula Scott took a sigh of relief following her first and very successful Blaze of Lights.

At that point, working as an interim chamber director, the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce board offered, and she accepted, being CEO of the nearly 200-member organization.

“The momentum at the chamber is fantastic,” she said, as she looks toward events planned this year by the chamber.

On the calendar are traditional events, including the Arts and Crafts show Saturday, May 12, and the Blaze of Lights (Saturday after Thanksgiving).

“We are looking for a new arts and crafts director,” she said, adding that Jerry Burkholder, who has overseen the show since its beginning nearly a half-century ago, says it's time for him to retire.

The next immediate event is new – a chamber business after hours – at Sycamore Lake Wine Co., rural Columbus Grove, from 5 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 17.

“We’ll do more of these if this turns out being a popular event for members,” she said.

And, although it is mid-January, planning is beginning for this year’s Farmers’ Market. Greg Probst begins his fourth year as market director.

“The market will open the first Saturday of May and run through the end of October,” said Scott.

At the moment she is seeking musicians to perform during the market, as an extra feature for shoppers and vendors.

Another popular aspect of the chamber is the monthly breakfast meetings, which attract up to 60 persons.

“We continue to invite breakfast sponsors and are working on programs for this winter and spring,” she said.

Always interested in promoting the chamber, Scott reminds Icon viewers that membership is open to individuals, small businesses, retail businesses, all the way up to large corporations.

As chamber CEO, Scott answers to the volunteer board.

Members of the board are, Mandy Gerkin-Snyder, president; Larry Hoffman, treasurer; Jason Brandt, secretary; Mark Alliman, Robin Bowlus, Ryan Brauen, Derek Dukes, Bob Inniger, Connie Kruse and Young.

Scott’s chamber contact information follows:
Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 142
Bluffton, OH 45817
419-369-2985
[email protected]
www.explorebluffon.com