Update as of September 2026

Committee Updates

The committee has held meetings in March, June, and September, along with several smaller committee meetings. Additional volunteers are always welcome.

• Fundraising/Marketing & Communications (Madison, Teresa, Deb, Tish, Darrel)

  • Applied for grants and donations.

  • Fundraising efforts include the Sodbusters ticket sales and current raffle.

  • Marketing projects include “Save the Date” banners, koozies, Fourth of July parade participation, Facebook posts, and updates on the Community Club website.

  • Exploring additional social media opportunities.

• Events & Activities (Amy, Wendi, Becky, Kyle, Debbie, Al)

  • Developed a list of activities and are contacting bands and vendors.

• Food & Hospitality (Diane, Mary)

  • Discussing food options, vendors, timing, and event layout.

• History & Heritage

  • Volunteers needed

• Logistics

  • Volunteers needed for traffic, parking, safety, and related planning.

Budget & Fundraising

• Total budget goal: $125,000

• Funds raised to date: $14,070

  • Grants: $13,500

  • Other donations: $570

• Anticipated raffle proceeds: $7,350

• Projected total with raffle proceeds: $21,420

• Expenses to date: $923.78 (koozies, parade candy, posters, raffle tickets, checks)

Grant applications, gaming funding and donation opportunities continue to be pursued.

Community Fundraising Opportunities

The committee discussed partnering with local organizations and businesses on fundraising events, including breakfasts, chili cook-offs, bingo, meat raffles, car shows, cornhole tournaments, auctions, gaming donations, and designated fundraising events. The committee will reach out to the businesses in regard to hosting an event.

Event & Activities Planning

The committee agreed to move forward with booking bands and activities and to investigate large tent rentals. Potential event locations discussed included the city park, Community Hall area, arena grounds, Thrill Hills, and Main Street. Final site plans will be refined as planning progresses. Helpful information was received from SVACA regarding insurance, permits, vendors, traffic, and safety planning.

Next Steps

• Continue fundraising efforts.

• Reach out to local organizations and businesses for involvement and fundraising partnerships.

• Continue booking entertainment, vendors, and activities.

• Recruit additional volunteers.

Next Meeting: October 19 at 7:30 p.m., following the Community Club meeting.