by Holly Allen
The Valley Falls Chamber of Commerce continued to shore up plans for its third Friday events when the group met April 4.
Tentatively titled “Broadway Nights” the third Friday events will mimic first Friday art walks held in places like NOTO, with businesses holding open houses and vendors set up downtown. The first such event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 17.
“We are excited to bring ‘Broadway Nights’ to Valley Falls in order to celebrate our beautiful town. We want to promote the businesses that we have here, as well as allow our talented local vendors to showcase their wares,” stated Jo Tichenor, Chamber of Commerce president. “We also want people to know we have storefronts available for additional business opportunities in our community.”
Vendors wishing to sign up for the event can do so by contacting Tichenor at 785-640-2716 or Mayor Jeanette Shipley at 785-640-7547. There will be no vendor charge assessed for Chamber of Commerce members. Civic organizations are also invited to set up a booth.
The organization is working toward having live entertainment each month. Brickstreet Bourbon and The Elevator are both open Friday nights, catering to the food and beverage needs of attendees. The Rustic Baker will have root beer floats and brownie ice cream sundaes available for purchase.
With planning in the early stages, chamber members shared ideas for making Broadway Nights a unique experience. The June 21 event may include a “Little Thistles” kids’ business expo, in conjunction with Thistle and Thread.
“We have a great little downtown area, and it’s a wonderful place to adventure into the country for a break from the business of life,” said Tichenor. “We have a lot to offer, and I hope everyone will come out to see what Valley Falls is all about.”
The chamber is also holding a photo contest. Those individuals or businesses interested in participating should take a creative photo in front of the newly redesigned Welcome to Valley Falls sign at K-4 and Sycamore Street. Said photos shared to Facebook containing a #ValleyFallsChamberof Commerce tag will be entered into a drawing to win “Chamber Bucks,” good for credit at local merchants. The winners will be announced following the organization’s May 2 meeting.
