Richard Ash, owner of Folkcraft Instruments, playing lovely Appalachian music at the Woodburn Chamber Banquet with one of their dulcimers.
The Woodburn Chamber of Commerce had a fantastic evening on Thursday, April 26 at the American Legion Post 377 on Main Street. This is the first annual banquet the chamber put forth for the members.
Kevin Heckley of Heckley Auto gave the Invocation and following that was the dinner for all invited.
The entertainment was put on by Richard Ash, owner of Folkcraft, the largest manufacturer of American dulcimers. Richard described the instrument as one of two truly American instruments developed about 200 years ago in the Appalachian mountains. The company was founded in 1968.
Richard said Folkcraft has recently added a 200 seat auditorium to its manufacturing facility for live shows, bringing in artists from all over the United States and various part of the world. He is convinced Woodburn could use a hotel close by because of all that is going on.
Even though he is a chamber member himself, he played many songs and was incredible in his musical abilities to paint a beautiful picture of colorful songs and tones. The lap sitting instrument is very unique yet has drone similarities to the Scottish bagpipes.
Love’s Gas Station, located in Woodburn on the State Road 101 Exit, nears completion.
The Chamber president, Beth Wood from Indiana Wild, also had all of the people introduce themselves and what they do in the area. Hearing what other people do in the area to help the community work and grow is really fantastic.
Beth MC’d the business meeting. There have been many new things started recently and the Chamber meeting highlighted this, including the Merchant Tent at the Summerfest and Meet Me at Noon.
Cory Pickens, Dean Gerig, Joe Kelsey were all elected as board members.
There are upcoming open houses including Ramco, Midwest Tile and Loves.
Lynn Rorick talked about the Industrial Park and how they are looking at 40 and 60 more acres.
He mentioned the Cold Storage facility is beginning phase 2 – a $6 million application for expansion has been submitted.
Gloria Gerig was there to talk about the 150th anniversary of Woodburn and what the Historical Society is doing to make this a success by putting out a new book. She also won the door prize.
