In the Know - Nov 3 "OCMS Events "

Last Updated 11/14/2022


Spooktacular Wrap-Up
The Inaugural Downtown Spooktacular garnered positive participation and comments from participants of all ages. Spreading the Halloween fun throughout the downtown area proved to be a good strategy for OCMS. Director, Ashleigh Eckels and part-time Event Coordinator, Cady Crawford, re-imagined the traditional Trunk or Treat in hopes of attracting more business and organization participation; people into businesses, and making it more of a family event rather than just a long line around the courtyard. OCMS Staff encouraged people representing businesses/organizations to distribute goodies in costumes, decorate, and/or set-up games in an alley, or in front of an empty building. Eckels was pleased with turnout, “We had more than 30 businesses/organizations represented and around 800 attendees and I hope people check out the video on the OCMS Facebook page.”

A shout out to Osceola Fire Department and Police Department for their help and to these businesses: Premier Sponsor, Osceola Foods, and Gold Sponsors: Clarke County Publishing, First National Bank, and Cactus Family Farms.

#SmallBusinessSeason- Now through December 31
How many times have local businesses stepped up in the community to sponsor and support events, non-profits, organizations, and miscellaneous fundraisers? The answer is too many to count. Now through December 31, OCMS reminds and encourages the community (and beyond) to shop local. Show appreciation to the people who step-up and support Clarke County. Through supporting local businesses, community members become advertisers for local tourism and services. Give something that is uniquely Osceola, add to the business buzz and help sell local. Watch for more information and promotions and in the meantime, show local support with hashtag #SmallBusinessSeason.

OCMS Organization Actions

Design Team Notes
Four members of this team met October 21st to review grant requests and discuss other projects pertaining to design. They approved Building Improvement Grants for back steps to the second story apartment at Timber Ridge Country Market and to Smith ProManCo LLC for tuckpointing, stucco and window archway repairs to 102 E. Washington. Ashleigh also summarized the previously approved Ivy Rose mural, lighting, and branding projects.

Strategic Planning Special Meeting
Eleven OCMS Board Members and Director, Ashleigh Eckels, met at Revelton Distilling Company to discuss and identify five-year priorities and catch up with recent happenings. Prior to the meeting, Eckels sent an electronic survey to help narrow the topics and solicit input about challenges, triumphs, and proposed changes in all areas of the organization. Everyone had the opportunity for input and at the end of the two-hour session, agreed on three broad strategies which encompass projects in process.

1. Create an inviting, inclusive atmosphere for people of all ages: enhance downtown as a place for people of all ages to enjoy with a mix of commerce, culture, history, and entertainment.
2. Downtown Building Rehabilitation: provide support for downtown historic building rehabilitation projects.
3. Downtown Beautification & Placemaking: Bring color, quaintness, and enjoyment to public spaces.
Additionally, the team will resume Coffee Connections and create a shop local marketing campaign. 
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