Vinemont discusses past and future events
Nov. 15—VINEMONT — In its first meeting since hosting last month's Grillin' and Chillin' BBQ festival, the Vinemont Town Council discussed the event's successes and areas to improve for next year.
Town clerk Kayecea Sasser told the council Tuesday, Nov. 15, that final totals weren't yet available, but after accounting for expenses the town was expected to clear roughly $2,200 in profit. Most of those expenses were also said to be upfront purchases which can be used again for future events.
While all councilmembers were in agreement that the event was an overall success, it was also one which could be improved on. The majority of suggestions relayed by the council centered around the event's layout. Competitors and food trucks were congregated around the entrance to the Vinemont Sports Complex while craft vendors were left to set up throughout the park's interior.
Councilmembers said a tournament scheduled for the day after the festival left them hesitant to set up heavy food trucks so far into the park or on fields. This was combined with limited access to the park's interior spaces.
The council agreed it should begin planning for next year's event much sooner to ensure the park won't be in use for the entire weekend.
Two more immediate events were announced as the council prepared for the upcoming holiday season.
A community-wide Thanksgiving meal is set to take place this Saturday, Nov. 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Vinemont school lunchroom. Those involved with the town's senior center were encouraged to attend due to no senior citizens day being scheduled for the month of November.
Plans were also solidified for the town's Christmas in the Park which will take place Dec. 9, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the town's walking trail/Art Park.
Sasser said the event would feature a snow machine, several televisions playing Christmas music, Christmas cookies and an ornament making station for children. The event will culminate with a tree lighting ceremony.
Mayor Radiginal Dodson offered a display of holiday spirit by taking a moment to express gratitude for the members of the council.
"For what it's worth, I want to say the council is not a problem to work with. Y'all are more than anxious to do things in the town. I thank you. I give you a really heartfelt straight thank you," Dodson said.
In other business, the council approved to surplus a 2006 Columbia Golf Cart.
