Thanks to all who attended Tuesday's Linton-Stockton Chamber of Commerce's November meeting at Pizza Hut.

Nancy Karazsia from the Linton WorkOne office updated those in attendance on the new MindLeaders training program offered though their office. MindLeaders is a free, on-line training program offering a variety of courses. Courses can be taken from the office or from home.

MindLeaders offers over 100 training topics and almost 700 training modules. For more information on this program and how to get registered, please contact the Linton WorkOne office at 847.4479.

Thanks to Pizza Hut for hosting this month's meeting.

* Congratulations to Chamber member Francis' Jewel Box. Francis' was recognized as our Chamber member of the month.

They have been serving the Linton community for 50 years. Francis' Jewel Box is located at 145 N. Main in Linton.

* We also want to congratulate Mark Ranard of Ranard's Hauling and Removal. Mark was this month's door prize winner.

* The Bloomington Area Arts Council has announced two opportunities to learn more about the Regional Arts Partnership grant initiative made possible by the Indiana Arts Commission and the Bloomington Area Arts Council.

The first grant session is set for Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. at the Waldron Arts Center in Bloomington and a special second session has been scheduled for Jan. 7 from 3:30-5:30 pm at the Owen County Heritage and Culture Center in Spencer which will include a grant writing workshop.

If your organization is interested in applying to this competitive, regional arts grant program it is strongly encouraged that someone from your organization attend an information session to familiarize yourself with the guidelines, policy updates and process.

Additional information is available at the Chamber office or by contacting the BAAC at (812) 334-3100. The Bloomington Area Arts Council is a member of the Linton-Stockton Chamber of Commerce.

* A reminder that as part of their year-long 50th Anniversary Celebration, Francis' Jewel Box is "Counting Our Blessings" during November.

Each customer making a purchase at Francis' Jewel Box will be entered into their monthly drawing for a $50 gift certificate, but they will also donate $1 to the area food pantries. Customers can also bring in non-perishable food items and receive $2 off their watch battery purchase during November.

Francis' will also be holding their "Fourth Annual Diamonds and Desserts" tonight from 6 to 9 p.m. Ring in the holiday season with an elegant evening of pampering including hand massages while you enjoy delectable desserts and champagne. You can "play dress up" and dream about what Santa can put under your tree this Christmas.

* The Chamber recently announced two new events for 2009. The Chamber will be hosting The Van-Dells on Saturday, March 14 at the Linton-Stockton High School Auditeria.

Tickets will be on sale soon. If you would like to reserve your ticket in advance, contact the Chamber office at 847.4846.

The second event will be a one-day street festival in downtown Linton. This event will be on Saturday, Oct. 31 and will include vendors, entertainment, a classic car cruise in and more. If you would like to help in the organization of this event, please contact the Chamber office.

* The holiday season is fast approaching. We would like to remind local shoppers to visit our Chamber members when shopping this holiday season. Our local businesses are those who continue to support our community and school functions year after year. We never hesitate to ask them for a donation to a good cause, let's remember to repay the favor and shop with them this holiday season ... and throughout the year.

Don't see what you're looking for? Ask. Perhaps they are able to locate that special item for you.

Remember to support those who support us.

* And lastly ... GO MINERS!

Cheryl is the executive director of the Linton-Stockton Chamber of Commerce and can be reached by mail at P. O. Box 208 Linton, Ind., 47441 or by telephone at 847-4846.