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Chilly temperatures didn’t stop the public from attending Galion’s first Third Friday event on May 19.
These events are orchestrated by Member Engagement Director Miranda Jones and President/CEO Joe Kleinknecht of the Galion-Crestline Area Chamber of Commerce . Each Third Friday will have a theme, and this month’s was an end of school celebration.
“Our goal with the Third Fridays is to follow our mission statement, which is to promote the growth and success of Galion area businesses,” said Jones.
Businesses that participated include H&K Watkins, Goodwill, Payne’s Pizza, Chris’ Big Plate Diner, and The Copper Horse Antiques, among others. They set up booths with information about their businesses and merchandise. The Goodwill booth handed out gift bags with a cup, pen, and their annual report.
“Our objective is to participate with the community and bring awareness about our services,” said Penny Charleston, manager at Goodwill.
Another attraction was the entertainment. Every half hour a different group provided songs at the Park Square Gazebo. Starting at 4:30 was the Galion Intermediate and Primary students, followed by the Galion Community Theater and Galion Area Band. Finishing the night was students from St. Joseph Catholic School, the Galion YMCA, and the Richland School of Academic Arts.
The food businesses partook in a “Tour of Galion” promotion. Payne’s Pizza, the Candi Bar, Chris’ Big Plate Diner, and The Whistle Stop were all offering specials on their food. Customers received a card and with each purchase received punch. With all four punches they’ll be entered into a raffle for a gift card.
The Third Friday events will take place each third Friday of the month through August.