A new meeting facility along with two other businesses are locating in the Orchard Shopping Center on Route 37 South in Salem.
Owner Keith McNeil has split the space that was the original Ben Franklin store and several other businesses in the past into three because of its large size.
Keith and his wife Tammie will own the Harvest Room which is now available for rent by the hour, half-day, or full-day.
McNeil says the 3,000-square-foot facility was designed to have a unique character.
“We’ve done a lot of reclaiming of a lot of material from other projects we did. Some boards, farm boards, and big heavy beams we put together for our décor. We kept that theme throughout the whole unit and I think everybody is pleased with how it turned out.”
Jillian Wilkins will manage the facility.
“We can host bridal and baby showers, family reunion or holiday parties, office or corporate parties. All of that. We can seat just about 100 people and have our speaker platform with a microphone and Wi-Fi. The kitchen is complete with a fridge and stove for your use. You have use of a huge island if you utilize catering.”
Wilkins says there are also two large smart TVs that can also be used for presentations. Those interested in renting the facility can contact Wilkins at her business J. Lane Boutique which is located nearby in the Orchard Shopping Center.
McNeil says Accroply a Barry-Wehmiller Packaging Corporation which is associated with Stanford Engineering has started manufacturing equipment for the packaging industry.
The third space will soon house administrative offices for One Hope United which offers residential services to young people at a number of facilities including Centralia.
Ribbon cutting for the Harvest Room held by the Greater Salem Chamber of Commerce. Owner Keith McNeil cut the ribbon. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
The kitchen area of the Harvest Room. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Harvest Room seating area for conversation. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Future home for Administrative Offices of One Hope United. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Private offices constructed for the soon-to-be administrative offices of One Hope United. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
