May 2008
June 15, 2008
PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 21, 2008
8AM AT JERRY’S
Present: President, RJ Niklas, Gary May, Mike Judd, Margery Briggs, Nick Bengel, Marilyn Danielson, and guest Katie Ulryck(?) from DDA
Agenda: approved and Board members and guests introduced.
Minutes: Emailed to Angie. Should be going to all members of the Chamber. Discussion and approval of minutes.
TREASURERS REPORT:
Linda Eden unavailable today but has all information-formal report on its way. RJ will check in with Linda.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
A. Communication & Promotion-Tammy Beson (absent)
1. Website hosting- business in town willing to do website updating for no charge.
a. RJ will email company name to membership. Company just joined Chamber.
b. Director Mike Judd said an easily updated website is very important, so that all info is current.
c. Website will be able to link businesses, which will be a great advantage for businesses.
B. Programs & Activities-Margery Briggs 517-285-2659
1. 4th of July events
a. Talked with Sara. King and Queen events are in progress.
b. Parade will be started at 6:30pm from Middle school. Line up there.
1. Brings parade closer in time to fireworks.
2. There will be a pre-meeting soon.
3. Insurance for the parade is separate from fireworks. Still needed. Fireworks are covered, however. Margery and RJ to get insurance situated.
4. Marilyn to speak with Margery re: teens on bikes to do stunts-ok?
c. Forms for events will be on website.
d. Many volunteers are needed to man the parade and give directions for the lineup. Will like to get Main Street involved in the events.
e. Email blast will be sent to membership.
C. Membership-Mike Judd
1. Plaques and stickers are distributed.
2. Would like to plan a big outing for members.
3. Lugnuts outing still brought forward as a possibility. Sounds like fun.
D. Organization & Finance-Gary May
1. Golf outing was rescheduled. Likely a Friday in September or early October, possibly in connection with Octoberfest? Want to really plan and advertise. Great fun. Want lots of prizes and involvement.
a. Some discussion as to where to hold it. Want to be fair to both Golf courses in town, but currently only one is a member of the Chamber. Other has made a commitment to be a member.
b. Gary has some people he would like to use to drum up teams of four. Eighteen teams is the goal. These folks are good resources for prizes, etc.
E. Ambassadors-RJ Niklas
1. One Grand Opening this month at the Galleria de Art-discussion.
a. Interesting business. Lots of artists-should come to chamber.
b. Art lessons offered. Lots of opportunities to learn various art forms. Rxed this info be placed in the Chamber newsletter.
c. A great place to advertise for Portland. Very unique.
2. No grand opening scheduled.
3. Legislative luncheons continue to be well attended and very interesting. Hoping to get candidates out for questions. Meets 2nd Monday of the month at noon at Jerry’s. Always informative. 10-12 people attending regularly.
F. OLD BUSINESS:
A. Chamber book is out. Looks great. Very well done.
B. Chamber storage-to drop off Chamber inventory, use sign out sheet for key from Angie at office or contact RJ for help.
C. Riverfest meetings going on. Much help needed. Any help, expertise, information, ideas, etc. Please attend next planning meeting Tuesday, June 17th at 6:30pm at Jerry’s. This is a tremendous task, and it takes many to make the Riverfest a wonderful event. We encourage all members to get inspired, get excited, get involved.
1. One thing to address will be placement of booths re: noise or other factors that might affect another vendor or presenter.
G. NEW BUSINESS:
A. Chamber offered congratulations to Katie on the new facades on the boardwalk. Katie reported that much credit should go to Mel, her predecessor. There will be small signs on the buildings.
1. Free gutter heat tape will be provided for these businesses.
B. Discussed possibility of working off dues at Riverfest or other Chamber events.
C. Octoberfest on the first weekend of October. Already being worked on.
D. Portland Pay Day begins June 1st-28th. All businesses are invited to participate. Trying to include more businesses off Kent Street and within the city. Theme is Save Money, Shop Local with a $1500 grand prize.
E. The city is also working on signage for the construction to make it as positive as possible. A ER committee has already been formed for this.
F. Discussed having a tax person explain residential taxing in Portland as a good informative meeting.
G. Rodeo is coming to town! June 13th-16th. Hopefully, the Chamber will get involved with this. At one time, Portland was the rodeo capital of Michigan. What part can Chamber play in this. For contact person, call Sue Platte.
Mike Judd moved to adjourn. Meeting lasted less than 1 hour!!
Next meeting is June 18th at 8am at Jerry’s.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, Secretary
March 2008
June 15, 2008
PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MINUTES
FROM MARCH 19, 2008
www.portlandareachamber.com<http://www.portlandareachamber.com> www.portlandriverfest.com<http://www.portlandriverfest.com>
Call to Order RJ Niklaus, President
Board Members and guests Tammy Beson, Margery Briggs, RJ, Niklaus, Marilyn Danielson, and guest Warren Danielson
Minutes from last meeting- none taken.
Treasurer’s Report
Linda Eden, Treasurer, (not present) gathering all books and files.
No additional report at this time.
Committee Reports
A. Communication and Promotion-Tammy Beson
1. Packets went out. Others still in Chamber office with stick ons and plaques.
2. Website needs updated. Will see if Cathy might be interested. Group felt
it important that we know how to keep it up.
B. Programs and Activities-Margery Briggs
1. Discussed 4th of July-likely 6pm on the 4th with same route. Sara Manning to handle King and Queen. Explorers will be notified. Must consider roadwork.
C. Membership-Mike Judd
1. Membership info mailed out.
2. Discussed proportionate payment- 6-month intervals? No conclusion reached. Will revisit.
D. Organization and Finance- Gary May(not present)
1. Getting ready for golf outing. Have to set a date but should be coming soon.
E. Ambassadors-RJ Niklaus
1. Legislative lunches continue to be well attended with many leaders bringing good information. Encourage all to come out and hear what’s going on.
Old Business
A. Chamber Book-deadline, Friday, March 21st. Demographics need
updated.
B. Riverfest- meeting March 21st at 6:30pm. Nick interested in Beer Tent and
entertainment for Riverfest. Other meetings to be set up. Some discussion
re: Octoberfest
C. Gambling Event – Now at Trippers-could be huge-likely in the fall.
D. Chamber now has storage at the Surway Storage. All belongings will be
stored in one place. Anyone having any Chamber stuff should call the office,
so it can be inventoried and put away.
New Business
A. Chamber insurance is paid. 4th of July is not covered. RJ will talk with Tom Dempsey re: who should make payment.
B. Egg stuffing- RJ will handle. EEH 12 noon on Saturday, March 22, 2008
Next meeting-April 16th at Jerry’s at noon.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, secretary
January 2008
June 15, 2008
PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MINUTES FROM JANUARY 16, 2008
NOON AT CHEEKY MONKEY
www.portlandareachamber.com<http://www.portlandareachamber.com> www.portlandriverfest.com<http://www.portlandriverfest.com>
Present RJ Niklas, Gary May, Tammy Beson, Marilyn Danielson, guest, Tom Dempsey
Call to Order RJ Niklas
Agenda Approved- with Tom Dempsey offering news about city projects coming up.
Minutes Discussed and approved.
Treasurer’s Report
Still without a treasurer. We are financially better off than one year ago.
Looking for member interested in taking over position. Does not require as
much time as one may think. Much is done in the office.
Committee Reports
A. Communication & Promotions- Director Steve Kahn
1. Website-looking for a manager to keep it updated.
B. Programs & Activities-Margery Briggs
1. Easter Egg Hunt will be coming up in March.
C. Membership-Tammy Beson
1. Social Gatherings/Chamber outings
a. Investigating Lugnuts, Griffin, Tigers game-Gary will help
for warmer weather.
2. Membership packets have been mailed out with plaques Member
can receive plaques at Annual Meeting January 17th.
D. Organization and Finance-Gary May
1. need to set a date for golf outing. Need more people to support.
E. Ambassador-RJ Niklas
1. Legislative Luncheons continue to be well attended. Great
opportunity to meet County Sheriff, Representative Calley, Senator
Cropsey, Superintendent of schools, City Manager, and others in
various offices.
2. Ribbon Cuttings
a. Sienna Tax Services-January 15th.
b. Cheeky Monkey? Feb 2nd-11am with special offers-grand
opening?
Old Business
A. Chamber Plaques/signs for doors-Lou Platte
1. In and mailed out. Plaques will be given at annual meeting
B. Board meetings-for now, same time, same place. Will likely change
places every quarter. Would like to hear from others about time/place.
C. Chamber ornaments-no count yet. in process of collecting from sev.
storage places. May be good idea to rent storage unit to hold chamber
possessions together. Tammy will see about possibilities.
D. Chamber book-contract to go with Tammy.
New Business
A. Chamber Dinner/Annual Meeting at Wagon Wheel January 17th
1. Entertainment will be handled by guitar trio to play 2 sets then
solo musician through dinner.
2. Ticket sales contest for directors.
3. Prime rib dinner with opportunity to order off the menu.
4. Chamber awards will be announced for
a. Citizen of the year (two this year)
b. Director of the year
c. Business of the year
5. Riverfest meeting needs to take place soon. Much to decide.
date and time forthcoming.
6. Gambling event
a. May be held at Trippers or at Wagon Wheel. Two events left
on license but will announce after election of new officers and
after February 20th.
Next board meeting will be held February 20,2008 at noon at Cheeky Monkey
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, Secretary
December 2007
June 15, 2008
PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 19, 2007 Board of Directors Meeting
www.portlandareachamber.com<http://www.portlandareachamber.com/> www.portlandriverfest.com<http://www.portlandriverfest.com/>
Call to Order: RJ Nicklaus, President
Agenda: Was approved.
Introduction of board members and guests: RJ Nicklaus, Colleen Barricklow, Marilyn Danielson, Gary May(later), and guests: Linda Eden, David and Nancy Binkowski.
Minutes: Accepted.
Treasurer’s Report: No report available.
Still in need of a treasurer. Position requires basically check writing and some limited paper work. The board wishes to again thank Alex for his work done in this position. We do know that we are financially better off than one year ago.
Committee Reports:
A. Communications & Promotion – Director Steve Kahn
1. Web site lagging behind slightly-need someone to carry on. Due to Steve’s job situation, he currently needs to take a step back. RJ will be speaking with him. Interested in feedback from members re: website.
B. Programs & Activities – Director Margery Briggs
1. Breakfast with Santa was a great success. Ed Barr made a great santa.
2. Discussed a possible gift drop in conjunction with the breakfast. Thank you to all who participated.
C. Membership – Director Tammy Beson
1. Social gatherings, Annual Dinner discussed below.
2. Possible Lugnuts game in the summer.
3. Member packets to be distributed. Needs current membership addresses.
D. Organization & Finance – Director Gary May
1. RJ reported that we earned a good financial boost from the gambling event which brought in $2,000. Discussed Texas Hold ‘Em at Riverfest with potential for $6,000-8,000. Thank you to Lon Platte for great assistance.
2. RJ also reported that a possible mix with the VFW might get more volunteers and more interest.
E. Ambassadors – Director RJ Nichols
1. Legislative lunches continue to be well attended and very informational. Great opportunity to meet representatives on many fronts.
2. Ribbon cuttings
a. Cool City Customs-over 300 people attended with Tommy Hearns as special guest. Event to be on CNN tonight.
b. Sienna Tax Services is scheduled for January 15th at noon. It is located next door to Colwell Banker on Grand River.
Old Business:
A. Chamber Plaques will be going out to members. Statics are not in as yet.
B. We will hold with noon at Cheeky Monkey on 3rd Wednesday of the month.
C. Chamber Ornaments – Gary would like old ornaments as promotion item for Credit Union, as well. There are about 200 older bulbs left. Will gather them up from assorted businesses. Will sell them at cost. Also Riverfest tee shirts are available.
New Business:
A. Board member nominations for January 2008. Colleen and Margery have completed their terms. Alex Moore had to resign, and possible that a change in job position might necessitate Steve stepping down. We would be very interested in anyone willing to step up. It is a 3-year term except to fill vacancies.
1. More discussion followed as director comes on board to fill unexpected vacancies. Challenging but exciting opportunity for projects, PR, helping out in the community, discovering new opportunities, assisting new businesses to Portland.
B. Chamber Dinner-JANUARY 17TH AT THE WAGON WHEEL – OAK ROOM 6:30PM for drinks. 7pm for prime rib. Guests may also order from the menu. We are looking for door prizes-probably 15-20. Also RJ will need help to set up. Jerry Krause will be offering entertainment with a duo. Tickets are $22.50 per person and can be purchased from any director. Director selling the most tickets will win a prize.
1. Anyone may come. Does not have to be a member. Promises to be a great time. Hopefully, all Chamber members will attend.
2. Also, looking for Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year, and Director of the Year. Please email your nominees to RJ.
C. Chamber Book-helpful for new folks coming in to community. Likely Tammy will be handling the printing again. Did a great job, last year. Great way to advertise events from 2008-2010.
D. Riverfest meeting will be held January 16 at noon at Cheeky Monkey. Many important decisions will be made regarding dates, etc. Will need to establish Riverfest Chair.
E. Meeting adjourned 9:05am.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, Secretary
November 2007
June 15, 2008
PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MINUTES OF
NOVEMBER 21, 2007-8AM AT JERRY’S
www.portlandareachamber.com<http://www.portlandareachamber.com/> www.portlandriverfest.com<http://www.portlandriverfest.com/>
Call to Order: RJ Niklaus, President
Present: RJ Niklaus, Margery Briggs, Steve Kahn, Tammy Beson, Marilyn Danielson, Guests: Lon Platte, Jerry Krause
Agenda Review Approved
Board Member Introductions
Minutes Approved Secretary, Marilyn Danielson
Treasurer’s Report
No formal report. Alex is gathering and completing all financial records. Angie may have records in the office with her, as well. We know we are better off than one year ago.
I. Committee Reports
A. Communication & Promotion-Director Steve Kahn
1. Website- need members to give website information so it can be added to
the new website.
2. No new updates.
B. Programs & Activities-Margery Briggs
1. Breakfast with Santa, December 8th at Senior Center. Need volunteers
to arrive about 7:30am. Breakfast served from 8-9:30 or 10am. Fun!
a. Cathy Hoort is in charge.
b. Ed Barr is Santa.
C. Membership-Director Tammy Beson
1. Social Gatherings/Chamber Outings-looking at spring event, maybe Lugnuts.
2. Membership packets-Angie has labels. Tammy will stuff.
3. Flyers will be going out soon, also
D. Organization & Finance-Director Gary May-absent.
1. Christmas bulbs to go to Gary May as Credit Union and Chamber will be
sole sellers of bulbs this year. All bulbs need to be gathered.
E. Ambassadors-Director RJ Niklaus
1. Legislative luncheons are well attended. Hope to have candidates at
upcoming luncheons.
2. Ribbon cuttings-Two Rivers Financial, Art Phelps, owner. Great reception.
3. December 1-9:30 Cool City Custom will have the ribbon cutting at the Kramer Building with a signing from 10-12 by Boxer Thomas Hearns. Display of bikes is planned for in front of the building. State Journal should be called in for this event.
Old Business
A. Chamber plaque/statics- Lon Platte.
1. Lon brought in one of the plaques, beautifully done. The plaques are ready
to go.
2. Statics for doors and windows have not come in yet.
3. Invoice given to Angie for payment to S&K.
B. Chamber gaming event
1. RJ reported Chamber made about $1500 on this event at the Royal Scott.
a. Also reported all area gaming profits down some lately. Lon attended
and said the same for other gaming events in the area right now, too.
C. Discussion of different meeting time
1. RJ led the discussion hoping to get more directors out for meeting. Will try a noon meeting in January. Day will remain the same.
D. Had Riverfest wrap-up meeting, but still interested in other input regarding dates, ideas for next year. Poss to combine with 4th of July. Appreciate any input.
1. Usually vice president will chair Riverfest.
2. Likely will begin working it mid February.
New Business
A. Board Member Replacement Nomination and Confirmation
1. No movement on this today. This would be to replace Alex for the last
2 months. May wait until Annual Meeting Still 4 positions to be filled-
President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary and 3 directors.
B. Chamber Dinner-January 17th, 2008-Wagon Wheel
1. Entertainment to be music by Jerry and band. Solo guitar during dinner.
a. 8-9 will be the group. Jerry empowered to do negotiations- guessed
a fee of $150 yet to be discussed with the group.
2. Ticket sales/prize- looking for prizes from businesses and a prize for most tickets sold.
3. Need nominations for Chamber awards-Citizen, Director, and
Business of the year.
4. Chamber book/bids for Portland Chamber members-lengthy discussion
re: need for it, etc. led by Lon. Further discussion re; working with other
groups and how can we help in working together with other organizations
within the city.
Adjournment: Next Board meeting December 19th at Cheeky Monkey at noon.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, Secretary
October 2007
June 15, 2008
Portland Area Chamber of Commerce
Minutes from October 17, 2007
8 a.m. at Jerry’s
Present: Rj Niklaus, Margery Briggs, Mike Judd, Tammy Beson, Gary May, Marilyn Danielson Guests: Jerry ?, Lon Platte
Added discussion re: Haunted House. Agenda approved.
Board members introduced themselves to the visitors.
Minutes were approved. Secretary-Marilyn Danielson
Treasurer’s Report
A. No formal report available but Alex had worked hard to put it together. Angie has much of the bookwork.
B. Looking for a treasurer following Alex Moore’s resignation.
Committee Reports
A. Communication & Promotion-Director Steve Kahn-not present.
1. The website is up and running. Business links can be added. Some discussion and questions re: banners and buttons to go directly to businesses.
a. Recommend members using the site to advertise upcoming events, etc.
b. Check out the site at www.portlandareachamber.com <http://www.portlandareachamber.com/>
B. Programs & Activities-Director Margery Briggs
1. Breakfast with Santa will take place Dec 8th at the Senior Center at 8:30am
Volunteers are needed. Usually runs to about 10am. Anyone interested should arrive about 7:30am. It is a great time for everyone.
2. Holiday Fest is coming up on November 16-18th Any business interested in participating should contact Katherine Booker, President, Council for the Arts.
C. Membership-Director Tammy Beson
1. There are no immediate plans for a social gathering, however, an informal Christmas gathering is in the works. The Chamber is open for suggestions.
2. To explore the Ionia Chamber network as a way of seeking out financial options?
3. It was suggested that Angie could send out reminders to members of upcoming events.
4. There was discussion regarding placemats for local restaurants with businesses advertised. Jerry offered good feedback, recommending we do not pursue it.
5. Need member profiles for new member packets.
D. Organization & Finance-Director Gary May
1. Christmas ornaments were discussed. Gary suggested that old ornaments and new ones might be purchased outright by a financial institution to offer as a promotional item if they could only be purchased through those businesses or the Chamber. Much discussion. He offered to purchase them for the Credit Union if no other financial institution is interested. This would accomplish 100% of our goals. 1) make some profit 2)get ornaments into the public and let them know the Chamber exists.
a. Much discussion. Agreed that a letter will be sent to all financial institutions in Portland to offer equal opportunity for purchase.
b. Old bulbs are located in several places. Will collect them and find out how many are left. There are about 300-350 new bulbs available.
E. Ambassador-Director RJ Niklaus
1. Legislative luncheons are really great opportunities to find out information on many fronts. Recommend everyone to come and let people know.
2. Ribbon cutting at Raffael’s Marketplace October 19th – 1pm. Other events to follow there on Kent Street across from Jerry’s.
Old Business:
A. Lon Platte reported that Chamber plaques have been ordered. Light oak with slightly bigger plaque with room for 4 more years. Each additional year will cost Chamber 50 cents to be absorbed by the Chamber. Should be in within the month. Easy to order more, no minimum order necessary.
B. Chamber gaming event-Holiday Inn West on Saginaw Oct 18-20.
1. Still could use volunteers to give out chips and collect money. Please participate. Potential to make several thousands of dollars. Need someone for Friday 6-10 shift.
2. Riverfest wrap-up October 24th 7 pm at Jerry’s. Please come to offer input.
3. Reminder to directors. Need quorum to do business of the Chamber.
New Business:
A. Board member Nomination and confirmation for vacancy.
1. Lon Platte agreed to accept position of director and will consider treasurer’s position. Elections will be held in February for new terms.
B. Remember new directory is about to be published. Need profiles from members to enter it in. Great way to advertise. Turn it into chamber office.
C. Chamber Dinner discussion. Will be held on January 17th with cocktails at 6:30.
1. Discussed contest among members to see who can sell the most tickets at $25 per person.
2. Dinner is open to members, potential members, and anyone interested in attending.
3. Discussed entertainment options with possible dinner music provided.
Meeting adjourned at 9:05 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, Secretary
September 2007
June 15, 2008
Portland Area Chamber of Commerce
Minutes from September 19, 2007
8:00 a.m. at Jerry’s
Call to Order: RJ Niklas, President
Present: RJ Niklas, Steve Kahn, Lon Platte, Alex Moore, Tammy Beson, Margery Briggs, Marilyn Danielson, guest, Marjie Boynton
No additions to agenda-approved.
Some discussion led by RJ concerning possible different time for meetings-consensus to leave meetings at 8am. Several presently attending would be unable to attend an afternoon meeting.
The Board was introduced and the guest was recognized. Marjie Boynton would like to be involved in Chamber activities and offered her services. She was thanked by the board for her willingness to help.
I. Minutes-Marilyn Danielson: Approved.
II. Treasurer’s report-Alex Moore
A. Alex now has July and August numbers.
1. Forecasting a dollar flow of $700-$800 ahead of last year.
2. Checking balance-$10,000 Savings in range of $7,000 (some
3. Working on putting together the Riverfest account.
B. Alex tendered his resignation due to his company’s policy. Will also resign as director at this time. He will complete reports on Quik books.
a. Alex rxed Quik books so that accounts will be very specific.
b. Cost of Quik books about $135.
c. Alex will need to sign off on account signature tomorrow.
d. Will send an updated report to directors.
e. Alex was thanked as board appreciated his efforts to get a close
and accurate account of all monies of the Chamber. He will be missed as treasurer and as director. He brought much expertise to these position. He will continue to be part of the Chamber.
III. Committee Reports
A. Communications & Promotion-Director Steve Kahn
1. Members are encouraged to check out new website, including the
links.
2. Possible advertising from members to reflect back to website of
Chamber.
3. Lots of potential for advertising. Thank you to Steve Kahn and to Pat
Finkbiener who put together a good quality product with much lower
costs ($15 per hour) than other bidders . Most changes take 5-10
minutes at most.
B. Programs & Activities-Margery Briggs
1. Breakfast with Santa still being worked out. Usually the first Saturday
of December. However, Arts council would like to have it in conjunction
with Holiday Fest the weekend before Thanksgiving. Much discussion. So no date is set, as yet.
2. Arts Council would like to see Chamber members involved.
with Holiday Fest along with Civic Players Christmas weekend.
C. Membership-Director Tammy Beson
1. Membership packets need more info from members. Will be going out
in October. These will have information regarding website, as well.
D. Organization & Finance-Director Gary May (absent)
No report.
E. Ambassadors-Director RJ Niklas
1. Legislative luncheons -last week, Senator Cropsey and Rep. Calley
present. Well attended.
2. Ribbon cuttings
a. Golden Bridge Manor-Last minute but good attendance from
Chamber.
b. Cheeky Monkey-no date as yet, hoping for some bridge activity
with government rep participation. Will check back.
IV. Old Business
A. Chamber plaques/Signs for doors-Lon Platte
1. Plaques will have gold lettering/black background.
a. Could not find membership list prior to 2004.
b. Some discussion about dates for long time members, etc. Some
memberships go back to 1990 or before, but no records of them.
c. Cost $8 per plaque with no limit- would purchase 75 and also
window sticker at about $9:50 total cost per member.
d. Lon will ask for $1,000 to get these made up starting with 2008’s
membership. Motion to grant Lon this money to be used for plaques
and window stickers for membership made by Moore/seconded
Beson, passed.
e. Should members request additional years, there will be a 50-cent
charge.
B. Chamber Gaming Event
1. The next gaming event, Texas Hold ‘Em, will be held at the Holiday Inn
West on Saginaw October 18th-21st. Volunteers are needed to only take
money to the tellers. Nothing else is required. The more volunteers we
have to do this task, the less money we have to pay out. The potential
to make $3,000 or more is there. So, RJ is looking for help.
2. RJ signed up for all time slots, but any who would be willing to step into
those slots would be welcome and appreciated.
V. New Business
A. Colleen was unable to attend the meeting, so Riverfest wrap-up meeting will be set for a later date.
B. RJ requested that all Board members attend meetings and please be
punctual, so that the business of the Chamber can be handled expeditiously
understanding that all members of the Chamber are busy people.
VI. Adjournment at 8:58am. Nest Board Meeting October 17th, at Jerry’s.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, Secretary
August 2007
June 15, 2008
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MINUTES
FROM AUGUST 15, 2007
AT THE WAGON WHEEL
8AM
PRESENT: Steve Kahn, RJ Niklas, Lon Platte, Colleen Barricklow, Margie Briggs, Mike Judd, Marilyn Danielson (late).
CALL TO ORDER: RJ Niklas
AGENDA REVIEW: Approved
MINUTES: Not available
TREASURER’S REPORT: RJ paid $600 for Christmas ornaments. $50 for Texas Hold Em at Riverfest.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
A. Communication & Promotion- Director Steve Kahn
1. Finished Riverfest information
2. RJ to forward the links to us.
B. Programs & Activities-Director Margery Briggs
1. Set date for Breakfast with Santa
2. Terry Frewen is working to see if Boy Scout Pancake Breakfast is the same day?
C. Membership-Director Tammy Beson (not present)
1. RJ to check out any “ethic” requirements in our by laws for activities
2. Looking for social gathering ideas
3. Used to have gathering at the Wheel 5-6pm
4. Do we want a Halloween event at the Wheel?
D. Finance-Director Gary May (not present)
1. Need more fund raising events- maybe “Free with volunteer hours kind of
program?
E. Ambassadors-Director RJ Niklas
1. Legislative Luncheon continues through the summer.
2. Cheeky Monkey will be opening soon. Not sure about ribbon cutting.
OLD BUSINESS:
1. Member plaques- Lon Platte brought in samples. $8 a plaque. Some discussion about years being added and how that might appear on the plaque. Lon will be getting back with S&K for more options. Possible larger plaques for long term members, etc. Consensus was that the plaques look good on oak background and were very nicely done. Lon will check out member’s list and willing to do any follow-up.
2. Riverfest Event-Colleen Barricklow-needs more dealers and players for Texas Hold ‘Em. Needed driver for flat bed truck to get golf carts. George Vollman has truck. Lon volunteered to drive truck. Several things need to be done to get ready for Riverfest. Colleen put out plea for volunteers. Next meeting tonight at 5:30 p.m. at Jerry’s.
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Portland Cafe closed.
2. Gaming event at the Royal Scott on October 18-21st. We have already secured the gaming license.
MOTION TO ADJOURN: Margery made motion, Steve second. meeting adjourned.
NEXT MEETING: SEPTEMBER 19 AT JERRY’S 8AM
June 2007
June 15, 2008
PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MINUTES FROM JUNE 20, 2007
Board of Directors
8:00 a.m. at Wagon Wheel
Call to Order- RJ Niklas, President
Present-RJ Niklas, Colleen Barricklow, Steve Kahn, Alex Moore, Margery Briggs, Mike Judd, Gary May, Tammy Beson, Marilyn Danielson, with guests, Kathy Parsons, Sara Manning, Pat Finkbeiner
I. Agenda reviewed: motion to accept and seconded Margery Briggs/Mike Judd and approved.
II. Recognition of visitors.
III. Minutes: Marilyn Danielson. Reviewed: motion to accept and seconded Colleen Barricklow/TammyBeson and approved.
IV. Treasurer’s Report: Alex Moore, Treasurer.
A. Alex is working with 2006 budget and gathering reports. Plans to set up joint 2006/07 working budget.
B. Tracking down all activities and expenses to start new with high accountability whether each activity reaps financial gain or is helpful in other ways.
C. While he does not have actual final account balance, he gave an estimate of $24-$25,000 with $3,568.79 as positive cash flow balance to date.
V. Committee Reports:
A. Communication & Promotions- Director Steve Kahn
1. Website- Pat Finkbeiner came and spoke about setting up Chamber website.
He is a graduate of Baker College with Bachelor’s Degree in Web Design. Offered with schools, government, Riverfest, etc.
2. Links were discussed as a part of the above discussion. Pat said links could be accessed with a single click making site much more user friendly.
3. Appreciation was offered to Kathy Parsons for developing current website and her knowledge on the subject.
4. Others yet to be interviewed for position, but promised to get back with Pat regardless.
a. Links would be still offered only to Chamber members.
b. Other questions still on the table regarding advertising, promoting new and old businesses, etc.
c. Gary May suggested Ry given authority to move if under $1,000. Motion
to give Pat the go ahead. Gary/Colleen approved.
B. Programs & Activities-Director Margery Briggs
1. Fourth of July
a. entry forms have been developed and for parade. All entries must be on site by 5:15 ready for judging.
b. Looking for convertibles for the parade for King and Queen Court and other celebrities. If anyone has an idea, please let Margery know.
c. Parade will start from the middle school on the same route back to Bogue
Flats/Builders Lumber allowing better lineup and less confusion for entries.
d. All approvals are in. Roadways have been okayed by police dept. Crowning of king and queen will be prior to parade on Bridge St. beside Art of Giving,
allowing winners to be crowned prior to the parade. All monies for king and
queen campaign are to be turned in by July 2nd. That will conclude the voting. Canisters are in area businesses. Was rxed to get them out around Memorial weekend. $100 will go to King and Queen. Rest to the Chamber. Voting will take place at 5pm.
e. Fireworks have been approved-RJ needed to help get support. Monies go for the next year’s fireworks. RJ happy to help in that regard.
f. Margery put out a plea for volunteers to help organize and directing entries at the middle school. She also put out a plea for musical ideas. Bands are reluctant to participate without payment. However, the drum line will be coming from PHS. Anyone who would like to offer music would be more than welcome. Please call Margery if you have an idea or know someone who might be willing to play. Music always makes a parade more fun.
g. Discussed candy throwing. Do not wish to ban it, but entry forms state that candy must be thrown onto the sidewalk and not into the street for obvious safety reasons.
h. Decision was made to ban $5 entry fee. There will be no cost for anyone to be in the parade. All entries will keep up the pace or will be removed from the parade.
I. Finally, Margery and others suggested 4th activities be divided up. Many
workers needed to pull it together. Can be overwhelming. Recommend strongly for next year.
C. Membership-Tammy Beson
1. Lugnuts game discussion-Rxed Tammy set date than see how many will
come-numbers must be in 45 days ahead of game. It’s $9 per person to reserve general seating. Discussed box area, lunch, promotions, etc. Tammy to set date.
2. Discussed possible outing at the Thursday bandshell events sponsored by Counsel of the Arts. Tammy will discuss with Katherine Booker regarding
possibilities for food tent on grounds. Chamber may sponsor one Thursday for $100??
D. Organizing and Finance-Director Gary May- no new information.
E. Ambassadors- Director RJ Niklas
1. Legislative lunch to continue through the summer. Still lots going on.
2. Ribbon Cuttings were held at Star Nails and New To You. Star Nails joined
Chamber. New to You likely will be joining soon. Good turn out for both events.
3. Some discussion re: pro rating membership for half way through the year
newcomers. Colleen suggested profiles and Grand Openings for members
only. And notice to be emailed out the day before and day of event which may happen with website setup for calendar.
4. Riverfest meeting tonight at 6:30pm at the Wagon Wheel.
5. Motion to adjourn Tammy Beson/Steve Kahn. Adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, Secretary
March 2007
June 15, 2008
PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MINUTES
Board Meeting, Wednesday, March 21, 2007
8:00 a.m. at Jerry’s Restaurant
www.portlandareachamber.com www.portlandriverfest.com
I. Call to Order: RJ. Niklas, President offered brief comments and asked for any agenda changes.
II. Agenda: motion made by Gary May, seconded by Mike Judd. Approved.
III. Minutes: motion made to approve minutes made by Cathy Parsons, seconded by Margery Briggs. Approved.
IV. Treasurer’s Report: Alex Moore reported that he had some concerns regarding the bookkeeping procedure. Suggested setting books up in Quik Books so everyone will know the status of the budget once a month. Alex has Quik Books software. Also, recommended records be stored in one place. Could Angie make entries after it is set up?
A. Unclear as to actual funds available.
B. Will continue to find spreadsheets, but seem to go back too long.
C. Alex will continue to seek out info re: records.
V. Committee Reports
A. Program & Activities-Margery Briggs
1. Easter Egg stuffing-March 26@ 6:30 at Wagon Wheel. Please come.
2. Working on ideas for 4th of July, investigating bands including high school and other forms of entertainment.
B. Communication & Promotion-Steve Kahn
1. Steve reported he is still feeling his way as to his duties. Will be speaking
with Kathy today re: what is expected.
C. Membership-Tammy Beson
1. Not present, but had spoken about more socials, getting together more
than once a month.
2. Discussion followed re: get togethers sponsored by businesses. Who
would be invited, etc.
3. Concern presented by Colleen regarding the Grand Openings. One business was disappointed with newspaper coverage-wrong phone number, poor picture in the paper, etc. General discussion about
what responsibility belongs to business, Chamber, or paper.
a. Should we look at who makes decisions with the paper and work more closely with them?
b. Should we contract for more space and do dual businesses?
c. How to satisfy disgruntled member regarding poor pr?
d. Steve Kahn offered to take more pictures if we wish to rerun article
D. Organization & Finance-Gary May
1. Mailings went out for golf outing. Date May 11 at 10am-Wild Wood Country Club.
2. A new Taurus will be the grand prize. Other prizes are being solicited.
3. Sent flyers with a cover letter-so far, no responses.
4. Will have different categories, so chances are greater for winning: all men, all women, 2 men and 2 women on a team, etc.
5. Rain check for fall-date will be set, can publicize at this event for next.
6. Prizes will be awarded during dinner after golfing is finished.
E. Ambassadors- RJ Niklas
1. Legislative lunch- really a great opportunity to find out what is going on.
a. Senator Cropsey, Respresentative Calley, Sheriff, Superintendent of schools, city manager, chamber president-all good info people should know- rxed everyone should come and bring a friend.
2. March 31-Ribbon Cutting at Perfect Balance- new location at 1:30 p.m. Bridge Street.
3. Some discussion about what businesses can expect from Chamber Ribbon Cuttings. Usually done on Saturdays-maybe different day better? Maybe offer suggestions to business on how to make it better?
4. Two events were rescheduled due to weather and business not ready.
5. Consensus is that new locations should be celebrated, as well as, new businesses in town.
VI. Old Business:
A. Insurance is paid.
B. Plaques have been discontinued. Possible static signs for windows instead?
1. Project should be delegated to communications and get numbers, cost,
and propose budget for it.
C. Discussion re: sign in front of chamber office.
1. Voted earlier at a different meeting on the sign issue. RJ to check on that.
VII. New Business:
A. Nominated chairperson
1. Nick B? for beer tent
2. Steve ? for balloon blow
B. Next Riverfest meeting-March 29th at 7pm-8pm
C. Discussed Royal Scott Texas Hold ‘Em fundraiser for chamber.
1. Need 4-6 volunteers a night- won’t be dealing
a. Volunteers would tally cash, keeping books, selling chips
2. Need good experienced dealers or each dealer paid $30 for 4 hours.
3. If Royal Scott team does it, covered under their liability shield.
4. RJ encouraged all that can to attend next event at Royal Scott May 25 and 26th. Begins on Friday at 5 p.m. Can make 3-$5,000.
5. Possible event for Riverfest another year, not 2007.
D. Christmas Bulbs
1. Terry Frewen absent-but 150 bulbs will be ordered.
a. Need a simple design. Open for ideas.
b. One color saves 60 cents a bulb. Our cost-$3.32
E. Proposal from Portland Community Fund to offer 50/50 drawing for one of our events. Much discussion. Recommend for the future.
F. Mel Chrisianson announced the boardwalk is open, but ribbon cutting will take place at a later date, possibly when facade is completed. Grand opening may be in a few weeks. Maybe a simple event now and bigger later.
G. RJ requested that all directors contact him once a week, so we can keep communication open and all know what’s going on.
H. Motion made: The Portland Area Chamber of Commerce will apply for a charitable gaming license that can be used four times through January 8th of 2008.
1. Resolution moved by Colleen, seconded by Steve. Vote taken and passed with 5 yeses, 2 absences, and one abstaining.
Next Chamber meeting- April 18@ 8:00 a.m. at Jerry’s
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Danielson, Secretary
-
Links
Our Mission
We, the Portland Area Chamber of Commerce, shall advance the business community by enhancing all of the community.
