MINUTES FROM JANUARY 20,2010

8AM Looking Grand Café

Present                         RJ Niklas, Kory Blastic, Linda Eden, Margery Briggs, Tammy Beson, Kevin Reagan, Kim Thorp, Tom Dempsey, Marilyn Danielson

Call to Order                RJ Niklas

Agenda was approved  Linda/Kim-unanimous

Minutes were approved-unanimous

Treasurer’s Report       Linda Eden

A.        There is money in the account

B.         Membership dues are coming in

C.        Trying to conserve as much as possible

D.        Estimating cost of Easter Egg Hunt at $200-$300

E.         Looking at a very tight budget for the 4^th of July

F.         *Snowbirds need to make sure they claim residency for the upcoming census

Committee Reports

A.        Communication & Promotion-Tammy Beson

1.         Suggestion made for more wine and cheese tastings-good attendance

a.         Held at the Wagon Wheel, $20 per person with $5 going back to Chamber

b.         Will put on agenda for next meeting

2.         Linda Eden contacted Tammy re: member profile in the R& O

a.         Tammy said could have members pay for profile at 1/3 off discount. It would be billed to the Chamber then paid by business.

B.         Programs & Activities-Margery Briggs

1.         Easter Egg Hunt tentatively set for April 3 (spring break) with possible egg stuffing at the Church of the Nazarene. Kim will check. Will need fire truck. Suggest Patrick as Easter Rabbit. No comment from Patrick.

a.         Easter Egg Hunt will be held at Bogue Flats. Will need egg scatterers on day of hunt.

C.        Membership-Kory Blastic

1.         Most members have plaques and year tabs. If not, need to contact Chamber office. Kory also has some with him.

2.         Getting a list of current members, stopping in at new businesses. Encourage all members to do the same.

3.         Second round of letters have gone out requesting renewal of membership.

4.         Will have application forms at the Annual Dinner.

5.         Tammy suggested that second round of letters should come out in November so members can use as tax deductions and also allow members To pay quarterly.

6.         Maybe a 10% discount after 2 years membership.

D.        Organization & Finance-Gary May (not present) no report

E.         City Report-Tom Dempsey & Patrick Reagan

1.         Strongly recommend everyone filling out census. Will allow greater funding for city. It’s short-only about 6 questions. It can place Portland in another category allowing for many financial advantages. Again, Snowbirds, please make sure you claim residency.

2.         Many different projects getting ready to happen.

3.         80 people coming to Portland tomorrow to see a Main Street Master Level City. They are coming from all over the state for 11/2 hr lunch.

4.         January 26^th at 8:30 webinar will be held at the city building to help businesses with faced design with historic buildings.  It is free and open to Main Street district only. Must attend to get grants for $5,000 for façade work.

5.         There is a vacancy on the zoning board.

6.         Portland one of few cities in which there are only a few vacancies in the downtown area. Congratulations to Portland. We are beating the odds together.

F.         Ambassadors-RJ Niklas

1.         Edward Jones ribbon cutting is tentatively set for February 19^th around 5-5:15

2.         Legislative lunches continue to be well attended. A representative from Van Ehlers office presents a report, as well as other government officials and local leaders.

3.         The Chamber has officiated 15 ribbon cuttings in 2009.

Old Business

A.        Finalized details for annual dinner.

B.         Chamber Book by Great Lakes Publishing -some didn’t receive the info.

1.         Directors would like to see book prior to publishing

2.         Recommend good proof readers to go over info.

C.        Chamber ornaments are selling slowly. Congregational Church ornament for 2009 are still available at the Chamber office and the Congregational Church.

New Business

A.        4^th of July Riverfest planning meeting, Tuesday February 9^th at 6:30 at Looking Grand Café. Come with ideas.

Next meeting 8am at LookingGrand Café, Wednesday, February 17^th, 2010. Everyone is welcome.

Meeting adjourned

Respectfully submitted,

Marilyn Danielson, Secretary

PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MINUTES

Board of Directors

(All PACC members and public are invited to attend)

Wednesday, October 21, 2009-8am at Looking Grand Café

www.portlandareachamber.com www.portlandriverfest.com

Present-RJ Niklas, Kory Blastic, Kim Thorp, Gary May, Nancy Binkowski, Linda Eden, Lynne Paradiso, Marilyn Danielson, guest: Marjie Boynton

Call to Order-RJ Niklas

No visitors present

Minutes were approved

Treasure’s Report-Linda Eden

A. Linda is working to get final numbers from last year. Has most of financial picture from March, but wants to get final tally

B. Income for 2008 shy $15,000 for whole year.

C. Appears that 2009 income is staying even.

Committee Reports

A. Communication & Promotion- Tammy Beson, absent

1. Strongly encourages businesses to get their profile in-great way to advertise in the R & O.

B. Programs & Activities-Margery Briggs, absent (knee surgery)

1. Breakfast with Santa- December 5^th. 8am to about 10am

a. Cathy Hoort is coordinating

b. Ed Barr is Santa

c. Gary May made generous offer to pay for the food. Receipts to be given to him for payment.

d. Will need helpers. Please arrive about 8am.

e. RJ to check with fire truck

C. Membership-Kory Blastic

1. Plaques years are in. Passed some out at meeting. Everyone renewing this year will receive one. Appears that just about everyone is renewing.

* a note to say that most members have been part of the chamber for over 6 years.

2. Membership letters have been sent.

3. Kim Thorp has list of all Portland area businesses. Will give to Kory

4. Marilyn requested a list of active members of the Chamber, so we can know who to invite to the Chamber.

5. Kory gave short report on the Octoberfest, not sponsored by Chamber,-40 entrants for the Beer Run. Felt it was a good event that needs to grow. Encourage Chamber to participate.

6. Marilyn requested list of active members of Chamber so we can contact those who are not members presently.

D. Organization & Finance-Gary May

1. Golf outing was a great success. Need to make sure sponsors are recognized.

E. City Report-City Manager/DDA Director-absent

F. Ambassadors- RJ Niklas

1. Maria’s Tacos-Dining Room opening-TBD

2. Edward Jones, Kory Blastic, owner, in the Kramer Bldg.TBD

3. Legislative lunch well attended, great chance to ask questions about school, local, and state issues. Very informative. 11:30am Networking, noon Legislative Lunch 2^nd Monday of the Month at Jerry’s.

Old Business

A. Annual Dinner

1. Thursday, January 15, 2010 at the Wagon Wheel.

a. Silent auction-need items, door prizes, etc.

b. Entertainment-Nancy to check with Sherry, MaryAnn, and Rush

1. Discussion of other ideas-wine tasting, etc.

c. Need nominations for:

Citizen of the Year

Business of the Year

Director of the Year

B. Christmas ornaments with Congregational Church on sale for $10 at the church or the Chamber office. Vintage ornaments $5 at Chamber office.

1. Can be purchased at Old Mill Boot Sale-ends Halloween

C. 2010 Community Chamber Book

a. Kenny Kramer awarded contract this year.

1. Some discussion re: procedure. Gary May opposed on principle.

D. Fourth of July Riverfest planning meeting Tuesday, December 1^st

a. Consensus that it should be more kid-oriented

New Business-None

Next Meeting Wednesday, November 18^th at Looking Grand Café

Respectfully submitted,

Marilyn Danielson, Secretary

PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MINUTES FROM JUNE 17^TH,2009-8AM AT LOOKING GRAND CAFE`

www.portlandareachamber.com www.portlandriverfest.com

All PACC members and public invited to attend

Present- Directors RJ Niklas, Nancy Binkowski, Linda Eden, Kory Blastic, Margery Briggs, Gary May, Tammy Beson, , Guests: Dave Binkowski, Marjorie Boynton, Lynne Taradiso, Kim Thorp

Call to Order-Rj Niklas, President

Board member and visitor introductions

No minutes taken at last meeting

Treasurer’s report- Linda Eden gathering info. She will have it next meeting.

A. will do cost of events-profits and losses

B. will do report in 3 month segments

C. will be prepared with statements following Riverfest/4^th of July event.

D. Statements will be paid following the event

Committee Reports (not in usual order)

A. Programs & Activities-Director Margery Briggs

1. corrections need to take place for all entry forms-wrong dates, times, etc.

a. all entry forms need to be cut and pasted forward corrected to website.

b. To be done ASAP by event coordinators

2. King and Queen event is being handled by Sara Manning

a.. Will be crowned downtown about 5pm so can be in parade

b. Speaker system will run cord through insurance co. nearby-

Margery to check on that and get stage from Rush

3. Parade info

a. Theme- Freedom-Celebrating the Foundation of America

b. No entry fees for parade or any event

c. Lineup beginning at 5pm at middle school-begins at 6pm

d. Announcers on Kent St

e. Awards given prior to parade

f. Bike parade to be included with parade and will lineup

g. Volunteers needed to keep parade running smoothly

4. Advertising

a. Portland Printing can not print our posters-Tammy Beson

Given 50-75 posters through the R&O.

b. Trifolds for restaurants will be handled by Nancy Binkowski and

Marilyn Danielson.

c. Public tv ads running

5. Details

a. Need volunteers/freebies for prizes and interest

b. Golf carts for judges and Paddles

c. Need volunteers to be Paddles, walk with Paddles

d. Need judges for events-parade, bikes parade, hot dog eating

Chili cook off, water parade, tug of war, bed race

e. Looking Grand will host hot dog eating and chili cook off

f. Bus available for beer tent both nights-remember tip the driver

g. Entertainment is ready for Friday and Saturday night

h. NEED VOLUNTEERS for info booth, go fers, food venders for 2-3 hour blocks.

1. Booth applications-$50

2. set up on Friday with good security throughout the night

3. need to know if electricity is needed

B. Communications & Promotions-Director Tammy Beson

1. Center of R & O to be Portland’s 4^th of July events-concentrated more on

the 4^th than Riverfest

2. Schedule has to be in to be printed. All activities need to be gotten into

Tammy

C. Membership-Director Kory Blastic

1. Members need to realize that all monies go directly back into Portland’s

Chamber. We are interested in your help and will work with people on

membership monies.

D. Organization & Finance-Director Gary May

1. 2nd biggest outing for the Chamber is the Golf Outing to be held August

26^th at Willow Wood Golf Course.

E. City-no report

F. Ambassadors-Director RJ NIklas

1. Legislative lunch well attended-2^nd Monday of the month at noon at Jerry’s

with 11:30am business networking.

2. Member had opportunity to speak with one of the representatives and got

results, so it’s a great opportunity to meet with influential people.

3. Town and Country Title- Grand Opening, August 11^th at noon

Old Business

A. ICEA and County Chamber Network Business

1. Rediscover Downtown Tour October 2009

2. County Chamber meeting July 16^th , Looking Grand Café at noon

B. Proposed County Community Book, 2010

1. Maybe interested if no cost, but not too exciting, Portland has a good one.

2. Chamber Ornament will be powder blue with First Congregational Church

a. Marilyn to furnish small write up about church to be included with

bulbs.

C. Kory Blastic elected as Vice President Interim

New Business

A. Next and last 4^th of July planning meeting is June 23^rd at noon at Jerry’s

B. Working on Portland Chamber book

Next meeting 8am Looking Grand Café, Wednesday July 15^th, 2009- Respectfully submitted,

Marilyn Danielson, Secretary

MINUTES FROM APRIL 15,2009

8AM AT THE LOOKING GRAND CAFE

www.portlandareachamber.com www.portlandriverfest.com

Present: RJ Niklas, Kim thorp, Nancy Binkowski, Tom Dempsey, Patrick Reagan, new Director of DDA, Korey Blastic, Margery Boynton, and Marilyn Danielson

Call to Order: RJ Niklas, President

Agenda: Approved

Introductions: Tom Dempsey introduced our new DDA Director, Patrick Reagan.

Minutes: Approved

Treasurer’s

Report: None available. Linda Eden absent re: tax season

Committee Reports

A. Communications & Promotion-Tammy Beson, Director, absent

1. Newspaper profiles-coming up for Riverfest

2. Community clean up April 25^th

B. Programs & Activities-Margery Briggs, Director, absent

1. Special events-Those present for Easter Egg Hunt commented

on it being a great event-lots of kids, may need to purchase new eggs. Good help the week before at Church of the Nazarene. Thank you to Kim Thorp.

2. Some ideas to make EEH even better-buy eggs now at discount in

local stores. Fill out paper work for discounts a couple months

before. Photo opportunities, Advertise sponsors. Get Chamber

name out there.

C. Membership-Mike Judd, Director, absent

1. No report

D. Organization & Finance-Director Gary May, absent

1. Need more fundraisers

2. Consensus that library would be a great scene this year-membership, take some photos for that one great shot.

E. City Report- Tom Dempsey, City Manager

1. Good information regarding 10^th annual clean up. Danby and Portland Townships can participate

a. Hazardous waste clean up May 2-liquids,

Old paint (take off lid to dry out) by fire department.

b. Freon, old tires, and car batteries-need to check with

county.

c. Recycling curly lightbulbs, regular batteries, glass, milk

jugs, magazines, at DPW

d. Need help to clean up Riverwalk April 25^th. Meet at RR

bridge at 9am.

2. Other city events

a. pop can drive April 20-25^th

b. Hoort openhouse-May 7^th 4-7pm

c. June begins Portland Paydays

d. Mid June Rodeo

e. See other city events in the insert of utility bill or ask city to download a copy to you.

Ambassadors-RJ Niklas

3. Legislative Lunch continues to be well attended with business

Networking at 11:30am before lunch at noon. 2^nd Monday of the month at Jerry’s. Great information.

4. Ribbon cutting and Grand opening April 25^th at 11am Town &

Country Title in the Kramer Building.

5. April 18^th was Alpaca day at Alpaca Barbers on Towner Rd. Dave

and Nancy Binkowski, owners.

6. Horse show the second Saturday of September

7. Rodeo June 12-14th

Old Business

A. Easter Egg Hunt as previously mentioned. Ideas to promote businesses

With coupons from locals in eggs, special prizes, etc. Good ideas. Need

better arrangement for 1-3s. Big turnout for all ages. Great fun. Thank you

to Kara Adams, Easter Rabbit. Fire truck did not arrive-problem? Talked

about potential of photos with Easter Rabbit, too, maybe a background set up. MaryAnn Reid has offered to repair rabbit costume.

B. ICEA and County Chamber Network Business-DDA involved.

1. Rediscover Downtown Tour, October 2009, dry run hopefully during Riverfest for Portland.

2. Country Chamber meeting, April 16^th at Looking Grand Café, at noon.

C. Proposed Country Community Book, 2010, likely will be contracted through Great Lakes Printing

D. Chamber Ornament-discussed above. Library would be great feature

E. Election of Officers and Committee Appointments

1. Mike Judd and Nick Bengel had resigned as directors. Tentative new directors Korey Blastic and Nancy Binkowski. Concrete at next meeting if no objections.

New Business

A. The Fourth of July Riverfest Planning Meeting-May 12^th @ noon at

Jerry’s. Every member of the Chamber may want to attend to see how you

can plug your business in and take advantage of an event right in your

own town. Lots of little ways to help. The agenda has been tentatively set.

B. Website update- needs to be done soon to give our Chamber members

Great exposure and offer good information to our citizens.

Adjournment.

Next Board meeting 8am @Looking Grand Café, May 20^th 2009

Respectfully submitted,

Marilyn Danielson, Secretary

]]> http://www.portlandareachamber.com/minutes-april-15-2009/feed/ 0 http://www.portlandareachamber.com/chamber-meeting-minutes-february-2009/ http://www.portlandareachamber.com/chamber-meeting-minutes-february-2009/#comments Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:12:12 +0000 admin http://www.portlandareachamber.com/?p=75 PORTLAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MINUTES

From Wednesday, February 18,2009

8AM at Looking Grand Cafe

PRESENT Linda Eden, Gary May, RJ Niklas, Tammy Beson, Marilyn Danielson, Guests: Kim Thorp and Marjje Boynton

CALL TO ORDER: RJ Niklas, President

MINUTES: Corrected minutes will be emailed to the membership. Wrong date on minutes.

TREASURER’S REPORT

Linda Eden, treasurer plans to give full report with the information she will collect from Angie Wheeler and with what she presently has.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Communication & Promotion-Director Tammy Beson

A. Going to be looking at website update with information on coming events. Will be taking each section at a time

To update including the Easter Egg Hunt, Chamber Annual Dinner, Riverfest, the Main page, all to be done following Annual Dinner.

Program & Activities-Director Margery Briggs-not present

A. Easter Egg Hunt usually costs between $300-$500. Want to do good quality and not skimp on events we do.

Will be checking into getting candy from Sam’s Club. Plan to put eggs together at Congregational Church or the

Credit Union.

Membership-Director Mike Judd-not present

A. Applications have been updated and sent out. Anyone who would like to have one, may call Angie at the

Chamber office.

Organization & Finance-Director Gary May

A. Getting ready to order for next year. Some discussion about scene. Recommended to do something with the river, especially with snow for Christmas. Members are encouraged to find pictures or take pictures of area for

possibilities.

1. It was also recommended to order the minimum amount of bulbs. Gary will cover the cost.

City Report-None available

A. One question regarding the time that snow plows are getting out. Has that changed?

Ambassador-President RJ Niklas

A. Reminder Business networking and Legislative Luncheon at 11:30 the 2^nd Monday of the month

B. St. Patrick’s Grand Opening on February 3^rd was great. Wonderful idea for kids to operate their

Own branch. Kids manage it, and short term loans are made to kids for prom, etc.

1. Hopefully, branch will be opening at the middle and elementary schools, as well. Gary will keep us

Posted.

2. WLNS and Tom Thelen from the R&O were present. Great opening.

C. Maria’s Tacos and Stacy Adam’s will be also celebrating Grand Openings.

1. Maria’s will be May 5^th.

2. Stacy’s date isn’t set as yet.

OLD BUSINESS

A. Riverfest-schedule has been semi-set for events. Some discussion about balloon launch-where? what time?

1 Discussion re: 4 balloonists, Thompson Field, Powers Park, Maple Street, talking with people about it.

2. May be some sponsors for that event with no cost to us.

3. Next Riverfest meeting March 10 at 6:30pm at Jerry’s. Everyone is invited.

B. Annual Meeting February 20,2009 6:30 cocktails, at Wagon Wheel Oak Room .Prime Rib Dinner, with Chicken Cordon Bleu, salad, bread sticks, and vegetable. Need a number for Chopper. Please RSVP

a. Need door prizes

b. Awards and Director Nominations-3 director seats up for nomination.

c. Cost-$25 per person, $45 for a couple, $175 for table of 8.

d. MaryAnn Reid will bring the entertainment and dinner music.

C. Membership Outreach

1. Members need to stop in at businesses and meet them.

D. ICEA and Country Chamber Network Business

1. Ionia Business Expo, March 7^th-more info to come

2. Rediscover Downtown Tour, October 2009-will fall in conjunction with Octoberfest in Portland

a. Likely dress rehearsal for Portland with histories of buildings, etc. in June. Big event.

E. Proposed County Community Book, 2010

1. Likely Great Lakes Printing. We may not have to pay for this. Will need businesses to cooperate.

F. Insurance policy-$1,000 per year. Property liability, etc. Voted and passed.

G. Meeting location-Looking Grand Café- 3^rd Wednesday of the month at 8am. Everyone is invited. Thank you to the Looking Grand for great service and great food.

Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilyn Danielson, Secretary

Present: RJ Niklas, Tammy Beson, Gary May, Nancy Binkowski, Linda Eden, David Binkowski, Marjorie Boynton, Kory Hastic, Kim Thorp, Joel VanSlambrook, Marilyn Danielson

Agenda was approved.

Minutes had been sent but not available at meeting. Approved

Treasurer Linda Eden working to prepare a really brief budget.

RJ reported that we really need to cut every corner of extra spending but do not want to cut quality of activities offered to the community.

Committee Reports

A. Communication and Promotion-Director Tammy Beson

1. Website is up and running. Members need to get info into office to update for February.

2. Profiles to be updated and written up sent with membership notice. So far, only one has been turned in. Members encouraged to get those in so info can be published in Member Profile column in R&O.

B. Programs and Activities- Director Margery Briggs-absent

1. Easter Egg Hunt- April 11th.-Last year spent between $300-350. Likely about the same this year. Will need stuffers.

C. Membership-Director Mike Judd-absent

1. Forms were sent out by Tammy and Angie.

D. Organization and Finance-Director Gary May

1. Chamber ornaments now with PFCU

Will pay for ornaments in full and given full authority to use at will.

E. City Report- Joel VanSlambrook

1. Plenty of salt for rest of winter

2. Construction update- only 1-2 weeks behind

MINUTES FROM AUGUST 20,2008

8AM AT JERRY’S

www.portlandareachamber.com   www.portlandriverfest.com

Call to order: RJ Niklas, President

Present:       RJ. Gary May, Mike Judd, Margery Briggs, Nick Bengal. Linda Eden, Tammy

                   Beson, Jerry, Marilyn Danielson, and guest Marjie Boynton.

Minutes:       No formal minutes from last meeting. Secretary was not present.

Treasurer’s

Report:         Linda Eden is working from Excel program. Still gathering records. Linda

                   asked to keep records of transactions and to seek out info re: tax

                   information. Simple record keeping system is all that is necessary. Linda

                   thanked for her willingness to help out.

Committee

Reports:

                  A.  Communication & Promotion-Tammy Beson

                        1. Basically working with website in need of general update. Everyone

                            invited to check it out and offer corrections.

                        2. Kathy Parsons has been working on updating Riverfest from 2 years

                            ago. Kelly McCausey has offered her services to help with the website,

                            as well for no charge.

                  B.  Programs & Activities-Margery Briggs

                        1.  Margery will be speaking with Holiday Fest people which is held 1st or

                             2nd weekend in December. Last year, Santa was Ed Barr. Ed would be

                             interested in being Santa again. He did a good job.

                         2  Margery will be speaking with Kathy Hoort about Breakfast with Santa.

                            Gary May said he has some employees willing to help with that, as

                            well.

                         3.  Octoberfest by Main Street-want hoping Chamber will participate in

                              events, maybe a chili cook off or some other kind of cooking contest

                              such as. Best Brats, Barbecue, etc. Could be held in city parking lot.

                     C.  Membership – Mike Judd

                          1.  Chamber outing to be scheduled just to get together sometime

                               between September and Novermber and/or February and April. Mike

                               and RJ will work to put something together.

                          2.  Mike expressed concern for out of date web site with offers for

                               members. Asking that members search out web site for out of date

                               info. Will also be seeking out other benefits for members re:

                               insurance, etc.

                    D.   Organization & Finance – Gary May

                          1.  Golf outing August 28th beginning at 9:30am

                               A.  Lots of prizes and lots of teams already signed up. Looks like

                               poss twelve to fifteen teams.

                               B.  Prizes to include new car from Vollman Ford and two new motor

                               cycles from Custom Classics. Community businesses donated lots

                               of prizes.

                               C.  Still looking for more prizes and cosponsors. Music to follow with

                               Jerry at Jerry’s? later that evening. Great day planned.

                           2.  Gary is interested in having the rest of the Christmas ornaments.

                                Have sold a few. More will be at the Riverfest information booth.

                     E.   Ambassador – RJ Niklas

                            1.  Legislative lunch continues to grow. Lots of good information

                                available by those in office- Sheriff Duane Dennis, Rep. Calley,

                                Senator Cropsey, School Sup, Chuck Dumas, City Manager, Tom

                                Dempsey, and others. Many issues to discuss.

                            2.  RJ distributed possible proposal for Novermber’s ballot. Extensive

                                 reworking of the constitution. Any interested need to ask for copies

                                 and come to Legislative meetings.

Old Business

                     A.  Chamber storage

                           1.  Attempt to cut off lock failed-likely someone got storage units mixed

                               up. RJ’s lock was on the unit. Nothing presently in the storage but plastic eggs and signs. Still seeking out all of Chamber’s belongings. Please call RJ or Angie at office if you have  Chamber property.

New Business

                      A.  Riverfest Wrap up

                           1. August 22-24

                           2. Need help setting up fencing on Thursday afternoon. Brian Grapentine

                               is letting us use his fencing again. St. Pat has offered their posts.

                            3. Friday morning need fence post driver workers. Mary said she may

                               get some help from parks and recreation.

                            4. Friday tables and chairs need to be set up. All volunteers are

                                welcome. 

                            5.  Vendors coming in Friday night.

                            6.  Car cruise will be parked in 100-200 block of Kent St. with library

                                 parking for overflow.

                            7. Lots of activities for everyone throughout the event-many tug of war

                                between different groups running throughout the event.

                            8.  RJ expressed thank you to everyone who has helped in anyway.

Adjournment:  Gary May made the motion, Tammy Beson seconded. Meeting adjourned at about 9:15am.

Next meeting September 17th at 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

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

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 15^th.
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