June 9 , 2005 Meeting Minutes

Benkelman Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Meeting Minutes
Thursday, June 9, 2005 € Dundy County Hospital Conference Room

     In absence of a president and vice president, Secretary/Treasurer Richard Bartholomew called the meeting to order at 7:06 p.m. Others in attendance were Jerry Preston, Eric Schrader, Katie Fasso, Bonnie Mullanix and Marjorie Wilson.
     The minutes of the May 12, 2005, meeting were reviewed. Bonnie made a motion to approve and Jerry seconded. Motion carried.
     Following a review of the treasurer's report, Eric made a motion to approve. Seconded by Bonnie. Motion carried.
     A review of the Chamber's new slogan contest was held. Richard reported that no entries were received through the mail. By e-mail, five suggestions were received from Shane Sis and one from Bob Prangley. After some discussion, it was decided to table any decision on a new slogan until the next meeting.
     A brief report was given by Richard on the open house and Chamber "First Dollar of Profit" certificate presentation at C-Clear Ice on Sunday, May 22.
     A discussion was held on the series of Chamber-sponsored community survival "think" messages, three of which had been printed in The Benkelman Post so far. Of those in attendance, none had received much notable feedback and some had not seen the message displays.
     Bonnie led a discussion about proposals and projects presented before the Benkelman City officials in the past.
     Phyllis Gardner arrived at 7:18 p.m.
     The topic of the newspaper Chamber messages was revisited with some general discussion continuing.
     Kenneth Gardner arrived at 7:22 p.m.
     Discussion continued on the topics of chain discount store impact on small communities, economic development legislation recently approved, value-added agricultural products, and property tax issues.
     Joe Fasso arrived at 7:37 p.m.
     Discussion continued on the topics of an agricultural equipment museum, tourism, and grant-funding efforts.
     Marj left the meeting at 8:10 p.m.
     Some general discussion continued.
     The next meeting of the Chamber was scheduled for Thursday, July 14, 2005, at 7 p.m. at the hospital conference room.
     There being no further business to come before the Chamber at this meeting, it was adjourned at 8:26 p.m.

Richard Bartholomew
Secretary/Treasurer