February 2 , 2006 Meeting Minutes

Benkelman Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Regular Meeting Minutes
Thursday, February 2, 2006 ­ DCH Conference Room

     The meeting was called to order by President Rita Jones at 6:01 p.m. Others in attendance included Phyllis Gardner, Angus Garey,  Glenda and Richard Bartholomew, Jerry Preston, Harlan Cansler and Linda Melchert.
     MINUTES AND TREASURER'S REPORT--Following a review of the January 5, 2006, meeting minutes, Phyllis made a motion, seconded by Glenda, to approve. Motion carried.
     Richard led the review of the treasurer's report and stated that 22 memberships had been paid. He said that 70 letters were sent to prospective members. Jerry made a motion to approve the treasurer's report, seconded by Phyllis. Motion carried.
     PROMOTIONAL BROCHURE--Rita, on behalf of Linda Jones, opened discussion about the area promotional brochure with input and questions by Linda M. who is also working on the update project. An analysis of the current brochure determined that 70 percent of the information is outdated, but that the display continues to be attractive. Harlan contributed to the discussion and pointed out the fact that the recreational vehicle population should be marketed in providing services, safety, and affordability in the area.
     A motion was made by Linda M. to continue the brochure update project with a more general and easy-to-update approach. Glenda seconded. The motion carried.
     BANNER REPLACEMENT--A discussion about a "Welcome to Benkelman" banner that needs replaced was held. Richard indicated that Frank Merklin has the extra banners and other related hardware. Frank will be contacted and as time, assistance, and conditions allow, the banner situation will be handled.
     SPUCC UPDATE--Angus Garey was introduced to the group. He is the 2006 president of the South Platte United Chambers of Commerce who gave an update on the organization. Some of the topics presented included legislation considering a "snowbird highway" from northeast to southwest Nebraska.
     Linda M. excused herself from the meeting at 7:10 p.m.
     Garey continued his update and stated that 60 percent of all vacations are planned on the Internet; the Business Beyond the Farm organization is creating some success stories for rural Nebraska; an industry that has been, and is often, scoffed at--bird watching--has had a huge economic impact on our state, and the SPUCC website will provide for a menu selection for individual communities in the area served.
     REPORTS--Richard handed out information received about a possible fund-raiser by contracting with a professional basketball entertainment group.
     Rita referred to correspondence received concerning a fund-raising event scheduled for March 18 being coordinated by Shane Sis and requesting funding support.
     Phyllis made a motion that the Chamber contribute $50 toward advertising and promotion of the event to be applied as directed by Shane Sis. Jerry seconded the motion. Motion carried.
     Glenda reported that the 125th anniversary (quasicentennial) of Dundy County will occur this year. In 1981, it was generally recognized that the centennial of the county began during the summer of that year. It was decided that the topic will be discussed more at the next meeting.
     Other correspondence of the Chamber was reviewed.
     The next meeting of the Chamber was scheduled for Thursday, March 2, 2006, at 6 p.m. at the hospital conference room.
     There being no further business to come before the Chamber at this meeting, it was adjourned at 8:11 p.m.

Richard Bartholomew
Secretary/Treasurer