by Kirby Lindsay, posted 8 April 2011
The Fremont Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meeting, on March 30th, covered a number of ‘housekeeping’ items. Topics that contained little of the truly dramatic, but will accomplish work that will keep the organization going – and the membership informed.
Planning Events for 2011
Phil Megenhardt, of Bold Hat Productions, reported on the preparations for Fremont Oktoberfest 2011, which serves as the principal fundraiser of the Chamber. The application for the Special Events permits has been submitted, and opened discussions with the Washington State Liquor Control Board about ways to better prevent over service of alcohol to attendees.
“It was a good reminder,” Megenhardt said of the conversations. Bold Hat, who produces Oktoberfest, took closer looks at security measures used when identifying someone who has overindulged. Bold Hat is developing a ‘Code of Conduct’ for attendees, and will improve the use of the security log regarding guests ejected from the festival.
Bold Hat also organizes the Fremont Fair, on behalf of the Fremont Chamber, and Megenhardt reported that the 2011 festival has “sponsors lining up.” The Fair will grow this year, and run later on Saturday, June 18th, with beer gardens closing at 11p.
Supporting the Cause
That provided a natural segue to a reminder for meeting attendees about the Solid Ground luncheon on May 6th. Fremont Chamber Executive Director, Jessica Vets, offered to let board members skip the next Board meeting if they must save the time to be able to attend the luncheon. The Fremont Chamber wants to fill several tables, to support, and raise money, for Solid Ground programs aimed at helping the poor and ending homelessness.
Board Members were urged to invite others to the luncheon, or ask for donations from those unable to attend. When Solid Ground selected the Fremont Chamber to carry on production of the Fremont Fair, the Chamber promised to aid Solid Ground in fundraising for their programs. The Fair had served as one fundraising vehicle, but last year Chamber leaders noticed how a good showing by Fremonsters at the luncheon actually may be a more effective method of support. To attend, or make a donation, contact Jessica Vets.
Website Wrangling
A discussion of significant time at the March Board meeting concerned the Chamber website. During the board retreat, in January, concerns were raised over the website and led to suggestions that it be ‘rebranded.’ This directive caused the creation of a website committee – led by new Board members Ken Saunderson and Stephanie Hara – who returned to the Board for clarification.
Phill Briscoe provided copious amounts of ideas and suggestions on rebranding, which helped direct the Board discussion. Ultimately, attendees realized it that a revision of the website is required, but concern also came up about input on what the website does, and does not, do – and how input can be limited to constructive contributions. To submit suggestions, or serve on the website committee, contact Jessica Vets.
Or consider stopping by Show Pony boutique to speak with Hara directly. In a slightly related note, Saunderson mentioned that Michael Hamilton has decided to retire from their business partnership. As a result, Hamilton/Saunderson, located upstairs from LTD Bar & Grill, has become Saunderson Marketing.
A Brief Recap
In addition, the Board discussed the annual budget (due in June 2011,) and the income from the Walking Guide, the website and membership. It was announced that a decision to temporarily suspend publication of newsletter must be revisited at the April board meeting, and the fact that the last two Chamber gatherings made money.
To learn more about these matters, and other business of the Chamber, attend an upcoming Board Meeting. They occur on the last Wednesday of each month (next one on April 27th) at 8am at History House (790 N 34th), and are, as always, open to the public. See you there?
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©2011 Kirby Lindsay. This column is protected by intellectual property laws, including U.S. copyright laws. Reproduction, adaptation or distribution without permission is prohibited.