BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:   Julie Abel –JabberDesign,  Mike Carey – Del Sol,  Angela Holmes-Century 21,  Marilyn Starring-Star of Saugatuck,  Kevin Tringali-Bella Vita Spa & Suites and Jodi White-Macatawa Bank

ABSENT:  Bill Smith-Parrot in the Square, Lincoln Brackett-Brackett & Company, John Jerome-Butler Pantry, Fred & Janet Schmidt, Ben Barton-White House Bistro, Toni Trudell-Park House

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:     Jane VerPlank-Victorian Inn/City of Saugatuck – Erin Wilkinson/Erin Wilkinson Photography – Lisa Lungaro/Macatawa Bank – Mike Gummere/ Waddell & Reed -  Seth Getz

PUBLIC COMMENTS:  None

SECRETARY’S MINUTES:  Motion made to accept January 2010 minutes by Mike Carey.  Seconded by Kevin Tringali.  Motion passed.

TREASURER’S REPORT:  Motion by Julie Abel to approve.  Seconded by Mike Carey.  Motion passed.

MARKETING COORDINATORS REPORT:  Hard copy provided at meeting

OLD BUSINESS:

NEW MEMBERS:  Shull Properties LLC, Spotless Cleaning LLC, Safe Harbor Children’s Advocacy Center and Harborwear.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL:  Discussed those members who have not renewed their membership.  Marilyn Starring feels we should discuss this – we had a deadline back in November, and we are still trying to get answers from people whether they want to rejoin or not.  A lot of time is being spent not only by board members, but by Fred and Janet.  It is not fair to members who do respond in a timely manner. Maybe we need to go back to offering a discount if dues are paid by a certain date, and penalize those who do not respond till after the cut-off date.  Angela Holmes states that some members may be facing financial issues.  Marilyn Starring stated that is understandable, we have and will continue to work with members, all they have to do is call Fred, and something can be set up if they find themselves in a situation where they need a little more time to pay their dues.  Angela Holmes said that we will revisit this issue in June.

BROCHURE:  Being worked on.  Julie Abel, Marilyn Starring, and Toni Trudell will proof.  Should be in early March.

EVENTS UPDATE:  Winterfest – most of the Sweet Deal packets have been distributed.  Ben Barton has Stew and Brew under control.  Need to have snowmen made through-out both towns.

NEW BUSINESS:

Allegan County Community Foundation – Julie Abel – (Go to http://artsaliveallegancounty.org) The Allegan County Community Foundation has a web site about the funding shortfalls they will be facing for the  Arts and Culture community due to the economic downturn of the state.  Keeps Your Arts Alive – completion is meant to bring those organizations back into focus by engaging our communities.   You may be asked to vote for your favorite arts in Allegan County –businesses may be approached for support.

Town Crier – Jodi White - There was a meeting last night, and they are a little behind from last year. They are working on their logo still and then will have flyers and brochures printed.  This is Rick Bauer’s first year is coordinating the event, so he is still working thru things.  Janet Schmidt will help with press releases.  Lisa Lungaro has permits approved, working on volunteers for the event.  Rick and Angelina have a lot of race volunteers (mostly parents) already lined up.

City Update – Jane VerPlank – Nothing much going on right now.  Budget workshop will begin soon – will have to gear back this year. 

Events Meeting - February 23^rd, 2010 @ 4 p.m. – Park House

Meeting Adjourned