Friday, December 2^nd, 2011, 8:00 am Benson’s by the Beach Restaurant; 504 S Pacific in Long Beach; 642-3300

CALL TO ORDER

At 8:10am

INTRODUCTIONS Missy Bageant, Ruth Ann Hockings, Lois Roberts, Laura Price, Rick Green, Jane Holeman, Holly Beller, Mollie Christianson, Gayle Borchard, Cheri D, Patrick Wes, Craig Smith, Steven Linhart    

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion was made to approve both October and Novembers general meeting minutes; Motion was made by Gayle Borchard;  2^nd by Cheri D, motion passed

TREASURER’S REPORT

See attached pdf. of the treasure’s report and the draft budget for the 2012 budget.

2012DraftGenBudget0001

Dec1TreasurersReport0001

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

• Election of officers for 2012
  • Tabled until next month’s meeting Jan 6^th 2012
  • Send out an electronic ballot to get more votes and representation for the vote.

NEW BUSINESS COMMITTEE REPORTS

• Holidays at the Beach: Holly Beller: Had a problem with Santa photo’s but was able to redirect people to the photographer’s website which turned out to be better in the long run. Weather took out the set up insides the tents. Had an issue with the tents due to weather/storm. This event needs a permanent spot before next year.  Having decorated tree auction on the 10^th come down to the Neptune theater 1pm.
• White Elephant Ruth Ann Hockings Next Thursday kite Museum at 6pm bring a wrapped gift and favorite dish
• Doggie Olympic Games:  Mollie: working with Ilovedogs.com they really want to get involved, working with Beachdog for rat cards and website.
• SandSations no report
• Jake’s Birthday  no report
• Kite Festival  no report
• Beach to Chowder Run/Walk article that was in Northwest Runner and there is a really nice write up in it. Timer purchase Jeff is working on.

OTHER REPORTS

• Kite Museum [Kay Buesing]  indoor windless at long beach in Jan.
• Loyalty Days [Bob Andrew] Applications already 3 bands and second batch of letters
• Surf Perch Derby [Dale Jacobson] it is on again and Dale has picked it up for 2012
• SummerFest [Ragan Andrew]  No report
• Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau [Holly Beller] 3.5 hour discussion on how they are funded and how to increase funds, most people come from the I-5 corridor. New ways for funding, opening it up to individual membership for people wanting information. Talking about reducing the vacation planner. Visitor counts for 2011…think it was about the same. Down on lodging tax this year, but lot of day trippers. Lots of complements of how well taken care of the city is compared to others.
• Liaison to Long Beach City Council [Steven Linhart] :made an exception on the size for the sign it will be bigger and also have the quilt shop, the pharmacy and the mall . Due to not covering up the painted murals. Next meeting on Monday budget is up for public review.  No layoffs, no increases to city employees pay, festivals are all funded for next year and the Visitors Bureau.
• City Lodging Tax Advisory Committee [Wayne O’Dell] part of the LTAC budget $70,000 is to go after advertising to get more people down here. Meetings Second Tuesday of the month.
• Liaison to Ocean Park, Ilwaco [Laura Price] United Way Pacific County $900 donations but 100,000 was funded, liquor law discussed, Ocean Park Chamber has 71 new members, sound system was purchased from donations at the Ocean Park 4^th of July. Stress Busters class Dec 10^th Well Springs . lighting of the tree ocean park, Ilwaco dec 3^rd
• Lighted Sea serpent is sick and is under warranty it has a short.  It is being taken to Oregon and having it fixed.
• Columbia –Pacific Farmers Market [Gayle Borchard] The Market is over but did meet with the vendors and they feel that they would like to close at 6pm. Adding hot food this year, pressure for it to pay for itself. Little package goods from around the peninsula to also be sold at the market. Peggy miles had surgery for cancer, she is up on her feet and she is healthy and strong but keep her in your thoughts.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ü  LB City Council Meeting: December 5^th & 19^th, 7:00 pm, City Hall

ü  LTAC Meeting: December 13^th, 2011

ü  LBMA Board Meeting: December 16^th , 8:00 am, Benson’s(Cancled for December)

ü  LBMA Meeting: January 6^th, 8:00 am, Benson’s

ADJOURNMENT

9:00 am

CALL TO ORDER  8:00

INTRODUCTIONS
Keith Schwartz, Holly Beller, Laura Price, Lacie Dewitt, Ragan Andrew, Stefanie Grober, Mollie Christianson, Patrick Weros, Gayle Borchard, Natalie Hanson, Ruth Ann Hocking, Steven Linhart, Merry Scharfe, Jim Tweedie, Craig Smith, Keleigh Schwartz

APPROVAL OF MINUTES  

Minutes had not been read by the membership and so approval was moved to next month.

TREASURER’S REPORT given by Craig Smith and attached.  Craig also presented the Board’s draft budget for 2012, which will be voted on at the December general meeting.  Questions are welcomed by Board Members.  Event year-end report showed all festivals in the black.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Nomination of officers for 2012.  Merry Scharfe and Steven Linhart were nominated to swap positions for 2012 and accepted.  Treasurer and Secretary positions are open.  Craig Smith and Holly Beller indicated interest in sitting on the Board but not in officer seats.  Jane Holeman was nominated as Treasurer (in abstentia).

NEW BUSINESS

Food4Kids.  Natalie Hansen of the Elks Club and Jim Tweedie of the Presbyterian Church gave a presentation on a program begun by Martha Murfin, “Food4Kids”.  The program gives kids that aren’t fed over weekends a backpack of food to take home.  Long Beach Elementary identified 139 students by need.  The program is seeking ongoing food and cash commitments as well as for higher traffic merchants to host donation bins.  For more information, contact Natalie at 642-8244 or Jim at obpc@oceanbeachpres.com.

The Board proclaimed Tuesdays at “Long Beach Merchants Night at the Neptune”.  Please support your local theater so it can continue to carry first-run movies, which rely on attendance counts.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Holidays at the Beach.  Holly reported that it’s time for merchants to decorate for Christmas!  Watch for flyers by email this coming week.  New this year will be a tree auction.  The Cottage Bakery, Re/Max Long Beach, Neptune Theater and beachdog.com, have volunteered to decorate and display trees this year.  The auction will be on Dec 10^th at 1pm as part of “Peninsula Presents!”.

White Elephant Shindig.  Ruth Ann passed out flyers for the event, which will be held Thursday, December 8^th at the Kite Museum beginning at 5:30 pm.  Potluck.  White elephant exchange.  Beer & Wine provided.  Details in a flyer which is posted to longbeachmerchants.com and our facebook page.

Bluegrass Festival.  Ruth ann reported there will be no event in 2012 and she will make the 2013 decision by May 31^st.  The problem is that Chautauqua is the only venue that works and they are remodeling and having challenges.  The event needs a venue that holds 600 people, 2 stages, jamming rooms and rooms for the bands at half price.

Beach to Chowder Run/Walk.  No report.

Doggie Olympic Games.  Mollie Christianson was introduced as the new chair of the event.  She reported one addition this year will be a dog surfing clinic by Skookum Surf of Seaview.

Sandsations.  Mollie may have someone who would co-chair with Becky; TBD.

Jake’s Birthday.  No report.

Kite Festival. No report.

LBMA Volunteer Recruitment.  Merry passed around a sampling of ads that will be going into the Chinook Observer and are available for viewing at longbeachmerchants.com and on facebook.com.  The Observer may also be doing a feature story on volunteering, to coordinate with the ad campaign.

OTHER REPORTS

World Kite Museum.  Merry reported that Bob Milne will again be playing at the Museum on Sunday, November 6^th at 2pm.  Tickets are $25.  Support the Museum while enjoying the educational and talented Bob Milne, who is a member of the Library of Congress.  Appropriate for all ages.

Loyalty Days.  Ragan reported this year’s theme will be “Gone, but not forgotten” and will be honoring Special Forces.  No Loyalty Day Court this year.

Surf Perch Derby. No report.

SummerFest. Ragan reported she is working on budget for 2012.

Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau. Keleigh reported the Pocket Calendars are available for pickup.

Liaison to Long Beach City Council. Steven noted a new event to take place August 4-5, 2012, “Tinkertown Throwdown”, a personal watercraft event.  This is a race course, with buoys, for wave runners, etc.  The City is in the budget process and meets with Lodging Tax Advisory on Monday, Nov 7, 5-7pm for a workshop.  All merchants are encouraged to attend.  The Depot building has been re-sided.  The new playground equipment is installed and getting good feedback.  Mayor Andrew has collected money from Merchants and purchased 40 pre-lit snowflakes to hang on the light poles downtown.

City Lodging Tax Advisory Committee.  Note budget workshop mentioned above.

Liaison to Ocean Park & Ilwaco.  Laura gave a comprehensive report on the goings on at the Ocean Park Area Chamber and Ilwaco Merchants meetings.

Membership. Pay your dues!  Steven sent out 320 invoices and letters. We are currently at 50 paid members; goal this year is 75.  Dues are to be paid by Dec 31^st.

EDC Business of the Year.  Merry reported on a great evening and extended congratulations to our LBMA Business of the Year, Peninsula Golf Course / Jim and Sondra Eaton.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LB City Council Budget Workshop: November 7th, 5-7pm, City Council

LB City Council Meeting: November 7th, 7pm, City Council

LBMA  Board Meeting:  November 18th, 8am, Benson’s

LBMA  Meeting: December 2nd, 8am, Benson’s

ADJOURNMENT 9:11 am

Respectfully Submitted,
Keleigh Schwartz, beachdog.com

Friday, February 4th , 2011, 8:00 am
Benson’s by the Beach Restaurant; 504 S Pacific in Long Beach; 642-3300

CALL TO ORDER

At 8:01am

INTRODUCTIONS

Merry Scharfe, Steven Linhart, Craig Smith, Missy Bageant, Patrick Weros, Jerry Phillips, Diana Barker Sayce, Holly Beller, Lacie DeWitt, Ragan Andrew, Wendy Murry, Ruth Ann Hocking, Troy Rodenburg, Flint Wright, Gayle Bochard, Una Boyle, Keleigh Schwarts, Ethan Seifert, Wayne O’Dell, Bob & Judy Andrew, Jane Holeman, Sue Ellyson, Keith Schwarts, Kevin Dodson, Laura Price, Sherry Hash

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion made by:  Steven Linhart    Seconded by: Jerry Phillips   Motions passes

TREASURER’S REPORT (2 min)

Report given by Craig Smith see attached pdf. File

FebTreasurersReport0001

UNFINISHED BUSINESS (10 min)

• LBMA Budget approved at last meeting

NEW BUSINESS (10 min)

• Una Boyle: to talk about looking for a member review of the funbeach.com website in particular the activity and attractions page
  • New roll outs to the website over the year. Members please look at the site and see what you would like to be added or want to be seen on the website. Gayle thinks it looks great with the new roll out! Ruth Ann likes it. Holly abc directy harder to locate. Jane looking for tide tables and for them to be easy to find.  Ethan asked if anyone has a business listed on fun beach and would like to see it listed a different way?   You can contact  Ethan at Ethan@beacdog.com with any suggestions or questions you may have
  • If you have anything to tell them about the website send to Una Boyle and cc Keleigh Schwarts. Una & Ethan are willing to come back next meeting to talk about it more.

• Chief Flint Wright: Proposal for Rod Run Weekend from the city
  • To close Hyw 103 from Sid Snyder to Bloastad from 6pm till midnight closing the road down around 4pm to have time to clear out those already parked. There will be room for 200 Rod Run cars to park.
  • Also to have a band on the stage and a dance. All of this to help calm things down were they have been escalating for the last couple of years.
  • Would like to have input from downtown merchants. Please send you feed back to the Chief Flint or Mayor Andrew.
  • Beach barons are on board with the City of Long Beaches Proposal
  • Wayne wanted to know if there will be a meeting for the merchants to come and ask questions. A Town Hall meeting will be held Chief Flint answered.
  • Chief Flint is worried about losing the Downtown area due to the activities that is going on after 10pm. The Chief plans on bringing in 5 additional police officers this summer.
  • Cruise start in Ocean Park between 4pm to 6pm and that will help with traffic.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

• Beach to Chowder Run/Walk [Sherry Hash]
  • Everything is underway, Had a constructive meeting with Una Boyle.
• Doggie Olympic Games [Mike Litawa]
  • meeting this weekend with BeachDog to get flyers  done this weekend.
• SandSations [Becky Johnson] No report
• Jake’s Birthday [Wendy Murry]  Meeting this Sunday with co-planners, lots of people who want to help out and we are waiting till we have things for them to do.
• Kite Festival [Jane Holeman]
  • Foreign guests, one is from the Netherlands and the other is from England Carl Longbottom. Brochures are on their way.  Logo is a dragon this year.
• Holidays at the Beach [Holly Beller]  Has confirmation from Santa& Mrs. Claus will be down for Loyalty Day Parade riding on the trike.

OTHER REPORTS (15 min)

• Kite Museum [Kay Buesing]
  • Windless Kite festival best ever over 100 visitors! MADE MONEY! This weekend is the Asian New Year this weekend’s theme is Thailand there will be Thai dancers with exhibits!
• Loyalty Days [Bob Andrew]  Things are off and running had first mailing and received 10 apps back in for parade. President James Monroe will be at the schools talking to the kids that Friday before.  Ragan and Lacie have things going with the Loyalty Day Court.

• Surf Perch Derby [Dale Jacobson]
  • no report
• SummerFest [Ragan Andrew]
• • Have bands and entertainers that want to perform, getting creative with the new big stage.
  • Concert at the Old Train Depot this Saturday and one coming each month.
  • Package Travel Workshop on Monday Feb 7^th
• Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau [Holly Beller]
• • Visitor Bureau adds at bridal shows, coastal shows, and  Coastal  Weekend,
  • Vacation planners going to sporting shows also
  • Pocket calendars are ready
  • Looking at possible electric car plug in’s
  • Visitor Bureau is now tweeting
• Liaison to Long Beach City Council [Steven Linhart]
• • There is work going on with the new dog park on the east side of Culbertson Park, in talks with the school district that owns that property.
  • New Mayor Pro-Term Gordon Zern was put in
  • Beach Pets Fundraiser Beb 19^th 8am-Noon $5
  • Lion Club bring the circus back June 5^th, one show at 2pm and one at 4:30pm
• City Lodging Tax Advisory Committee [Wayne O’Dell]
• • 5 year plan that they are working on to get to a productive plan…goal is to figure out how to bring more people to the peninsula with money.
  • Talking about how to extend events longer and to see if it would be even possible with the existing festivals. Will be asking all festival heads about their thoughts as well.
• Liaison to Ocean Park, Ilwaco [Laura Price]
• • Ilwaco:  Diane Carter is the new liaison  to the Visitor Bureau
  • Peninsula  Players moved to the old River City Dance Building with the help from the USCG
  • Ocean Park : Talked about the Back Pack Ministries, 10 pack backs will be filled with non-perishable foods and given to the children and then they will bring the back pack back to school and it will be filled again before the weekend so the child and siblings has food to eat over the weekend.
• Columbia –Pacific Farmers Market [Gayle Borchard]
• • Just attended the, WA State Farmers Market Association Conference good thing we found out is that everyone does this differently!
  • looking for volunteers
  • Soft opening at May 6^th grand opening maybe July.
  • City website has the applications for vendors there.
• Ruth Ann Hocking with Thank You Cards:
• • Thank you card from The Williams Family for the plant sent in their fathers honor, Tim Williams.
  • Christmas card from the Domestic Violence Run Committee for the support of the event.
• Mayor Andrew:
• • Pool Committee meeting and going to Astoria Pool to gather some information and research.
  • The account the pool money is in is doing well and  up to 4 million dollars now

ANNOUNCEMENTS

*  LB City Council Meeting: February 7^th, 7:00 pm, City Hall

*  LBMA Board Meeting: February 18^th , 8:00 am, Benson’s

*  LBMA Meeting: March 4^th, 8:00 am, Benson’s

ADJOURNMENT

Meeting adjourned at 9am

Friday, January 7^th, 2011, 8:00 am
Benson’s by the Beach Restaurant; 504 S Pacific in Long Beach; 642-3300

CALL TO ORDER

At 8am by LBMA President Mary Scharfe

INTRODUCTIONS

Merry Scharfe, Steven Linhart, Craig Smith, Jane Holman, Ruth Ann Hocking, Missy Bageant, Becky Johnson, Troy Roclenbaugh, Holly Beller, Ragan Andrew, Laura Price, Gayle Borchard, Cheri Diehl, Dave Keisur, Lacie Dewitt, Wayne O’Dell, Boyd Keyser, Sue Ellyson, Jerry Phillips, Sandra Hay Magtale, Keleigh Schwartz, Keith Schwartz, Brent Dennis, Dave Little, Dennis Roberts, Gene Miles, Richard Dawson

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Amendment to the minutes to reflect that  Craig Smith was reelected as treasure

Motion to approve the minutes:  Steven Linhart

2nded the motion: Cheri Diehl

TREASURER’S REPORT

Treasurer’s Report given by Craig Smith

JanTreasurersReport0001 (1)

• Accountant had access to view information on our online account ; we would like our accountant to still have access to this information. This was agreed upon by the group to allow the accountant to still have access to view the online account.
• Memberships 51 members renewing if there is anyone else please renew your membership or invite new member and have them come in. Last year was 65

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

• Vote on General Fund Budget
  • How do we manage the oversight of the festivals? Wayne is helping with Sandsations but offered to help other events.  (Craig) We are doing a little more oversight as checks come in.  (Steven)There is going to be some new addition fees that the Ass. That hasn’t had to pay for in the past. Those things are going to be added back into the festivals budget.  Things the city paid for now the festival will be paying for. Will be getting those numbers to the event chairs soon!
  • Need Clarification on all of above…..Ruth Ann Hocking will be in contact with the mayor (*Note as of 1/10/2011 Mayor Andrew sent out an email concerning the above matter a hard copy is with the minutes in the secretary notebook.)
  • Steven Linhart made a motion to pass the budget as is and to revisit as needed… Seconded by Gayle Borchard.

NEW BUSINESS

• Boyd Keyser from the Ocean Beach School District
  • Offers a meeting area at the School District office. It is open to the community for no cost.
  • State of the school district report:  High School Vocational programs in hospitality and tourism, possible culinary arts program coming.  New Math program last year, New Writing program this year, hands on science program for next year. An outstanding Music program this year in all the schools and a High School Marching band this year!
  • Concerned about the physical standing, The District is Losing 350 thousand for this year! Local support we get from patrons in the form of levies is important.  Out to renew our current Maintenance &Operations Levy. Ballots go out Jan 28 election Feb 8th
• Ragan Andrew – Travel Package update(handout)
  • Updating website to be more informative
  • Package Travel Workshop Feb. 7th what is it, why have it, tourism trend? Best bang for your buck. Look for more information on Longbeachpackagetravel.com
• Ruth Ann asked that the LBMA send a plant or something to the funeral Tim Williams.
  • Also pointing out the connection to Police Chief Ralph Painter from Rainer had volunteered here helping with Loyalty Days and Bluegrass. He loved us down here and they looked to retire here on the peninsula.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

• Beach To Chowder Run/Walk:   Not in attendance
• Doggie Olympic Games:  No in attendance
• SandSations: Becky Johnson had  no news to report
• Jake’s Birthday:  Missy Bageant reported that everything was on track
• Kite Festival: Jane Holeman Reported that they are looking for a foreign guest and logo to have soon.
• Holidays at the Beach: Holly Beller reported that she is working on Name the Sea Serpent Contest, and working on funding….growing some funds

OTHER REPORTS

• Kite Museum:
  • Windless Kite Festival to be held MLK weekend Jan 15^th& 16^th at Long Beach school

• Loyalty Days: Ruthann reports that they are moving forward, Speaker will be James Monroe, This year’s them is 1^st responders. Think about entries for the local parades April 30th Children’s Parade in Ilwaco, May 1^st Long Beach Loyalty Day Parade.  No Senior Court for Miss Loyalty Day this year due to lack of entries. Focus on the 10 junior girls and coronation to be held in October.
• Surf Perch Derby:  No report given
• SummerFest Ragan Andrew reported that they started the ball rolling , events out end of April and 1^st of May
• Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau : Need a liaison to the LBMA: Holly Beller and Lacey Dewitt interested in going to meetings.
• Liaison to Long Beach City Council:
  • Worked on animal ordinance to change the old. Domestic violence Aug 6^th, water plant is online and it is moving forward and looking strong.
  • City Lodging Tax Advisory Committee [Wayne O’Dell] Didn’t have a meeting last month no report
  • Liaison to Ocean Park, Ilwaco Laura Price reported
  • Tax facts are updated, Ilwaco merchant meeting 25,000 visitors to the market last year.
  • Columbia-Pacific Farmers Market [Gayle Borchard]
    • Facebook accounts up now…become friends! Address below : http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001765556560
    • Local contest going looking for two logos….For Volunteers and the Market for merchandise to sell.
    • Ragan working on getting entertainment for Friday nights
    • Market to be held at the property behind Funland
    • Cost? $50 special city license  and working on the fee for selling at the market
    • Target start date is Mother’s Day weekend
    • Jerry Phillips reported that the Elks served 450 meals for Christmas! Lot more needy families and fewer donations this year. Thank you to all the volunteers!
      • Gene Miles Mentioned Oysters and Art coming up April 2^nd
        • He also talked about the benefit of the different services and events that are now at the peninsula such as Dalais Center and Beach Cleanup bringing people to vacation here. People have the services that they may need that they can now receive on the peninsula and events like the Beach Cleanup that allow people to come out and help.
        • Water plant open house in May TBA
        • Jerry Phillip also reported on that there is packet on counterfeit bills available …lots of $1 fake bills going around. Counting on the pen is not the best way to make sure it is real.
        • Beach Cleanup Saturday Jan 8^th 9:30 am, potluck Friday Jan 7^th, soup feed Saturday Also has a Facebook page here is the address http://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsGarbageGang

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LB City Council Meeting: January 18^st, 7:00 pm, City Hall

LBMA Board Meeting: January 21^st, 8:00 am, Benson’s

LBMA Meeting: February 4^th , 8:00 am, Benson’s

ADJOURNMENT

Meeting was called to a close at 9:03am By LBMA President Merry Scharfe

Call to Order: Steven Linhart

Attendance: Missy Bageant, Merry Scharfe, Dave Little, Craig Smith, Troy Rodenbargh, Cheri Diehl, Brent Dennis, Gayle Borchard, Jerry Phillips, Bob Andrew, Judi Andrew, Ragan Andrew, Holly Beller, Becky Johnson, Dian Baker-Sayce, Laura Price, Ruth Ann Hocking, Kay Buesing, Sherry Hash, Jeff Harrell, Steven Linhart, Catlin Bonney, Jane Holeman, Keleigh Schwartz, Keith Schwartz

Approval of minutes:

• Motion to approve by: Merry Scharfe
• Seconded by: Jane Holeman
• Vote: approved

Treasury report: Given verbally by Craig Smith and attached in the Secretary’s binder

At last month meeting Craig Smith handed out a draft of the general fund and it is posted online. He reminded that at the January meeting the general fund needs to be approved.

Old Business:

• Election of new officers
  • Election was held by secret ballot
  • Offices are as followed: President Merry Scharfe, Vice President Steven Linhart, Board Secretary Missy Bageant, Open Board Ruth Ann Hocking, Open Board Jane Holeman
  • Membership: Merry Scharfe; We are only half way compared to last year’s membership, Please get your dues in.

New Business:

• Mayor Bob Andrew mentioned that there had been a merchant looking for membership and they did not receive their free breakfast when they attended a recent meeting. Ideas were discussed on how to make sure prospective new members might be recognized so that this doesn’t happen again.

• Merchant party went well thank you Ruth Ann and Paul

Events:

• Jake’ Birthday: Missy Bageant reported that Jake was the celebrity judge for the Miss Yard Bird Pageant in Chehalis, WA. Jake gained more flowers on Facebook from being at this event.
• Kite Festival: Jane Holeman has nothing new to report
• Holidays at the Beach:Holly Beller reported that it had been a success.
  • Friday’s movie had 85 people in attendance a little less than last year 75/ 80 % of those in attendance where locals. Mini horse Mrs. Clause and conductor where are wonderful addition to the day. The trolley tour with the Conductor around town was 75% full for the day.
  • Saturday attendance was about half of last year. Santa arrived on his trike and the crowd enjoyed that, maybe next year he will ride in on it again. Made $300 in donation for the event. 150 people had their  photo with Santa. Thanks to Jeff Archer who played frosty. Peninsula Children’s Choir & friends did well and many thanks.
  • Ragan Andrew added that she talked with Santa and Mrs. Claus and they said it was a little less than last year’s turn out but great quality people!
  • Keleigh Schwartz stated that Randy said the peninsula did better than the city of Raymond for the 1^st time this weekend!

• LBMA Holiday After Hours Party: Ruth Ann Hockings reported it was a great night and there were 28 people in attendance.
• Bluegrass Festival: Ruth Ann Hockings reported that although the festival has been canceled does not mean that it will not come back, it just maybe a little different. She has been asked to Emcee at other bluegrass festivals and she will continue to promote the peninsula when she does. Jerry Phillips asked to give Ruthanne a hand for all the work and years she has been putting the festival together and to all the volunteers for over the years.
• Beach to Chowder Run: no report
• Sandsations: Becky Johnson reported that she is getting her committee together to looking at having fundraisers before the event.

Other Reports

• Kite museum: Kay Buesing reported that January 15^th and 16^th is the 10^th Windless Kite Event! Connor was on America’s got Talent 3 times and he will be the featured flyer. Saturday the 15^th from 10 am to 2pm, Sunday the 16^th from 11am to 2pm. Scott Davis has instigated this and is doing the event and we owe him a lot. Museum has had a few less people this year but, 90% of the people coming in are from 50 miles or more away. So they are meeting one of their goals to increases tourism!
• Loyalty Days: Mayor Bob Andrews reports;  Dec 15^th getting out parade applications. 2 High School bands have already contacted the committee for applications and plan to be here in 2011. 135 parade applicants last year. Looking at a couple choices for speakers. Miss Loyalty Day Coronation is making some changes for this year. The Theme for this year is “Honor and Remember”  Emergency First Responders.
• Surf Perch Derby: No report
• Summer Fest Ragan Andrew reported yes we have a budget and it is going to happen.
• Liaison to the Visitor Bureau:  Steven Linhart reported that pocket calendars are getting completed.
• Liaison to the Long Beach City Council: Jerry Phillips reported Monday’s meeting they will be wrapping up the budget and the water plant moving forward. Mayor Andrew went out to the water plant sight and it is coming along fantastically, will set up open house when it’s completed. Photos on of all the improvements to the city of Long Beach on website longbeachwa.gov
• Liaison to Ilwaco: Laura Price reported that she had a flyer about the crab pot tree lighting and the lighted boat parade. She also mentioned that she had a copy of the Governors Report about plans for small businesses, it is posted on the LBMA blog.
• Farmers Market: Gayle Borchard reported there is board for the farmers market and the handbook is finished. The Farmers Market needs a logo and they are wanting one just for the volunteers. Market has been funded for next year.
• Elks Holiday Dinner: Jerry Phillips reports that the Elks will holding their Holiday Dinner from 12pm  to 5pm. There will be toys for kids.
  • Jerry also reported that debt card theft is up. Be cautious and look at the ATM before you use it make sure it is clean. If you can use credit card when possible and pay attention to your home computer, make sure it hasn’t been hacked into because people can get your card information that way as well.
  • Toys for Tots:Steven Linhart reported that there are drop boxes at Key Bank, Bank of the Pacific and Federal Credit Union.
    • It was asked if there was a place to drop off canned food. After a short discussion, Ragan Andrew said she will put a box for canned food out at the City Hall and will make sure it gets to where it needs to go.

Announcements

• City hall meeting at Monday 7pm
  • There will be public discussion on cutting the funding for the Vacation Planner. Jane Holeman encouraged the merchants to attend voice their opinion on the matter.
  • No Board meeting in December

Adjourment

CALL TO ORDER: Steven Linhart

Attendance: Mike Litawa, Keleigh Schwartz, Sherry Hash, Cheri Diehl, Keith Schwartz, Laura Price, Wendy Murry, Holly Beller, Dian Barker-Sayce, Becky Johnson, Dave Keizur, Troy Rodenbaugh, Ruth Ann Hocking, Gayle Borchard, Craig Smith, Merry Scharfe, Steven Linhart, Wayne O’Dell, Dennis Roberts

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

• Motion to approve as written: Merry Scharfe.
• Seconded by: Keleigh Schwartz
• Vote: Approved

TREASURER’S REPORT: November0001.pdf and Draft-2011 LBMA GenFund Budget0001.pdf

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

• Steven Linhart reviewed the nominations for elected offices for the LBMA’s vote at the next general meeting in December.

NEW BUSINESS:

• Laura Price has volunteered to be the Ilwaco/Ocean Park Liaison for the LBMA
• Sherry Hash – Bob Milne will be providing entertainment for the November 14, 2010 musical fund raising event at the Kite Museum music. Flyers were passed out.
• Gayle Borchard discussed the current progress on getting a farmer’s market going here in Long Beach. Since we did not get the grant we applied for she felt that they would approach the LTAC for funding. Check the City of Long Beach web site for updates.
• Dennis Roberts talked about support that could be coming from Food Services of America, Pepsi, and possibly the Chinook Observer.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

• LBMA Holiday After Hours – Ruth Ann Hocking – Scheduled at the Kite Museum for December 2, 2010 at 5:30PM as a potluck dinner as well as a “white elephant” gift event. Please bring canned goods.
• Holidays at the Beach – Holly Beller – Flyers are being distributed. Dates have been solidified for events. The team needs donations for the raffle. Visit the event web site for information and provide any additional information you think should go on the web site. A location for the Holiday Sea Serpent has been arranged at 8th South and Pacific.
• Bluehrass Festival – Ruth Ann Hocking – Everything is moving along to schedule.
• Beach To Chowder Run/Walk – Sherry Hash – No new updates
• Doggie Olympic Games – Mike Litawa – Happy to see LBMA events doing a coop ad in the Beach Vacation Planner as it is strong placement for target demographic.
• SandSations - Becky Johnson – Tracking to plan and schedule
• Kite Festival – Jane Holeman – The annual advertising cycle has begun. D. Barker-Sayce will be in charge of the posters for this year. Arrangements are being made for foreign guests.
• Jake’s Birthday – Wendy Murry – Wendy addressed a rumor in town that she had been caught shoplifting.  The rumor is NOT true and she wanted Merchants to know she is quite trustful with the funds for Jake’s Birthday.

OTHER REPORTS

• Kite Museum – Sherry Hash – Remember that January is the Indoor Kite Flying event.
• Loyalty Days – Bob Andrew – No updates
• Surf Perch Derby – Dale Jacobson – There will be a “Derby”.
• SummerFest – Ragan Andrew – No updates
• Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau – Keleigh Schwartz – New media placements can be seen on funbeach.com.  Beach Vacation Planner heading to press in just a few days.  If you haven’t seen “new funbeach” yet, please take a look.
• Liaison to Long Beach City Council – Steven Linhart – The plan for a multipurpose stage was described; Gayle Borchard noted cost of $80-$100,000 for the stage and hopes it is in place in time for Friday Markets which should start in the Spring, so there can be entertainment.
• City Lodging Tax Advisory Committee – Wayne O’Dell – The funding workshop with the Long Beach City Council went well on October 18, 2010
• Liaison to Ocean Park, Ilwaco – Laura Price accepted the role as Liaison.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• LB City Council Meeting: November 15, 2010, 7:00 pm, City Hall
• LBMA Board Meeting: November 19, 2010, 8:00 am, Benson’s
• LBMA Meeting: December 3, 2010, 8:00 am, Benson’s

ADJOURNMENT

Long Beach Merchants Association | Regular Meeting
Friday, October 1, 2010, 8:00 am
Benson’s by the Beach Restaurant; 504 S Pacific in Long Beach; 642-3300

CALL TO ORDER: Steven Linhart
Attendance: Troy Rodenbaugh, Wendy Murry, Gayle Borchard, Dian Barker-Sayce, Holly Beller, Keleigh Schwartz, Keith Schwartz, Ruth An Hocking, Sherry Hash, Judi Andrew, Bob Andrew, Becky Johnson, Dave Keizur, Shelly Pollock, Laura Price, Cathi Bonny, Sue Ellyson, Jane Holeman, Kay Buesing, Missy Bageant, Mike Litawa, Merry Scharfe, Steven Linhart, Craig Smith, Jerry Phillips, Wayne O’Dell

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
· Motion made by: Keleigh Schwartz
· Seconded by: Sherry Hash
· Vote: Approved

TREASURER’S REPORT: Treasurer’s Report October Report 10-01-10.pdf

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

• Merry Scharfe – Discussed billing as well as the new/old membership drive and the
• upcoming LBMA elections. To that point:
  • Missy Bageant was nominated to run for Board Secretary and she accepted
  • Ruth Ann Hocking was nominated for an open board position and she accepted
  • Jane Holman was nominated for an open board position and she accepted
  • Merry Scharfe was nominated to run for President and she accepted
  • Steven Linhart was nominated to run for Vice President and he accepted
  • Elections should be held next month and you can send in additional nominations to Wayne O’Dell ( wayne@anchor-realestate.com)
• Mayor Bob Andrew and others discussed the efforts on the part of Ragan Andrew for a“Pumpkin Patch” theme for the City of Long Beach during the month of October. Members should plan for “trick or treat”. Additionally, Mayor Andrew stated that a committee has formed to review a “swimming pool” option for the community based on an endowment received by the city.

NEW BUSINESS:

• Jeff Parker of Wauna Federal Credit Union discussed the new branch in the Safeway inAstoria is experiencing requests for membership from Long Beach Peninsula residents. So they are in the process of expanding memberships to Pacific County.
• Linda Yeager of The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life thanked the LBMA membership for their participation and support. She announced that they are forming a committee for the 2011 event.
• Shelly Pollock stated that health care options due to state and federal legislation are going through changes. She advised that everyone should remain diligent in those areas where they impact your company as well as individual and group programs. Give her a call for specifics that relate to you.
• Steven Linhart discussed the “Smile Mobile” sponsored by the Delta Dental Program of Washington State. The transportable dental care unit has been in town helping our community’s children ages 2 years through 5 years of age to get proper dental care.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

• LBMA Holiday After Hours
  • Ruth Ann Hocking announced that the date for this year’s event is Thursday, December 2, 2010 at 5:30PM. It will be a pot luck as well as white elephant exchange. Let’s have fun.
• Holidays at the Beach
  • Holly Beller is gearing up speed for December’s events. She has made arrangements at the local movie theater for Saturday raffle drawings with gifts donated by merchants. There will be magic shows, a birthday for Frosty the Snowman. Holly asked for donations, particularly for printers that could print color pictures for the events.
• Blue Grass Festival
  • Ruth Ann Hocking announced the dates for 2011 are March 25-27. She is working issues related to Anchor Restaurant’s permanent closure and won’t be open for Blue Grass support.
• Beach To Chowder Run/Walk
  • Sherry Hash stated that the group is on schedule for event planning
• Doggie Olympic Games
  • Mike Litawa reported the team has turned in the budget and is on schedule for event planning.
• SandSations
  • Becky Johnson reported that the team is going after sponsorships for next year now and that the goal is to absorb the 2010 over budget condition for 2010 in 2011’s event plans.
• Kite Festival
  • Jane Holeman stated that the American Kite Flyers Association (AKA) is meeting in Seaside this week. Poster sales for the 2010 Kite Festival are doing really well.
• Jake’s Birthday
  • Wendy Murry informed the group that 2010’s posters are being bought back by the artist. “Stunt Jake” will be going to Portland as a Guest Judge for the “Miss Yard Bird” pageant.

OTHER REPORTS

• Kite Museum
  • Kay Buesing announced discussed the “off season” schedule of events.
• Loyalty Days
  • Mayor Bob Andrew stated that the mailings have started to go out and that there has already been interest from a middle school band to participate.
• Surf Perch Derby
  • Dale Jacobson was not present
• SummerFest
  • Ragan Andrew was not present.
• Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau
  • Una Boyle was not present, membership drive ends today.
• Liaison to Long Beach City Council
  • Steven Linhart announced that the water plans for the city continue moving forward. He also talked to the city’s beautification plan and its ongoing efforts which include the city’s new street sweeper.
• City Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
  • Wayne O’Dell stated that the committee met. The group is reviewing event budgets as well as gaining an understanding of what size budget the LTAC may have some input on. The committee will be having an additional meeting on October 7th preparing for a work session with the City Council on October 18th.
• Liaison to Ocean Park, Ilwaco
  • [need volunteer]

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• LB City Council Meeting: October 4, 2010, 7:00 pm, City Hall
• LBMA Board Meeting: October 15, 2010, 8:00 am, Benson’s
• LBMA Meeting: November 5, 2010, 8:00 am, Benson’s

ADJOURNMENT
Motion to Adjourn: Gayle Borchard
Seconded: Bob Andrew

LBMA September Treasurer Report.pdf

07-09-10 LBMA Minutes [doc]

07-09-10 LBMA Treasurer’s Report [pdf]

Thank you,

Wayne O’Dell, Secretary

Attendees: Steve Linhart, Merry Scharfe, Craig Smith, Bob & Judi Andrew, Cheri Diehl, Troy Rodenbaugh, Holly Beller, Dave Keizur, Keith Schwartz, Shelly Pollock, Jerry Phiooips, Keleigh Schwartz, Cathi Bonney, Dodie MacPherson, Gayle Borchard, Jenna Nisbett, Missy Bageant, Wayne O’Dell, Ragan Andrew, Boyd Keyser, Dave Little, Jeff Harrell

Call to order:

Introductions:

Minutes:
1. Motion To Approve: Bob Andrew
2. Seconded: Merry Scharfe
3. Vote: Approved

Treasury Report: Attached

Unfinished Business: None

New Business:
1. Boyd Keyser (Superintendent of the Ocean Beach School District): Lobbied the group to ask local voters to vote for the School Levy on this year’s ballot.
2. Rodeo Club : The Rodeo is the weekend of the 24th and 25th of July. There will be a parade in Long Beach starting at 6:30PM on the 23rd. Long Beach businesses are asked to dress for the theme of the weeked.
3. Pacific County Health Department: Melissa Sexton presented issues for the County and the Long Beach Peninsula in reference to the use as well as the production and sale of Methamphetamines. It is a local problem, The County has a Meth Task Force and it has had some successes. Call the Drug Tip Line 360-642-9440 if you see or feel like something is not right and you think it is associated with drug activity.
4. Toastmasters Club: Jenna Austin announced that Toastmasters is starting an organization supporting the Long Beach Peninsula. First meetings are at the Ilwaco Community Room. For more information call 360-642-2152.
5. Mayor Bob Andrew discussed the Heritage Area project, that it was delayed or postponed; but, all should not forget to eventually keep it moving forward when it gets going again.

Committee Reports

1. Beach to Chowder: Great success. There was a preliminary count of 342 participants.
2. Doggie Olympics: Close to 80 dogs, great day, smooth running. A recommendation was made to have First Aid Kits at events.
3. Sandsations: Set to start next week. Tuesday of next week the solo sand artists arrive for the Sand in the City.
4. Jake’s Birthday: Reported that everything is on track.
5. Kite Festival: They will need volunteers for the T-shirt booth. More people are needed for executive committee. The final posters are being mailed out and local posters are being delivered. Everything is still on track for the festival start.
6. Holidays @ The Beach: On Schedule.
7. Blue Grass Festival: No Report
8. Holiday After Hours: No Report
9. Kite Museum: No Report
10. Loyalty Days: request for military band participation already going out. Marysville visit with Loyalty Days Float, won and award, on TV, student participation for school supplies….etc.
11. Summerfest: this weekend is Beach Safety, rodeo western band moving right along
12. Visitor’s Bureau: 4th clean up, Shelley Pollock; as usual
13. Farmer’s Food Market: starting up
14. July 4th Ocean Park parade, bus tours, beach vacation planner at PDX airport, only ones. German media for the night. NTA (nat’l tour association)
15. LTAC Liaison: Budget template for LTAC funds discussed for 2011 budgeting
16. Liaison to Ilwaco/Ocean Park: Blues and Seafood discussed. The Tuna Classic is ready. Ocean Parks Garlic Festival went well. Sunday’s weather dampened things; but, turnout was great. Buzy Bees is going out of business. July 4th parade went well. Twenty tons of “post July 4th” trash was picked up.on the beach.