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Farmers’ Festival Minutes
January 10, 2012

Attendance: Linda Clabuesch, Donna Pietruck, and Tracy Potter.

Tracy called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. She began the meeting by asking each person to give an update on their particular area.

Linda Clabuesch brought to our attention that the Fireworks contract still has one year remaining. It was dated 5/18/2010.

Donna Pietruck said she would like to continue with the Craft Show, and offer it at the same times as last year. She would also like to offer the spaces again for $5 per space to attract vendors.

Tracy Potter shared a letter that was received from Michigan Avenue Mennonite Church. It stated that they would no longer be hosting the Bean Soup Supper during the Farmers’ Festival on Thursday night. Discussion followed. It was suggested by Linda Clabuesch to see if the Laker Parent Association of Laker Schools would be interested in doing a hot dog sale during this time to benefit the children of our community. The LPA and the PTOC raise money for field trips and needed items for classrooms. Tracy will contact the LPA and the PTOC.

Tracy updated the committee of an email received from Annette Renn. She stated that Annette was very pleased with the turnout and support that was received for the Thumb Animal Shelter during the Dog Walk last year. Annette would like to offer the “Dog Walk” Saturday evening at the same time.

Tracy also asked the committee if they would know someone who would be interested in overseeing the Ladies Golf Tournament if Deb Herzog is not available to do so. Tracy will follow up with Deb Herzog.

Meeting was adjourned at 4:45 p.m. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be February 14, 2012 at 4:30 p.m. at the Village Hall.

Farmers’ Festival Meeting Minutes
July 12, 2011

Attendance: Neal Emerick, Tracy Potter, Lorraine LePage, Esther Hill, Brandis Mallais, Eric Wissner, Megan Romzek, Donna Pietruck, Karen Phillips, Kelli Braun.

Neal opened the meeting at 4 pm and asked the committee for updates.

Brandis discussed PA systems. TNB has one PA system and the Co-op would have a second.

Brandis will contact John Trowbridge to order straw for the Treasure Hunt.

Eric Wissner will provide caution tape.

Esther Hill informed the committee that Laura Swartzendruber will be leading the Queen’s event for 2012. Northstar will still sponsor this event.

Megan let the committee know that all sponsorship payments have been received.

Lorraine LePage presented $444 from Boomer sales from Village Qwik Stop.

Brandis passed out a volunteer form for the committee to sign up for events. Lorraine suggested maybe area businesses would provide volunteers.

Donna gave an update on the craft area downtown, 23 spaces have been sold.

Neal stated 25 watermelons have been ordered for the Kids Games from Pigeon IGA. Al usually picks up the watermelons, Neal to double check with him. Committee discussed the small trailer used and Neal will get judges for this contest.

Esther will make sure Certificates for the Queens will be ready.

Lorriane will make the Certificate for the Baby Crawl.

Eric Wissner discussed parking downtown on Saturday with the committee. It is decided that parking will be blocked off from 1 pm – 3 pm downtown. Parade starts at 2 pm.

Megan will provide the money bags need for events to Neal.

Al asked the committee what time Wolverine would be here to set up the firework area. Megan addressed this.

Adjournment:

Neal adjourned the meeting at 4:32 pm. Next scheduled meeting will be July 19 at 4 pm at the Village Hall.

Farmers' Festival Meeting
Minutes June 14, 2011

Attendance: Neal Emerick, Tracy Potter, Lorraine LePage, Jodi Hurren, Donna Pietruck, Karen Phillips, Megan Romzek, Brandis Mallais, Eric Wisner, Deb Herzog, and Esther Hill.

Neal opened the Farmers' Festival by asking everyone for updates:

Tracy let the committee know that Kris Gilbert is still looking for a popcorn vendor.

Alec from McCormick Motors would be interested in participating in the Car Show for 2012 Farmers’ Festival.

Donna gave an update on participating Craft Vendors. She noted that 16 spaces have been filled.

Esther wanted to clarify the time of the Queen crowning. It was decided that the Queen crowning would be during intermission at approximately 8 pm. The Queen contest Sponsors will stay the same in 2012.

Lorraine gave an update on the Boomers. Brandis gave out Boomers to participating businesses in attendance. Tracy will pass out Boomers to various Chamber Member locations for sale.

Tracy gave an update on the Insurance for the Farmers’ Festival and fireworks. John Gandolfi has sent the final insurance paperwork. Once the paper work is received, it will be filled out and returned by fax. Once faxed, Tracy will follow up with John Gandolfi.

Neal has met with Poor Man’s Promotions. They are interested in bringing 6 + vendors to the Recreation Park area. He added the possibility that Poor Man’s Promotions may have a popcorn vendor.

Neal updated the committee that the Conservation Club has decided not to have a second beer tent location at the Tractor pull area.

Neal to follow up with Al Collison about the rental of Portable Toilets.

Neal updated the committee of his meeting with Carol Diener concerning the Art Show.

Deb Herzog is the new chair person for the Ladies Golf Tournament. She gave an update to the committee. She will contact Janet to get a mailing list from the event last year. Committee discussed possible sponsors for the Ladies Golf Tournament. Neal commented that he had saved the signs in the shed from sponsors from last year.

Eric Wisner asked the committee for the final schedules for the Kids Parade on Saturday, and the Grand Parade on Saturday. Also, he reminded the committee that he would need the paper work from the Conservation Club for the beer tent.

Tracy submitted the T – Shirt and button order to Amy to be ordered. Tracy will help Amy pass out the free Sponsor shirts and help Amy distribute T – Shirts and buttons for sale in local businesses.

Jodi asked Tracy to update the committee on the status of the Garage Sale weekend. Garage Sale flyers and application are posted online. Advertising is posted on the Village sign, and is on the website. Garage Sale application is due July 15th by 4 pm. Tracy will make a map of participants to be printed. Maps will be made available at the Village Hall.

Adjournment:

Neal adjourned the meeting at 4:35 p. m. Next meeting is scheduled for July 12, 2011 at
4 p. m. at the Village Hall.

Farmers' Festival Minutes

5.10.11

 

Attendance: Lorraine LePage, Brandis Mallais, Karen Phillips, Donna Pietruck, Megan Romzek, Tracy Potter (Administrative Assistant)

 

Guests: Eric Wissner, Michael LePage, and Linda Walsh were in attendance for a period of time.

 

The meeting began at 4 pm with updates from those in attendance:

 

• committee discussion the location of the Entertainment Tent, and the water that was on that site during the Easter Egg Hunt. Eric Wissner commented on the possibility of using cement blocks to anchor the Entertainment Tent if it would be located on the Tennis Courts.

 

• Megan Romzek presented to the committee the current Farmers' Festival sponsorship list. The committee discussed following up with the businesses that have not responded as of today. Sponsorships total $12,000. Committee discussed upcoming events in June that will benefit the Farmers' Festival.

 

• Megan Romzek presented to the committee the current Farmers' Festival expense budget that included various events that have been scheduled with their costs. It totaled $20,000. Lorraine LePage and Megan Romzek discussed with the committee to have Tracy Potter create a letter that would be sent to each event organizer to inform them of the budgeted dollar amount for the event they are organizing.

 

• Tracy Potter presented a draft of the Farmers' Festival brochure for review. It was commented on by Lorraine LePage to add “Organized by” and/or “Sponsored by” by each event listed. It would also need to include contact numbers for the individuals that are organizing events. Discussion continued to establish a date for printing the brochures. The committee decided they would like 500 copies printed and distributed for Memorial Day weekend. The additional 4500 brochures would be distributed by June 15^th.

 

• Tracy Potter updated the committee on the Inflatables quote from Sarah Oeschger who could not attend the meeting. Discussion followed on the inflatables. Committee would like Sarah to get quotes from Chris Nordman Associates, Inc./www.eventfun.biz on their inflatables and Trackless Train with driver. Inflatables quotes for Fri & Sat (Manned & Unmanned prices) and quotes for Saturday (Manned & Unmanned prices). Also quotes for the Trackless Train with driver: quote for Fri only/Saturday only/Fri & Sat. It was also discussed to contact local daycare providers to see if they would be interested in sponsoring or organizing staffing for this event (especially if we just do Sat). Two local businesses to consider would be Discovery Center at Laker Schools, and TLC Home Daycare in Pigeon. There are also the National Honor Society students from Laker Shools who may be interested in volunteering. There is a concern as to their availability during the summer. Discussion continued if the committee would like to charge for the inflatables and the Trackless Train. It was decided that the committee would charge a small fee for the Trackless Train ride.

 

• Megan Romzek asked if anyone had any information on the Fireworks. She will follow up with Wolverine to verify the Firework details.

 

• Donna Pietruck updated the committee that she has confirmed some vendors for the downtown craft show. She also stated that most of the applications usually come in closer to the event. She will keep the committee updated. She also updated the committee that the Horse Draw Carriage Rides sponsored by Bay Port State Bank, would be moved to Saturday instead of Friday.

• Mike LePage addressed the committee on the status of the Village of Pigeon's examination of the underground tiles near the Recreation Park. The underground tiles may be damaged. This may be causing the high water tables at the proposed site of the Entertainment Tent. This area will be examined Monday, May 16^th . He will update the committee of their findings. Discussion continued of an alternative site if that area would not be able to be used for the Entertainment Tent. Lorraine LePage will call Bob Kosinski of the Conservation Club.

 

• Brandis Mallais updated the committee that the Petting Zoo and Pony Rides have been scheduled.

 

• Brandis Mallais updated the committee that she contacted McCormick Motors to see if they would be interested in hosting a car show during Farmers' Festival. She has not heard back at this time. She will follow up with them.

 

• Tracy Potter updated the committee on the status of the T-Shirts. The Laker student drawing has been sent to Shirts, Mugs & More. They are awaiting the committee's decision on the color of the T-Shirt, and the final list of sponsors for the back of the T-Shirt. The committee discussed the color possibilities and decided on white. Discussion followed on a deadline for sponsorships so the T-Shirts can be ordered. It was decided that the cut off for sponsorship would be May 20, 2011. T-Shirts will then be ordered.

 

Adjournment:

Meeting was adjourned at 5:10 pm.

Next meeting is scheduled for May 24, 2011, from 4 pm – 5 pm, at the Village Hall.

 

 

Farmers' Festival Meeting Minutes

April 12, 2011

 

 

Attendance:  Neal Emerick, Tracy Potter, Esther Hill.

 

Neal opened the meeting at 4 p. m. and asked for updates.

 

Esther updated Neal on the Queen Contest.  She also asked Tracy to add her name and phone number to the schedule and website.

 

Tracy updated Neal on the Inflatables.   Bouncers and More sent a quote for inflatables for Saturday only. $1700 if we provided our own generators.  If generators were needed the quote would increase $200.  This price is without attendants.  Tracy talked with Sarah Oeschger and she will be working on  the inflatables.  Tracy will meet with her to give her what information she has.  Neal asked Tracy to contact Zone Productions to see if they would be available.  Neal also gave a postcard to Tracy from a inflatables company “We Rent Fun” to look into.

 

Brent Hill from the VFW confirmed with Tracy that they are going to host Bingo at the VFW Post from 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm on Saturday.

 

Tracy reserved the Bocce Ball set from The Garfield Inn. Neal asked Tracy to check into prices on a plaque for the Bocce Ball Tournament.  Esther will email Tracy information she has on plaques.

 

Tracy updated Neal on the sponsorship letters.  Currently we have $3800 in donations.

 

Adjournment:

Neal adjourned the meeting at 4:15 pm.  Next meeting will be held May 10^th from 4 pm – 5 pm at the Village Hall.

 

 

Farmers' Festival Meeting Minutes

March 22, 2011

 

Attendance:  Neal Emerick, Tracy Potter (Administrative Assistant), Karen Phillips, Megan Romzek, Donna Pietruck, Brandis Mallais, Jodi Hurren, Kelli Braun, Esther Hill, Linda Walsh, Sarah Oeschger, and Mary Dubs.

 

Neal opened the meeting at 4 p. m.

 

Neal began the meeting by going over the 2011 Farmers' Festival schedule.

 

Money Drop. Discussion. Will they have numbers on them this year or not?  Discussion.  There will be no numbers on the buttons this year. Neal proposed there be two age groups for the Money drop. 39 and younger and 40 and older.

 

Kiss the Calf: Discussion.  Who provides the calf? Leipprandts have provided the calf in the past. Proposed idea of having all area farmers  involved in kiss the calf this year.

 

Car Show:  Ty's Auto would like to host the car show in the parking lot west of his business.  He will run the car show.  He will need help with the flyers.  Brandis to call Ty for details. Tracy to help with flyers.

 

Brochure:   AVCI.net has offered to print and fold the Farmers' Festival final brochure for the Chamber.  Tracy  received a confirmation email from Bill Esch. Everyone liked the 8 ½ X14 size brochure. Kelli and Tracy will work on this.

 

Esther asked if the Scheurer Professional Center would be available this year to be used for the Queens.  Kelli said that she would check and get back with her.  Esther also noted that she needed 3 judges for this event.

 

Mary Dubs is representing A & D Home Healthcare.  She is interested in being more involved in the Chamber.  She also stated that A & D Home Healthcare would be interested in hosting an event on Saturday for kids.

 

Inflatables update given by Brandis.  Trackless train is no longer available at the prices quoted.  Neal asked Tracy to contact Kris Gilbert and get information on the business that provided the inflatables last year and the cost.  Discussion.  A question was asked who was the business that brought in the barrel train last year?

 

Brandis stated that the Magician Gordon Russ is booked.

 

Someone will need to call Don Miller on the Petting zoo.

 

Megan asked the committee to please email her any Farmers' Festival costs.  She is keeping a record of expenses.

 

Camping:  Neal will contact Mike LePage to see what will need to be done to use that space again this year.

 

Craft show may be held in two locations.  One downtown and a second to possibly be held by Poor Man's Promotions on the ball diamond or on the grassy area where the inflatables were last year.  Neal to contact Marlene.

 

 

Bocce Ball Tournament discussion.  To be held inside the Entertainment Tent. We have the opportunity to rent 13 sets from The Garfield Inn.  Neal to call Conservation Club to discuss event with them.  Snow fence help by Dan Armbruster.  Need application for Bocce ball.  Neal and Megan will run this event. Kids 18 years old must be monitored during the tournament. Tracy to reserve the sets with the Garfield Inn.  There was some discussion on bracelets for the event.  Megan said she had some from last year and that she would get them to Neal.

 

Happy Hour discussion.  Kick off Happy Hour on Friday.  Discussion.  Sell 50/50's during Happy Hour. Tracy to get raffle license.

 

VFW Bingo:  Call VFW to verify their Bingo hours. Discussion. An idea was mentioned if the VFW was going to do a Happy Hour.  The comedian who performed at the Annual dinner was suggested as entertainment during Happy Hour. Rush Entertainment.

 

Kelli and Lorraine suggested that a letter be written and sent to area organizations that make money during the Farmers' Festival and request a donation be returned to the Chamber.  Last year Rotary Club and the Lion's Club gave a donation from their proceeds.

 

Adjournment:

Neal adjourned the meeting at 4:45 pm.  Next meeting will be held April 12, 2011 from 4 pm – 5 pm at the Village Hall.

 

 

Farmers' Festival Meeting Minutes

March 8, 2011

 

Attendance:  Neal Emerick, Tracy Potter (Administrative Assistant), Karen Phillips, Lorraine LePage, Mrs. Hill from VFW Post of Pigeon, Annette Renn, Betty Brunni, Kim from Pigeon Hardware, Al Collison, Megan Romzek, Donna Pietruck, Brandis Mallais, Jodi Hurren, Kelli Braun, Esther Hill, and Linda Walsh.

 

Neal opened the meeting at 4 pm.  He gave everyone the opportunity to update the committee.

 

• Mrs. Hill from VFW Post of Pigeon:  The VFW of Pigeon is interested in hosting Bingo at the VFW Hall during the Farmers' Festival.  Discussion followed. Dated and times were considered during the Farmers' Festival.  Saturday evening from 5:30pm - 9:30pm.

 

• Linda Walsh would like the name of her event changed on the schedule. Childrens Craft Fun will be added.  Linda will let Tracy know of another name if she decides to change it.

 

• Annette Renn would like to confirm the Dog Walk on the Farmers' Festival schedule for Saturday the 23^rd from 7 – 9 pm.  She would like to use the same route East of town.  She also inquired on the color chosen of the Farmers' Festival T-Shirts.  The committee will let her know when that is decided.  Annette is interested in choosing a complimenting  color T-Shirt for their event.

 

• Annette Renn asked if the Garage Sale weekend will be hosted by the Chamber in May.  It has been decided by the Chamber not to have it at that time.  Consideration of hosting it during the Farmers' Festival was mentioned.  Discussion followed. No decision was made at this time.

 

• Betty Brunni would like the advertising to mention that there will be camping available during the Farmers' Festival. 

 

• Betty Brunni brought information to the committee that the inflatables that Bay Port used were provided free of charge for their event.  Bay Port charged admission for their inflatables during the event.  It was noted that LL Bounce of Millington made $1500 in two days on 3 units.   Discussion followed. Should the Chamber charge admission for the use of the inflatables?  It was decided that the Chamber would charge for the use of the inflatables.  Tickets will be sold.

 

• Brandis Mallais handed out informational sheets on the inflatables which included quotes.  It was stated that the inflatables cost $600 last year as a comparison.   Discussion followed. Should the inflatables be available on Friday and Saturday or just Saturday? It was decided that the inflatables would be available on Saturday only. Brandis will resubmit quotes for just Saturday. Brandis is also checking on pricing for Maplewood Petting Zoo.

 

• Admission charge discussion continued. Should the Chamber charge admission for the Trackless Train, and the inflatables?  It was decided that the Chamber will charge  for the Trackless Train rides around town, and for the inflatables.   The Trackless Train will be available Saturday only from 10 am – 7 pm.  It was also discussed to include the Trackless Train in the Grand Parade. 

 

• Karen Phillips stated that Bay Port State Bank will be sponsoring the Carriage Rides on Friday. The Carriage Rides will be one day only. 

 

 

 

• Brandis Mallais updated the committee on Gordon Russ the Magician.  She noted that a quote was received for 2 shows. Cost of $500 for 2 shows.  Discussion followed.  It was decided that the magician would perform to shows on Saturday at 12 noon and 4 pm at the Recreation Park/ Band Shell.  It was also discussed to include him in the Grand Parade.

 

• Brandis noted that Middle Ground would need  time to do a sound check on Saturday.  It takes the band 1 ½ hrs to set up equipment. This would need to be considered in the scheduled use of the Band Shell.

 

• Betty Brunni requested that Middle Ground continue to play during the fireworks show on Saturday night.  The committee decided that they could continue playing as long as there was no additional cost.

 

• Lorraine LePage and the Sponsorship Committee presented the Sponsorship Tiers: 

 

• $1000 Platinum Donation: For your $1000 contribution you will receive your logo on our Farmers’ Festival brochure, a large sponsor name on the back of the Farmers’ Festival T-shirts and your business logo will appear on the Chamber website. Your name will be read as a Firework sponsor on the radio, and also be featured on our radio and newspaper advertisements. Your banner will be allowed to be on display at the Band Shell.  You will receive 4 Farmers’ Festival T-shirts and 4 Farmers’ Festival Buttons.

 

• $500 Gold Donation:  Your business will receive a large bold name on the Farmers’ Festival brochure. You will receive a medium sponsor name on the Farmers’ Festival T-shirt and Chamber website. Your name will be read on the radio and also be featured in our newspaper advertisements. You will receive 2 Farmers’ Festival T-shirts and 2 Farmers’ Festival Buttons.

 

• $250 Silver Donation:  Your business will receive your name in bold on the Farmers’ Festival brochure, a small sponsor name on the Farmers’ Festival T-shirt and Chamber website. Your business name will be included in our newspaper advertisement.  You will receive 1 Farmers’ Festival T-shirt and 1 Farmers’ Festival Button.

 

• $100 Bronze Donation:  Your business will receive your name on the Farmers’ Festival brochure and Chamber website, and will be included in a small newspaper advertisement.

 

• The goal of the sponsorship program is to give as much exposure to donors as possible.

 

• A question was asked if other parades charge an entrance fee?  Should we charge an entrance fee for the Grand Parade entries. Discussion.

 

• An idea was presented if our local farmers would be interested in sponsoring the tractor pulls. Sebewaing area farmers pay for their tractor pull event.

 

• Sponsorship letter will be created and mailed to Chamber mailing list, Betty Brunni has a mailing list of area farmers, and Neal submitted a list of businesses.  Lorraine LePage and Tracy Potter will work together on the letter.  Letter will be mailed by April 1^st. Sponsorship money will be due on April 30, 2011.  After April 30^th a Chamber board member will follow up on those persons/businesses that have not responded.

 

 

• T-Shirts:  Linda and Amy will be ordering the T-Shirts.  Shirts can be here in two weeks after the order is placed.  Shirts, Mugs, & More will be doing the T-Shirts.  They are Chamber members for 2011.  Business owners were asked at what time during the summer do the T-Shirts sell best?  Business owners stated the month of July. There must be a time line to be able to  re- order.

 

• Kelli Braun updated the committee with the price quotes for the brochures.  The example of the snow fest glossy brochure is more than $950.   8 ½ x 14 was $430 and 8x11 was $850.  Price quotes were based on different grades of paper.

 

• Neal checked with YFC and their tents will be available to us to use for free.  Planned to be used for the kids games to provide shade.

 

• Bocce Ball quote from the Garfield Inn for 13 sets for $100.  An admission charge of $10 per person to play.  A team consists of two people.  ($20 per team)   The Entertainment Tent is being considered as a possible location.  The Conservation Club would benefit as well.  Tracy to put a hold on the 13 sets from the Garfield Inn.

 

• Farmers' Festival letter with festival and sponsorship information is to be created to be placed in the Village water bills for April.  Lorraine LePage and Tracy Potter will work together on this letter.  It must be submitted to Steven for approval by the Village Council.  Tracy will check with Steven for a date to submit.

 

• Linda Walsh asked if it would be better for the committee to meet every two weeks?  A decision was made to schedule the next meeting in two weeks on Tuesday, March 22^nd.

 

Adjournment:

 

Neal Emerick adjourned the Farmers' Festival meeting at 5 pm.  Next meeting will be  March 22^nd  at

4 pm at the Village Hall.

 

 

Farmers' Festival Meeting Minutes

February 8, 2011

 

Attendance:  Neal Emerick, Tracy Potter (Administrative Assistant), Karen Phillips, Lorraine LePage, Mike Poet (President,Conservation Club), Megan Romzek, Donna Pietruck, Brandis Mallais, Jodi Hurren, Eric Wissner, Kelli Braun, Esther Hill, and Linda Walsh.

 

Neal opened the meeting at 4 p. m. He began by going over the Farmers' Festival schedule. He then opened the floor for discussion.

 

• Farm Tours – Megan stated that she knew of farms that would be interested in hosting farm tours.  Brandis stated that she asked Jim McQueen from TNB of farms that may be interested. Brandis will follow up with Jim.  A question was asked if YFC may be interested in allowing their bus to be used during farm tours. Everyone thought that they would.  The suggestion of a Dairy farm tour was made and all thought that was a good idea.

 

• Inflatables - Brandis is working on the Inflatables, Trackless Train, Moonwalk, Inflatable obstacle course for the kids area.

 

• Dog Walk - Tracy to contact Annette Renn  to see if she would be interested in having the Dog Walk at the Farmers' Market from 7 – 9 p. m. on Saturday.

 

• Queens Contest - Esther Hill asked if the Queen's contest rules could be changed to allow for a more than 10 mile radius of Pigeon. Discussion. Consideration of having a King contest as well.  It was decided that the funds were not available to give more scholarships.

 

• Tracy to email everyone a draft of the list version of the Farmers' Festival schedule.

 

• Lorraine asked if the Chamber would be interested in doing a hot dog sale fundraiser immediately following the parade.  Discussion. It was decided to consult with the Chamber board at the next Chamber board meeting which would be held Wednesday, February 2, 2011.  If the Chamber was not interested in hosting this event, Lorraine stated that she knew of some organizations that may be interested.

 

• Music after Grand Parade - Neal suggested that a Piano recital be hosted immediately following the Grand Parade. There are several talented musicians in this area that may be interested in participating.  It was also discussed that Terry Lutz was a member of a Jazz band that will be performing in the Grand Parade.  Kelli Braun will ask Terry Lutz if his band would be interested in playing in the Band Shell after the Grand Parade.  Megan will ask  Middle Ground if this would interfere with their needed set up time.

 

• Clowns - Lorraine suggested that we find an organization that has clowns or clowns on stilts to perform during the kids games at the Recreation Park. This would be immediately after the kids parade on Saturday.

 

• Brochures - Neal will check with The Print Shoppe and Clemco printing in Bad Axe on the cost of the glossy printed brochures.  Discussion of making our own brochure to get the information out into the community by Memorial Day.  Lorraine stated that she would help Tracy with the first brochure.  Sponsorship was discussed for the second brochure.

 

 

 

• T Shirts - Discussion.  Planning committee will work on the sponsors  for the back of the shirts.  Amy Guster and Linda Walsh will be ordering and helping with the shirts.  Laker drawings from the Elementary are in and will be reviewed.  Tracy will follow up with Laker JH and HS to see if they have any drawings to be submitted. Kelli stated that she would help on the committee. Kelli asked Tracy if Shirts, Mugs, and More were listed as a member in 2011. Yes, they were confirmed as a member for 2011. Neal appointed the drawings to a committee. Tracy, Jodi, Kelli, Brandis, and Megan will be working on the drawing committee.  Also, a gift will be arranged for the students who participated from Laker Elementary, JH, and HS.

 

• Theme - suggested based on one of the Elementary drawings: “Get caught roped up in Pigeon”.

 

• Entertainment Tent - Discussion on the location of the Entertainment Tent.  Al would like it located on the ball diamond. Mike would like it on  the cement.  Eric would like it  located East and West by the trees.  It was noted that the trees were usually used for the petting zoo.

 

• Gospel Concert - Donna Pietruck to call Lyle Shetler and confirm this event for Thursday night.

 

• Happy Hour -  Will Happy Hour on Thursday night or be moved to Friday. Discussion.

 

• Sponsors - Discussion on how sponsors would be listed on brochure.  Kelli brought an example of Snow Fest from Frankenmuth as an example.  Should they be listed alphabetically, or by event sponsored?  How should those be listed that did not specify a sponsored event?  Lorraine recommended that the committee consider sponsor tiers. Megan has record of last years event sponsors. Committee for sponsors would consist of Megan Romzek, Lorraine LePage, and Karen Phillips.

 

• Brochure - Chamber will make a tri-fold brochure to be out in community before Memorial day.  A glossy brochure should be available by June 1, 2011.

 

Adjournment

Neal Emerick adjourned the meeting at 5 p. m. Next meeting will be Tuesday, March 8, 2011 from       4  p. m. – 5 p. m at the Village Hall.

 

 

 

 

Farmers' Festival Meeting Minutes

January 27, 2011

 

Attendance: Jodi Hurren, Esther Hill, Linda Walsh, Eric Wissner, Brandis Mallais, Al Collison, Kelli Braun, Tracy Potter (Administrative Assistant), and Neal Emerick.

 

• Esther Hill brought up the idea of increasing the number of buckets passed around during the Friday and Saturday night program.

 

• Al Collison noted that the Ubly Homecoming would be the prior week of Farmers' Festival.

 

• Eric Wissner contacted Bob to see if  Friday night would work for the entertainment tent. Bob is flexible.

 

• Esther Hill contacted Kris Gilbert to see if the Anything Goes Games being moved to Friday would be a problem. Kris is flexible.

 

• The L. J. Gascho Furniture sale is usually held Friday and Saturday at their factory location.  Tracy will call to see when they plan to have sale.

 

• Kids Parade line up change suggestion to be moved to Shaggy J's Eatery & Pub.  The parade route would then go directly to the Recreation Park. 

 

• Store kids games would still be on Friday.

 

• Bingo to be considered in the BBQ tent Friday and Saturday.  Would a Bingo Board be able to be rented?  Caro Rental may have a Bingo Board to rent.  Bingo must be 18 years old and older. Eric suggested the use of the Entertainment Tent for Bingo.  Host Bingo during hours of 4 pm – 7 pm.  All people under the age of 21 would have to leave at 7 pm.  A  Bingo license would be needed, and 2-3 people to man event.  YFC has 3 tents set up the week prior. Would it be possible to use one of their tents from the weekend prior? Purchase Bingo cards at $.25 each.  VFW may have old cards we could use.

 

• Marlene from Poor Man's Promotions would be interested in coming to the Farmers' Festival if a grass location would be available.

 

• Inflatables to run Friday and Saturday in the recreation park from 10 am – 5 pm.

 

• Kelli stated that SHN may move the Run to Thursday night. She would get back to the committee.

 

• Esther Hill had an idea for a theme for the Farmers' Festival.  If not this year maybe next. “Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Future”  Old Tractors and New Tractors could be featured.

 

• Kelli Braun brought examples of brochures.  All liked the glossy 8 ½ x 14 example.  She will get details on the company that prints SH glossy brochures.  Print Shoppe in Bad Axe with a comparison? Should print 4000.  Would there be a price break for 5000?  Does the Tribune print glossy inserts? Brochures should be out by Memorial Day.

 

• A calendar of events was set moving Anything Goes Games, Kids Parade, Kids Games, and Grand Parade.

 

Adjournment:

The Farmers' Festival Meeting was adjourned at 1:15pm by Neal Emerick.  The next regularly scheduled meeting will be February 8, 2011 at the Village Hall in Pigeon from 4 pm – 5 pm.

 

 

Farmers' Festival Meeting Minutes

January 25, 2011

 

 

Attendance: Neal Emerick, Tracy Potter (Administrative Assistant), Jodi Hurren, Sarah Oeschger, Kelli Braun, Joely Chandonnet, Esther Hill, Linda Walsh, Al Collison, Donna Pietruck, Karen Phillips, Brandis Mallais.

 

Neal called the meeting to order at 4 pm. He opened the floor to review the planning committees proposed three day schedules that were to be created for Farmers' Festival. Discussion.

 

Neal then opened the floor for proposed ideas and discussions:

 

• Linda Walsh noted that the schedules for some events are planned by organizations one year in advance.  She also reminded the committee that some of these events were substantial annual income opportunities for these clubs.

 

• Neal Emerick suggested again planning events the weekend prior to Farmers' Festival.  June 16^th and June 17^th.  Suggestion of a Car Show located downtown, Side Walk Sales, Garage Sale Weekend, and Bean Soup Sale.  This would also benefit the YFC Auction that would be also held that weekend.  Discussion.  It was suggested by Brandis Mallais that it be called Hot Dogs & Hot Rod Weekend. Brandis will call Ty's Auto, McCormick Motors, and Brett from Papa's Pizza to see if they would be interested in sponsoring a Car Show.

 

• Farmers' Festival schedule changes were suggested and committee discussed moving the Kids' Parade and Kids' Games to Saturday. 

 

• Neal suggested adding a Bocce Ball event to the Farmers' Festival schedule. Neal to contact Rich Barker for information.

 

• Donna Pietruck is planning to have craft vendors in the downtown Municipal Park on Friday and Saturday from 9 am – 5 pm.

 

• Peddle Pull was suggested to be after the Grand Parade.  It must be done on pavement. Discussion.

 

• Neal suggested having a DJ playing in the band shell during the food and kids games.

 

• Monster Truck.  Kelli Braun suggested looking into a recent advertisement she received. Discussion.  It was agreed to gather further information.  This could be an event for Saturday that would attract a younger teenage audience.    Would we charge a fee?  Discussion.

 

• Inflatables.  Brandis Mallais presented some information she received on the Inflatables. Discussion.  Possibility of having NHS students from Laker Schools to  supervise the units. Would a local Day Care be interested in rotating with NHS students.

 

• Petting Zoo.  Brandis Mallais presented details on a Petting Zoo from South Lyon.

 

• Amish Baked Goods.  Brandis Mallais presented information that she scheduled to have Amish baked goods be brought to the Farmers' Festival.

 

• Brandis Mallais is looking into information she received on a Trackless Train.

 

• Kelli Braun let the committee know that Scheurer Healthcare Network would be changing the time of their Fun Run.  It would be moved from 7pm to 6pm for safety reasons for participants.

 

• Joely Chandonnet suggested a Bingo event be added to the schedule for adults.  Al asked what kind of location it would need and tables.  Discussion.

 

• It was suggested by Neal that the Kids Games be located on the ball field this year. 

 

• Neal asked Tracy to follow up on the Insurance policy.

 

• Sponsors for events was discussed.  Joely asked that the board also consider local businesses in our community that are not retailers or restaurants.

 

• Linda Walsh asked if the schools were available to help with the T-Shirts.  Tracy gave an update on the T-Shirt project.  The drawings are expected back on February 4^th.  They will be reviewed at the February 8^th Farmers' Festival Meeting. 

 

• Neal will call Bob about the Entertainment Tent.

 

• Esther Hill will be taking care of the Queen contest.

 

• Al Collison suggested that the Farmers' Festival committee rent a PA system that we can use. Brandis Mallais said that Thumb National Bank & Trust Co. would donate their unit for our use. Kelli Braun said that Scheurer Healthcare Networks PA system would be available. It was suggested by the committee that the Co-Op also had a PA system.  Caro Rental also may have PA systems available for rent.

 

• Signs are available from last year.

 

• Neal to follow up with the Village so Tracy can put an informational letter in the Water Bills for April.  This letter would have to be turned in to Steven Corrion by March 7, 2011.

 

• Buttons and T-Shirts.  Last year there were 300 Buttons and 500 T-Shirts ordered.  Discussion of whether or not more would be needed.

 

• Canisters to be placed around town for donations for Farmers' Festival Fireworks.

 

 

Adjournment:

Neal Emerick adjourned the meeting at 5 pm.  Our next meeting will be January 27, 2011 at Scheurer Hospital in the Birch Room at 12 pm (Noon).  This meeting will be used to set the Farmers' Festival Schedule.

 

The next regularly scheduled Farmers' Festival Meeting will be February 8, 2011 at the Village Hall from 4 pm – 5 pm.

 

 

Farmers' Festival Minutes

January 11, 2011

 

Attendance:  Neil Emerick, Tracy Potter (Administrative Assistant),  Lorraine LePage, Donna Pietruck, Linda Walsh, Megan Romzek, Brandis Mallais, Sarah Oeschger, Al Collison, Kelli Braun, Joely Chandonnet, and Annette Renn.

 

Call to Order:

Neil Emerick called meeting to order at 4 p. m. He welcomed everyone and started the meeting off with an opening statement to let everyone know that  last years festival is over and this is a new year.  He then opened the floor for ideas for the new year and discussion followed.

 

Ideas Presented by the Committee:

 

• Consideration of hosting a car show, side walk sales, bean soup sale, and garage sale weekend the weekend before Farmers' Festival week. YFC would be hosting their annual auction on Saturday would this benefit them as well? Discussion.

 

• Linda Clabuesch will be organizing “Tip Night” at Shaggy J's Eatery & Pub.

 

• Suggestion to change the dates of Farmers' Festival to run Friday through Sunday.

 

• Create events that would capture the older teenage crowd.

 

• Car Show downtown on Main St. during Farmers' Festival. Discussion. All agreed that a car show would benefit the downtown area during the Farmers' Festival.

 

• A question was asked if the Conservation Club will be doing the Entertainment Tent. It was stated that they would be.

 

• Honor a Farmer:  Recognize a local farmer for his/her work during the Farmers' Festival.

 

• A suggestion was made that the winners of the Beautiful Baby, Honored Farmer, Queen Crowning be announced on Friday night during the entertainment.

 

• Make winning presentations between band sets on Friday night. 

 

• Money Drop.  Expand the money drop to provide age groups to compete against each other.

 

• Craft show location downtown near Village Hall.  Discussion of having at least one food vendor downtown. This would service the craft area.  Bechler's was suggested as a possible contact for food vendor. Craft sale dates suggested for Friday and Saturday 8 am - 5 pm.

 

• Al Collison presented the idea of having a truck bed pull and the possibility of the Village paving an area to do these events. Neil requested Tracy to check on insurance for tractor pull and truck pull event.

 

• Annette Renn announced that the Thumb Animal Shelter would like to do the walk-a-thon from 9 am – 11 am on Saturday.  A location behind the Co-Op would be appreciated to care for the people and animals involved. Kim at Pigeon Hardware will be hosting the sign up and T-Shirts for this event. An alternative time of 7 – 9 pm on Saturday was also discussed.
• Kelli Braun said that Scheurer Healthcare Network will be hosting the 5K Run/Walk again.

 

• Kids Parade: Could the Kids' Parade be moved to Saturday instead? Discussion of times and how the kids games would be handled.

 

• Peddle Pull time change suggested. Discussion.

 

• Kids Petting Zoo: An idea was suggested to create a petting zoo that would represent more of a farming theme.  Suggestions to contact Laker Schools FFA to gather information on small animals that may be available.  Also suggested was Alpaca Farm, Maple Wood, Mark Stoeckle from TNB may have small animals available. Caseville had a nice petting zoo during their “Rib Stock” event. Brandis to contact Don Wheeler for ideas for petting zoo.

 

• Donna Pietruck presented the idea of including a Farmers' Market from 9 am – 12 noon on Friday or Sunday. This would be included in the craft show area downtown. Donna will contact the Women's Club to see if they would be interested in bring produce from the Community Garden.   An idea of an Amish Store to bring fresh baked goods was also suggested.

 

• A question was asked if the Grand Parade time be changed to accommodate a different Saturday schedule?  Discussion. There did not seem to be a problem with changing the time.

 

• A T-Shirt idea was presented and discussed.  Everyone seemed to like the green colored T-Shirts. A suggestion was made to involve Laker Schools and have students draw pictures for the T-Shirts.  A drawing would be chosen and then coupled with a theme. 

 

• Brandis asked if a new publisher program could be explored for the brochure. Instead of using “Publisher”, would there be any other tools available to produce the brochure with? Tracy would be able to use Publisher.

 

• Megan Romzek suggested  Tracy Potter look into applying for a Raffle License for the 50/50 drawing.

 

• Could the Thursday night  schedule be moved to Friday? Discussion.

 

• Band Shell entertainment ideas.  Flashbacks? Jeff Shaw?  Brandis to contact Jay Dubey of the Flashbacks, and Jeff Shaw.  Is there a wood dance floor under the band shell that could be used for dancing? Who would sponsor entertainment?

 

• Inflatables. An idea was presented to have a daycare sponsor the Inflatables. Instead of paying for the inflatables company to staff the inflatables, would a local company be interested?

 

• Mud Volleyball: Would mud volleyball be able to be moved to 2pm on Saturday? Discussion.

 

Adjournment:

 

Neil closed the meeting asking everyone to create a three day Farmers' Festival schedule to present at our next meeting.  Next meeting will be held on January 25, 2011 at 4 pm at the Village Hall in Pigeon.  Meeting adjourned.