The Rock Port Tourism Board met Thursday, August 10, 2023, at 6:01 p.m. at Rock Port City Hall. Members present were Holly Huntley, Angela Mace, Mark Schoonover, Madison Dick, and Tami Lansdown. Mike Farmer and Jody VanSickle were present by phone. Charlie Clodfelter and Kate Curry were absent.
The meeting agenda was approved. Minutes were reviewed, but the second page was not available due to a printing error. Minutes were tabled until the next meeting. July financials were approved.
Holly will reach out to Carnival Times regarding a refund for downsizing of attractions per Carnival Times’ request, a refund of foam dance party due to malfunctioning equipment, and refund of three boxes of unused cotton candy.
A total of $988 has been raised thus far by bands at the Country Club. The board still needs to vote on distribution of the funds and decide on whether to donate all proceeds to one organization/fund or split between several. Several options were discussed.
Board members voted to continue the ping pong ball drop this year at Old Fashioned Saturday Night. A total of $1,000 was approved.
Holly will check with Emily to ensure adequate ping pong balls are available. Discussion was held regarding the best way to divide the age groups. The board will announce the age groups for the ball drop and request other ages to step back.
A car smash was discussed. Holly will reach out to the board with further information as the event gets closer. The board also discussed an ugly woman contest. Mike will try to get this organized this year and will update the board.
Also, High Heel will play at the Country Club after Old Fashioned Saturday Night for those 21 and over. Holly will reach out for volunteers closer to the date.
Quilt Show
Tami reports that last year, the board approved a $10,000 budget. Tami requests the same budget for this year, noting that last year approximately $4,200 was spent. The board approved her request.
Tami is utilizing online registration this year. Budget costs include prizes, door prizes, rental costs, promotion of the event, and supplies. Tami has been approved to utilize the building ahead of the event for set-up, which she is planning to begin the Tuesday prior from noon until 6:00 p.m. for drop off of quilts.
The Cruise Night/Ice Cream Social was discussed. Holly purchased toppings, bowls, and spoons. Mark and Raechel ordered ice cream through their distributor. Receipts will be submitted, with a total around $250. The board discussed options for potential left overs from ice cream social. Several options were discussed. Jody verified that the nursing home can accept leftovers if there are any. The board agreed to donate all leftovers to the nursing home for the residents to enjoy.
The Farmers Market will be held Saturday morning. Madison reported Loretta’s Donut Wagon will be attending. They will have pretzels available and the meat company from Nebraska will also be there. Madison noted there is a magician at the Memorial Building Saturday afternoon as well. She is searching for ideas for kids’ activities for the September market. A pumpkin painting/decorating station was discussed. She will check with Bullock Farms on availability of pumpkins.
Kate discussed her attempt to find large Macy’s style balloons for a Thanksgiving parade. She will continue to collect and update at the next meeting.
The next meeting will be September 14 at 6:00 p.m.
The meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
