GBACC BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING MINUTES

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - May 21, 2008

1. Minutes
   Minutes approved as posted.

2. Board items
   Secretary and treasurer: Ben Mourad will be recommended as treasurer and Jerry Knight as secretary to fill the offices left vacant by resignations.

   A letter will be sent to the membership to publicize the June meeting and BCE. In the letter will be an announcement that the secretary and treasurer have resigned and that the Board will be making recommendations for their replacements at the meeting. Other nominations of any member in good standing should be sent to the president by June 2.

   There was a discussion of spending policy. It was decided that there will be no expenditures in excess of $100 without approval of a majority of the Board.

3. Insurance:
   The information provided by the Connie Philips agency does not appear to meet our needs. A representative of the agency will be invited to address the June board meeting to discuss GBACC liability insurance. A decision will be made by the July membership meeting.

4. Membership:
   Renewals were PNC and Head Quarters

5. Special Events:
   BCE's
   Greater Goods in Lovettsville. June 26th and need to verify time and directions
   Jerry is now the BCE coordinator
   Need hosting businesses for Jul/Aug/Sep.
   

6. Picnic:
   canceled

7. New ideas:
   • Trade Show
     There was a discussion about a possible Trade Show at which members chould showcase their businesses. We would have special events and features such as an antique appraiser and quality door prizes.
     Those members who have initiated the idea should form a Special Events subcommittee that will make recommendations about time, schedule, format and other specifics. The general idea will be presented at the June 4 meeting.

   • Art Show - duly noted for future consideration

   • Youth Essay Contest - duly noted for future consideration

   • We will continue to Request membership ideas on how to best use our resources

8. Organization
   Speakers at meetings:
   Cheryl of BB&T bank will be the June speaker
   We will look to our own directory of members for speakers at meetings.

9. Web site:
   (explanation of how it works, how & when changes are made, costs, etc.)
   Request for Charlotte to attend a Board meeting.

10. Publicity
    Co-op advertising report
    Loudoun Times Mirror insert for June 4th still has openings
    Placemat #26 will be ready soon.
    Newsletter
    

11. Bulletin
    "GBACC have a weekly e-mail bulletin for calendar of coming events, including short business announcements. The bulletin will be published on the same day each week."

Meeting adjourned at 7:45pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - April 23, 2008

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Chris Spielman, Traci Giganti, Mary McCormack, David Smith, Spencer Ault and Mary Nix

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:40 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved.
   Ellis Burriss requested that the last months Board Meeting Minutes be put on the Website.
   Traci Giganti stated that the minutes had been sent to be placed on the website, but she will resend them to have the website updated.
   Mary Nix made a motion to move points 3 and 4 of the meeting's agenda to the end of the agenda. There was discussion and the motion was approved and seconded.
2. Treasurer's Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack reported on the finances of GBACC, expenses and income. Motion was made to approve the Treasurer's Report. There was discussion and the motion was approved and seconded.
3. New Business: Downtown GBACC Members had a question as to what GBACC is doing to benefit the members. A motion was made to advise the businesses that the information on the benefits of being a member is on the GBACC website.
4. Committee Reports:
   • Publicity Committee: Ellis reported that the new Tourist Maps are out to the public. He also stated the inserts in the Frederick News Post will be out Monday, 28th and the insert for the Loudoun Times will be out Wednesday, 30th. A motion was made and passed to approve the Publicity Committee Report.
   • Special Events Committee: David Smith reported on the upcoming picnic that is planned for this summer. David stated that he spoke with the Lions Club on using the building as well as the outdoor area. He stated that he offered the Lions Club one year membership to GBACC for the use of this facility. The Lions Club declined the offer. David also looked at the Eagles Club as a possible venue for the picnic but felt that it was not the best place for what we are wanting. David also stated that the Eagles have been very generous in the past with offering a venue for events at no charge and does not want to take too much advantage of this member. Discussion was had about other possible venues for the picnic. Mary McCormack made a motion to have David look into other suggested venues and possible one day liquor license. The motion was approved. David also raised the question of having a possible donation taken for the event to benefit a charity. Traci Giganti suggested that attendees of the picnic be asked to bring in one canned food item to give to the Brunswick Food Bank. Spencer Ault made a motion for all members attending the Picnic are encouraged to bring one canned food for the event. This motion was seconded by Chris Spielman and approved. David confirmed that July 26th was the scheduled date for the picnic. Spencer Ault offered the use of Stone Manor as a last resort for the picnic venue. Mary Nix reported on the April Business Card Exchange that was held at Patowamack Farms. The next BCE will be held at Cripple Creek Antiques on May 15th. Chris Spielman stated that the date for the May BCE was printed incorrectly in the Citizen paper. Chris made a motion that all Press Releases pertaining to GBACC must be approved and proofread by at least one board member before publication can occur. The motion was seconded by Traci Giganti. After further discussion the motion was approved. Mary Nix also stated that June's BCE will be held at Greater Goods in Lovettsville with a specific date and time to be announced. Mary also stated that August and September months were still open for business to host a BCE at their businesses. A motion was made and passed to approve the Special Events Committee Report.
   • Membership Committee: Chris Spielman gave the report for the Membership Committee; she reported membership is at 100 with 87 Regular Members and 13 Associate Members. GBACC has one new member this month which is Mission of Mercy. The Railroad Museum renewed this month. Chris continues to contact outstanding members and stated that they should be sent one last reminder. There will be a Membership Committee meeting held at Beans in the Belfry on April 28th at 3:30. A motion was made and passed to approve the Membership Committee Report.
5. Membership Policy: Mary McCormack made a motion to suspend Robert's Rules during the Membership Policy discussion. The motion was seconded and passed. A motion was made and approved to direct the Bylaws Committee to focus their efforts on the Membership Section of the Bylaws and report back to the Board in no longer than 60 days. A motion was made and approved by a 5-0 vote with 2 abstentions to bring to a vote of the general membership at the next meeting the following: "It will be the policy of GBACC to exclude as a member, or a designated representative of a member or organization, any individual who is listed on any Sexual Offenders Registry."
6. Organization: Ellis made a motion concerning the Email list of GBACC, it stated:

   "GBACC's email list may be used by member organizations to inform other members of their activities, but not for solicitation of contributions. Frequency of use and appropriateness shall be at the discretion of the secretary."

   Discussion was had and Ellis's motion was withdrawn. During the discussion it was recommended that members' business announcements should be submitted to the newsletter for publication. Mary McCormack discussed that insurance to cover the Board (Directors and Officers) would cost around $800-$900 a year. A motion was made to have Mary receive the application from the insurance company and begin the application process. An Amendment was made to the motion to give the opportunity for other insurance companies to give their estimates for coverage, specifically to member Connie Phillips Insurance Company. Amendment was passed 6 for and 1 against. Replacement of Board Secretary was discussed and agreed that a new Secretary will be solicited from the membership.

The meeting adjourned at 9:13pm.


GBACC BOARD MINUTES - February 2008

Meeting began at 7:00pm at Green Country Inn

Members present: Ellis Burruss, Chris Spielman, Mary McCormack, Traci Giganti, David Smith, and Mary Nix

Minutes from last meeting were approved

Treasurer's Report

Mary reported on the income and expenses for GBACC

Treasurer's Report was approved

Mary stated that a Financial Committee meeting will be scheduled

Membership Report

Mary stated that GBACC was showing a membership of 103 members

Chris Spielman stated the need to set up a Membership Committee Meeting

Mary McCormack will hand over the Membership Committee to Chris and Cheryl from BB&T Bank

Mary stated that she will be checking on 2007 licensing and permit fees and making sure GBACC is current.

Publicity

Publicity Committee did not report

New Business

By-Law modification-There was some concern about the By Laws raised during the the Board Nominations last fall

By-Laws Nominating Committee needs to be set up; Charlotte Klarr is being recommended to head up this committee; Ellis will be contacting Charlotte in regards to this recommendation

David Smith discussed a 10 year GBACC budget that he developed. With much discussion from the board, it was agreed that the Budget needed to go to the Financial Committee for review. Mary McCormack stated that she felt the committee could look at in May. Ellis asked Mr. Smith to prepare a brief review of the budget to share with the members at the next General Meeting, Mr. Smith agreed to do this at the April 2nd meeting

Board agreed on the broad outline of the budget

The board discussed the function of the EDC and the direction that GBACC felt they should be taking to promote the city of Brunswick and its growth and development

Special Events

The next Business Card Exchange will be February 28 at Anytime Fitness from 6-8pm

Mary Nix volunteered to contact Clark Briggs of the Frederick Chamber of Commerce to invite them to February's Business Card Exchange

Mary Nix agreed to contact Cathy Tynan about March's BCE to be held at the Railroad Museum to celebrate GBACC's anniversary the last Thursday of the month. We will not be asking the Museum to incur any expenses to allow the BCE to take place at the museum

Mary Nix also agreed to head up the Business Card Exchange Committee. She will be organizing the BCE by contacting businesses and gathering door prizes. Mary will give a brief discussion about the BCE Committee and ask for volunteers

Dave raised a point in regards to insurance coverage during the BCE, Mary Nix will talk with Spencer Ault about this question

Dave Smith brought up the GBACC Picnic scheduled sometime for this spring/summer. Mr. Smith discussed setting a budget for this event. Discussion was made about the picnic being a member only or a public picnic. This will be further discussed with the Special Events Committee at their next meeting

Chris Spielman volunteered to line up a guest speaker for the March Business Meeting

Meeting adjourned at 8:45pm

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - January 2008

Meeting began at 7:00pm at Sage

Minutes from last meeting were approved

Treasurer's Report

Mary McCormack stated that there was $2,600.00 to be deposited to the GBACC bank account

Mary also reported on the income and expenses for GBACC

Membership Report

Mary stated that GBACC was showing a 62% retention rate as of 1/23/08

Brinks rejoined after not being a member in 2007, new contact for that company

Calls about Dues are scheduled for the end of January.

There will be a membership committee meeting sometime in February

Publicity

Ellis reported that Map #4 was in the process of development. Hannah of Beans in the Belfry needs two more ads to complete the map

Ellis reported that the latest placemat and Frederick News Post insert were in process of development. Ellis stated that he was hoping to get this done before Valentine's Day. The insert would go into the February 7th edition.

Traci Giganti inquired to the board about being allowed to set up an account with Constant Contact in order to do the GBACC monthly newsletter. All in attendance agreed this would be acceptable.

Traci also asked for further suggestions on what to include in the Newsletter. No new suggestions were made to previous outline for the newsletter

Ellis brought to discussion an upcoming Patsy Cline event to be held in Brunswick May 31. The board agreed that GBACC would like to be involved in some way. The event will be held to help raise funds for the Brunswick Main Street program. Suggestions were made to perhaps sponsor food. There will be a meeting at the Brunswick Fire Hall Thursday, January 31.

The board approved to do an ad in the Lunar Celebration program. Ellis stated that he would develop a general ad to be used in these types of advertising.

February Business Meeting

The board discussed the upcoming February Business meeting to be held 7:00pm February 6, 2008 at the Green Country Inn

A discussion on the main speaker indicated that Sherri Wright of Book Crossing was in the process of setting up a seminar with a representative of Constant Contact. Traci Giganti indicated that GBACC would be a better venue for this seminar. The board agreed to invite the representative to the next GBACC business meeting as the main speaker

The board agreed to ask the membership for suggestions on future speakers

A motion was made to have speakers every other month during evening business meetings. Motion was passed.

Special Events

The next Business Card Exchange will be February 28

Traci agreed to contact the owner of Anytime Fitness to make sure a representative would be present at the Feb. 6 Business Meeting

Traci also stated that she would send the Guidelines for the Business Card Exchange to the February host.

David Smith gave an update on the Awards Dinner scheduled for January 24th. Mr. Smith indicated that everything was set and ready to go except for the seating arrangements which would be handled after the close of the Board Meeting

Mr. Smith discussed the order of speakers and award presenters for the dinner

Topics for February's Board Meeting

David Smith would like to introduce a 10 year budget at the next board meeting

Special Events to be discussed at the next board meeting including the GBACC picnic.

Bylaws will be discussed at the next board meeting

General Meeting for March are also slated to be discussed

Meeting adjourned at 7:37pm

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - December 12, 2007

Present: Chris Spielman, Mary McCormack, Mary Nix, and Ellis Burruss

1. Minutes of 11/27/07 meeting -- approved as written
2. Treasurer's report
   Bank balance approximately $6300.00 which includes $700.00+ available from non-dues sources that can be used for charitable contributions. The report was approved.
3. Special Events
   1. Awards Dinner -- Dave Smith has volunteered to be in charge of special events and will organize the Awards Dinner. All available information about the event will be forwarded to him. The Awards Dinner will be cancelled if we do not have a minimum of 45 paid attendees by the time of the January 9, 2008 membership meeting.
   2. Business card exchanges: a motion was made that business card exchanges will be scheduled by the Special Events Committee which will also arrange for invitations (email) and door prizes. A greeter, sign-up sheet, and all other aspects of each exchange will be the responsibility of the host. The motion was passed.
   3. A motion to approve the Special Events report was passed.
4. Membership
   We have achieved our goal of 100 members for 2007. Member retention: Dues statements will be sent out during the coming week for those whose membership needs to be renewed January 1, 2008. The phone surveys have not been done so printed surveys will be sent out with the dues statements.
5. Organization
   Due to the cancellation of the December meeting, the motion apppointing Traci as Secretary will be presented to the January meeting.
6. New Business
   1. The Brunswick Business tax will be discussed at the January meeting. Ellis will ask the mayor to send a resource person.
   2. A photo shoot will be arranged for the donations to CASS and the Food Bank.
   3. Charlotte Klaar has agreed to maintain the website.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES OCTOBER 22, 2007

6:30 PM at The Green Country Inn

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Jerry Knight, Mary McCormack, Chris Spielman and Traci Giganti

Absent: Gail Pearrell, David Smith

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:35 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as posted on the web.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack reported on the finances of GBACC, expenses and income. A financial statement was handed out.

3. Committee Reports:

Membership Committee: Mary gave the report for the Membership Committee. She announced the next Membership meeting would be on October 29th. The committee will conduct a phone survey of all GBACC members to elicit their concerns about gbacc and encourage joining a committee.

Publicity/Advertising Committee: Ellis gave the report. The Brunswick Business Directory is out and is being distributed. A suggestion was made the funds remaining in the directory account be used to pay distribution expenses. The Loudoun Times Mirror insert will be in the October 24th edition. The next LTM insert will be in the November 14th edition. Requests have been sent out for members to sign up. The request for participants in Place Mat 23 has been sent out. A Frederick News-Post insert will be available soon. A Post Card for the November GBACC Business Meeting will go out the last week of October.

Special Events Committee: The Halloween Gala will be this Thursday, October 25th. GBACC has approximately 60 members that plan to attend, the Lovettsville Business Association have not given their figures, but estimate 40 to 50 members attending. Plans for the January GBACC Awards Dinner are being finalized. The speakers for the event will be Delegate Rick Weldon, Frederick County Commission President Jan Gardner and a special awards presentation will be by Julianna Albowica, Assistant to U.S. Senator Barbara Mikulski.

Advocacy Committee: Traci presented two issues that have been given to her. A tax letter about some large corporations not paying Maryland corporate taxes and a letter about personal property taxes being raised in Maryland. Traci will look into these issues and report to the membership at the next meeting. Jerry brought up the issues of the Brunswick area or northwest Maryland not having a state visitors center. The issue will be taken for study and will be reviewed at a later date.

Committee Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities of the Advocacy Committee were discussed. The committee should be issue driven and non-political. Anyone with an issue should present it to the Chair of the Committee. An issue can only be reviewed if there is support information given when it is presented.

4. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: The regular agenda items will be discussed at the meeting plus issues from the Advocacy Committee.

5. New Business:

A suggestion GBACC sponsor a scholarship program was tabled until a future date.

The meeting adjourned at 7:25 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES SEPTEMBER 26, 2007

6:30 PM at The Green Country Inn

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Jerry Knight, Mary McCormack, and Chris Spielman

Absent: Gail Pearrell, David Smith and Traci Giganti

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as posted on the web.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack reported on the finances of GBACC, expenses and income.

3. Committee Reports:

Membership Committee: Mary gave the report for the Membership Committee. She announced all GBACC members joining in 2007 have been sent the welcome packet. Business guests attending the business card exchanges are being contacted with a letter, email or phone call inviting them to join GBACC. The following motion was proposed regarding dues policy: GBACC members will be given two months notice to pay their dues by the end their anniversary month. If dues are not received paid by the end of the anniversary month it will be assumed that the business does not intend to renew. Courtesy reminder phone calls will be made prior to that month end date. The motion was passed as proposed.

Publicity/Advertising Committee: Ellis gave the report. The Brunswick Business Directory will be ready for distribution on Railroad Days. At the September11th meeting of the committee the place mats and newspaper inserts were discussed. Katherine and Sherri had some suggestions on format. More information will be available when the meeting minutes are posted onto the GBACC web page.

Special Events Committee: The October 25th plans for the Halloween Gala are still being formulated.

Advocacy Committee: Tracie has not received any member issues, which would come under the Advocacy Committee.

Committee Responsibilities: The Board was to discuss the duties and responsibilities of the Advocacy Committee but it was tabled until the Chairman is in attendance at the Board meeting.

4. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: The regular agenda items, plus a point on charitable contributions will be raised for member discussion.

5. New Business:

What to do for the one hundredth member of GBACC that is expected before the end of November. It was suggested flowers and a few gift certificates be given. 100th Members will be put on the new member certificate. These will all be presented at the next general meeting after the business has joined.

Charity donations were discussed. It was decided at the next general membership meeting the membership should be ask to suggest what organization donations GBACC should budget for 2008.

Mary suggested a letter should also be sent out if it is decided that we make any charitable donations at all as we are not that type of organization. Mary will inquire with Mt. Airy and Frederick on how those Chambers handle charity requests. A request from the Brunswick Middle School to speak at the next general business meeting was denied, they will be ask to send a letter.

The January Awards Dinner was discussed and it was suggested Frederick County Commissioner President Jan Gardner be asked to be the featured speaker at the dinner. Rick Weldon will be asked to attend and introduce the featured speaker. The nominations for the awards will be given out at the next general business meeting and will also be sent out to the membership as soon as possible. The requested return date is by the November 7th general business meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 7:25 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES AUGUST 22, 2007

6:30 PM at The Green Country Inn

Attending: Ellis Burruss, David Smith, Jerry Knight, Mary McCormack, and Traci Giganti

Absent: Gail Pearrell, and Chris Spielman

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:35 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as posted on the web.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack reported on the finances of GBACC, expenses and income. Mary announced as of this meeting GBACC has 92 members.

3. Committee Reports:

Presidents Report: Ellis announced the new members of the Board Nominating Committee. They are Jeremy Biser, Charlotte Klaar, Buddy Riser, and Sherri Wright. Ellis asked the members present if GBACC should subsidize Business Card Exchanges for new businesses. The board discussed the possibilities but decided it was not a good idea at this time.

Membership Committee: Mary gave the report for the Membership Committee; she is the new committee chair. She introduced a new membership folder, which will be given to new members. It will include a GBACC emblem on the front with local and GBACC information inside, including the member certificate and decal. A business card with the names and phone number of the GBACC board will be included in the package.

Publicity Committee: Ellis will be working on place mat #22 and it should be out in about a week. The Frederick Post insert was in last week’s paper but Ellis is not planning to do another until October because of poor participation in this insert. Jerry is working on the Loudoun Times-Mirror insert; it should be ready by the first or second week in September. The Brunswick Business Directory is on schedule.

Special Events Committee: The September 20th Business Card Exchange will be at Book Crossing in downtown Brunswick. Jerry met with representatives of the Lovettsville Business Association to ask if they are interested in having a joint October Halloween Business Card Exchange. They are very excited about having the event and made several suggestions about time and place. There is a meeting of the GBACC Special Events Committee at 9:00 am, Thursday August 23rd and this event will be discussed at more length. The date for the January Awards Dinner will also be discussed. The suggested date for the Halloween Business Card Exchange is Thursday, October 25th.

Advocacy Committee: Tracie has not received any member issues, which would come under the Advocacy Committee.

Committee Responsibilities: The Board discussed the duties and responsibilities of the Publicity Committee. It was suggest a meeting should be called and members be asked to join the committee. The name of the Committee should be the Publicity/Advertising Committee. The main duties now are only co-operative advertising. The committee should take a more active role in getting the GBACC name out into the community. Tracie volunteered to be the coordinator to call members and ask if they will join a committee.

Agenda for General Membership Meeting: The regular agenda items, plus Ellis will ask for member to join the Publicity Committee and will announce the new members of the Nominating Committee.

New Business: It was decided the Board would handle the awards program. Jerry will have all the information from last year’s awards at the next meeting.

The Special Events Committee will handle the actual Awards Dinner.

Mary asked if there could be a ten to fifteen minute networking time before the evening GBACC business meetings. It would give people time to get to the meeting without being rushed. It was agreed this would be implemented.

The meeting adjourned at 7:10 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES JULY 25, 2007

6:30 PM at The Green Country Inn

Attending: Ellis Burruss, David Smith, Jerry Knight, Mary McCormack

Absent: Gail Pearrell, Traci Giganti, and Chris Spielman

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:35 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as posted on the web.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack reported on the finances of GBACC and gave out printed information. Mary is getting quotes from State Farm for insurance. Two requests for donations from GBACC were discussed. One from the Lions Club for a calendar and one from Park Heights Cemetery. It was determined, at this time; GBACC does not have the funds to donate.

3. Committee Reports:

Membership Committee: A survey for all members concerning the Brunswick Directory and other GBACC information was approved.

Publicity Committee: The Frederick News Post insert was in the July 23rd paper. The next one should be approximately August 6th. There will not be a placemat done until late August because of the Brunswick Fire Company Mud Bog placemats are in the restaurants. Jerry will work on putting together a Loudoun Times-Mirror insert.

Special Events Committee: The next Business Card Exchange will be August 23rd at Pixie Dust in downtown Brunswick. Jerry and Beth Van Houtte are working on the possibilities of having a special October Business Card Exchange with the Lovettsville Business Association. As soon as it is a definite go volunteers will be recruited from the membership.

Advocacy Committee: There was not any report from the Advocacy Committee.

Committee Responsibilities: The Board discussed the duties and responsibilities of the Special Events Committee. This committee will be responsible for working on four events a year: January: the annual awards dinner; March: the anniversary business card exchange; summer: a picnic and, fall: a special business card exchange with the Lovettsville Business Association. These events may change from year to year and all may not be done in any one year. Fund Raisers and other events not listed under the yearly schedule will be done on an ad hoc basis with the Special Events Committee oversight.

Agenda for General Membership Meeting: The regular agenda items, plus items listed below will be discussed at the General Meeting, any other issues brought up before the meeting will be placed on the agenda.

4. New Business: Ellis will proceed with setting up a “share the chair of the business meeting”. Members will be invited to take over running the monthly meeting on a volunteer basis.

GBACC will share a booth with EDC at the October 6 & 7 Brunswick Railroad Day. Members will be asked to volunteer to take a shift at the booth. TheNew Brunswick Business Directory will be given out. Members will be invited to bring literature about their business to display in the booth.

Members at the Business meeting on August 1st will be ask if they would like to participate in the November 4th Veterans Day Parade.

Mary and Katherine Iacovelli are working on plans for a new business seminar. They do not expect to have anything to report for several months.

The Membership Committee will be responsible for sending out the nomination ballots for the Awards, which are presented at the January Awards Dinner. This should be taken up at the next Membership Committee meeting.

An announcement will be made at the August 1st Business Meeting for members to volunteer for the nominating committee for new board members. The Vice-president, Treasurer and three at large members positions are up for election and/or re-election.

The meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES JUNE 20, 2007

6:00 PM at The Green Country Inn

Attending: Ellis Burruss, David Smith, Jerry Knight, Mary McCormack, Traci Giganti, and Chris Spielman

Absent: Gail Pearrell

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:15 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as posted on the web.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack reported the only changes to the report given at the membership meeting were that we have two new members and a couple of small bills to pay. The insurance policy is due for renewal and Mary will get assistance from a member in analyzing what coverage we have and at what cost.

3. Committee Reports:

Membership Committee: Ellen Lerner will be contacting new businesses for the Brunswick Business Directory. She will also recruit for new GBACC members when talking to business owners about the directory. She estimates she may be able to sign up as many as fifty new members.

Publicity Committee: Place mat #21 is in the restaurants now. The Frederick News Post insert will be in the Tuesday, June 26th newspaper. The Brunswick Business Directory will be worked on during July and August and will be ready to distribute by October. The Brunswick Tourism Map will go to press the week of June 25th.

Special Events Committee: Brunswick Mayor Carroll Jones and City Administrator Dave Dunn will be the speakers at the next GBACC General Business Meeting on July 11th. The next Business Card Exchange will be July 19th at Harper’s Ferry Hostel. There is a meeting of the Special Events Committee, Friday June 22nd to discuss an October special Business Card Exchange.

Advocacy Committee: Tracie would like to get all the information she can about the zoning ordinance so she can work on guidelines. She will be looking for help on this project. Ellis volunteered to help her with it.

4. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: The regular agenda items will be discussed at the General Meeting, any other issues brought up before the meeting will be placed on the agenda.

5. New Business: The Board discussed future plans for structure and goals for GBACC. The purpose of this discussion was to assist with budget and financial guidelines and to help structure the organization to make sure we are providing benefits to members. Discussion began with long-range goals (5-10 years). The definition/purpose of the various GBACC committees was discussed at length. The addition of a Fundraising committee to the current committees of Membership, Special Events, Advocacy, Publicity and Finance was talked about. The organizational structure was also brought up and agreement on how the Board of Directors should be assisting the committee chairs by conveying any expectations of the BOD or membership to them in order to guide them in the goal setting of the committees. Mary suggested that we poll the members with a survey in September of each year to use as a guideline in the preparation of the budget and in planning for the next year (and after). A short-term goal of having a work area with a desk, file cabinet and meeting space for the board and committees within one year was discussed. It was decided to concentrate on one committee per board meeting.

The BOD began with the Membership committee and proposed the following:

Membership stands at 82 members and should grow to:

100 by the end of 2007

110 by the end of 2008

120 by the end of 2009

130 by the end of 2010

140 by the end of 2011

150 by the end of 2012

The recruitment goals are noted above

Retention: A goal of a 95% retention rate. The Chairman should check with the Treasurer once a month for memberships that are coming due. The Membership Committee should communicate with the members coming due by phone, letter or email to encourage renewal of their membership.

An annual retention strategy should be developed. The new member package should be given to the new member within one month of the member joining GBACC. This should be in effect now.

The mentor program for new members should be implemented now.

The Membership Committee is responsible for having a greeter at the Business Card Exchanges. The greeter is responsible for having nametags for members; sign in sheets and greeting members at the door.

The meeting adjourned at 8:00 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES MAY 23, 2007

6:30 PM at The Green Country Inn

Attending: Ellis Burruss, David Smith, Jerry Knight, and Traci Giganti

Absent: Gail Pearrell, Mary McCormack, and Chris Spielman

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:33 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as written.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack was out of town, so Jerry Knight gave the treasurer’s report for Mary. The treasurer’s report was accepted as given.

3. Committee Reports:

Membership Committee: Chris Spielman Co-Chair of the Membership Committee was not present.

Publicity Committee: Ellis reported the Frederick Post and the Loudoun Times-Mirror inserts for May were in the newspapers. Placemat #21 is filled and will go out shortly. The same for Tourist Map #3. Ellis will check into getting a post card out to the GBACC Membership about the upcoming meetings. He announced the new Business Directory is being planned and will be ready for Railroad Days in October.

Special Events Committee: Jerry announced the next General Business Meeting would be Wednesday, June 6th at Green Country Inn, 7:00 pm. Mike Dailey, Executive Director of the Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. (FITCI) will be speaking on the role of business incubation in economic development and how Frederick County's business incubation growth has benefited the community. The next Business Card Exchange will be June 14th at Stone Manor B&B.

Advocacy Committee: Tracie will write a letter to the Brunswick City Government concerning zoning issues. More information under new business.

4. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: The regular agenda items will be discussed at the General Meeting, any other issues brought up before the meeting will be placed on the agenda.

5. New Business: The members of the Board present discussed the problem with City Hall not having information available on how to start a business in Brunswick. Traci, under the Advocacy Committee, will write a letter to the Mayor asking for a checklist for new business owners on “How to Start A New Business in Brunswick, MD”. Any other business in GBACC experiencing difficulty with their local governments are encouraged to inform the GBACC Advocacy Committee for help. Included in the letter will be a request for Jeff Love and Dave Dunn to speak at the July 11th GBACC Business Meeting. The topic would be procedures for opening or expanding a business in Brunswick. During the April Board meeting Mary McCormack proposed to the board a special meeting be called in June to discuss the GBACC five year and ten year plan. The board would like to have this discussion at the June 20th meeting and board members will be advised to expect a longer board meeting lasting from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. It is important to discuss the future on GBACC before planning other events.

The meeting adjourned at 7:35 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES APRIL 18, 2007

6:30 PM at The Green Country Inn

Attending: Ellis Burruss, David Smith, Mary McCormack, Jerry Knight, Traci Giganti and Chris Spielman

Absent: Gail Pearrell

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as written.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack discussed the financial statement and advised the GBACC web site upkeep charges should be monitored to see if the cost are in line with other web masters. It was agreed the change to the by laws concerning the payment of GBACC dues is acceptable. The treasurer’s report was accepted as given.

3. Committee Reports:

Membership Committee: Chris Spielman Co-Chair of the Membership Committee announced the next Membership Committee meeting will be Tuesday, April 24th, 6:30 pm at the Green Country Inn. Dave Smith gave an update on the Golf Classic. He stressed the importance of getting golf foursomes for the tournament. Everyone is encouraged to find golfers for the Classic. There are four golf hole sponsorships available. The cost for dinner for non-participants of the Golf Classic will be $20.00.

Publicity Committee: Ellis brought a copy of the new place mat which will be delivered to the local restaurants this week. Jerry will work on getting the May Loudoun Times-Mirror insert ready for Ellis.

Special Events Committee: Jerry announced the next General Business Meeting would be Wednesday, May 2nd at the Green Country Inn. Jerry Connelly of Pleasants Development and Ellen Lerner of Creative Possibilities will be the speakers. Their topic will be "How Brunswick Businesses will benefit from new development". The next Business Card Exchange will be at the Brunswick Railroad Museum on May 10th. Information is on the web site home page. It was agreed by members present the GBACC Summer Picnic should be under the Special Events Committee. Jerry said the Special Events Committee would meet right after the Membership Committee to included members already present.

Advocacy Committee: Tracie reported on the House Bill 1053. The bill that would raise the Personal Property tax from $300 annually to $1,000. It was suggested GBACC write a letter to the State House opposing this bill and to bring it up at the next Business Meeting to encourage members to write letters opposing it.

4. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: In addition to the regular agenda items, the following will also be presented:

Vote on the new proposed partnership with the Frederick Chamber of Commerce. (Ellis)

Discuss the Golf Classic (Dave)

Discuss Bill 1053 (Tracie)

5. New Business: Mary McCormack proposed to the board a special meeting be called in June to discuss the GBACC five year and ten year plan. She would like to have this information before she calls a finance committee meeting. The board would discuss what charity programs it would participate in, how to facilitate business to business programs other than the business card exchange and the long-term goals of GBACC. Mary will announce a place, day and time for this meeting at a later date.

The meeting adjourned at 7:25 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES MARCH 21, 2007

6:30 PM at The Green Country Inn

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Traci Giganti, Mary McCormack, Jerry Knight, and Chris Spielman

Absent: David Smith, Gail Pearrell

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:40 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as written.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack discussed the past due members. She has sent out an invoice to each. Jerry will contact them to tell them they are being deleted from the GBACC Data System.

3. Committee Reports:

Membership Committee: Chris Co-Chair of the Membership Committee gave a report from the Membership Committee Meeting on March 21st. See the minutes from the Membership Committee on the GBACC Web Site. Jerry brought up the plans for a GBACC picnic but it was tabled until the next meeting.

Publicity Committee: Ellis reported the Frederick News Post inset will in the newspaper on April 1st and the Loudoun Time-Mirror insert will be in the newspaper on April 4th. He will be taking orders for the new place mat soon.

Special Events Committee: Jerry announced the next General Business Meeting would be Wednesday, April 4th at Green Country Inn. Samantha Servey will be the speaker and Kitty Nalewaik of" “Gallery in the Woods”" will be the "“Spotlight”" speaker. The next Business Card Exchange will be at "“Gallery in the Woods”" on April 12th. Information is on the web site home page.

Advocacy Committee: Tracie did not have anything to report on the Advocacy Committee.

4. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: In addition to the regular agenda items, the following will also be presented:

Vote of the changes to the By Laws for using the anniversary date for new members to pay dues. (Mary)

Discuss the New Members Mentoring program. (Jerry)

Discuss the proposed partnership with the Frederick Chamber of Commerce. (Ellis)

5. New Business:

Jerry discussed the idea for a new program for GBACC to sponsor a new business. GBACC would pay the dues and mentor the new business for one year. The membership would be asked to send in nominations and the GBACC Board would draw the name. The first Mentor business would be done now but in the future they would be announced at the GBACC Awards Dinner.

6. Rick Adams and Linda Adams from the Frederick Chamber of Commerce presented the board with a proposed partnership between their Chamber and GBACC. The board will present this to the membership at the next meeting and have a vote on it at the May General Membership Meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 7:40 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES FEBRUARY 21, 2007

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Traci Giganti, Mary McCormack, Gail Pearrell,Jerry Knight, David Smith, and Chris Spielman

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:05 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as written.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack reported a Finance Committee meeting should happen in April. She is working on a list of current GBACC members. Mary suggested that GBACC Membership dues be due on the date the members actually joins not on the first of January. This will alleviate having to pro-rate dues during the year. The By-laws will need to be reviewed to see what the procedure is to make this change. Chris will check the By-Laws. Jerry made the motion after the By-Laws are reviewed we bring the proposed up at the General Membership Meeting, it was seconded by Traci. (The By-Laws were checked and the motion has to be presented to the membership at the March meeting and voted on at the April meeting)

3. Committee Reports:

Membership Committee: Chris Co-Chair of the Membership Committee told the members present that the Membership Committee is in transition due to Jeremy Biser leaving as one of the co-Chairs. The majority of the work being done is directed at the Golf Classic. A meeting should be called soon for the Membership Committee.

Publicity Committee: Ellis reported the Frederick News Post inset has been sold out and will be in the paper soon. He would like to call a meeting of the Publicity Committee to discuss the Tourist Map and other advertising issues. Traci will get information from KJM Marketing on items we could use for the EDC Welcome Baskets. Ellis will make note pads for the next Welcome Baskets as follow: The Greater Brunswick Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes you to the Brunswick area. The web site www.gbacc.net will also be on the note pads.

Special Events Committee: Ellis and Jerry are working on getting a speaker the next General Business Meeting on March 7th. Mary McCormack of SAGE Business will be the “Spotlight Speaker”. The March Business Card Exchange will be a special anniversary event at the Green Country Inn. Home base business will be asked if they would like to co-sponsor the event. Jerry will talk with Debbie Allison about special refreshments.

Advocacy Committee:

Motion: An Advocacy Committee will be established to investigate problems or concerns that businesses have with City, County, or State governments. The Committee will report its findings to the GBACC Board for action. The motion was seconded and passed.

Traci Giganti was nominated to Chair the Advocacy Committee. Chris made a motion she be confirmed, Dave seconded and the Board confirmed her.

4. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: In addition to the regular agenda items, the following will also be presented:

Advocacy Committee

Dues proposal

5. New Business: Dave discussed the upcoming GBACC Golf Classic. It will be on May 16, 2007 at the Hollow Creek Country Club starting at 1:00 pm. Different sponsorships were discussed and Dave requested we start “talking up” the Golf Classic. Jerry will send out a request to the membership for volunteers to work on the Classic. Dave requested we meeting briefly at 5:30 pm before the Business Card Exchange on the 28th.

The President called for any other business. A motion was made and seconded to adjourn at 7:15 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES JANUARY 31, 2007

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Jeremy Biser, Mary McCormack, Gail Pearrell

Absent: Jerry Knight, David Smith, Chris Spielman

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm. The minutes from the last meeting were approved as written.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mary McCormack reported that she has gathered all information (bank statements) from BB&T now and can finish getting the bookkeeping into QuickBooks. No report at this time.

3. Organization/Membership Committee: All discussed the Annual Dinner and what a success it was. There was general agreement that the social hour was great and should be kept, the speaker should be prepped next year as to who their audience is so that potentially inappropriate jokes and language can be avoided, attendees liked the awards and GBACC will welcome new members as a direct result of the dinner. It was also agreed that in the future, Board members and their businesses shall only be eligible for the Business of the Year Award, Leadership Award and Certificates of Appreciation. David Smith could not be in attendance so there was no report on the golf tournament. The group appointed David chair of the ad-hoc golf tournament committee and Jerry will assist in encouraging participation in this committee, separate of the Membership Committee.

3. Publicity Committee: Ellis reported that there is a request that the Frederick News Post insert be more regular and consistent. Ellis wants the membership to “endorse” the inserts and placemats as official GBACC projects. This will allow him greater authority in giving preference to GBACC members (especially if a non-member is bumped for a member). He will continue to administer the projects until such time that a GBACC committee could be created and take over the solicitation and accounting of the ads. At that time he will be happy to give GBACC preferential pricing for his services. Ellis has come up with a 2-tiered pricing schedule for the inserts and the placemat. Also discussed was the fact that the Frederick Chamber of Commerce has an ad in the Brunswick Citizen and that GBACC should have a regular ad running every 2 weeks. They can run the week before a general membership meeting and the week before the business card exchange. Ellis will talk to the Citizen for pricing for a year contract. GBACC would have the space for advertising special events also.

4. Special Events Committee: The next business card exchange will be hosted by C.A.F.E. at the Green Country Inn at 6 pm on Feb. 15th. Children are welcome. The next membership meeting is next Wednesday, Feb. 7th at the evening time of 7 pm. Jeremy reminded everyone that the speaker is Richard Bright of Bright Concepts and that the membership should be encouraged to participate as Mr. Bright was generously giving valuable information free of charge to the membership by speaking at the meeting. Ellis will send a mailing and Jeremy will send an email to encourage members to attend. The “Spotlight” Speaker will be Katherine Iacovelli of the EDC.

5. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: To bring to the membership – the “endorsement” of the FNP inserts and placemats as GBACC projects. Solicitation of members to join the Golf Tournament Committee.

6. New Business: Discussion of official namebadges for the membership and/or board was deferred to the Finance Committee to see if the cost can be factored into the dues.

The first anniversary of GBACC is on March 10, 2007. The normal business card exchange for the month of March would be the 15th. All present thought that a special card exchange to be held at the Green Country Inn would be appropriate. Ellis will talk to Debbie about refreshments, including the possibility of the board bringing wine to serve. It was suggested that this event could be “sponsored” by member businesses – perhaps those that did not have the room to host their own card exchange.

It was motioned and seconded that Traci Giganti of Book Crossing be appointed to fill the vacancy on the Board when Jeremy leaves to become a City Councilman.

The suggestion that special guests be requested to speak at business card exchanges to make them more interesting was discussed. It was decided that this should be left up to the host of the card exchange.

The Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance Auxiliary is requesting donations during its annual fund drive. This was deferred to the Finance Committee for budget consideration. It was agreed that we should have a plan for donations for the year.

Other business: Jeremy met with Howard Williamson from the Lovettsville Business Assn recently to discuss building relationships between the LBA and GBACC. Jeremy suggested that Howard contact the BOD and make a plan to meet and share ideas. The LBA’s goals and objectives are 1-advocacy, 2-networking and 3-cooperative advertising. Sharing ideas may help GBACC with setting goals and objectives so as to create a positive public image of business advocacy and cooperation.

The President called for any other business. A motion was made and seconded to adjourn at 7:05 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - DECEMBER 20, 2006

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Lloyd McIntire, Charlotte Klaar, Jerry Knight, Jeremy Biser, David Smith and Mary McCormack

Absent: Debbie Allison, Hanna Politis, Chris Spielman, Gary Lowry and Gail Pearrell

1. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm. The minutes from the November 25th board meeting were discussed. They were approved as written.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Lloyd McIntire presented the accounting report and passed out accounting data. Charlotte moved the Treasurers Report be approved and David seconded, it was approved. The accounting information is available for view by request to Lloyd.

3. Organization/Membership Committee: Jeremy reported a reminder is being sent out for current members to pay their 2007 dues. Four or five potential members are still expected to pay before the end of the year brings the members near the 75-member goal. The board members present discussed the January dinner at Hollow Creek Country Club and it was decided to have a buffet and charge $30.00 per person. Jeremy gave a list of special invited guests, and GBACC will pick up the cost for these guests. He also gave the list of award categories. Mount Airy will receive a special award for helping GBACC in its beginnings. The Golf Tournament was briefly discussed but it was decided a special board events meeting would be needed and it was decided Monday, January 15, 2007 at 6:00 pm would be the date. Charlotte made a motion Jeremy’s report be accepted as given and Lloyd seconded.

4. Publicity Committee: Ellis reported he would soon be requesting advertisers for the place mat and the Frederick Post insert. GBACC members will be given priority.

5. Special Events Committee: Jerry reported that we would not have a Business Card Exchange in January because of the special dinner. The Membership Meeting will have Susan Grey of the Frederick Library as speaker and Tracie Giganti of Book Crossing as "spotlight" speaker.

6. Technology Committee: Charlotte’s web person Donna of CTG/dynamx has redone the web site and Charlotte will send a link so we can review it. The statement for services rendered was presented to the board. Charlotte will request Donna submit an estimate on other services. Lloyd made a motion it be accepted and Jeremy seconded.

7. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: Members present were asked to email Jerry with any suggestions for items for the General Membership Meeting agenda.

8. New Business: It was brought to the attention of the board that some people are attending the Business Card Exchanges numerous times and have not joined GBACC. It was decided we would discuss this in detail at the next scheduled board meeting. Lloyd brought up the subject of advertising on our local radio station 1520 am. He will check with Buddy Riser, station owner, and see if he is available to speak to GBACC about the advantages of radio advertising.

The President called for any other business. Lloyd made a motion to adjourn, David seconded and the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 pm

.


GBACC BOARD MINUTES - NOVEMBER 29, 2006

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Lloyd McIntire, Chris Spielman, Charlotte Klaar, Jerry Knight, Jeremy Biser, David Smith and Mary McCormack
Absent: Debbie Allison, Hanna Politis, Gary Lowry and Gail Pearrell

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:05 pm. The minutes from the November 25th board meeting were discussed. They were approved as written.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Lloyd McIntire presented the accounting report and passed out accounting data. It was agreed by the members present January 31, 2007 is the cut off date to pay dues before your business is deleted from GBACC Membership. Jerry moved the Treasurers Report be approved and David seconded. The accounting information is available for view by request to Lloyd.

3. Organization/Membership Committee: Jeremy reported he and David have been to Hollow Creek Country Club in Middletown and discussed with them the possibility of having both a golf tournament and our January awards dinner at the Club. Members present decided on the date of Thursday January 25, 2007 for the awards dinner with the fall back date of Wednesday, January 31, 2007. The golf tournament will be May 9th with the fall back date of May 16th. David will check with Hollow Creek to confirm these dates. More details will be available after the dates are confirmed. The press release announcing the Awards Dinner will include an explanation as to why it is being held in Middletown. We will point out that the host (Hollow Creek) is a member of GBACC. In addition, most of GBACC's events during the year are held in Brunswick and we wished to show that GBACC incorporates the greater area which includes Middletown."

4. Publicity Committee: Ellis reported the place mat is out with Galyn Manor and Bonnie Country Restaurant on it. The corrected Business Directory is out. The November insert was in the Monday November 27th Frederick Post. Concerns were express it was not going to Jefferson and Ellis will check with the Frederick Post.

5. Special Events Committee: Jerry reported the December Business Card Exchange would be at Sage Small Business in Jefferson, December 8th from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm. A reminder will be sent out to the GBACC Membership to remind them of this date. Jerry will check with Susan Grey and work on the advertising seminar for February.

6. Technology Committee: Charlotte’s web person Donna is updating the web site.

7. Agenda for General Membership Meeting: Give the cut off date for dues to be paid. Discuss the golf tournament and the awards dinner. Jeremy asked if a member to member discount program could be discussed.

8. New Business: It was agreed by the members present we would try an alternate meeting plan in 2007. The meeting will alternate between morning and evening meetings. Starting in January the meeting will be at 7:30 am, then in February 7:00 pm and will continue until the end of the year or a decision is made to go to a permanent time. Jeremy discussed the need for a strategy for donating to non-profit organizations. This will be discussed in greater detail at a later board meeting but it was decided, GBACC would donate $200.00 to the Food Bank and $200.00 to the Emergency Relief Bank. Jerry will contact Sandy Cox to work out the detail for getting this accomplished and getting it in the local media.

The President called for any other business. Charlotte read an email from Jim Politis about the Advocacy Committee and it was decided we would put this committee on hold. No one had anything else to discuss. Jerry made a motion to adjourn, Lloyd seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 7:10 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - OCTOBER 25, 2006

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Lloyd McIntire, Chris Spielman, Charlotte Klaar, and Jerry Knight
Absent: Debbie Allison, Hanna Politis and Gary Lowry

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:05 pm. The minutes from the September 20th board meeting were discussed. They were approved as written.

2. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Lloyd McIntire presented the accounting report and passed out accounting data. Jerry moved the Treasurers Report be approved and Charlotte seconded. The accounting information is available for view by request to Lloyd.

3. Old Business:
· Insurance: Charlotte Klaar is checking on “Board” Insurance and is awaiting a return call from The Hartford Company.
· The GBACC General Membership Meeting was discussed and it was agreed we should have a Main Speaker followed by the Spotlight Speaker. Members present suggested checking SCORE, the Frederick EDC and Chamber for speakers. Jerry will check the availability of speakers and present a list at the next Board meeting. It was also decided the Special Events Committee would handle any seminars put on by the Chamber.

4. Organization/Membership Committee: Chris, co-chair of the Membership Committee explained to the board the committee’s plans for a golf tournament in May at Hollow Creek Golf Club in Middletown. Jerry will check to see if it is possible to have our January Members Appreciation Dinner at the Club. Charlotte suggested GBACC should send out a statement in December for due for 2007. The board approved this suggestion and Charlotte will look into how it can be accomplished.

5. Publicity Committee: Ellis reported the 1000 copies of the new Business Directory have been distributed and he is planning to run another 2000. He also reported the November insert in the Frederick Post will have an ad for CM Bloomers on one side and the GBACC Application on the other. The place mats will also go out in November.

6. Special Events Committee: Jerry reported the November Business Card Exchange would be at Antiques N Ol’ Stuff on Potomac Street. (The date will be 11/16).

7. Technology Committee: Charlotte has spoken with the person who does her web site about updating the GBACC web site. The charge would be the non-profit rate of $35.00 per hour. Lloyd made the motion to approve and Chris seconded.

8. Nominating: Charlotte, chair of the nominating committee, and Ellis presented the sheet, which will be used for Board voting at the November meeting. Changes were discussed and Ellis will print the voting sheets for the meeting.

The President called for any other business. Charlotte asked what has become of the Advocacy Committee. She will check with Jim Politis to find out what his plans are for the committee. Ellis announced that the EDC Breakfast is October 26th. No one had anything else to discuss. Jerry made a motion to adjourn, Charlotte seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 6:55 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 20, 2006

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Lloyd McIntire, Charlotte Klaar, and Jerry Knight
Absent: Debbie Allison, Hanna Politis Chris Spielman and Gary Lowry

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:08 pm. The minutes from the August 23rd board meeting were discussed. Jerry Knight moved they be accepted as written and Charlotte Klaar seconded. They were approved.

2. Treasurer’s Report: The accounting report was presented and Lloyd McIntire passed out accounting data. A new budget for CY 2006 was presented allocating all present funds. Proposed budgets for CY 2007 and 2008 were also presented. Jerry moved the new CY 2006 budget, the proposed budgets, and the Treasurers Report be approved and Charlotte seconded. The accounting information is available to view by request to Lloyd.

3. Old Business:
· Insurance: Charlotte Klaar has the receipt from the Hartford Insurance. Jerry has the information package from the insurance company on file at Cripple Creek Antiques.
· The order for the GBACC General Membership Meeting was discussed and agreed upon. The business meeting will begin at 7:45 am followed by the Main Speaker and will end with the Spotlight Speaker (see item 7 below).

3. Organization/Membership Committee: No one was present to give a report.

4. Publicity Committee: The 12’ x 10’ GBACC booth for Brunswick Railroad Days will be located across from Cripple Creek Antiques. Ellis suggested we have the Reasons to Join the Chamber displayed as a poster. He will check into getting it done. Jerry will send an email out requesting GBACC members drop their business information off to have it available for handouts. Hanna was not present but Ellis said the tourist map was on schedule. Ellis also reported that the Business Directory was also progressing on schedule. Jerry reported the ad for the Veterans Day Parade has been submitted. Jerry also asks if GBACC would take a ½ page ad in the Fraternal Order of Eagles conference program. The ad is $50.00 and it was approved by all present.

5. Special Events: The next GBACC Business Card Exchange will be at Stauffer Funeral Home on Thursday, September 28th from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.

6. Technology Committee: Jerry reported he has examples of the GBACC decal to show the membership committee at the next meeting.

7. Nominating: Charlotte, chair of the nominating committee, reported the nominations for the offices and board have to be announced at the October General Membership Meeting. Additional nominations can be taken from the floor at this meeting. The final slate will be sent to the full membership by mail or email before October 31. She also advised the GBACC President, Secretary and Treasurer that the bylaws require each of them to appoint one judge for the elections, which will take place in November. There was some discussion relative to absentee ballots and we will devise a plan for this.

The President called for any other business. He said that the EDC Breakfast is the last Thursday of the month and the GBACC Business Card Exchange should be schedule at a minimum of a week apart so it does not conflict with their meeting. No one had anything else to discuss. Jerry made a motion to adjourn, Charlotte seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 6:50 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - AUGUST 23, 2006

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Lloyd McIntire, Charlotte Klaar, Jerry Knight, and Chris Spielman
Absent: Debbie Allison, Hanna Politis and Gary Lowry

1. Ellis Burruss, President, called the meeting to order at 6:03 pm. He asked for discussion on the minutes from the July 19th board meeting. Jerry Knight moved they be accepted as written and Charlotte Klaar seconded. They were approved.

2. Old Business:
· Treasurer’s Report: The accounting report was presented and Lloyd McIntire passed out accounting data. Charlotte Klaar brought up the subject of the Finance Committee. Lloyd said Charlie Summer was on the board with him. Jerry is to contact Gail Pearrell of F&M Bank to ask her is she is still available for the committee. Mary McCormack of Sage Small Business Service is available for the committee. The accounting information is available to view by request to Lloyd. Charlotte Klaar made a motion the Treasurer’s Report be accepted as given and Chris Spielman seconded. It was approved.
· Insurance: The insurance premium has been paid to the Hartford Insurance Company. Charlotte Klaar is waiting for the receipt.
· Publicity: Ellis Burruss discussed the Business Directory and reported that $2,480 has been collected for ads. The new tourist map will include Galyn Manor and it should be ready by Railroad Days. Hanna Politis will send out information on this publication. It was suggested that the Publicity Committee look into a separate tourist map brochure for Lovettsville, Middletown and Jefferson.
· Ellis informed the board that Scott Edie of E-Graphics has a bulk mailing permit and he is willing to share it with GBACC. Ellis will find out more information and inform the board. He will then prepare an information letter for the membership.

3. Organization/Membership Committee: Chris passed out an example of the new GBACC Membership Certificate and the General GBACC Business Card. It would cost approximately $100.00 to get these printed. Ellis asked for a motion for the expenses to be authorized. Jerry moved and Charlotte seconded. The request for printing documents was passed. Jerry and Charlotte reported on the proposed new GBACC Membership Decal. Rydin Decal Company emailed a catalog of their decals for organization and businesses. Jerry and Charlotte will work on getting one ready to show to the Membership Committee. Chris and Jeremy are working on plans to get twenty new members before the end of the year.

4. Publicity Committee: Jerry Knight advised the booth for Railroad Days has been reserved with Geri Reynolds. Chris asked how big the booth would be and Jerry will find out. (It is 12” x 10”) Ellis suggested to have people put their business cards in a bowl for a drawing of gifts donated by GBACC members. Jerry will work on getting a Loudoun Mirror insert prior to September 15th.

5. Special Events: The next GBACC Business Card Exchange will be at Stauffer Funeral Home on Thursday, September 28th from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.

6. Technology Committee: Charlotte reported more input is needed on the GBACC Web site. The board was asked to look at the web site and send Charlotte ideas for changes, additions or deletions. Ellis asked for a motion. Chris moved, Lloyd seconded, and the motion to have the board look at the web site was passed.

7. Advocacy Committee: Ellis suggested a flow chart be assembled of information from the City’s “How to Get a Business Started in Brunswick”. Members are need for this committee. Jim Politis is the chair but there are not any members.

8. Nominating: Charlotte is the chair of this committee. The other members are Jeff Austin, Beth Johnson, and P.W. Schaffer. Charlotte passed out the draft for the nominating form. The form will be corrected and sent out to the membership.

The President called for any other business. Jerry reported an ad would be placed in the Veterans Days Parade Program. No one had anything else to discuss. Jerry made a motion to adjourn, Lloyd seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 7:27 pm.

GBACC BOARD MINUTES - JULY 19, 2006

Present: Lloyd McIntire, Chris Spielman, and Ellis Burruss
Absent: Jerry Knight, Gary Lowry, Charlotte Klaar, Hanna Politis, and Debbie Allison

1. Ellis Burruss, President, called the meeting to order at 6:04 pm. He asked for discussion on the minutes from the May 24th board meeting. They were approved as written.

2. Old Business
· Lloyd McIntire gave the treasurers report. The accounting report was presented and he passed out accounting data and budget 2006 sheets. The accounting information is available to view by request to Lloyd. They were approved.
· Brunswick Business Directory: The Brunswick EDC has agreed to work with GBACC to publish the next business directory by RR Days. GBACC will sell ads to finance the publication.
· Business Card Exchange Guidelines: Chris reported that they looked workable. However, she will refine them after the BC exchange on 7/20
· Bulk Mail Permit: The Membership committee will poll the members to see if anyone is interested in using it.

3. Organization/Membership Committee:
In response to a question, the Membership Committee has mailed a GBACC solicitation to all businesses in the Brunswick Area. The membership committee will meet after the 7/20 Business Card Exchange.
The membership committee will send a mailing to the current membership to promote the August 2nd meeting and to poll on the bulk mailing, meeting time, speakers at meetings, and interest in a Loudon County insert.

4. Publicity Committee: A Loudoun County insert is to be investigated.

5. Special events: The July 27th EDC business Breakfast was announced.

6. Membership Meeting: The GBACC General Membership Meeting will be at 7:30 a.m. in the Green Country Inn.
· There was a brief discussion if GBACC should keep regular monthly meetings. It was decided there should be monthly meetings.
· The Agenda (not necessarily in this order) for the August 2nd General Membership Meeting:

1) Report on BC exchange
2) Report on EDC Breakfast
3) Advocacy Committee
4) Business Directory
5) Poll results:

bulk mailing
meeting time and content
Loudon County insert

6)Doug O’Rear on “Business Killers” seminar

7. The President called for any other business. No one had anything else to discuss. The meeting was adjourned at 6:33 p.m.


GBACC BOARD MEETING MINUTES - JUNE 28, 2006

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Lloyd McIntire, Chris Spielman, Jerry Knight and Hanna Politis
Absent: Debbie Allison, Charlotte Klaar, and Gary Lowry

1. Ellis Burruss, President, called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. He asked for discussion on the minutes from the May 24th board meeting. Jerry Knight made a motion they be accepted as they are and Chris Spielman seconded. They were approved.

2. Treasurer Report: Lloyd McIntire reported we have 47 dues paying members as of the meeting date. The accounting report was presented and he passed out accounting data and budget 2006 sheets. The accounting information is available to view by request to Lloyd. Chris Spielman made a motion the Treasure’s Report be accepted as given and Jerry Knight seconded. They were approved.

3. Old Business:
· GBACC Insurance – Jerry Knight said Gary Lowry reported that our policy is just a standard policy. Without Gary or Charlotte present it was agreed the insurance policy discussion would be postponed until they are in attendance.
· Ellis reported that $50.00 would be returned to the Brunswick Railroad Museum because of the non-profit status rates agreed upon at the last General Membership Meeting.
· Ellis called for a decision to change the GBACC board Meeting from the fourth Wednesday to the third Wednesday of the month at 6:00 pm. It was agreed, after a brief discussion, to implement the change.
· Ellis asked for discussion on the bulk-mailing proposal. The proposal is Bellwether Printing, Ltd would pay for the yearly dues for the postal permit and GBACC would pay for the initial start up fee. It was decided to poll members at the next General Membership Meetings to find out if there is interest in bulk mailing. If the membership is interested it would start in January 2007.
· Ellis reported on the Business Directory. The directory will be a joint project with the EDC. The Directory will include all businesses in the Brunswick area and selling advertising will pay for it. It will be a break-even project. A price will be decided upon and GBACC members will get a 30% discount. Ellis will attend the next EDC meeting to discuss the project. A letter will be written to all the GBACC Membership to give details and rates for advertising in the Directory. The proposed deadline for completion of the Directory is Railroad Days, October 7 and 8.
· Advocacy Committee: Jim Politis will chair this committee. It was agreed it will be announced at the general meeting and volunteers will be ask to sign up for the committee. We should encourage the city to maintain a business friendly environment. Certain members of the community who are having trouble with the city due to zoning should be encouraged to join.
· Hanna Politis, Main Street Liaison, gave a report on the Mains Street activities. Their primary function at this time is the First Friday Events. Jerry Knight ask if she would find out what Main Street is doing about a directory on the C&O Canal Tow Path to direct people to the Main Street area.

4. Organization/Membership Committee: Chris Spielman report the GBACC Business Card Exchange is on schedule at C.M. Bloomers and she will handle all the details. It will be announced at the General Membership Meeting on July 5, Jerry will send out a general email to the membership about the event and Ellis suggest it be put on the next Frederick News Post Insert. Charlotte Klaar has been out of town for most of June and the Membership Committee did not meet this month.

5. Publicity Committee: There was not a meeting in June. The place mats, the inserts are still being printed.

6. Special Events Committee: Jerry reported the Independence Day Celebration would be this Saturday.

7. Technology Committee: Jerry reported everything is on schedule with the web site.

8. No one had anything to add to the agenda for the General Membership Meeting.

9. The President called for any other business. No one had anything else to discuss. Hanna made a motion to adjourn, Chris seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 7:00 pm.


GBACC BOARD MINUTES - MAY 24, 2006

Attending: Ellis Burruss, Lloyd McIntire, Gary Lowry, Charlotte Klaar, Jerry Knight and Hanna Politis
Absent: Chris Spielman, Debbie Allison

Ellis Burruss, President, called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm. He asked for discussion on the minutes from the April 19th board meeting. Gary Lowry made a motion they be accepted as they are and Charlotte Klaar seconded. They were approved.

Old Business:
· Treasurer’s report: Lloyd McIntire reported we have 40 dues paying members as of the meeting date. The accounting report was presented and he passed out accounting data and budget 2006 sheets. The accounting information is available to view by request to Lloyd. Charlotte Klaar made a motion the Treasure’s Report be accepted as given and Gary Lowery seconded. They were approved.
· Event Insurance: Charlotte Klaar gave information on a proposed insurance quote from BB&T Frederick Underwrites. Gary Lowry and Lloyd McIntire will review the plan and give their recommendations at the next board meeting. Charlotte said there is one other quote that she is waiting to receive.
· Affiliated Membership: The board agreed to suggest to the general members at the next meeting that a $35.00 yearly fee be changed for non-profit affiliated membership dues. This will be voted on by the general membership.
· Advertising: CBF will be dropped from advertising and GBACC was be added. GBACC members will be given first priority on advertising and Bellwether will continue to bill the advertisers. The general membership should be given the same opportunity to participate in advertising as the Board.
· Special Events: The Board agreed that a special event for a charity to be decided should take place in September. A “sit down” dinner was discussed and Gary Lowry suggested a picnic. Jerry Knight will continue to work on this event. Hanna Politis discuss the events going on at “Main Street” particularly the First Friday activities.

Organization/Membership Committee: Charlotte Klaar gave a report on the bulk mailing machine. The Membership Committee is not certain if a bulk-mailing machine is needed by GBACC. Gary Lowry and Ellis Burruss discussed the advantages of using the Brunswick Post Office to send bulk mail. They have a discount rate for sending mail to different zip codes. Ellis will look into this method and report back to the Board at the next meeting. Charlotte reported that the Membership Committee has 657 names and addresses on their mailing list. A flyer for the Business Card Exchange was sent out on May 24th to these addresses. Jeff Austin’s company donated the postage for the mailing. Jerry Knight, Secretary, was asked to send a thank you note to Jeff’s company. Charlotte expressed concern that everything is being considered a Membership Committee responsibility and we need to decide what issues/topics are to be designated “Membership” and “Publicity”.

Publicity Committee: Jerry Knight reported that he needed to call a meeting and that more people need to be encouraged to join this committee. A meeting will take place at Beans in the Belfry on Friday, May 26th at 5:00 pm. An email will be generated inviting members to attend.

Special Events Committee: Jerry Knight report that the July 1st Independence Day Celebration is on schedule.

Technology Committee: Charlotte reported the web site is a work in progress but she would like to have it done by June 1st. The board requested she ask the web master if this can be done. We would like to display the web site at the Business Card Exchange on June 2nd. The logo has been completed and is displayed on the invitation to the Business Card Exchange.

Membership Meeting: The board agreed that they would like to change this monthly meeting to a morning schedule. The hours suggested are 7:45 am to 8:45 am. A light breakfast would be served beginning at 7:30 am. The proposal will be presented to the membership at the next meeting.

New Business: GBACC will give welcome baskets to new businesses that open in the Brunswick area. More discussion forthcoming. A checklist for new area businesses defining completion of business requirements is badly needed. Charlotte will bring up some questions for the lawyers at the EDC Breakfast and report back later.

The President called for any other business. No one had anything else to discuss. Charlotte made a motion to adjourn, Hanna seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 7:10 pm.


GBACC BOARD MINUTES - MAY 2006

The President called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. There was a brief around-the-room introduction.

1) The President asked if the minutes from the April 3rd meeting had been read and if there were any questions. There were no comments from the floor. Charlotte Klaar moved the minutes be accepted as written and Jerry Knight seconded the motion. The minutes were approved by general consent.

2) Lloyd McIntire gave the Treasurer’s Report. There are 32 GBACC members as of the beginning of this meeting. Mr. McIntire asked for approval of $500.00 for Tax Exempt Statues and $500 for estimated GBACC Insurance. Charlotte Klaar explained the insurance would only cover GBACC meetings and a rider would have to be obtained for special events. Approval of the Finance Report gave approval to the fund requests. Charlotte Klaar moved the minutes be accepted and Charlie Summers seconded the motion. The Treasurer’s Report was approved by general consent.

3) Charlotte gave the report for the Organization, Membership and Technology committees.

4) Organization: The Organization portion of the committee is currently working on a logo for the Chamber, which can be used for stationary, decals for store windows, on the web site, and whatever else we need it for. If any of our members are graphic designers and would like to volunteer their services to finalize the logo, it would be appreciated. We have completed our work with the bylaws and are hoping that they are adopted this evening. This was a cooperative effort of all members of the committee and I want to thank the committee members for their dedication and attention across many meetings and many drafts to have developed the current document. The Committee structure documents are complete and we are hoping that many will join committees since we need help.

5) Membership: The membership committee meeting scheduled for May 2nd has been changed to May 8th at 6:30 PM. New members are invited to attend and join the committee. Our plan is to divide our target area and have each committee member be the Ambassador to that area. This means that (s)he will be responsible to get the word out to businesses in the area and to generate membership and interest in GBACC. As of tonight we have 35 members and are pleased with this response.

6) Technology Committee Report: The technology committee is working on a design for the web site so that we can give the web master the information she needs to put the web site together. The site has been moved to its own place and is no longer an offshoot of the Check Brunswick First site.

7) Jennifer King gave the Special Events Committee Report. She reported on the Independence Day Celebration. The minutes from this committee can be viewed on the web page under the newsletter.

8) The President called for old business, no one gave any so he called for any discussion on the bylaws. Copies were available at the door. No one commented and Jerry Knight motions they be accepted as written and Chris Spielman seconded. The President called for a vote on the bylaws and they were approved by general consent.

9) The President called for any new business from the floor. No one had any business to report.

10) Announcements were made about the next Main Street “First Friday” and the Library FOLBB event on Saturday, May 6th. There being no further business, Charlotte Klaar made a motion the meeting be adjourned and Jennifer King seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned