December 5, 2006

GOBA Logo


December 1, 2006

November 2006 Minutes

Opening
President Joyce Little called the meeting to order.
Jessie Watson, Associate Pastor of the First Baptist Church gave the invocation.
Secretary Pat Allen read the minutes. On a motion by Jim Cameron and second by Jerry Sharp the minutes were approved as read.
Treasurer Reggie Hinson gave the Treasurer’s report; GOBA has (withheld) with all current bills paid.

Announcements
Richard Jones of the Bank of Stanly introduced the new Bank Manager, Ryan Story. Richard is relocating to the Locust Branch.

Guests
Mackey with Ace Hardware; Ashley Smith of the Stanly Chamber of Commerce; Chris Lambert of the Stanly County Convention and Visitors Bureau; Lindsey Dunevant, our newest County Commissioner; Marla Coulthard with the Yadkin Pee-Dee Lakes Project, and Lynn Huneycutt’s aunt, Sue McMasters, who has relocated from Boca Raton, Florida.

Dr. Michael Berglass is the new dentist. Welcome to Oakboro!

Marketing Update
Greta Lint presented the GOBA Strategic Marketing Plan. Copies are available from the Treasurer and the Secretary, at the Oakboro Regional Museum and the Oakboro Library.

Old Business
Joyce selected a Nominating Committee that would nominate next year’s officers: Ellen Little, Jim Cameron, and Felix Hinson.

The parade will be November 30th at 7:00 p.m. following the Tree Lighting Ceremony lead by Dr. Terrell Watts. Music and other events will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Larry Branch updated us on railroad museum activities, side walk construction and the walking trail from the park to the museum. All projects are making progress.

Bob Barbee mentioned the $50.00 memorial pavers that would help in the railroad museum construction. Please contact the museum for more information.

Joyce read Bob Harvey’s letter of resignation as Town Administrator.

Chris Lambert reminded the audience of the Albemarle Christmas Parade and the Uhwarrie Players performances.

A motion to adjourn was made by Becky Rowell; it was seconded by Margaret Stewart.

End

Follow Up
The following week Secretary Pat Allen setup a GOBA blog and placed all approved GOBA Minutes on that site. The address is
http://greateroakborobusinessassociation.blogspot.com/

November 19, 2006

GOBA Member Web Site Addresses


Hello GOBA Members:

If you want to post your website address on this site, please send the information to me and I'll post it.

Linking is another way for us to gain momentium in letting folks know who we are and what we do.

Looking forward to hearing from you, Pat

November 1, 2006

October 2006 Minutes

Opening
President Joyce Little called the meeting to order.

Joyce Little gave the invocation.

Secretary Pat Allen read the minutes. On a motion by Felix Hinson and second by Georgia Harvey the minutes were approved but with an edit about Michael Lackey’s film editing.

Treasurer Reggie Hinson gave the Treasurer’s report; the association has (withheld) with all current bills paid.

Guest Speaker
Karen Thomas introduced a few programs from Oakboro Wireless to the membership. Thank you, Karen.

Marketing Update
Greta Lint reported the following:
· The GOBA Strategic Marketing Plan has been finished.
· It includes an annual advertising budget of $10,000.
· She would like to introduce it to us via a PowerPoint Presentation because the membership must approve both the plan and the advertising budget.
· She would like to make three 30-minute presentations: 1) one during the day at noon, 2) one during an evening meeting at 7:00 p.m., and 3) for the City Council.
· Annabelle Morgan will write News Releases announcing these meeting times and locations.
o November 2nd is the date for the membership presentations; 7.00 p.m. at the Fountain Grille.
o November 7th is the date for the City Council presentations; 7:00 p.m. at City Hall.

Old Business
A suggestion was made to cancel the Old Fashioned Christmas because no one came forward to manage the event. On a motion by Annabelle and a second by Jerry Crayton, the vote to cancel the event was carried.

Annabelle Morgan and Tom House spoke about the Oakboro Magazine
· This edition has exceeded last year’s advertising; it is thicker by about 12 to 15 pages (approximately 44 pages).
· It has a new flavor and ideas.
· The Quality of Life theme is a vibrant part of this edition, along with many new business ads.
· About 20,000 copies will be printed.
· The magazine release has been delayed until the end of the year.

Jerry Crayton said that a new band, The Collections, would be at the next Cruise-In.

Jim Cameron updated the group on the Christmas Parade
· The parade will be sponsored by Oakboro Fire and Rescue.
· The Oakboro Christmas Parade will be on November 30th at 7:00 p.m.
· Pre-parade activities at the Oakboro Museum, kid’s rides, hay rides, and tree lighting ceremony will be between 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
· A suggestion was made that GOBA sponsor the tree lighting service. Joyce will ask Oakboro’s Mayor to participate in the tree lighting. On a motion by Bob Barbee and a second by Jerry Sharp, this motion was carried.

Chris Lambert of the Convention and Visitors Bureau reminded everyone of local October events, (e.g., the Oyster Roast, CVB website update (http://www.stanlycvb.com/).

Larry Branch said that the sidewalk construction should continue through October but be completed in November. Should.


New Business
Georgia Harvey said that Phase Three of the District Park will be discussed at the next Town meeting. She encouraged everyone to come and offer their suggestions for this Phase.

Bob Barbee thanked everyone for coming to the Rail Road Museum’s ground breaking. It’s happening!
Rail Road Museum promotion that will be held at the Oakboro Museum on Sunday November 5th between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. He encouraged everyone to become museum members. The RR Museum needs historical memorabilia for display.
· Bill Bartosh will donate a caboose – but it needs renovation. To raise money for the remodeling, the RR Museum will need items to sale.
· The Scots are looking for a community project. Maybe this would work for them.
· Pedestrian walkways between the District Park and the RR Museum are being considered.

Bob then introduced a new business that is considering Oakboro as their home site. Bill Bartosh, of Aberdeen Carolina and Western (AC&W) RR, met two gentlemen who were looking for a site for their Rail Road Dinner Excursions. He suggested Oakboro because of its new Rail Road Museum.

Mark Vaughn, President, and Greg Webber, Vice President, visited the construction site where they met Terry Whitley. After touring the site, they talked with Bob Barbee who suggested a tour of Oakboro the next day.

Description of the excursion tour:
· The train excursion tour will have two dinning cars that seat 112 people each. Tours will be on Friday and Saturday nights, and Sunday afternoon for about three and one-half hours. Special tours will be on Holidays and by reservation. Guests enjoy a Four Star Dinner.
· Doing the math: If each tour has 224 people four times a month, times 50 weeks a year; then approximately 44,800 people will be visiting Oakboro annually. These people will need accommodations and they will shop.
· Approximately 10 full-time jobs and 30 part-time jobs will be needed.
· There is a high probability that this business will relocate to Oakboro. The decision is expected to be made by the end of October.
· If this decision is made, then Mark Vaughn, Greg Webber, and their families will be relocating to Oakboro by December of this year.
· Bill Bartosh is supporting this business endeavor 100 percent.
· Watch for announcements as progress is made.

Lindsey Dunevant talked about how he might be able to assist with grant applications through his new position as Regional Consultant to the Recreation Resources Services, a Division of Parks and Recreation under the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources. His office is expected to be at the Agri-Civic Center in early December.

Linda Sharp said that she appreciated the evening meeting and would like to be able to access GOBA’s Minutes via a website. Georgia Harvey suggested that we put the Minutes on the Town’s website. Pat will contact Bob Harvey and see about getting the minutes on the site.

Annabelle moved for adjournment and Georgia seconded. The motion carried.

End

ADDENDIUM
During a RR Museum committee meeting the following week, a decision was made to change the Strategic Plan Presentation dates.
· The Town Hall presentation will be made on November 6th at 7:00 p.m. at Town Hall.
· The GOBA presentations will be made on November 9th at noon and at 7:00 p.m. at the Fountain Grill.
· The Monthly GOBA Meeting will be held on November 9th instead of November 2nd.
· News Releases have been sent to the local media announcing this change.

October 1, 2006

September 2006 Minutes

President Joyce Little called the meeting to order.

Felix Hinson gave the invocation.

In the absence of Secretary Pat Allen, Annabelle Morgan read the minutes of the August meeting. On a motion by Felix Hinson and second by Jewell Parker, the minutes were approved as read.

In the absence of Reggie Hinson, Joyce Little gave the Treasurer’s report. The association has (withheld) with all current bills paid.

Annabelle Morgan reported that the magazine committee is finishing the work on the 2007 edition of the book.

Bob Barbee reported on the last Cruise-in, perhaps the biggest crowd yet attended. Many were newcomers to the event. We were disappointed that only one Rolls Royce arrived, a White Cloud. The committee put an ad in the Charlotte Auto Fair magazine inviting attendees to Oakboro. We will have two special cruise-ins on September 15 and 16 at 5:00 for those who wish to come.

Joyce reported that the Town of Oakboro would like some help in cleaning up. We must encourage people to use the trash receptacles on the sidewalk.

Bob Barbee introduced Sandy Hinson, manager of Harmanco’s at the Fountain Grill. He indicated that the management had agreed to work with the Town to be open for special events.

Joyce recognized Michael Huneycutt, a guest who is currently running for Clerk of Superior Court in Stanly County. He described the duties of the office and asked for support for his candidacy.

Joyce recognized guest Lindsey Dunevant, currently running for Stanly County Commissioner. He described his background and his goal of helping make Stanly County grow.

Greta Lint reported the following:
1. We continue to build a photographic image library. Daniel Coston, professional photographer, worked the last cruise-in and will be here again today.
2. Michael Hoover, Elvis Tribute Artist, will be here on Sept. 16, coinciding with the cruise-in set up for Auto Fair attendees.
3. The ATV races at Big Lick Festival Park draw a huge crowd and will be on Sept.16th as well.
4. Sponsors are being recruited for the next season’s cruise-ins. Corporate sponsorships are available. A key issue to address with them will be the percentage of increase in business/sales derived from the event.
5. Bob and Greta have been working on a business plan for the Music Hall.
6. News releases have been sent for various events around town, including the ATV races, Music Hall events, cruise-in and burnout. Work is currently being done on the Ground Breaking for the Railroad Museum on Sept. 16th.
7. Michael Lackey will be in Oakboro during the September cruise-in to show his movie. It has been shortened to about 60 minutes and will be edited to improve the film’s impact for television viewing. He is working closely with the movie editor from the Charlotte Observer after having been rejected by a couple of film festivals. Because he intends to resubmit the film, he will not be selling any DVD’s or other products at this time.
8. The North Carolina Welcome Centers will again offer space for us to showcase Oakboro on October 13th, just prior to the race at Lowe’s Motor Speedway.
9. Again, Greta thanked the group for giving us the opportunity to hire photographer Daniel Coston. His images are sharp and on target.
10. Bill Russ from the North Carolina Office of Tourism also attended the latest cruise-in and made pictures that will be used in his office to promote Oakboro.
11. Contact has been made with Susan Dosier, former editor at Southern Living Magazine. She is currently living in Charlotte and works for an advertising agency there. She is a lead writer for North Carolina publications.

Bob Barbee reported on the Ground Breaking for the Oakboro Railroad Museum set for September 16th at 10:00AM. This facility will help attract tourist from distances to our town.

The Aberdeen Carolina and Western Railroad has, in the past, run excursion trains; and they have asked us to place a concrete pad on the side next to the railroad for the possible future use of such a train. Annabelle has invitations for each of you to the event and we encourage you to come join us and we get this replica of the old depot completed. Greta will be helping us with publicity for the event as well.

Joyce brought up the idea of Old Fashioned Christmas event normally planned for the Saturday after the Christmas parade. So far, no one has come forward to plan the event. A final decision must be made by next meeting.

The next meeting of the association will be October 5th at night. This is one of our two night meetings held so people who cannot leave their businesses during the day can attend.

Bob Barbee moved adjournment and Felix Hinson seconded. The motion passed.

End

September 1, 2006

August 2006 Minutes

Opening
President Joyce Little welcomed the group and called the meeting to order.
The invocation was given by Jim Cameron.

Minutes were read by Secretary Pat Allen. On a motion by Jim Cameron and a second by Felix Hinson, the minutes were approved as read.

In the absence of Treasurer Reggie Hinson, Joyce reported that, after all the bills were paid, GOBA has (withheld) in the bank.

Guests
Chris Lambert of the CVB reminded everyone of the Fall Feast and Ghost Walk coming up.
Sophia Costner handed out announcements about the Chamber’s Reverse Raffle and Silent Auction.

Oakboro Promotions
Gretta Lint updated the group on her promotional activities:
She has identified two new automobile markets for Oakboro: Rolls Royce & Bentley auto clubs and the Rebel Region of Rolls Royce Owners; these groups will, in turn, contact other British import enthusiasts and tell them about Oakboro.

The marketing plan is finished. Meetings for everyone to see and sign-up to participate in the plan will be announced soon. The plan is based on volunteer efforts. It includes branding, promotion, and real estate topics.

Gretta also talked about advertising in Our State Magazine as a ‘remnant’.

She described a BLOG and how to use it as free promotional opportunities.

Old Business
Tom House has started working on the second volume of the Oakboro Magazine. He has begun selling ads for about the same price but the difference is that this volume will be a 15 month magazine instead of the 12 month volume of last year. He hops to have a proof ready by October.

New Business
Bob Barbee suggested that we get the Old Fashioned Christmas on GOBA’s radar for September because it will take time to plan this event.

Jim Cameron said the July 4th Celebration was successful to the tune of about $20,000 but exact figures are not yet available. The profits will go toward the purchase price of $350,000 of a new fire truck.

Bob Harvey said the rail road museum how has stakes in the ground. Progress!
The District Park is in the final contract phase. A workshop at Town Hall will be held for finishing those details. Please call Town Hall for time and date.

On his Sidewalk Update, he said that he believes the Town and the DOT have finally gotten together on their engineer challenges. Maybe it will be finished soon. Maybe.

Bob Barbee asked who waters the potted plants around Town. Bob Harvey said he would look into this today and get the plants watered.

Pat Allen passed around a Membership Roster for everyone to verify/update their information.

Welcome new members Bruce and Becky Rowell!

The meeting was adjourned on a motion by Bob Barbee and second by Gerald Lee.
End

August 1, 2006

July 2006 Minutes

President Joyce Little welcomed the group and called the meeting to order.

The invocation was given by Dr. Terrell Watts.

Minutes were read by Secretary Pat Allen. On a motion by Bob Barbee and a second by Gerald Lee, minutes were approved but with noted corrections.

In the absence of Treasurer Reggie Hinson, Joyce reported that, after all the bills were paid, GOBA has (withheld) in the bank.

Guests
Erin Hayes introduced herself and described the products available through C&P Signs.
Jim Hatley of Leading Edge Web Design mentioned a few of his clients and talked about many features his company offers. He joined GOBA. Welcome aboard, Jim!

Chris Lambert of the CVB said they were ‘up and running’.

Matt Irvin now wears two hats: the old one with the SNAP and the newest one as Vice Chair of the Norwood Business Association (NBA). It meets the first Tuesday of each month in the Skidmore Building at the Darrell Almond Park in Norwood. Sub sandwiches are $3.00. Please consider visiting NBA.

Old Business
Ron Taylor talked about his Grand Opening last month. He thanked GOBA for helping, said they had a good turn out, got good media coverage, handed out the door prizes and made a few sales. He’s looking forward to a prosperous year.

Jerry Crayton thanked Oakboro’s businesses for sponsoring and working with the Cruise-In. He mentioned a few auto clubs in the surrounding areas who are interested in coming to Oakboro’s Cruise-In.

Annabelle Morgan told us that Tom House is ready to start on the next issue of the magazine.

New Business
After a brief discussion about canceling the August meeting because of vacations and typical summer absenteeism, the group decided to hold the August meeting and maintain our continued meeting schedule.

Releasing the edited/approved version of the Minutes was approved after a short discussion. Many people have requested a copy of the minutes via email. The minutes will be released along with the GOBA Meeting Reminder

The meeting was adjourned on a motion by Shawn Hatley and second by Jewels Parker.

End

July 1, 2006

June 2006 Minutes

President Joyce Little welcomed the group and called the meeting to order.
The invocation was given by Dr. Terrell Watts.
Minutes were read by Secretary Pat Allen. On a motion by Jim Cameron and a second by Margaret Stewart, minutes were approved as read.
Treasurer Reggie Hinson reported that after all the bills were paid, GOBA has (withheld) in the bank.
Guests Bruce and Becky Rowell recently opened their business, Rowell’s Screenprinting, next to the Union Power Co-Op building. They make custom screenprinting and promotional products. Welcome to Oakboro!
Tourism development was updated by Bob Barbee and Annabelle Morgan. Annabelle made a poster of several recent news articles about Oakboro. She gave a summary of Greta Lint’s promotional efforts. (A copy of Greta’s email follows these minutes).
Bob told us about the events at the I 77 and I 85S Information Center during National Tourism Week. Jerry Crayton gave a special thanks to the volunteers who brought their cars and spent untold hours working during this event. The overall consensus was that the event had been successful and several ‘good contacts’ were made.
Annabelle updated us on the next issue of the Oakboro magazine. It will focus on our Fire Department and options are being considered on printing more magazines as well as having more pages.
Jerry Crayton updated us on the next Cruise-In events; more than 100 cars are expected.
Jim Cameron updated us on the Fourth of July Parade. The parade book is due June 27th. Next year’s plans on having a talent contest are under way.
Terrell Watts reported that combined choirs of more than 30 voices will sing during a Community Service on July 2nd. He added that attracting visual artists to the talent contest are being discussed.
Larry Branch announced that Oakboro has received a $350,000 grant for the park.
Bob Barbee updated us on the railroad museum; a bid within budged has been received. So, as soon as the Town officially accepts it, construction can begin.
Ron Taylor announced that The Art House Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony would be June 24th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned on a motion by Bob Barbee and second by Jim Cameron.

End of Meeting
Email from Greta Lint Follows

From: "Greta Lint" Date: Wed, 31 May 2006 22:34:26 -0400To: "Bob Barbee" , "Annabelle Morgan" amorgan1@vnet.net
Subject: Report for noon meetingI look forward to coming to Oakboro and regret that family health needs are keeping me away from Thursday's meeting. Please pass along my regards to everyone. You may want to pick and choose elements of this report to keep it short.The month of May was spent primarily working on the movie premiere - media kit, media preview, National Tourism Week. I've sent some of the releases. You should already have all the others.
Distribution Date and Name of Release (I will give your later a detailed list of where all releases and invitations went.)
April 11 - Mayberry Impersonators Appear at Restaurant
April 25 - April Cruise-in and Burnout
May 9 - Media Preview invitation
May 11 - Oakboro participating at National Tourism Week events
May 14 and 15 - Media kit with fact sheet, trivia sheet, story tip sheet, story about Michael Lackey, story about film and story about Oakboro
May 18 - Big Lick Bluegrass Festival calendar release
May 18 - Big Lick Bluegrass Festival regular release
May 22 - May Cruise-in and Burnout
Greta apologizes that she has not been able to forward all the releases to the members of GOBA. Half of the members utilize email. The other half may or may not have a readily accessible fax.
Would it be possible to post the releases on the town's Web site?
Overview of Activities
Three area newspapers attended the media preview on Monday, May 15. The Salisbury Post reporter returned on Friday, October 26 with a photographer. The piece is scheduled to run before the June Cruise-in and Burnout. One of the invitations was sent to Business North Carolina, prompting an inquiry from the travel editor there. That publication, operated by NCCBI (NC Citizens for Business and Industry) typically only writes about member organizations.
The Stanly County Chamber of Commerce is one - and the Town of Oakboro is a member. As a result, the editor is interested in doing a story on Oakboro.
The Charlotte Observer included the April and May Cruise-in and Burnout in its calendar of events in the paper and on-line. The Charlotte Observer published a story on Michael Lackey, the film and Oakboro just prior to the May Cruise-in and movie premiere. And, a reporter from the paper attended the Thursday night premiere and concert in hopes of writing yet another story about the movie and Oakboro.
Greta has worked very closely with Mark Price who has hounded his editors about publishing more news about Oakboro. Greta sent information to the sports editor for material to be included in the Charlotte Observer's Race Week insert.
Working with Michael Lackey and his mother, Angel Teer, Greta produced a media kit with stories about the film and Oakboro. The invitation was distributed via email and fax to nearly 100 media, including traditional media, NASCAR publications, network news magazine shows and wire services. Portions of the media kit were distributed to radio and TV stations, wire services, magazines and newspapers throughout the state and region. The story about Oakboro, itself, will be sent to other publications too.
In addition to the media, the invitation was sent to the NC Film Office in Charlotte and Raleigh - and selected members of the tourism industry, including the membership of Mid-Carolina Host, a 15-county membership organization of which the Stanly CVB is a member.
National Tourism Week was observed May 15-19. Oakboro was the hit of the party at the I-77 and I-85 South North Carolina Welcome Centers.
Musician Mark Yow, model Lindsey Eudy, trade show expert Ted Hinson and car owners spent the day at each facility promoting Oakboro. That resulted in yet more coverage in the Charlotte Observer. Greta sent a release about Oakboro's involvement to 20 media outlets.
So that's 3 stories, at least, in the Charlotte Observer during May.A calendar release and a full press release were distributed on May 18 for the Big Lick Bluegrass Festival. Greta is working with Jeff Branch to arrange for additional publicity through ticket giveaways on radio stations.
Greta is playing phone tag with the news/promotions director of WKKT Radio in Charlotte (Kat Kountry) to set up an interview for the station's public affairs program.
Switching gears, Greta has just completed a direct telemarketing program to identify nearly 300 motorocoach operators coming into North Carolina. She will be coordinating a direct mailing campaign to them that will include information about current and future Oakboro offerings, including the train, museum and depot.
The DVD, magazine and professional motorcoach profile sheet will be included in the mailing. Once the mailing goes out, it will need to be followed up by phone calls and new mailings (via fax, email or snail mail) to the operators on a regular basis.
She is developing a new list of qualified group leaders from North and South Carolina. Group leaders put together trips for bank clubs, senior centers, college alumni, parks and recreation, and the list goes on. She isn't sure when that list will be available.
Now that the film premiere is over, she is redirecting her energies to work on the marketing plan.
It will be available by mid-July.
Thank you.Respectfully submitted - Greta Lint

June 1, 2006

May 2006 Minutes

President Joyce Little welcomed the group and called the meeting to order following the observance of National Day of Prayer at the Mini Park.

Joyce introduced Wes Watts, Minister of Music at the Bethel Baptist Church, who sang the Lords Prayer as the invocation.

Treasurer Reggie Hinson reported that after paying the insurance premium of $1,680.00, the checking account now has a balance of (withheld).

Secretary Pat Allen read last month’s minutes. On a motion by Bob Barbee and a second by Larry Branch, minutes were approved with noted corrections.

Joyce introduced guests Chris Smith of Hair West and Ashley Smith of Albemarle Chamber of Commerce.

Reports
Greta Lint reported that since she has seen her first Burn-Out event, she is a better position to market it.

In further news, she has met with producers at UNC-TV in Research Triangle Park, with Michelle Harvey, with producers at NC Now, NC Weekend, with editors at Our State Magazine, and with Mark Price of The Charlotte Observer.

She pointed out that the week of May 15 is National Tourism Week. It is primarily a tour of Welcome Centers across the state for elected officials to learn how tourism impacts the state.
Literature and presentations about Oakboro would be available at specially targeted Welcome Centers.

Gretta has spoken with numerous tour operators who expressed an interest in organizing train tours.

She said that for the September Burn-Out, CD’s and T-Shirts would be available for sale.

Bob Harvey reported that the Town of Oakboro website has been updated to include video.
Please visit the site http://www.oakboro.com/

Ron Taylor reported that the Grand Opening of The Art House would be within 2 or 3 weeks — maybe. He would let us know.

Larry Branch puffed up and joyfully announced that he would be chauffeuring Kellie Pickler during the Kellie Parade.

Terry Whitley announced that the new company in town, ConverPro, has about 50 positions available.

The meeting was adjourned on a motion by Bob Harvey and second by Barbara Fox.

May 1, 2006

April 2006 Minutes

President Joyce Little welcomed the group and called the meeting to order. She introduced entertainment from the 4 and 5 year old girls from Brenda Teeter¹s TNT. They did several cheers as well as a tumbling demonstration.

The invocation was given by Dr. Terrell Watts.

In Pat Allen’s absence, minutes were read by Annabelle Morgan. On a motion by Bob Harvey and a second by Bob Barbee, minutes were approved as read.

Reggie Hinson gave the Treasurer¹s report; GOBA has (withheld) in the checking account.
Joyce introduced guest Lindsey Dunevant of Albemarle Parks and Recreation. He gave a power point presentation on Land for Tomorrow. This effort is focused on increasing state funds for the protection of water quality, land conservation, historic preservation, and environmentally sustainable job creation. Members were urged to contact Representative Almond and Senator Purcell to voice approval for the program.

After a brief question and answer period, Lindsey invited members of the group to attend the next meeting of citizens for Tomorrow at the Music Hall on Tuesday, April 18th.

Dr. Watts reported on progress for the National Day of Prayer program May 4th at noon in the community park. The focus will be on prayer and there will be special music. He also announced the Easter Musical to be held on Good Friday at 7:00 p.m. at the Oakboro Baptist Church.

Greta Lint reported on the efforts to promote tourism in the Oakboro area. She asked for feedback on press releases she had sent and requested fax numbers and email addresses from those who wish to be more connected to what’s going on. Some facets of Oakboro have been shown on the Billy Graham program on WSOCTV in Charlotte.

Greta has been working with Michael Lackey on information on his film Burnout. She announced the schedule for the premier in Oakboro late May.

Local residents will see the film on May 24 at 7:00 p.m. ($5 charge). (Deleted due to a time conflict: A special showing with live music from the band who recorded the sound track, Chatham County Line will be Thursday at 7:00 p.m. ($15 charge). On cruise-in night, shows will be at 3, 5, 7, 9, and after the burnout ($5 charge).

Lint also reported that Fox Channel 18 in Charlotte would be contacting American Idol to offer footage of Kellie Pickler singing at the cruise-in. More information should be available at the end of the week.

Bob Barbee reported on the insurance for the cruise-in. He has received confirmation that the application has been received and we would shortly get an invoice to cover the cruise-in and burnout from April through October.

Jerry Crayton reported on the new brochure for the cruise-in and said he had applications and forms for vendors. He also requested GOBA purchase 15-20 30-gallon trash containers to make cleanup easier. After some discussion, Bob Harvey moved GOBA purchase 20 containers not to exceed $250.
Barbara Fox seconded the motion which was approved.

New Business
Joyce asked that members let her know which committee they wish to serve on. We will soon need help in working on beautification.

Joyce asked for recommendations for time for the next meeting. The restaurant operators preferred the 1:00 time. After discussion, the notion was brought to an approved vote to continue meeting at 12:00 noon.

Annabelle Morgan raised the question of publishing a second Oakboro Magazine and asked for suggestions and assistance with the content. She also reported that the editor of Carolina Country would be making corrections to the article about Oakboro in the recent edition. A motion was made and carried to produce a second Oakboro Magazine.

Larry Branch reported that the Town was in negotiations to finalize the Rail Road Museum Project. The Town is also waiting for authorization to construct the sidewalk leading to the school.

Joyce reminded members to sign in.

Jane Barnhardt announced a new exhibit on Music in the Oakboro region. The exhibit will open April 30th with a special program in the Music Hall featuring musicians such as the Hatleys, Junior Harris and Jeff Branch, the Singing Towers, and others.

Joyce read a note from the Preslar family thanking the organization for the plant sent when Butch’s mother died.

She welcomed new members Peggy Morgan and Barbara Fox and guest Mike McLean.
Ron Taylor reported The Art House would have the doors open by the cruise-in.

The meeting was adjourned on a motion by Bob Harvey and second by Barbara Fox.

April 1, 2006

March 2006 Minutes

Welcome and Invocation by President Joyce Little

February Minutes were read by Secretary Pat Allen. A motion by Gerald Lee was made to accept them as read and a second was made by Betsy Heath.

Treasurer’s report by Joyce Little: We have (withheld) in the GOBA bank account.

Guests
Kim Turner and Barbara Fox of Triple Trade Concessions (craters and funnel cake makers)

New Business
Bob Barbee reported on the following activities
· Greta Link’s Oakboro Marketing Project: Ms. Link is progressing nicely on promoting a variety of events for Oakboro. She and a freelance magazine writer have written an article about Oakboro and submitted it to magazines throughout the nation that specialize in southern tourism events (e.g., Our State, Southern Living).
· She will be promoting Michael Lackey’s film premier on April 27th. There will be four screenings held at 3:00 p.m. for three consecutive evenings.
· Bob met with Heath Hahn and discussed the possibility of bringing another event to Oakboro. Mr. Hahn is an active member of a heritage automobile (cars made before 1930) organization that is looking for a location to showcase their antique automobiles. It looks like the first showing of these classics could be in the fall. These showings would be not compete with our Cruise Ins but would be an additional event.
· Mr. Hahn son, Lionel, is an avid bicyclist who’s group is also looking for race locations. Oakboro is under consideration for their annual race. This event would bring families who would need over night accommodations and additional entertainment.
· Bill Bartosh of the Aberdeen Carolina Western Rail Road has restored rail road cars (e.g., diners and sleepers) who is developing a train excursion trip and is considering Oakboro’s rail road museum as a possible destination.
· Bob asked the GOBA members to consider making one phone call a week to a selected group of travel organizations to talk about Oakboro. Greta would develop the list.

Old Business
Cruise-In Committee report by Jerry Crayton and/or Ann Hopkins
· Michael Lackey is exciting about the premier of his film. He has invited between 200 and 300 people but we are expecting many more.
· The Oakboro Info-mmercil by Image TV is expected to be on TV in the near future (week after next).
· Lynn Huneycutt is working on raising funds to pay for the bands and DJ during the Cruise-Ins, approximately $500 is needed for each event between April and October (seven events)
· A boom box was suggested to enhance the Cruise-In events.
· Bob Barbee reported that an Estimated Cost vs. Expenses analysis is being developed and should be available soon. The Cruise-In Committee wants to assure the group that expenses will be covered by the events.
· Bob Harvey suggested that the Committee make a presentation to the Town Board and ask for a donation out of the Recreation Budget.
· Ann suggested that GOBA members make product donations as Door Prizes as a way of supporting the Cruise-Ins.
· Bob Barbee reported that the premium for an insurance policy for (withheld) would cost (withheld) for all seven Cruise-In events. Bob made a motion that this committee agree to pay the annual premium before the first Cruise-In event; Linda Sharpe second this motion and it was carried.
· Ann Hopkins reported that the vendor forms are still under development.

Membership Dues
· Dues are due. Please send your check of $25.00 to Treasurer Reggie Hinson.
· Lynn requested a list of the GOBA members for 2005 and 2006 so she could remind them to pay their dues.

More New Business
National Day of Prayer—May 4, 2006
· Bob Harvey made a motion that we repeat what we did last year by asking Dr. Terrell Watts to conduct this ceremony. The motion was approved by Gerald Lee, second by Ann Hopkins; the motion was approved.
Other
· Lynn made a motion that the GOBA meeting time be changed from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. so our restaurant members could attend. We agreed to the time change for the April meeting as a ‘trial’ to test its success. If a larger group of the membership agrees to the time change then we could vote on it at the April meeting.
· Georgia Harvey reported that the Historical Advisory Board would have an open public meeting on April 3rd to discuss the Historical Preservation of Oakboro.
· Larry Branch reported on the following:
> Bids on the Rail Road Museum are scheduled to be released on March 28th.
> Sidewalk approval by DOT has been accepted.

Meeting adjourned around 8:30 p.m.
Minutes by Pat Allen

March 1, 2006

February 2006 Minutes

Welcome by President Joyce Little.

Secretary Pat Allen read the January Minutes. A motion to approve was made by Bob Barbee; second was made by Ann Hopkins. The Minutes were accepted as read.

Treasurer Reggie Hinson reported that we have a (withheld) balance.

Annabelle Morgan introduced our first guest: Greta Lint, Tourism Development
Ms. Lint said that she first heard about Oakboro was when she was working on a project with the North Carolina Arts Council. She was building a web site named HomeGrownHandMade.com. Annabelle invited her to Oakboro to make a presentation about the HomeGrownHandMade.com project.

Since visiting Oakboro, Ms. Lint has dubbed it the “Can Do Town” because its citizens show an overwhelming support for its growth and development. She went on to point out our updated streets and increased retail tax base.

She sees Oakboro as an attractor, which is … “something that brings people to a site on a regular basis throughout the year.” Whereas, an attraction is typically a specific event. Adding the marketing mix of Oakboro’s varied events, as a community, Oakboro is becoming more widely known. For example, SNAP online has a story about the Oakboro’s Regional Museum’s display of hats.

When considering a tourism marketing mix, communities need to know (1) who the current customers are, and (2) who the new customers will be.

She said that one of the best ways to get this information would be by sending out Editorial News Releases statewide first then followed by a nationwide release. She specifically mentioned AAA Offices in Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Research indicates that people in Ohio and Pennsylvania rely on AAA for Trip Ticks. For example, Oakboro volunteers could call AAA offices (about 50 offices) in these two states and then send each office a copy of the Welcome to Oakboro North Carolina magazine.

In the near future Ms. Lint will be returning to Oakboro especially to attend a Cruise In Burn Out, and she will be bring travel writers and photojournalists with her.

Bob Barbee said that Ms. Lint’s website has a comment, “Build it and they will come … but only if you tell them about it.” He believes in this concept so much that he has personally retained Ms. Lint for the next six months. She will be working with the Business Association and community leaders in developing a Marketing Strategy and Plan for the Town of Oakboro. His belief is that we will be so pleased with her work that we will want to continue her services for another six months.

Tom House of Cole House Publishing told of about the extraordinary results that he is witnessing as a result of the Welcome to Oakboro North Carolina magazine. Its contents, its format, and its impact on the community is impressive.

Jerry Crayton reported on Cruise-In activities: Most recently, he has been working with folks in Thomasville so they could start their own Cruise-In. He had previously worked with folks in Kannapolis for their Cruise-In.

Ann Hopkins reported on the Cruise-In Committee updates: Their committee structure has been settled, chairs have been appointed, and progress in being made on this year’s activities. This year the vendors will need to complete an application, and sign a statement agreeing to specific rules and regulations. These documents will be ready for review by the March GOBA meeting.

Old Business
The Gospel Singing suggestion is still under development. Joyce had called Todd Harris who said that he would be happy to help when ever requested.


New Business
Linda Sharp agrees that Spot Lighting Business would be a good idea.
Larry Branch reported on the following:
>The Railroad Museum is in process and hopefully the final bids for a general contractor will be finished by March.
>The Sidewalks are in process.
>The RPT grant is underway and the Part F was submitted on time. The award date is May 15th.
>Remember to vote for Kellie Pickler!
The meeting adjourned at 1:00 p.m.
Minutes by Pat Allen

February 1, 2006

January 2006 Minutes

Welcome by Joyce Little
Glenda Austin read the Minutes. Motion to approve: Shawn Hatley, second by Bob Harvey.

No Treasurer's report given.

Bob Barbee introduced Ron Taylor who spoke briefly about the opening of The Art House.

Joyce Little welcomed Claude and Lori Morgan to the meeting.

Annabelle Morgan reported on Image TV.

Old Business
Old Fashioned Christmas was a success. Amy has sent a Thank You note to all who had a part in it. She had also sent a list of winners to the raffle tickets.

Jane Barnhardt read a letter from the Museum thanking everyone for the help planning for and during the parade.

Jerry Crayton reported on the December 31, 2005 Cruise In and New Year's party.

Joyce asked that the Cruise In committee have a meeting with some of the others to discuss the insurance issue.

Jim Cameron reported on the group of nominations for officers for the upcoming year.

President: Joyce Little
Vice-President: Buddy Starnes
Secretary: Pat Allen/Glenda Austin (backup)
Treasurer: Reggie Hinson

Motion Jim Cameron; Second Annabelle Morgan
Joyce thanked the committee for all their hard work.

Larry Branch reported on the District Park progress and the upcoming plans.

Gerald Lee read a resolution to the group asking for their support on the grants proposed for the Park. Motion: Jim Cameron; Second: Terrell Watts

Bob Harvey gave an update on the Town of Oakboro.

Bob Barbee gave an update on the Railroad Museum and stated that they are in the process of selecting a General Contractor.

Jerry Crayton suggested a gospel singing in town sometime in the spring and asked for support from GOBA. This will be discussed in February.

Joyce Little reported that a plant has been sent to Norm Thomas at Oakboro Tractor. Her father has passed away.

It was announced that 2006 membership dues are due in the amount of $5.00.

Annabelle Morgan asked that businesses please send her correct address information so they can receive correspondence from GOBA.

Bob Harvey gave a brief update on the Post Office construction. It will be postponed due Katrina.

Bob Harvey asked for help in obtaining pictures of the past mayors.

Bob Barbee updated everyone on the RR Museum and said that a group of people will be doing some brainstorming about ideas for a possible Art Crawl.

Joyce Little asked everyone to please let her know if any new businesses are opening so a ribbon cutting ceremony can be held.

The Town website (http://www.oakboro.com/) has been updated.

Adjournment 1:00 p.m.