Present: Marla Beaty, Debbie Bruns, Lynn DeGrio, Sherry Frick, Luanne Gislason, Bonnie Henriksen, Steve Kovala, Marty Licke, Shannon Mann, David Marty, Ron Oleheiser, Derek Rolle

Absent: Barbara Mason, Sue Mattson (excused), Deb Page, Karen Lindgren

Guests: Stephanie Davis, Troy Roth, Michelle Newton

Chamber Staff: Bud Stone, Jennifer Gooch, Megan Keller

Bud Stone called the meeting to order.

Margie Ritter of Rapids Power, LLC gave a presentation concerning the proposed cogeneration facility to be sited in Grand Rapids, and participated in a question and answer session with Program Committee members.

Committee members reviewed the proposals submitted by area golf courses, and discussion ensued.

Ken Ericson will no longer be able to assist with the planning and preparation of the Golf Outing & Fun Day. Steve Kovala volunteered to assist Derek Rolle and Bud Stone with the planning and preparation relating to the Golfing activities.

A "prize committee" will be formed at the next meeting; the "prize committee" will gather donations for the prize drawings held at the close of the event.

Committee members discussed the April program and agreed that it was an excellent topic and presentation.

Concerns were expressed regarding nonprofit organizations and their participation in luncheon programs. Committee members agreed that the mission statement and goals need to be reviewed, and a decisive position must be taken as to the Program Committee’s policy regarding nonprofit organization participation in program presentations at luncheons, as well announcements and distribution of materials during the luncheons. This issue will be on the agenda to be discussed at next month’s meeting.

Bud Stone briefly shared the details of the Eggs & Issues presentation to be given on April 19.

This item will be added to the agenda to be discussed at next month’s meeting.

Committee members discussed the May luncheon program and the storyteller that will be performing; the Guthrie Theatre will be sponsoring Kevin Kling’s performance at the luncheon.

Committee members also discussed the January luncheon program and the hope that Dr. Son of Wells Fargo can be scheduled to give the economic forecast.

Debbie Bruns commented that she would like to see the "Tupelo Travelers" give a follow up presentation in the future.

Two students briefly addressed Program Committee members regarding the youth leadership program and what the program participants are trying to accomplish. The program centers on creating opportunities for youth and adults to establish respectful, meaningful community relationships. The students, Troy Roth and Michelle Newton, commented that adults are greatly encouraged to participate, and provided contact information for anyone who may be interested.

Bonnie Henriksen shared with committee members a new program that Itasca Community College is working on in conjunction with other community groups. The program’s topic is drugs and alcohol and the problems associated with increasing occurrences of use by youth. The program is designed for families of adolescents and persons working with youth and, in part, addresses the need for safe and drug-free schools.

Meeting adjourned.

The next meeting will be held at the Depot Conference Room on Tuesday, May 14, 2002 at 8:30am.