Marion Bicentennial Minutes: February 18, 2025
In Attendance: Heidi Levan, Mike Cramer, Theresa Kuhn, Gina Southcott, John Lonneville, Ron Lonneville, Jen Hunter
Absent: John Cornell, Patti Holdraker, Nancy Spinning
Meeting called to order at 6:35 PM.
- Nomination of Chairperson
Gina Southcott nominated Theresa Kuhn. A discussion was held supporting this nomination, and a vote was taken. All members were in favor of Theresa Kuhn being the Bicentennial Committee Chairperson. - Nomination of Secretary
Heidi Levan inquired who had been serving as secretary on the original committee. It was noted that Jen Hunter had served in this role. Heidi nominated Jen Hunter to continue as Secretary, with the motion seconded by Gina Southcott. A vote was held, and all members were in favor. - Budget Review
- Road Banners, Yard Signs, Stickers, etc. – $2,600
i. The committee discussed the current gazebo logo, chosen from a contest around 1976. A concern was raised about this logo.
ii. Heidi mentioned that she worked with the school’s Marketing Class and Tracy Whitney about 18 months ago to develop a new logo.
iii. There was a discussion about whether the bicentennial should serve as an opportunity for a rebrand with a new logo.
iv. John Lonneville expressed concerns regarding the financial implications of changing the logo and the cost of repurchasing stationery, etc.
v. Concerns about the time required to choose and implement a new logo were discussed, with Mike Cramer stating that he believes it wouldn’t be a lengthy process.
vi. Gina Southcott asked whether the town’s constituents would have a say in a new logo. Mike Cramer confirmed that there is no law or policy requiring a vote on the matter.
vii. Heidi will email the committee logo options, and each member will independently vote on their favorite. The committee will then present the preferred logo to the town board for consideration.
viii. Discussion of the logo was tabled until the next meeting. - Books – $500
Jen Hunter clarified that the group cannot sell books for profit. Theresa Kuhn suggested creating a “newspaper” with articles and information to distribute for free.
Heidi Levan will reach out to Patti Holdraker for further guidance on this matter. - Live Music – $3,000
This event has been scrapped. - Flag Banners – $1,000
i. Quotes were received for eight banners to be placed. Photographic Services and Lettering Lounge provided quotes.
ii. John Lonneville highlighted Lettering Lounge’s previous work with the Hometown Heroes flags and suggested that using them for the banners would ensure consistency in installation.
iii. There was a discussion regarding the higher cost of Lettering Lounge. Mike Cramer mentioned that the ease of installation would justify choosing the higher quote. - Student Recognition, Easels, and Speaker Fees
These topics will be discussed later when more planning has been completed. - Photographer – $1,000
i. John Lonneville stated that he could not find a photographer interested in the project.
ii. Several photographer names were suggested. Jen Hunter will contact them and report back. - Mural – $5,500
i. The elementary school has agreed to host the mural on the south side of the building, pending final approval of the design. The old bank (now the coffee shop) is an alternate location, but concerns arose about the privately-owned building and obstacles such as a pole nearby.
ii. The mural will be painted on removable panels.
iii. Mural Mania has been provided with photographs of items the committee wants to represent.
iv. Jen Hunter suggested an agreement with the school ensuring that if the mural is removed from the building, the town would retain ownership. All members agreed that this should be included in the contract.
v. Heidi Levan, Theresa Kuhn, Jen Hunter, and John Lonneville will meet with Mural Mania at their studio to discuss the rendering. Theresa will follow up with potential dates. - Family Fun – $500
i. Family movie night with snacks and entertainment at the museum. Heidi Levan, with her experience obtaining movie licenses, will assist to ensure all necessary steps are followed.
ii. Adult Night – wine tasting. Gina Southcott raised concerns about needing a liquor license. The committee discussed that the hosting winery would provide the license.
- Road Banners, Yard Signs, Stickers, etc. – $2,600
- Next Meeting: Tuesday, February 25th at 6:30 PM at the Museum
- The new logo will be voted on.
- Heidi Levan will post the meeting notice in the necessary publications.
- Oath of Office
Heidi administered the oath to all committee members.
Meeting adjourned at 7:21 PM.
Motion by Jen Hunter, Seconded by Heidi Levan.
All in favor
Respectfully submitted: Jen Hunter- Secretary Marion Bicentennial Committee