Connections Weekend Meeting Notes                                                    4/20/2016

In attendance: Jen Allerding, Kyle Baughn, Violeta Chinni, Jim Grubbs, Joe Kleinknecht, Steve Melchior, Sandy Powell, Dave Spraw, Marilyn Stepro & Brian Treisch.

Jim Grubbs opened the meeting asking for last year's committee responsibilities and the need for co-chairs;  also discussed past purpose for event;  2016 Connections Weekend will be OCTOBER 13 - 15, 2016

 Sub-committee Responsibilities

 Marketing: Violeta Chinni will help with Marketing tasks; to include, nominations, fundraising pieces, various programs & media contacts.  A1 Printing has most recent Hall of Fame program.  Matt Eckleberry was also suggested as a committee representative to help w/marketing; Chris Stone will also be asked to support the event via the district website.  Steve Melchior also offered to post on the Alumni Association website anything that would help promote the Connections Weekend as he has done in the past.

 Fundraising: Brian and Joe shared that the Alumni Association could help support that effort.  Dave distributed the 2015 fund report highlighting event donations and dinner patrons.

 Hall of Fame Nominations: Concern was raised about the possibility of hosting Connections Weekend every other year.  Do we have enough "Hall of Fame" worthy alumni to continue this program?  Committee members agreed that 5 or 6 awards would be an appropriate number each year.  Could include awards from alumni as early as the 1920's.  Brian suggested working with Historical Association for this effort.  More emphasis needs to be made from committee members to promote the nomination efforts.

 Bonfire: Thursday, October 13th - Kyle Baughn will coordinate this effort.  Alumni Cheerleaders will be invited to support GHS cheerleaders.  Alumni Band will have rehearsal on the field that evening.  Kyle will also work with HS Clubs and athletic teams for event.  Galion FIre Dept. will also be contacted.

Career Day:  Friday, October 14th- This committee needs an organizer to recruit alumni speakers for the MS presentations and the Career Fair tables.  Jen Allerding will continue coordinating the Career Day schedule and student/staff support;

 Homecoming Football Game:  Friday, October 14th - Kyle will also work with football coach, cheerleading advisor and band director to create a time for Connections Award recognition.  Brian & Brenda Treisch will coordinate the Alumni Band participation.

Pancake Breakfast: Saturday, October 15th - Joe Kleinknecht and Brian Triesch will work with the Kiwanis Club members to continue this event at the Galion Intermediate School.  Intermediate Principal will be contacted with 2016 date and facility needs.

Hall of Fame Dinner: Saturday, October 15th - Marilyn Stepro and Sandy Powell will coordinate the dinner details.  Dinner will again be held at the Middle School.

Next Meeting Date:  May 18th @ 7:30 a.m. @ The GCS Administrative Center