The Santa group met for lunch at Mandarin Inn and Grill in Redmond WA.
Santa Ron Kearns and Santa Dennis greeted the members after a little confusion regarding where we were meeting in the restaurant.
Everyone participated in the buffet after which the meeting was held. Two new guests introduced themselves, Santa George Smith and Nancy from Lynwood and Santa Bruce Bradley from Port Orchard.
Santa Trever reported on the web site and demonstrated all of the current features. Santa Trever is attempting to keep everything up to date with various links, news items, meeting notes and pictures. The cost to maintain the site will be covered by the collection that occurred at he May 2010 meeting. When these funds are spent there will be a decision on how to fund for the future. Check it out: http://www.norpac-santas.org
Please remember to send a picture and information to Santa Trever for the web site. These can be sent to:santat@comcast.net.
Santa Denis explained how he forwards various emails and announcements to the whole group, but if anyone does not want that happening please let him know so he can discontinue it for them.
FORBS was mentioned as a great place for background checks and liability insurance for those who would like to have this type of coverage.
The Santa Reunion XVIII will be held Jan 26, 27, 28, and 29 2012, in San Diego, CA, at the San Diego Marriott Mission Valley. This year a convention will be held too. Check it out on the FORBS site: FORBS
Mention was made that Santa Tim Connaghan is only having one school this year on the west coast. It will be held in Hollywood, CA. He is also holding a school in Branson MO for the 5 year reunion of the gathering in 2006.
Mention was made of various gatherings and conferences throughout the Unites States and the unity that appears to be growing amongst Santa groups.
The November Great Wolf Lodge Event was discussed and clarifications and suggestions made.
The event will occur November 3, 4, and 5, 2011.
There will be workshops and meetings on Friday and Saturday.
A registration fee will be charged to cover the mid day meal(s) and other incidentals and expenses.
While many would prefer to not have a mandatory meal the catered buffet exempts us from the $2800.00 per day meeting room fees.
There will be a registration deadline for rooms and meals.
Room costs will be $99.00/night for King Suite and $139.00/night for Family King.
Each room includes 4 water park passes. More are available beyond the 4 for purchase.
Room/Meal registration needs to be confirmed one month prior to the meeting, but final date will be published when the contract is signed.
There will be a social/networking time built into the schedule.
We have the side meeting room next to Loose Moose Café for an evening gathering available.
Media will be notified by GWL this year and we can send our own press release too.
The availability of a photographer will be researched. This is valuable for candid shots of the event and possibly studio setting if there is enough interest.
There was discussion for the need of a small vendor charge.
Please let Santa Dennis know of any potential vendors so he can contact them.
It appears that Santa Bob Elkin is willing to attend and present the Knights of Saint Nicholas presentation. This is an out growth of the Santa Oath and appears to be a great opportunity for us. Check it out at:
Knights of St Nicholas
Those who are current members of FORBS decided to organize formally and conduct FORBS chapter business as necessary.
Respectfully submitted,
Santa Dennis Simpson
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