OREGON FEDERATION OF SQUARE & ROUNDS DANCE CLUBS
MINUTES OF MEETING DATED January 25. 2004
Hosted by Mid-Winter Festival 2004
Lane County Fairgrounds-Eugene Oregon

Meeting brought to order by President Carolyn Bosch at 9:30 AM.

This meeting is being recorded.

ROLL CALL: Recording Secretary, Jodene Hughes.

Officers: All present

Appointed Officers: All present except Jim (Avis) Kinkaid (State Trailers), Barbi & Lee Ashwill (54th Nat'l Convention) and Barbara & Larry Schaumburg (Round Dance Screening & 2004 Summer Festival).

Delegates: All present.

Active Goodwill Ambassadors: All present except Don & Karel Morris, Benjamin Brown and Al & Fran Westphal.

INVOCATION: Immediate Past President Kay Rogers

FLAG SALUTE: 1st Vice President Dave Cooper

MOTION by Bob Bosch

I move that we accept the minutes as presented. Seconded. Motion carried.

PRESIDENT: Carolyn & Bob Bosch

A big Thank You to the Emerald Empire as well as the Mid-Winter Committee for their hospitality. We have really enjoyed seeing people we only get to see once a year, making this a very special occasion.

In discussing the minutes with our wonderful Recording Secretary, Jodene, we have come upon a large and existing problem. The tapes are not always audio able and when giving our reports some of us do not send one in or give her a written one. From now on your reports will be omitted if she cannot understand what is on the tape. It is only common courtesy to the secretary to send her your report before the meeting. Please do that from this date forward.

I have received a letter from the Oregon State Department of Transportation stating some changes have been made to the Group Plate Program. Effective January 1, 2004, DMV will no longer issue group plates to motor homes and travel trailers. Those of you who currently have a group plate on your rigs may continue to renew the registration and may only transfer the plates if they pay the fee to convert the plates to custom plates. If this is done they will no longer fall under the program that helps fund our charity.

Sandi Eddings: As of January 1, 2004, the group fee goes up to $2,500 per year and you have to sell 500 plates and renew them every two years.

I know I have promised you more information about the Square Dance Week to be delivered at this meeting. However, I believe it is still a little early to be planning and will do this at the next meeting. Please begin your planning strategies for September 2004. We need all the coverage we can get and perhaps your classes will be larger with your efforts.

Blue Mountain Council donated $500 towards the ice rink.

1ST VICE PRESIDENT: Dave & Barbie Cooper

Thanks to Mid-winter Festival committee for a fun filled weekend.

Barbie and I have been busy! We sold our home in Redmond and now reside in Prineville. Our new address is: 2411 SE Morningside Dr, Prineville, OR 97754 and phone # 541-447-1753. We mentioned at a dance that we were moving and 28 dancers showed up to help! That was awesome!

We have also been teaching beginning Waltz on Sundays and Cha Cha/Rhumba on Tuesday evenings. And, I along with Jim Burge, a caller from Prineville, have been teaching 18 3rd, 4th & 5th graders to square dance. Jim is also teaching 3 of these youngsters to call, and they are doing great.

We continue to support all of our local clubs, and we cue once a month for the sundown Round Dance Club.

2004 MID-WINTER FESTIVAL: Aaron & Linda Gibbens

A festival begins with an idea and, with the effort of a dedicated committee, becomes a reality. I can never give thanks enough for the hard work given by the many dancers who gave of their time and energy to make this dance a success.

We climbed the branches of a dream, went places that no festival went before, and had fun along the way. We broke the old routine and brought in live music, unheard of outside of the nationals. We created a popular venue for our youth to explore their creativity on the dance floor, an idea being called for to recreate in the summer of 2005 in Portland. We brought our cloggers in closer contact with square and round dancers and grew smiles and friendships. We put dancers on the ice rink, slid around and created students for the future. We gave reality to dreams.

No climb is without risks. We battled a decline in the interest in square dancing. We battled a sagging economy with growing unemployment, rising taxes and declining business. We battled Mother Nature with snow in the valley in November, snow and ice in December and January. We battled to victory.

Saturday night saw 1,383 dancers twirling and having fun to Deborah Carroll-Jones and the Ghost Riders, Doug and Janet Seavy, Russ and Lelia Hunsaker and Elizabeth Baird. A great color photo greeted Sunday morning on page B1 of the Eugene Register Guard and a wonderful article on our activity.

Now, to the bottom line. From the beginning, we have watched pennies and cut corners. Yet, it is with profound relief that I can announce an anticipated profit of around $6,000.00, which I will be pleased to present to the Emerald Empire Area and the Oregon Federation at their March meetings.

2004 SUMMER FESTIVAL: Barbara & Larry Schaumburg (Absent)
Given by Kay Rogers

Program schedule has been completed, callers and cuers notified.

Program book is being printed and will be distributed at May meeting.

Plans are in the works for hospitality room for callers and cuers, which will be at Convention Hotel across the street.

Vendors have been contacted and are returning contracts and deposits.

Plans are being made for outside games and a fun badge dance either on the boardwalk or at turnaround as city ordinate dictates.

Please remember to register, as the state gets half the money.

OREGON FEDERATION NEWS: Vivian Fairburn

  1. What is our backup plan if Western Web Press chooses not to renew (or to cancel) our contract?
    1. Several Comments about our business being too small for her efforts
    2. The Contract is valid through December 2004 with a Request for Proposal due June 1, 2004
    3. We should have the RFP ready to delivery in June
    4. This will need to be done before the next POOF meeting (July 30,2004)
  2. What is our plan if Western Web Press cannot meet the contract date of delivering the OFN to the Post Office by the 26th of each month.
    1. Only one month (May) in 2003 was at the Post Office by the deadline.
    2. Part of the issue was that the editor was not organized and thus delayed the printing
    3. Western Web Press had a fire and had to work with a printer in Albany to produce the OFN so thus was delayed.
    4. Today?
  3. What are the financial goals for the OFN?
    1. Should it be self-sufficient?
    2. Should it be subsidized?
    3. Should it break-even?
  4. Where do we see this position in the future?
    1. Volunteer?
    2. Paid?
    3. Outside resource?
  5. Can it be more profitable for the OFN to be produced with our own software and a local printer. Currently the printer is charging us $55.72 per page $2228.80. The contract is set for the price of $3120.00 but she is only charging us per page because she likes us. That could change anytime
    1. Using Publisher, I have 2 quotes. One for $3100 and one for $2500 It is possible that it can be printed even more economically if some research was done.
    2. If done "in-house", the $190 that is now paid for labeling and mailing could be used in more effective ways. One suggestion is that $100 be given to a club for doing the mailing. It could rotate between clubs
    3. There are enough dancers available who are software / computer literate that Volunteers could do this
    4. If the price of the printing could be more economical, would it be more cost-effective to have the editorship be a paid position?
  6. Is this format still viable for us? Are there other alternatives "outside the box"?

2005 MID-WINTER FESTIVAL: Peter & Beverly-Hills Wood

Things are going just fine. We hope to increase the profitability of the festival, although Aaron has done a wonderful job this year. We look forward to signing a contract within 30 days and a deposit due July 1st, which will be drastically reduced from what we pay now. We have lots of people come up and volunteer to help with 2005 Mid-Winter. We hope to continue the fun activities for the youth. Hotel and RV registrations are going very quickly, so I suggest you get yours in fast. We are looking into having a catered dinner on Saturday evening. More information on this later.

2ND VICE PRESIDENT: Dennis Marsh & Ilana Widders

Thank you Mid-Winter festival for a great weekend. At the last meeting I asked for some back state directors. Between Carolyn Bosch and Marilyn Schmit, I have all but one. I still need the 1982 state directory.

RECORDING SECRETARY: Jodene & Dave Hughes

I would just like to say thank you for a great weekend. Also, I would just like to ask all of you to please email me your reports or have written reports turned in. This will help me to get them back out to you in a timely manner. If I have them emailed to me I can get the minutes started ahead of the meeting, which makes it very nice for me. Thank you for all your help and cooperation. I really appreciate it very much.

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY: Glory & John Guches

Good Morning, I would like to thank the Emerald Empire for hosting the state meeting and I would like to thank the Gibbens Family with Peter and Beverly Hills-Wood for the fantastic Mid-Winter Festival. I really enjoyed myself.

Condolence Cards for:

Patti & Nick Pisani. Patti's Mom passed on.
Harvey & Jenny Myers. Harvey's Grandmother passed on.
Jack and Mary Fisher. Mary's father passed on.

Tim Roberts e-mailed me on the passing of this gentleman, Dec. 2.2003. Jim Griffith he passed away of gastric cancer. Tim went on to say, "Jim was a member of one of the Tigard Grange Clubs, he didn't remember which one. He was President of the TVC in 1990-1991 and was a key player in remodeling of the Washington County Square Dance Center on the Washington County Fairgrounds. He went into politics in the mid 1990s and drifted out of square dancing. He was Mayor of the city of Tigard for the past three years. A memorial was held Dec. 9.2003 at Tigard United Methodist Church. On a final note: Jim became Mayor after the last one passed away while in office. It might be harder to find volunteers for that job!

Get well cards for:

Everett Drum for burns he received while laying a floor.
Linda Gibben for surgery.
Mary Warmoth for oral surgery.

Engagement:

A card of congratulations to L.T. (Larry) Thompson and Donna Smith for their engagement. Wedding date at this time is not known.

TREASURER REPORT: Bill & Annandale Rooper

For report see Recording Secretary. Report on file.

MEMBERSHIP: Clara Evarts

Thank you Emerald Empire for another great Mid-Winter Festival. I noticed that all attending seem to be having a good time. I am looking forward to next year at the new location in Albany.

I have placed at each delegate station the club directory information for the 2004-2005 Federation year. Please make sure you read your directions. You as the area delegate are responsible of collecting this information from the clubs. Please look over the returned information and that it is legible. Also be sure the club census counts are filled in. You will collect the monies from the clubs and turn the papers and totals into the Council for them to write a check to the State Federation, one check for where and when and one check for the State Federation dues. These check are due to me at the May State Federation meeting along with 3 copies of the forms. Any club not turning in the information may not be in next year state directory and also out of compliance with the Federation Practice and Procedures.

There is also another letter to the clubs that have upcoming State Corporation Division Annual Reports due and the month that they should be paid by. Please let the entire club know that as of January 1, 2004 the Corporation fees were increased to $50 for the year.

MOTION by Clara Evarts

Madam President, I moved that we drop the Re-Vu--Q from Mid-Willamette Area; Buccaneers, Pat's Round To It's, and Eugene Wagon Wheelers from Emerald Empire Area from the Federations, they cannot carry Insurance when out of compliance with the State Corporation Division, and the Oregon Federation of Square and Round Dance Clubs. Seconded by Dennis Marshall. Motion carried.

Tule Twirlers from Interstate Area; and Ramblin Rogues from Rogue Sis-Q Area from the Oregon Federation of Square and Round Dance Clubs, for they disbanded.

INSURANCE: Judy Gelmstedt & Chuck Bos

Thank you Aaron and Family for a wonderful Mid Winter. We had a great time.

One Federated Club, Hermiston Square Knots have not paid their insurance premium.

The Muddy Frogs, Buzzin' Bees and Silver Stars have not sent in their Washington State Certificates of insurance. They do not carry USDA insurance, but are insured through Washington. Canby Cloverleaf's also need to send in their certificate of insurance; they are insured through the 4H.

Please remind your clubs to send in class list with dates, times and location.

When any new members join your club, the club must pay insurance of $3.75 per person per year through December, if they are not all ready a primary member of another federated club.

Don't forget to send in the Notice of Event and Request for Additional Certificates of Insurance, prior to the events.

Thank you.

PAST PRESIDENT: Kay & Jim Rogers

Thank you for a fun weekend. I am getting excited to see what next year in Albany will be. Mid-Winter has been here so many years, it will be strange to see it somewhere else.

It was a big thrill for me to present the Randall Award last night, Congratulations to Bill and Bea Cook.

You know only 9 councils voted in time to be counted; the one that came in afterwards would have tied it up. Please try to remember to nominate someone deserving next year and then to vote.

The nominating committee met yesterday and came up with the following slate of officer running next year:

1st VP: Dennis Marshall
2nd VP: Marilyn & Ron Schmit
Rec Sec: Jodene & Dave Hughes
Cor Sec: Glory & John Guchess
Treasurer: Bill & Annadale Rooper
Membership: Judy Gelmstedt

The annual Benefit dance is at the Salem Square Dance Center April. Please come or send your checks. You know this is a good cause. Make your checks out to the OFSRDC.

Remember to support your federation by purchasing at our earliest ability summer festival, mid winter, and 54th National Square Dance Convention ribbons. I have distributed summer festival forms and 54th forms to each of you to take back to your clubs. Please don't just leave them in your briefcase or the round file, take them to your clubs. Think Positively!

PARLIAMENTARIAN: Tim & Kathy Roberts

No report

FINANCIAL ADVISOR: Roger & Dee Newell

An audit of the financial records for the period of September 1, 2002, through August 31, 2003 was completed. Bill has done an outstanding job of identifying and reconciling financial documentation. The Profit and Loss Statements and Balance Sheet Report were submitted at the September 2003 meeting. A review of 168 payments was completed. The following discrepancies were noted. Documentation: 7 invoices (expense claims) are completed in pencil, 6 payments with missing invoices, and 1 payment for OFN refund. All checks (168) had been validated and countersigned. Review of Bank Statements confirms $45,000 in 5 CD's maturing incrementally during the year.

The OFN refund was made in December 2002 and was valid at the time. In the January 2003 State Federation meeting a motion was made to not allow refunds. It was to be added to P&P's. Expense requests included with deposits should be copied or submitted separately to insure accurate accounting, (i.e. OFN deposits and editor expenses, Insurance deposits and USDA expenses). The overall rating for this report is Excellent. Bill should be commended for the outstanding job he is doing for the State Federation.

I also have been reviewing the OFN financial records monthly with Vivian. She has developed an automated system for tracking payments of ads. We reconcile differences immediately, insuring accurate record keeping. It is working very well Kudos' to Vivian.

EDUCATION/PUBLICITY ADVISOR: Marilyn & Ron Schmit

Ron and I would like to thank the Gibbens family for a wonderful weekend here at the Reunion. We have had fun renewing our friendships with dancers from all over the Northwest.

The Federation 800 number has been used once since the last meeting. The lady was referred to the Golden Squares since she recently moved to Woodburn.

The council delegates are still urged to get their council minutes to me to use for the "Upcoming Special Events" listing. I take your future events into consideration for admission to the listing. You can email me with other events that need to be added, if they fit the requirements.

The 2004 edition of the Education Seminar had about 50 attendees with 12-15 youth as participants. There were six at the head table and others in the back of the room. I thought it went pretty well and that the youth had some real grounded opinions. I have been asked to do the same seminar at the 2005 Mid-Winter Festival in Albany. The current youth were asked to be part of the seminar next year. They have a year to prepare.

Just a reminder to all the dancers that window decals are still available for $1.00 each.

HISTORIAN: Ronnie Wiser

Carolyn Bosch and myself will be down sizing the treasures that the Historian holds in her position. If you would like to take a peak or are looking for a particular photo, please contact Carolyn Bosch or me.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

BMI/ASCAP: Ralph & Linda Lambert

For BMI, we have received our annual billing in the amount of $118.60. Subtracting our remaining credit of $58.15 yields a net amount due of $60.45. I have submitted a request to the Treasurer for issuance of a check to BMI for the $60.45 amount.

ASCAP has advised me that the per dancer fee for calendar year 2004 is $0.066/attendee at the two state festivals.

GENERAL

I have distributed memos to both the 2004 Mid-Winter and 2004 Summer Festivals of the fee requirements for their festivals.

YOUTH ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR: Peter & Beverly Hills-Wood

Please help support our Oregon youth by attending the Benefit Dance on May 20, 2004. All of the funds from this dance will go to fund the youth activities. It will be at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center. Callers will be Les Seeley, Roger Putzler and Kirby Goode and the cuers will be Ron Noble and Christina Corelli. Pre-rounds will be at 7:30 and square dancing will begin at 8 PM. Come and get a sneak preview of what Mid-Winter 2005 will be like.

STATE TRAILERS: Jim & Avis Kinkaid (Absent)

The trailers were used 6 times by 5 clubs or councils during 2003. This number is way down from previous years. About half or less. I do not know why.

Because of lesser usage I do not plan to refinish the floors this year. I do plan to purchase some tires if I can find a supplier. Licenses are due in April.

Perhaps an article or flyer to all clubs and councils explaining that there are two trailers available for parades, demonstrations and any other uses one might think of (state where none is available). There are many newer members and dancers in our activity that may no know a piece of equipment like this is available at no cost for usage. If this would be a good idea I would be willing to work up such. We do not have computer capabilities to make flyers and print pictures to show a trailer configuration.

ORDTA: Dennis & Elaine Smith

Good morning.

Our thanks go to Emerald Empire and the Gibbons family. Elaine and I have enjoyed the festival this weekend. Our boys really enjoyed the "Danger Zone" and the youth after party at the ice rink. We know a couple that more than keeps up with the youth. In fact, I think they're the envy of a number of the youth. We asked them last night if they would be willing to host a session a future festival to teach the youth their tricks, and they said sure. Let us know if you're interested in their services.

ORDTA held their annual meeting yesterday morning.

Nominations for next year's officers were presented. Those nominated were elected by acclamation - everyone ran unopposed. I'll be in this chair for at least one more year.

We discussed how the OFN could help support Round Dancing. Look for Cuers Corner columns in future issues as well as more cuer profiles.

ORDTA now has a web site. The URL is www.ordta.org. I'm collecting for feedback as to what information folks want to see here.

We finished up with Q&A with Janet and Doug Seavy. There were several interesting discussions on various topics.

"So You Want to be a Cuer" session was held yesterday afternoon. There were several interested in becoming cuers as well as several relatively new cuers.

Our next meeting will be May 8 at 10:00 AM at the dance center in Springfield.

ROUND DANCE SCREENING: Barbara & Larry Schaumburg

Round Dance Screening
State Report

OROM February 2004
"SWINGING DOWN THE LANE"
Phase II Two Step

OROM March 2004
Was report last state meeting?
Classic "COULD I HAVE THIS DANCE"

OROM April 2004
"NORTH TO ALASKA"
Phase II + 1 (fishtail) Two Step

OROM May 2004
"DOWN AT PAPA JOE'S"
Phase II + 1 (fishtail) Two Step

All records are available thru the Promenade Square Dance Shop in Hillsboro, OR

CALLER ADVISOR: Harold & Barbara Kleve

In November I received an E-mail via Ronnie Wiser/Dave Cooper. It was from Anna Wendolowski, Associate Registrar for the Oregon Historical Society. They were preparing a brand new exhibit called "Oregon My Oregon". Oregon's history from its first peoples to modern issues.

There is a section in the exhibit that covers Oregon symbols, such as the state bird, and flower. Since Square Dancing is the official state dance, she wanted some sheet music or record that would represent square dancing.

In my collection I had a hard cover, 2 record album, that had a colored picture of square dancers on the cover, that I thought may be what she needed. It was an old "Cliffie Stone's Band" album, vintage 1947. I subsequently donated the album and received proper acknowledgement from the Oregon Historical Society.

54th NATIONAL SQUARE DANCE CONVENTION: Lee & Barbi Ashwill (absent)
given by Gary & Betty Willoughby

Things have been very busy since our last report. Once again, we encourage everyone to get registered for the 54th National Square Dance Convention and remind you that if you are not a volunteer on a committee at this time, step forward and volunteer. Workers are needed in almost every area, so come join the fun of "many hands make light work" of an important project.

The following contracts have been signed for Pre-Convention:

Transportation; City Tour of Portland; Aramark Food Services and Entertainment for Thursday and Friday nights.

The following contracts have been signed for Convention:

All the Tours; Alaska Cruise; Decorator Company and the Convention Photographer.

The Social and Special Events Committee is working to locate a National Entertainer for the Wednesday Night Special Event to kick-off the Convention. It is amazing the "Bonus" money these entertainers demand if they sign a contract more than 12 months prior to the event. Thus, we may be forced to wait until June 2004 to get a contract signed with an entertainer.

Oregon's Pre-Convention is just around the corner. All committees are anxiously awaiting the opportunity to host this event. Those Oregon and Washington Dancers who have not either Advance Registered or Registered for the 54th National Square Dance Convention , are going to miss a great Mainstream dance on March 20, 2004. Admittance to this dance is FREE, once you have registered for the 54th NSDC. The ONLY WAY you can get into this dance is to be wearing one of the Green and White Registration ribbons. If you have not registered prior to March 20, 2004, don't fret. You can come to the Oregon Convention Center, during the day or evening, of March 20, 2004 and visit the Registration and Housing table to purchase a Convention Registration for $40.00 per dancer. (Remember to order your Official Program Book on the Registration Form or you won't get the Daily Schedules.) Then you can come to the dance. Dan Preedy will be the caller and Christina Corelli will do the cuing.

During the week of March 15-20, 2004 (Pre-Convention), many volunteers are needed. The opportunity exists to volunteer your services from 1 hour to 1 week and all times in between. The Social and Special Events Committee is seeking drivers to drive the 15 passenger vans we have rented. Most of the driver assignments will not exceed four (4) hours. If you are interested, please contact Larry & Carol Reetz at telephone (541) 461-5642 or E-Mail: carlar@comcast.net or Sharon & Jim Punteney at telephone (360) 666-4866 or E-Mail: punteney@centurytel.net.

Please mark your calendars with this next date: JUNE 13, 2004!!! On that date Tony Oxendine will donate his time as the caller, Neva Reid will donate her time as the cuer and Scott Zinser will donate his equipment for a Benefit Dance to help raise money to enable us to rent the Lloyd Center Ice Arena during the 54th NSDC. This will offer a venue for the public to observe this activity. We hope this will help us get new dancers into class and assist the growth of Square Dancing. This dance will be held at the Clark County Square Dance Center and admission is a donation. The time for the dance is 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm. If your plans preclude you from attending this dance, you can make a contribution by sending a check made out to the 54th NSDC to Lee & Barbi Ashwill, 4684 Ivory Way, NE, Salem, OR 97305-3132. Note on your check that this is a donation towards the rental of the Lloyd Center Ice Arena and we will get it to Bill Rooper for deposit and tracking. No amount is too small or too large and remember, if the Ice Arena rental is not successful, your donations will be returned to you, the Council or Club you represent. We are asking for your help to make this a successful venture. You can track the results on our Website: www.54nsdc.com.

Following the Pre-Convention, we will all be busy getting ready to go to Denver, CO for the 53rd National Square Dance Convention . For those of you not currently registered for the 53rd NSDC, you can download the Registration Form from www.53nsdc.com. We encourage everyone to attend, as this is the absolute last available opportunity to observe the actions of a Convention prior to the start of the 54th NSDC.

We are in Hawaii helping our friends celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary. We hope that you all enjoyed Mid-Winter 2004 and we would like to thank the Gibbons family for chairing this event.

So, for now, Aloha, and we hope to see you in a square in the very near future.

SHOWCASE OF IDEAS: Marilyn & Ron Schmitt

The Showcase of Ideas interest card for the Oregon Federation has been sent back to Denver. We are still waiting to receive the interest card for the 54th National Square Dance Convention as well as the card for United Square Dancers of America. We have emailed the director for Denver Showcase to ask her where the cards were sent to, but no reply as of yet.

We will request about five tables for a combined display for Oregon and the 54th National.

We would like to thank Sandy Eddings for the maps we have in our garage. They will be used in Denver and possibly some will be used at Pre-Convention.

We have been in contact with NEC members, Don and Shirley White, to inquire about the location of the extension for the Showcase plaque. We let ours be given to another Showcase participant with the understanding that another one would be ordered and sent to us. Shirley has talked to Gene Triplett of the NEC and the reorder is being located. So hopefully a remedy is in sight.

OLD BUSINESS: None

NEW BUSINESS: None

Nominations for officers:

President: Dave Cooper (incoming president)
1st VP: Dennis Marshall
2nd VP: Marilyn & Ron Schmit
Rec Sec: Jodene & Dave Hughes
Cor Sec: Glory & John Guchess
Treasurer: Bill & Annadale Rooper
Membership: Judy Gelmstedt

Nominations from the floor:

President: None
1st VP: None
2nd VP: None
Rec Sec: None
Cor Sec: Ronnie Wiser
Treasurer: None
Membership: None

All nominations from the floor were closed. Seconded and motion carried.

We will need pictures of all of the above the directories and OFN.

DELEGATE REPORTS

EMERALD EMPIRE: Lois Klinok

New dancer dances were hosted by CCCA, Florence Fun Bunch, Whirl-A-Ways, Danebo Circle 8, Singles Trees and Wolf Pack over the last two months. All were very well attended.

Single Trees hosted a benefit dance for Food for Lane County in November. Several barrels of canned goods and other food were collected.

Sweet Home Squarenaders and Whirl-A-Ways held benefit dances in December for Toy's for Tots. Both dances yielded a considerable amount of money and toys for the charity.

Wagon Wheelers disbanded on December 31, 2003. They divided their assets equally between food for Lane county and Toy's for Tots.

Single Trees, Boots & Sandals and Sweet Home Squarenaders each hosted New Year's Eve dances. Single Trees had 11 squares, Boots & Sandals had 2 squares and Sweet home Squarenaders had 6 squares.

We hope everyone has enjoyed dancing to the Ghost Riders and other events at this years Mid-Winter Festival. As you probably know we are moving the Festival to the Linn Count Fairgrounds at Albany next year. I hope everyone will join us there as we're "Stayin' Alive in 2005". I have distributed flyers to all the delegates for their clubs highlighting the coming events in our area. I ask that you especially take note of the visits of Mike Sikorsky on April 10, 2004 and Dan Nordbye on April 20, 2004. Both dances will be at the Emerald Square and Round dance Center in Springfield.

INTERSTATE HIGHLANDERS: Reta & Phil Harkins

Interstate Highlanders Council dance was held on November 22, 2003, hosted by KC Squares. Caller was Denny Lantz. A bake sale/auction was held and approximately $250 was raised. January Council dance was cancelled so members could attend Mid-Winter Festival. Next Council meeting to be held May 22, 2004 and hosted by the Tall Town Travelers in Lakeview, OR.

Our council is sad to report the passing of round dance cuer, Bud Trowbridge on November 27, 2003. Bud cued for Charlie Brown Squares in Grants Pass and for the KC Squares in Klamath Falls. Many will miss him.

Ben Casad, caller for the disbanded Tule Twirlers, is convalescing at Plum Ridge convalescent Center in Klamath Falls.

KC Squares Just installed new officers. They are as follows:

President - Joyce Barrett

Vice President - Al & Sandy Marks

Secretary - Barbara Johnson

Treasurer - Laura & Norm Van Zandt

Interstate Delegate - Joan & Don McClendon

KC's coming events: Jan 31st - Special breakfast for all club members with January Birthdays. February 21st - Valentines Dance with Larry Sprout calling.

Tall Town Travelers Valentines Dance will be held on February 14th at Veterans Hall.

LINCOLN-TILLAMOOK AREA: Kathy & Buzz Buczkowski

Coast Swingers had a potluck and gift exchange at their Christmas Dance on Dec. 13th. They celebrated New Years with a potluck and square dance at the president's home. Several got their DUCK dangle by attempting to square dance in the hot tub. They will attempt to have another beginner's class beginning Jan. 29th.

Sea Twirlers spent the holidays visiting family and friends. They did visit Coast Swingers for their Christmas Dance and several members attended the Valley River Dancers New Dancer Dance. They noted that the new dancers did very well and seemed to be really enjoying themselves. They also attended the Toledo 49ers dance Nov. 15th in conjunction with the State Federation meeting. Several are planning to attend Mid-Winter Festival, Toledo 49ers Loyalty Days Weekend, and the Strawberry

Festival in Lebanon. They are looking forward to hosting the area meeting and dance on Sunday afternoon, May 23rd, at Gleneden Beach Community Center.

The Toledo 49ers had a potluck ham dinner and gift exchange prior to their Christmas Dance on Dec. 20th. Lots of interesting gifts were exchanged. Our Jan. 3rd dance had to be cancelled due to the snow and ice and our caller and cuer couldn't make the trip from the valley. However, we were back to dancing Jan. 17th and took up a collection of

FUZZY WUZZY animals for Newport Hospital to have for children coming in for surgery or treatment of injuries. Next on the calendar is attending Mid-Winter Festival. Feb. 14th will be the first day of a new series of DANCE PARTY. Last fall they had Dance Parties on 3 consecutive Saturdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a morning coffee break, lunch, and an afternoon snack. Everyone seemed to enjoy this and they learned most of the basic square dance moves. They much preferred this to taking one lesson a week for 5 months. The club then held a 1/2 hour workshop before the next 6 regular dances to reinforce the moves they had learned and bring them up to speed. The new dancers did very well and really enjoy themselves at the dances. It is felt that this is an idea that might well catch on for busy people that would like to learn to square dance and can't make a long term commitment.

Several members are active on committees for the National Square Dance Convention in 2005 and will be busy with these responsibilities along with getting ready for Loyalty Days Weekend, April 30 and May 1 in Newport. These activities along with regular club and area activities will prove to be a very active spring for the coast people.

MID-WILLAMETTE AREA: Spencer & Barbara Lewis

The Mid-Willamette Area Council hosted the Fall Festival dance Nov. 29, 2003 in Salem. The 15 squares enjoyed dancing to the calls of seven of our own area callers, while the round dancers waltzed to the music of eight local cuers. They found it a most delightful way to welcome in the winter holiday season. Over 250 pounds of food were collected that evening and donated to the Marion and Polk counties Food Bank.

At our December Council meeting, Caller Bruce Lowther reported that nine clubs were holding classes, which would be graduating students in January or February. A poll this past week revealed that of the 96 that started the lessons, approximately 64 completed them. The Cherry City Cloggers that began with 76 students had 45 actually join their club January 1st. We are sorry to see about 1/3 drop out of the lessons but appreciate those who do graduate and join the clubs. Three clubs plan on having spring lessons.

Two area clubs, the Lebanon Square Circlers and the Capital 8's welcomed in the year 2004 with festive New Year's Eve dances. The latter also made it a new dancer's dance, and many of our students were there to enjoy it.

In December, the Salem Swingin' Stars invited all area square dancers to a free dance and a ham dinner. It was well attended and the clubs way of thanking the local square dancers.

As of this date we have had seven new dancer's dances and still have four to go. We hope they keep our students active, learning, and happy. In closing, we hope to see you all at the Federation sponsored benefit for HORSES, Sunday, April 4th, at the Salem Square Dance Center on 45th street just north of Silverton Blvd.

PORTLAND AREA COUNCIL: Al Wolf & Gail Domine

Many clubs will be graduating their classes within the next few weeks. Other clubs will, or have started lessons since the first of January.

Thanks to Dan Mathews of the 4N8er's who holds joint TVC-PAC membership, for setting up a web site for the PAC. Papers have been filed under pacdance.org. More on this at a later date.

PAC clubs sold 79 entertainment books at $30 each. Splitting profits between PAC and the clubs who sold the books.

Election time will soon be here. Officers are needed for clubs as well as councils. Everyone should serve in some capacity at least one time.

By all reports, Jamborees have had great turnouts. Silver Stars had a good turnout of 160 dancers on November 22, and 98 dancers for their New Years Eve gala. The Checkerboard Squares had 109 dancers for their November 23rd Jamboree. On December 7th, the River city Dancers had a full hall with 221 dancers. We were fortunate to have les Seeley, Jim Hattrick, Bill Helms, Daryl Clendenin and Randy dibble doing the calling. On December 14th, the Country cut-Ups had a small but enthusiastic group of 50 dancers.

The PAC will not sponsor a Rose Festival dance this year. We will support the June 13th fundraiser dance for the ice arena rental. It will be at the Clark county Square Dance Center in Vancouver, WA from 2-5 PM. Tony Oxendine will call and Neva Reid will cue; both will donate their services for this dance. The PAC will have raffle tickets available at the dance for some great items.

The next PAC dance will be January 30th at the Oak Grove community Center. Darrell Kalmbach is the caller and Jeanine Norden is the cuer.

ROGUE SIS-Q COUNCIL: John & Glory Guches

Benefit Dance for Delores Trowbridge raised $1100.00.

Birthday dances

Star Promenaders - February 28 2004, Nasiar Sukhar Calling

Southern Oregon Single Squares - March 5th 2004, Randy Dibble calling

Lantz's Dancers April 3rd 2004 - Les Seeley calling, Marian Cook cueing

Festivals

March, 26 - 28 Spring Soiree Round Dance weekend, Josephine County Square Dance center, Josephine County Fairgrounds Grants Pass Or.

April 9-10 2004 39th Pear Blossom Festival Scott and Erin Byers Sacramento Ca calling and Cueing. Mainstream, with Plus tips both evenings, A1 & 2 Saturday afternoon 1:30 to 4 PM

April 23 - 24, 2004 Spring Fest, Dan Nordbye and Joe Saltel calling Plus tips, Elaine Funk Cueing. Josephine County Square Dance Center, Josephine County Fair Grounds, Grants Pass Or.

May, 28 - 29 2004 Boatnik, Secret Caller look for fliers. Elaine Funk cueing Josephine County Square Dance Center, Josephine County Fairgrounds, Grants Pass Or.

July 21-24 2004 31st Diamond Lake Festival Mike Sikorsky and Wayne Weaver calling. Ray and Virginia Walz, Cueing. Wednesday, the 21st; Callers and Cuers from the floor, 22nd Wayne Weaver calling, 23rd and 24th Featured caller and cuer.

SOUTH COAST AREA COUNCIL: Don & Mary Miller

Beachcombers had a great turn out for their first New Years Dance with Denny Lantz calling. Both beginner and plus lessons continue with Ed Phillips instructing. All callers and cuers are in place for the 4th of July weekend and Battle rock. I understand there will be a difference each evening, each tip, will be called by a different caller, and the cuers will also take turns. Certainly lets the callers and cuers get in some dancing.

Saint's N Aints had a great Christmas Dance on December 20th. Beginning New Dancers had their dance during lesson time on Sunday, December 21st. What fun they are. We have an exceptionally great class this year. All are planning on attending Mid-Winter Festival in Eugene. Donna Hiserote is having Phase II lessons Monday nights from 7-9 M. Also Phase IV workshops from 6-7 PM on Mondays. Our 50's-60's dance will be February 21st. This will also be an appreciation party for Johnny Nichols as he is retiring.

Skyloft no report

Jefferson State Squares no report

SUNSET AREA COUNCIL: Sylvia Davis (absent) Del Niemi sitting in.

We have appeared rather quiet as a square dance club although behind the scenes a lot has been happening. We have 29 members, not all being active. Our Council is putting on the Summer Festival 2004. Clatskanie is a traveling club so most of the work falls on the Hayshakers. We have the Seaside Sashay the 4th weekend in October & the State Meeting in November. All of this takes place in a 5-month period of time. That means much organizing & works for such a small club. WE WILL NEED HELP FOR THE SUMMER FESTIVAL.

We gave 75 pounds of food at Thanksgiving & a car trunk full of toys at Christmas.

We had a fall visitation with the Hillsboro Hoedowners. We got our banner back.

Lessons are ongoing.

TUALATIN VALLEY COUNCIL: Bob & Carolyn Bosch

The TVC has had two major events since last State meeting; 1st the TVC/PAC Dinner was held early December at Busters Bar-B-Q. This gathering has evolved into a Tri-Council event with the addition of Evergreen Council. Approximately 100 people attended. We had a special guest from the Emerald Empire Council, 2nd Vice President, and Dennis Marsh. Now the friendship reaches across 4 councils and two federations. We would like to invite everyone to the next years dinner hosted by PAC. Come and enjoy.

The 2nd was the New Years Eve Dance and Dinner held at the IOOF Hall in Hillsboro, OR. The event was a total success with 15 squares in attendance on a very cold night. Dancing, Dinning and Dessert was the schedule of the evening. Callers Harold Kleve and Bill Lundin; Cuer Bev Flint were in top form. Now lets get to the food; ham, shrimp, potatoes, beans, and two tables full of desserts; so much food and so little time. Thanks to the dancers who furnished these delights.

Upcoming events:

TVC 5th Saturday Dance, January 2004
Tri Squares Feb 7th 'All Singing Calls' with Les Seeley
4 N 8ers Feb 13th '53rd Anniversary Dance'
Sunset Promenaders Feb14th 'Sweetheart Dance' A Class Level Dance

The following clubs are holding classes
Sunset Promenadres, 4 N 8ers, Fireballs, Hillsboro Hoedown, Eager Beavers (plus class) and just started 1-4 Toe Draggers, 1-5 Tri Squares, 1-6 Valley Squares

All classes are doing well but remember that they all need angels.

UMPQUA AREA COUNCIL: Darlene "Dar" Sconce

On January 31, 2004, the Dancing Friends Round Dance Club will be hosting a 5th Saturday Dance for the Umpqua Area Council Cheryl Muir will be calling and Dave Cooper. Cueing. We would like to invite all of you to attend. See postcard for more details.

Boots and Calicos are canceling their February 14, 2004 Valentines Dance, due to a conflict with their dancing facility. March 13, 2004, they will be celebrating their 51st Birthday Dance. Sherm Welch will be calling and Denise Harris, cueing. On March 27, 2004, a Special Retirement Dance will be held for Jim Gadberry. Ray Graves has been selected as their new caller. No dance will be held in April.

Buckeroos will be having guest callers during the month of February, as Dale Roberson will be going south for a well-deserved R & R. February 7th, the Valentines Day Dance will have a bake goods silent auction, with these proceeds being donated for the ice skating rink. Ivan Koehn, will be calling and Pat Hintz cueing. February 21st, Scott Zinser will call and Steve Hosington, will cue. Their annual barn sale will be held on Saturday, February 28th at the Buckeroo Barn. Beginning in February, the proceeds from "split-the-pot" from one dance a month; will be donated to help fund the Ice Skating Rink for the 54th National Convention. Their March 6th, dance will be an St Patrick's Day Dance with a Potato Bar. They will be going dark on March 20, 2004, to attend the Pre-Convention Dance. On Saturday April 3, 2004, the Buckeroos will be celebrating their 52nd Birthday with a Mexican Fiesta Dance. Dale Roberson will call and Pat Hintz will cue. The Buckeroo Roundup will be June 4, 5 & 6, 2004. Joe Saltel and Dale Roberson are the callers and Pat Hintz is the cuer.

Dancing Friends are continuing their round dance classes on Tuesday evenings from 7-9 PM with Pat Hintz as the instructor.

Pioneers 'N' Petticoats will have a 50's/60's Dance on February 27, 2004 with Scott Zinser, Caller. March 12th they will have a Leprechaun Dance with Terry Hailey, Caller, and April 9th will be an April Showers Dance with Denny Lantz, Caller. Claude Butler will cue the rounds for these dances. During the holidays, they donated to the annual food drive for food baskets for 40 families in the South Douglas County area.

Timber 8's Plus Club have moved their Plus Workshops on Wednesday evenings from Winchester School to the Buckeroo Barn. They are currently being held from 8-10 PM. On February 6, 2004, Scott Zinser will call; February 20, 2004, Roger Putzler; March 5, Bill Helms; March 19th, Cheryl Muir; April 2, 2004, Scott Zinser and April 16th, Bill Helms. Claude Butler will be cueing. They are dark on May 7, 2004 for Dance Fever in LaPine. Their 25th Birthday Dance is May 21, 2004, with Don Marshall and Cheryl Muir as the Callers with Dave Cooper, Cuer.

BLUE MOUNTAIN COUNCIL: Ray & Ginger Fenn

The Alpine Twirlers have begun classes with about a square. They could use some more angels to help out.

The Elkhorn Swingers are starting another class. This club is coming along great, as they were almost defunct a few years ago. The have been without a cuer, but Don Colton is returning to give lessons and the club is extremely grateful.

The La Grande Star Promenaders have started lessons with about a square of new people. Our January hosts Jeanette, Tony, Les and Eloise gave us a memorable theme dance with riddles and pictures over the walls, the winners of each category receiving a gift. This was preceded by a meal consisting of your choice of four entrees from the menu. The menu being spin-the-top (radishes), clover leaf (spam), roll-away-half-sashay (M&Ms), grand square (soda cracker), split-circulate (carrots), relay-the-ducey (green pepper rings), etc. We didn't know what the call represented food wise. When we got our plate it was fun to try and figure out what each item represented. The second serving, however was a delicious bowl of chili with biscuits and cornbread followed by pie and ice cream. Then a full evening of square and round dancing.

The Muddy Frogs held their Toys for Tots dance in December with a nice turnout of new dancers. The deep snow and cold weather is keeping a few dancers home, but with some warm up things are getting back to normal.

The BMC is presenting a check of $500.00 to the federation treasurer for our donation toward the Ice Rink at 2005 National.

CENTRAL OREGON COUNCIL: Doug & LaDauna Hartzell

THE NEXT COUNCIL DANCE TO BE HELD WILL BE JANUARY 31ST WITH RANDY DIBBLE CALLING AND KITTY (FOX) KALER CUEING. SOME PROCEEDS FROM THE COUNCIL DANCES, ETC WILL BE GOING TOWARD A NEW COVER FOR OUR PARADE TRAILER.

CLUB NEWS:

SAGEBRUSH SHUFFLERS: THE SHUFFLERS JUST FINISHED THEIR SQUARE DANCE LESSIONS WITH ROB SCRIBNER AGAIN DOING A FANTASTIC JOB WITH LOTS OF NEW DANCERS AND "OLD ANGELS" WELCOMING NEW DANCERS. THEIR NEW HALL IS STILL ON THE HORIZON IN POWELL BUTTE

SUNDOWN ROUND DANCE CLUB: EVEN WITH THE TREACHEROUS ROADS HERE IN CENTRAL OREGON THEY HAD A VERY GOOD TURNOUT AT THE JANUARY DANCE WITH ABOUT 13 COUPLES.

THE TWO-STEP CLASSES HAVE FINISHED WITH WALTZ LESSONS STARTING IMMEDIATELY AT THE CLOG HOUSE IN REDMOND.< CHA CHA AND RUMBA BEING HELD AT THE PINE FOREST GRANGE IN BEND. A NEW SLATE OF OFFICERS WILL BE PRESENTED IN FEBRUARY.

RED ROCK SQUARES: THE RED ROCKS HAVE STARTED THEIR SQUARE DANCE LESSONS UNDER THE EXCELLENT INSTRUCTION OF RON DOUSE. WE HAVE STARTED WITH A LARGE GROUP OF COUPLES AND SINGLES; NEEDLESS TO SAY ALL ANGELS ARE NEEDED.

OUR CHRISTMAS DANCE WAS VICTORIAN WITH THE GALS LOOKING EXQUISITE, SCARLETT O'HARA EAT YOUR HEART OUT… MEN WERE REALLY CHALLENGED, AS TOP HATS AND SPATS WERE NOT BEING FOUND. EVER TRY TO DANCE AROUND A HOOP….

SWINGING MOUNTAINEERS: THE SWINGING MOUNTAINEERS HOSTED A FOOD FUNDRAISER AND WERE ABLE TO ASSIST THE NEEDY IN THE LOCAL AREA; AND ALSO CONTRIBUTED $100.00 TO A FORMER MEMBER IN SOME FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES.

MANY CLUB MEMBERS HELPED PAINT THE GRANGE INSIDE AND OUT, THIS MAKES FOR GOOD RELATIONS.

PLUS LESSONS BEGAN JANUARY 11 UNDER THE SUPER GUIDANCE OF RON BLIVEN. CLASSES WILL RUN THROUGH EARLY APRIL.

BACHELOR BEAUTS: THE BEAUTS ARE IN FULL SPIN AS THEIR CASINO NIGHT HAS JUST PAST. WITH CARD TRICKS AND A "SLIGHT OF HAND". MEN TOOK THEIR BEST GAL AND BET ON A CHALLENGING NIGHT, WEARING THEIR LUCKY VESTS AND ARM GARTERS. I THINK THEY SLIPPED THE "DEALER" RON BLIVEN A FEW INCENTIVES TO STEP IT UP A BIT. IT DIDN'T TAKE MUCH, RON ALWAYS KNOWS HOW TO STEP UP THE ACTION.

IN ADDITION: THE CENTRAL OREGON ROUNDUP: GUESS WHAT'S NEW!!!

THE ROUNDUP HAS A NEW THEME - "A COUNTRY AFFAIRE" AND WILL BE HELD IN THE HISTORIC TOWN OF SISTERS AT THE NEW HIGH SCHOOL.

A SPECIAL THURSDAY NIGHT TRAILS END DANCE WILL BE AT BRONCO BILLY'S AT THE HISTORIC SISTERS HOTEL.

FLYERS HAVE BEEN PASSED OUT - PLEASE BE SURE TO PASS THESE ON TO YOUR CLUBS. THIS IS REALLY GOING TO BE A FUN EVENT. AND LADIES, THERE IS LOTS OF SHOPPING IN SISTERS.

EASTERN OREGON COUNCIL: Dave & Jodene Hughes

All of you now have packets for the May state meeting in Hermiston Oregon. I am still working on the dry camping at this time and will update you before the May meeting.

Ione Grand Squares are still dancing the night away, when the snow allows. Please be sure and call to find out the location and times of their dances.

Hermiston Square Knots are still dancing the 3rd Friday of each month.

ACTIVE GOODWILL AMBASSADORS

Ray & Zola Jones

Once again, it is great to see all of you--and welcome you back to our Area for another Mid-Winter Festival!

We were not able to attend the November State Meeting due to the birth of our first grandchild. She is over 2 months old now, and our daughter named her Zola Denise, and they call her "Zoie", - is grandma proud--you bet!

What with the excitement of our granddaughter, and the busy time of the Holidays; we have just been attending all of our own Whirl-A-Ways Club dances, and continuing to angel at our clubs New Dancer lessons. We also continue to serve on the Mid-Winter Festival Committee. And--we did attend a special New Years Eve dance at the Dance Center here in Springfield. It was a great dance; called by Daryl Clendenin.

In just 3 days we head out in our motor home on our annual winter trip to Southern California and Arizona. We will again be attending the Square and Round Dance Festival in Yuma, Arizona; and will see many other Oregon dancers who Winter there, including Oregon Goodwill Ambassadors, Al and Fran Westphal, who are chairman of the Yuma Festival this year, and former Goodwill Ambassadors, the other Ray Jones and his wife Betty. We also will take Flyers and Registration Forms for 2004 Oregon Summer Festival and the 2005 National Square Dance Convention, to distribute wherever we dance and visit! We will be returning earlier this year, from our trip South; in order to attend and help at the Oregon Pre-Convention in Portland the middle of March--and we hope to see all of you there.

In conclusion; today-January 25 is Raymond Birthday. Four out of Five years he celebrates it here at Mid-Winter Festival, with our many dancing friends--what a great party, huh!

So--until we see all of you again, in March. Safe travels, and Happy Highways - - -

Don & Karel Morris

We're in Arizona and it is hard to keep track of the dates!

We're sorry to miss the Midwinter Festival, to see and hug all our friends. However, we are in Arizona basking in the sunshine. Our ultimate destination is Yuma and we plan to reach there February 1 and stay a couple of months. We should be there for the Yuma Square Dance Festival.

Benjamin Brown (Absent)

No report

Al & Fran Westphal

I had halfway written this report a couple of weeks ago. I was going to tell you about our nice time attending Tucson Festival last weekend and how pleased we were to be able to visit with George and Bernice Gruchalla in Mesa on our way back to Yuma. Unfortunately, none of that happened. Friday evening we received the dreaded phone call from Ocean Park, Washington. The caregiver had reached the end of her patience in trying to deal with Al's 95-year old sister, Violet. He had to fly to Portland and then drive on to Nahcotta, WA to place his sister in a care facility. He is hoping to be back in Yuma soon, after dealing with a lot of financial and other matters. Better news. We were pleased last week to see Benjamin Brown and meet his wife, Emily. They stopped by for a brief visit on their way to Quartzsite. Hopefully, they will return to Yuma for more of a visit. We attended a dance in Quartzsite recently, where Ken Bower called. Our mission was to show support and encourage those dancers to attend Yuma Festival Feb. 13, 14, and 15. Ken will be one of the featured callers. For those who are traveling to Yuma from Mid-Winter Festival, please travel safely. We will be looking forward to dancing and visiting with you. Love to all

Harold & Barbara Kleve

We are staying pretty close to home due to the lesson at our club & 2004 National Convention. We will be traveling later on this year.

GOOD OF THE ORDER

Sandi Eddings - The square dance license plates that everyone has, we can keep and you will just continue to renew them. You can also move them from car to car.

Bill Cook - Thanked everyone for the great honor of being the Randall Award recipient.

Beverly Hills-Wood - 2005 Mid-Winter ribbons will be lower.

Kathy Roberts - Danger Zone Wonder (teen dance) sponsored by the TVC, PAC and Central Oregon. Will be held on May 8th from 1-4 in LaPine at Dance Fever.

Dennis Marsh - I have State directories if anyone would like them.

ADJOURN: Meeting was adjourned


Respectfully Submitted,
Jodene Hughes
Recording Secretary