Downtown Lakeland Partnership, Inc.

Marketing Meeting Minutes - Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Mid-Florida Community Room, 7^th Floor

In Attendance: Kevin Jones, Ellen Simms, Lori Powell, Julie Townsend, Amy Wiggins, Gloria Brooke,

The meeting was called to order at 8:10AM. Minutes were read and minor changes were made.

Events: Julie reviewed the next two First Friday themes, Back to the 80’s in March and Bicycle Night in April. Since we have been utilizing more “free” or less expensive entertainment, we are under budget for these events. Julie will be on Max 93 Friday, March 7 to promote FF. The Historic Walking Tour is February 21. 25 slots are available and the group will meet at the entrance to Munn Park at 9:00AM.

Spring Obsession is March 14 in Munn Park. This event has raised funds for various projects including the archway in Munn Park, the new Common Ground Park and other notable garden and art projects.

Julie reviewed various advertising & PR programs:

Newsletter – The new newsletter is published and in shops and other points of distribution around Lakeland. Julie pointed out how much people enjoy receiving their copies in the mail.

Website – The website continues to undergo its transformation to a more user friendly website for both members and visitors. Again, Amy Wiggins with the Lakeland Chamber offered several ideas for consideration. Julie is meeting with the website designer on February 12 to review changes made so far.

Goodie Bags – Stuffers are needed for the next wave of bags.

Email Database – Update currently underway.

Facebook – Julie reported that we have 52 followers at this time.

Twitter – It is working, although Julie receives numerous inane messages.

The Branding project that the LDDA is currently in the midst of is not panning out as well as expected. Kiko Obata has not brought anything to the table that knocks anyone’s socks off and the “Rich Traditions. Artful Energy.” tagline is rather stale. Conversation followed regarding a new logo contest and other ideas that would bring a fresh perspective to the branding efforts. The phrase “Little Mecca of Cool” was discussed at length and everyone agreed that it was much catchier and easy to remember than what we have been presented with.

Membership – We have 150 members so far.

With no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 9:08.

Respectfully submitted,

Lori Powell

Secretary