Update on 2011 COR Marketing Efforts and Consider Game Fair Financial Participation

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

The 2011 HRA budget for Marketing anticipated the completion of several significant marketing projects and the development of various marketing materials for The COR at Ramsey.  The majority of that work has been completed, to inlcude:
 
•Marketing collateral system and development of marketing package
•New COR at Ramsey website
•Graphic design for marketing package and website
•New display materials for ICSC Conference, Game Fair, and other public and real estate/development events
•COR marketing items, including COR bags, golf tees, mugs, shirts, pens, pins, and other items used to promote The COR at various events
• Professional services for public relations/communications
 
The bulk of the funding for marketing efforts on 2011 was expended during the first and second quarters of the year to ensure that materials were available for the ICSC conference in the spring as well as the numerous other events attended throughout the summer and fall months.  Also attached to this report is the Marketing and Communications Plan that the Develooment Management Team has been tracking with regard to communications and marketing efforts.  Staff will review the plan and would like feedback with regard to the efforts to date. 


GAME FAIR
 
Since 1982 Game Fair has been Minnesota's finest outdoor hunting show.  This sport and outdoor show is held on 80 acres of woodlands and water (Lake Eddy).  The hosts and organizers for the past 30 years are Chuck and Loral Delaney.  Thousands of visitors come to to the community as a result of this event that is patterned after European Fall Festivals.  2011 Game Fair has everything people need for the outdoors. This year’s show will feature many of the favorites from years' past (inc. concessions) as well as many new exhibits, renovated grounds and new dog events.  Visitors can see, try and buy the latest in hunting equipment and to learn from a variety of expert sportsmen and sportswomen.   Special exhibits include everything from duck boats, archery, decoys, art, dogs, dog accessories, taxidermy to all the latest in hunting equipment for the outdoor enthusiast.  Fair-goers are encouraged to bring their dogs (leashed) and their guns or bows (cased) so they can participate in the numerous activities in this outdoor setting.  Activities for children of all ages include: slingshots, air rifles, archery and darts. 

The 2011 Game Fair will be held on August 12, 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21.  With the number of attendees and vehicles, this special event does require security.  The Ramsey PD does provide these services during both weeks.  Last year the total cost to provide security was $9,417.00, with the HRA, the EDA, and the Delaneys each paying one-third of the cost.  Staff proposes to split the cost of security of this large event in a similar manner as last year.  Staff proposes paying up to $3,500 from the HRA to provide security at the 2011 Game Fair in Ramsey. 

Staff recommends providing feedback regarding the on-going marketing and communications efforts for The COR at Ramsey and approving participation in this year's Game Fair security costs.

HRA Fund (combination of funds  - marketing, travel, and professional services).

HRA Action:  Approve paying for one third of the total security costs for the 2011 Game Fair located in the City of Ramsey, up to a maximum of $3,500.00.