Senator Caswell offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 154.

A resolution commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Abbott’s Magic Get Together.

Whereas, Since 1934, the village of Colon in St. Joseph County, Michigan, known as the Magic Capital of the World, has played host to the world-famous Abbott’s Magic Get Together, which draws magicians, magic enthusiasts, and interested spectators together from around the globe to this southwestern Michigan town; and

Whereas, The people of Colon will welcome visitors from far and wide to their community to celebrate the 75th Abbott’s Magic Get Together during the annual Colon Magic Festival this summer. Except for four occasions when the event was cancelled, the Magic Get Together has continued every year for more than seven and a half decades, culminating in this year’s 75th celebration; and

Whereas, Colon has long held the title of the Magic Capital of the World because of the colorful magicians and innovators in the magic business who helped found the burgeoning magic industry here many decades ago. Famous individuals in the magic industry, like Harry Blackstone, Percy Abbott, Recil Bordner, and Monk Watson, coalesced around Colon to found the magic institutions that remain there to this day; and

Whereas, Despite the ever-changing state and national economy, the magic supply industry has grown throughout the years, and it remains alive and strong in Colon. Not even World War II could stifle the magic industry in Colon, as the United States government during the war years deemed it a vital industry for supplying the entertainers who served the troops and providing materials for soldiers’ recreation. Today, Abbott’s Magic Company and The FAB Magic Company still call Colon their home; and

Whereas, The fun, excitement, and mystery of illusions being performed on stage transcends generations, technological changes, and societal differences to bring people of every age and all walks of life together to enjoy the skills and showmanship of magicians. Each summer, the annual Abbott’s Magic Get Together and Colon Magic Festival continue this tradition; now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate, That we join with the people of the village of Colon, St. Joseph County, and all of Michigan in celebrating and commemorating the 75th Abbott’s Magic Get Together; and be it further

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the village of Colon, Abbott’s Magic Company, and The FAB Magic Company.

Over twenty magic dealers came with carload and in some cases, truckload of magic all for sale at super rates. The vast majority of the magic was used but there were several new effects available for sale amongst the dealers. The furthest dealer that I spoke to came from St Louis, driving up the night before and leaving back for home after the Flea Market.

Below are a handful of snapshots of some of the days activities

In April a delegation of prominent American magicians visited North Korea, the first group of U.S. performers invited to that country since the New York Philharmonic performed in Pyongyang, the capital, in January, 2008

Led by Dale Salwak of Southern California, the delegation included Rich Bloch of Washington, D.C., Danny Cole of Southern California, and their assistants Ryan Salwak and Stacey Cole. The group departed from Beijing and arrived in Pyongyang the same day for performances in North Korea’s capital over the following week.

The groundwork for this visit was laid by Salwak during two previous visits to North Korea: In 2009 when he was the only American magician to perform at the national birthday celebration for the country’s revered founder, Kim il-Sung, and in 2011 when he was invited to view and meet North Korea’s lead magicians in their spectacular “Grand Magic” show in the 150,000 seat Rungrado May Day Stadium.

Dale Salwak will be performing at the upcoming Get Together August 1-4, 2012

American delegation prior to the opening ceremonies in North Korea (From Left): Rich Bloch, Danny Cole, Stacey Cole, Jae Hwe Ku, Ryan Salwak, Dale Salwak.

North Korea’s lead magician, Kim Taek Song (center) after discussing a future cultural exchange with (From Left): Yuji Yasuda, Jae Hwe Ku, Dale Salwak, Ryan Salwak.

FIRE BARN

Regular meeting April 11, 2012

Meeting was called to order at 7:07 PM by Chairman Smigla.

Pledge of Allegiance recited.

BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:  Chairman Dan Smigla, Jim Bidwell, Sandi Jackson, Mervel Delp and Marilyn McManus

GUESTS PRESENT:  Fire Chief Tim Doenges, Jodi Gross, Matt Overholt, Keith Bower, Todd Wadsworth, Dave Webb, Tom Talbot, Joe Rollin and Ken Garnaat.

AGENDA:  Approved as amended without objection to include organizational appointments under NEW BUSINESS.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING:  Minutes of regular meeting March 14, 2012 approved as presented.

Ken Garnaat representative for VFIS insurance group summarized insurance coverage for property & casualty, accident and sickness.  There would be only a slight increase ($11,927 annually) for property and casualty coverage.  Premium for accident and sickness ($4,162.33 annually) coverage would remain the same.

FINANCIAL REPORT:  Financial report given by Jackaon was accepted without objection.  Balances:  Checking account:  $37,296.81

Savings account:     34,048.17 (Large equip fund)

Savings account:     34,055.92 (Bldg sink fund)

FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS:                                                                                                   A. FIRE CHIEF:                                                                                                                                          Doenges reported the siren onDecker Roadneeds repair due to a power surge.  Webb will replace part needed (which he obtained at no cost) and was further authorized to purchase fire proof box for new part at a cost of $250 by motion of McManus, second by Delp.  Consumers power should be contacted as Doenges seems to think there have been several power surges in the past month.  Crack seal on the fire barn driveway has been completed and cost was under estimate at $614.41. Surface of pea stone will be applied later.  Insurance set aside for clean up of fire damaged property was discussed.  Doenges and Smigla will further check prices for replacement of water tanker truck.

2. ASSISTANT      FIRE CHIEF/TRAINING CAPTAIN:  Webb      reported dry hydrants were flushed and are operational.  Search and rescue training will be held      May 14th at the Smolarz property.       Tarp has been received.       Personnel will assemble and install this weekend.  Air compressor fixed.  The 916 is leaking air pressure.  Department is compiling list of all businesses      in the Township and Village.       Village Chief of Police Mark Brinkert has given them a list of      Village’s businesses.  Doenges and      Jackson will meet to compile list for the Township businesses. The swisher      has been sold for $500.00.  Webb and      Norton are planning events for firemen for the 4^th of      July.  Permission for use of the      park onSouth Swan Street      will be requested from the Village Council for the sight of the      events.
3. RESCUE      CAPTAIN:  Jodi Gross will hold      trauma class this month.
4. EQUIPMENT      CAPTAIN:  Overholt reported when the      Jaws of Life were tested problems with corrosion in the hose were      detected.  A new hose has been      ordered at a cost of $600.  A hose      has been borrowed from the Sturgis Fire Department until the new one is      received.  Ladder testing will be      done Friday at 8AM at the fire barn.

OLD BUSINESS: Interviews for officer positions were held after the April meeting.  A motion by Jackson second by Delp was made to appoint the following to the open officer positions:  Jodi Gross – Rescue Captain. Tom Talbot – Training Captain to take effect June 4, 2012 the date of his 5^th year with the Department.  Equipment Captain – Matt Overholt.  Assistant Equipment Captain – Keith Bower, a new position created for a trial period of 1 year.  All accepted their appointments.

NEW BUSINESS: Fire Board Officers were appointed by Chairman Smigla.  Chairman – Smigla,  Vice Chairman – Jim Bidwell,  Treasurer – Sandi Jackson, and  Recording Secretary – Marilyn McManus.  All accepted.  2012 – 2013 Regular meeting dates for the Colon Community Fire and Rescue Board were set for the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM at the fire barn.  By motion of Bidwell and second by Delp the bookkeeper was authorized to pay recurring bills electronically.  Rental of the fire barn was discussed.  Consensus was due to emergency type situations at the building it would not be advisable.

Meeting adjourned 8:27 PM by motion of Bidwell second by McManus.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilyn McManus

Recording Secretary

REGUAL MEETING                                                                                           TUESDAY 3-13-12 @ 7:00PM

Meeting called to order @ 7:00pm by President Pro-Tem Percival and the Pledge of Allegiance recited

Present: Bell, Delp, Kuhlmann, Percival, Craun

Absent notice given: Whitford, McManus

Also Present: Baker Brinkert, Schultz, Weinberg

Consent Agenda: Approval of agenda, approval of minutes from budget workshop and regular meeting of 2-14-12, financial report and bills to pay in the amount of $142,109.91 Delp/Bell, unanimous consent

Public Comments: Guests

1. David Mc Keith and Julie Bontrager, integrated teaching and learning project-tall sales- David McKeith speaks to council about combining outside resources to classroom work.  Request made to hang banners done by students, by dam spillway fence and place beach balls in spillway. Permission given after Weinberg has a chance to look this over for safety measures Delp/Craun this is to take place May 11^th with alternate rain date May 18^th.

Public hearing on the proposed 2012-2013 budget: Budget approved, as submitted by office manager Baker. Craun/Kuhlmann, unanimous consent

Monthly Reports:

DPW Report: Problems occurred with batch of sending units on the water meters, Master meter came and corrected problem. Kubota with broom, snow blower, mowing deck and blade to be purchased at the cost of $32,000.00.  Total cost with trade in $27,000.00. This is in DPW budget. Craun/Delp

Police Report:  Approval of part time Patrol Officer-Council approves the hiring of part time officer Alex Wright.  Starting salary is $10.50 per hour with no other benefits and a years’ probation.  Craun/Kuhlmann  Brinket reports that the Police Department was $20,000.00 under budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.

Fireboard Report: No new minutes at this time

Lake Board Report: Next meeting 4-14-12, fire barn @ 10:00am

Planning Commission: Master Plan Proposal bids-Tenney reports that he is working with several companies to get proposal bids (our input with their help) and will submit them at the April meeting. Tenney and Osthoff working with Attorney Tomlinson on sign ordinance.

Colon Community Park Board: Build Play Ground April 27 & 28 Pre-meeting is scheduled for April 17^th (time not yet available)  a request was made to St. Joe County Road Commission to use some of their equipment, for this project.  Ron Cerney has offered his equipment, if use of the St Joe County Road Commission equipment is not available. For information purpose—high school wrestling coach has asked permission to use the barn on the Colon community park premises this summer.

DDA Committee Report: River Country Tourism Booklet was a huge success with a profit of $700.00.  Façade grant revisited, expected to move forward and will have more information in June. Working on cookbook and banner projects and also exploring other objectives to help beautify and promote Colon.

Safe ways to school: Kirby working with safe ways to school on survey

Insurance Committee Report:  Craun gave report-stay with current carrier

Other Committee Reports: Percival handed out minutes for the March 5^th EDC meeting. Percival expressed her excitement in the fact that the EDC and Southwest Michigan First are joining together in partnership. 

Unfinished Business: None

New Business:

Michigan Recreational Passport Program:  Another parks grant was brought to the council’s attention.   After council discussed the time frame, it was decided to hold off on this for now.  Correct decisions need to be made and proper paper work needs to be done. Council feels first grant needs to be implemented first.  Council asks park committee to work on grants for next year.

Wages for employees: 2% as quoted in budget   Craun/Delp unanimous consent

Clerk/Treasurer job description and new base: New base to be set at $2100.00   Bell/Delp unanimous consent

Estimated mills for ambulance and fire: Based on last year’s SEV Kuhlmann/Craun

Sewer resolution 12-03 and water resolution 12-03a-  (1)A resolution to increase the sewer rates to meet the revenue required for the system was offered by Craun and seconded by Kuhlmann with 5 yeas: Bell, Delp, Kuhlmann, Percival, Craun—0 Nays and 2 absent: McManus and Whitford (2)A resolution to increase water rates to meet the revenue required for the system was offered by Kuhlmann and seconded by Bell with 5 yeas: Bell, Delp, Kuhlmann, Percival, Craun—0 Nays and 2 absent: McManus and Whitford

2012-2013 general appropriations Act: Approved Bell/Craun

Public Comments:-General–None

Correspondence: None

Adjournment @ 7:55 Delp/Craun

Unless otherwise stated all motions passed

Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy Schultz

Clerk/Treasurer

Minutes of March 15, 2012

Meeting called to order at 12:05 by President Edith Doenges.
Members present: Edith Doenges, Nancy Percival, Julie Baker, Kathy Coats, Karin Malesh, Linda Musall
Absent: Greg Bordner & Mary Beth Bower

Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Motion to accept Feb. minutes: NP, 2nd JB, passed
Motion to accept Feb. treasurers report: NP, 2nd LM, passed.

Old Business:
Dick Meyers was notified of his election as Citizen of the Year. He was excited, but felt there were other worthy people too.
Garden Club was notified of their election as Service Club of the Year. Big plans underway for the year!
Face Book page is doing well, have double digit “likes”. Be sure to check it out!
Brochure rack is up & running…Edie is donating some styrofoam for the bottom, so it is not so deep. We are looking for clear plastic business card holders to attach to it.

We discussed our MISSION STATEMENT. Right now we are tweaking. Here is what we have: TO ENHANCE THE OVERALL BUSINESS CLIMATE WHILE SERVING OUR MEMBERS AND PROMOTING TOURISM. Any ideas are welcome.

Motion to begin the quarterly meetings for all members at the Colon Township Library on Thursday May 17 at 7:00 AM by JB 2nd NP. Discussion included ideas for topics and networking of the local businesses. David Grim, of EnGedi Campground thought it would be a good idea. We will call it The EYE OPENER CHAMBER MEETING, it will include a continental breakfast, one half hour to mingle, a short presentation about marketing by Kathy Coates or Karin Malesh (5 – 10 min) then another short presentation about a local topic & how it can affect each business. Patti Miller has volunteered to do a short program about using the library resources and e-business forms. However the first meeting will deal with the 4th of July & Magic Week celebrations, and how they can positively impact your businesses. Tables will be available to display brochures or other information about local businesses, so RSVP will be needed to have enough room. We are hoping the DDA will also give an update. We may also have a 50/50 drawing, and door prizes. The Chamber feels this type of program would be a great asset to the local business community, and a forum for new ideas. We would love to hear any feedback on this plan. Please email Julie at the Village office (colonvillage@hotmail.com), Linda at (lmusall@msn.com), Karin at (karinmalesh@pprmi.com) or Kathy at (kcoats8080@yahoo.com). Let’s work together to strenghten Colon!! This motion was approved wholeheartedly!

Motion to adjourn at 1:10 by NP, 2nd JB, passed

Minutes of March 27, 2012   7:00pm                     Accepted______________________

Public Hearing called to order.

Pledge of Allegiance

Roll call – Zimmerman, Miller, McKelvey, Smigla, Jackson

Presentation of the 2012/2013 General Appropriations Act.

Presentation of the Budget Amendments.

There were no questions concerning the appropriations or the amendments.

Public Hearing adjourned at 7:08 p.m.

Regular Meeting called to order at 7:09 PM

Roll Call:  Present: Jackson, McKelvey, Smigla, Zimmerman, Miller

Without objection the agenda was approved.

Without objection the minutes of the regular meeting of 2-21-12 and the special meetings of 2-23-12, 3-15-12 and 3-21-12 were approved

Without objection the bills were approved in the amount of $71,036.37.

Zoning Report – Glen Lindsey

Lindsey is working on 3 ordinance violations.

Attorney Report – Lance Thornton

Working with the planning commission on ordinances.

Asked the board for any questions on the three legal opinions he had send to us.

Fireboard Report was given by Dan Smigla.

Old business:  Zimmerman made a motion to accept the amended budget for 2011-2012, Smigla second.  Roll call vote – all ayes.

New  business: Miller made a motion to accept the General Appropriations Act 2012-2013, second by Zimmerman,  Roll call vote – all ayes.

Public comment:

1. Edith      Doenges
2. Brandy Root
3. Wayne Held

Brandy Root was in attendance to get information concerning a violation she had been issued.  The board voted to give her a 60 day extension to contact the planning commission or find a suitable place to board her horse.

Motion to adjourn at 7:48 p.m..

Respectfully submitted,

Sandi Jackson, Clerk

3-15-12

Called to Order at 10:00 a.m.

Roll Call:

Present- Jackson, Miller, Zimmerman, Smigla, McKelvey

Absent- none

Discussion was held concerning the Pontem Software for the cemetery.  McKelvey is to do some further research.

Discussion of the cemetery revenues and expenditures and zoning revenues and expenditures was held.

There is to be no extra time on any time cards.

Motion was made to increase the cemetery truck expense from $1500 to $1600–4 ayes and 1 nay.

Our public hearing for the budget will be held at 7:00 p.m. on March 27, 2012.

Our next meeting to finalize the budget and amendments will be 3-21-12.

Motion to adjourn by Smigla, second by Zimmerman.  Meeting adjourned at 12:01 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Sandi Jackson, Clerk

Special Colon Township Board Budget Meeting

3-21-12

Called to Order at 10:07 a.m.

Roll Call:

Present- Jackson, Miller, Zimmerman, Smigla, McKelvey

Absent- none

Discussion was held concerning the Pontem Software for the cemetery.

Discussed and finalized the budget amendments for 2011/2012.

Under the new budget the clerk and deputy clerks salary was discussed.

Discussion was held concerning the Park and Beach budget.  It was decided to increase the budget to do some improvements to the beach.

Discussed and finalized the budget for 2012/2013.

Motion to adjourn by Smigla, second by Miller.  Meeting adjourned at 11:59 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Sandi Jackson, Clerk

Colon Village Hall                                                                               March 7, 2012

Present: Chairman Rick Fisher, Vise Chair Rick Farrand, Tadd Davis, Linda Tomlinson & Director Julie Baker

Absent: Sec/Treas Pam Gilbert, Mary Beth Bower, Kevin Edson, & Tom Whitford

Meeting called to order by Chairman Fisher

Motion for Director Baker to take minutes, Tomlinson/Farrand, approved

Motion to wait to approve 2/1/12 minutes when available at the next meeting, Farrand/Tomlinson, approved

Motion to approve financial report provided by Director Baker: Davis/Farrand, approved

Old Business:

Director Baker reported on the Visitors Guide final approved. The DDA received $325 from the Colon Chamber for helping with ads for their page.

Board members will be checking with the following for replacing the open position on the board. Anyone interested will submit a letter of interest to the DDA Board.

• Fisher will contact Tammy Johnson, Ted Schipper and Mary Fox
• Farrand will contact Terry Decker and anyone else at Hemel’s who might be interested.
• Davis will contact Mrs. Schumaker.

Cook Book email from Gilbert, asking for more involvement from members on getting recipe forms out to the public. Baker has received one form to enter and will be typing from old books provide by Fisher.

Banner Project – Fisher handed out forms for business sponsorship. A minimum of 20 banners is needed to get the $175 per banner cost. The banners could have more than one sponsor, so the price could be lower for them. Members made a list of which businesses/service clubs to contact about sponsorship.

Motion was made to put out cans to raise money for the DDA Banner Project. Tomlinson/Farrand, approved.

Motion was made to have Fisher contact the company in Kalamazoo for a possible graphic mock up for the forms and cans so there could be a better picture of the banners. Davis/Farrand, approved.

Motion was made to have a special meeting on March 21, 2012, noon at the Village Hall, for making the banner cans and work on the Cook Book. Tomlinson/Farrand, approved

New Business:

Davis reported that The State of Michigan will be re-opening The Façade Grant in July 2012. The process will state up right where it was stopped. Of the three businesses that were applying before only two have verified that they will be continuing at this time. We are waiting to hear from the third.

Motion to Adjournment Tomlinson/Farrand, approved 12:54 pm

Respectfully Submitted

Julie Baker Colon DDA Director