Historic Baker City Inc.,

A Whole Lotta Shakin Goin On

2011-03-15T15:33:00.000-07:00

March and April downtown renovations and relocations certainly give an excitement to the air. It’s spring! Tony and Cheryl Herman are completely renovating their building at 1911 Main Street in preparation for a new retail business. Also, HBC's Destination Downtown Façade Improvement program is underway, offering qualifying business and property owners matching grants for facade improvement projects. Projects for Round I 2011 are awning replacements, facade paint and maronry repointing, and storefront renovation. This round of HBC’s Destination Downtown is generously funded by Leo Adler Community Fund. Leo Adler is also helping HBC buy six downtown trash receptacles to match the existing receptacles.

Cody’s General Store is moving to 1828 Main Street (formerly Dragonfly Resale Shop) and will be open for business the 1st of April. Owned by Jody Jefferies and Christy Vega, Cody’s is a wonderful collection of American country/primitive/folk goodies for sale; open Mon-Fri (10:00 – 6:00), Sat. (9:00 – 4:00).

Delicioso Mexican Restaurant, now at 2820 Broadway, is moving to 1910 Main Street (formerly The Fillin’Station). The Ortiz Family hopes to be moved in by the end of April. Welcome!

Keep It Local, Keep It Clean

2011-02-10T09:35:00.001-08:00

Yesterday’s Promotions/Round Table meeting was well attended and lively. Two important topics emerged as uppermost on everyone’s mind: 1) continuing the shop local campaign (I’ve included an article I wrote last year regarding the economic benefits of supporting local merchants) and, 2) making sure downtown looks its very best. These are two things we can do to help our cause; remind residents to support their local merchants, and look as attractive and appealing as possible to tourists and visitors.
This time of year debris from plows, shovels, and wind collects where trapped and scatters where not. We are all busy scurrying to the warmth of cars and businesses and tend not to notice our surroundings. But take a look sometime at our front yard so to speak. Cigarette butts litter the sidewalks, trash is not picked up, empty buildings look especially forlorn and neglected, awnings have suffered through the winter, and windows are dirty. This is what the visitor sees.
We are blessed to have one of the most unique historic downtowns in all of Oregon, if not the Northwest. Our buildings and commercial district, as well as our history, are priceless. Truly, downtown is our goose laying the golden egg. Heritage tourism and marketing efforts are aimed at bringing visitors here. Are we doing all that we can to keep them here or invite them back?
We are all responsible for the condition of downtown. No amount of grant writing for awning replacement or façade improvements will mitigate the effects of a neglected or unkempt district. Downtown has its share of absentee property owners who often fail to look after their sidewalks or buildings. Perhaps in the interest of keeping downtown attractive we can adopt areas not being cared for. Fifteen minutes of sweeping and trash pick-up can do wonders. Empty storefronts don’t have to be completely empty. Art, historic photos, seasonal decoration, whimsical settings, and even advertising for other businesses can fill the storefronts, making it an interesting excursion for pedestrians and helping with the morale of residents and existing businesses.
--Ann Mehaffy, Program Director

SHOP LOCAL CAMPAIGNS

In cities, towns and villages across the nation, there is an effective and growing Shop Local /Local First movement to support local economies by localizing consumer spending. This movement recognizes that self-reliance of a community and local ownership of businesses are critical requirements for a sustainable and prosperous economy. This Shop Local movement does not require or demand that we never go outside our community for consumer goods; it only asks that we first look locally and make conscious decisions to support our community businesses. It makes sense to start at home where our spending will have a great impact on our community:
●Locally owned businesses maintain the local character and diversity of our community. Our one-of-a-kind stores are an integral part of our distinct and unique character, adding to our sense of community and appealing to out-of-town visitors and investors.
●Dollars spent at locally owned businesses have three times the impact on the community as dollars spent at national chains.
●Local ownership means important decisions are made locally; by people who live in our community and who are invested in our community’s future.
●Local charitable and non-profit organizations receive an average of three and one half times more support from local business owners than from non-locally owned businesses.
●Entrepreneurship fuels America’s economic innovation and prosperity.
●Customer service is better; small business owners consistently rate customer service as their top priority and best marketing tool.
●Local businesses create good jobs; small businesses are the largest employer nationally.
●Local businesses can make more local purchases, supporting local agriculture, producers, and other local businesses.
Interested? Try reading Michael H. Shuman’s The Small-Mart Revolution. “It’s not about stopping anything. It’s about starting something—vibrant local economies that will make our cities and towns the places we very much want them to be.” (Bill McKibben, in Foreward to M. Shuman’s book). --Ann Mehaffy, Program Director

THE ECONOMY: EMPLOYING THE CARPE DIEM FACTOR

Carpe diem, Latin for ‘seize or make use of the day’, is not a phrase just for optimists. While we cannot control the recession and the subprime rate fall-out, we can do plenty to set the tone and pace for our local economy, our business atmosphere, and our sense of community. Focusing on the positive, partnering where ever possible, doubling customer service efforts, and diversifying services and products will help in many ways to improve the local economy while offering the comfort of hometown shopping. Some strategies for seizing the day during this economic downturn:
1. Take this opportunity to develop customer loyalty with exceptional customer services, perks, benefits, loyalty cards, and special sales.
2. Improve marketing and promotional strategies; many businesses will over-cut their advertising budgets. Fill in the gap with your business and gain a greater market share.
3. Be positive with your customers. People come to your store to shop or buy a needed service, not to hear how bad it is.
4. Diversify your goods and/or services to increase your customer base and maximize dollar gain. Investors least affected by the Dow’s decline have diversified portfolios in many different industry segments. Diversification in retail can capture additional and new customers.
5. Target local marketing efforts to reinforce your business image; work with other retailers to create special sales events, collective marketing, and Shop Local campaigns. Be creative; rethink your business.
6. Improve your looks! Pay special attention to window dressing, front door and store appearances, inventory circulation, in store promotional events, and an upbeat attitude. Many shoppers are looking for an experience as well as goods or services. Make your store as inviting as possible. An inviting store will encourage more customers to come in to have a look. That’s half to battle right there.
7. Broaden and deepen community relationships, partnerships, alliances, and cooperative endeavors. This is the time to circle the wagons, so to speak, to become better neighbors and more self-reliant as a community.
8. Beef up your small business tool box by improving your financial management and marketing skills; a vast amount of information and resources for small business is available and free on the internet. HBC is also a great small business resource; as a National Trust Network member, HBC has access to the Main Street Solutions Center, a database library of relevant information, ideas, and strategies for downtown businesses.
9. Remain positive; a positive attitude can make all the difference with your customers, sales, employees, and community.
10. Finally, carpe diem!

--Ann Mehaffy, Program Director

Downtown Baker City This Weekend

2010-12-17T08:09:00.000-08:00

Friday, December 17, 2010

SLEIGH RIDE & BONFIRE
Geiser Grand Hotel, 1996 Main Street
Tour Historic Baker City from a Horse drawn Sleigh. Stop off at a historic house on the Powder River for a festive Bonfire. Enjoy S’mores, Hot Spiced Cider and more; sing along with old time cowboy tunes. $24, Kids under 12 $12; kids under 6 no charge. All proceeds to Historic Baker City, Inc. Sleigh departs Geiser Grand at 7 and 8pm Advance reservations please. 541-523-1889

THIRD LITERARY NIGHT
Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, 2020 Auburn
Susan Townsend’s mother Lucille Nellis is traveling from Dillon, Montana to share with us her lovely new book Magic Summer of Bluebirds. It’s a charming and informative story set right here in Baker City and is beautifully illustrated by Tom Novak. The book will be viewed on the large screen at Crossroads and Lucille and Tom will both speak about the book-- its inspiration, process, etc. The evening will begin at 7 pm and as usual there will be beverages and refreshments, so come early to socialize and get a good seat. 7:00-9:00pm

Saturday, December 18, 2010

BOOK SIGNING
Short Term Gallery, 1829 Main Street
Susan Townsend’s mother Lucille Nellis is traveling from Dillon, Montana to share with us her lovely new book Magic Summer of Bluebirds. It’s a charming and informative story set right here in Baker City and is beautifully illustrated by Tom Novak. 10 am – 3:00 pm

VICTORIAN TEA
Geiser Grand Hotel, 1996 Main Street
The Victorians would have called it a High Tea; at the Geiser we call it a delicious lunch. Inspired by actual historic menus, enjoy an elegant experience with white linen and silver service at a table next to the tall Christmas Tree under the stained glass ceiling. The day begins at 2pm, followed by a Historic Tour at 3:30 Princess Tea (age 14+under) $12. Adults $24 per person Advance tickets required.

FIRST FRIDAY DEC. 3rd

2010-11-30T12:45:00.000-08:00

Baker City Downtown : First Friday
(Consult specific galleries/establishments for times)

Baker Towers, 1705 Main Street, Suite 100
Holiday Gift Shoppe: Gifts by Ann Bryan, Alyssa Henry, Jennefer Kelley, Dana Marlia, and Michelle Simonski. 5:00 – 8:00. Also Sat., Dec. 4th, 10:00–4:00 & Sun. Dec. 5th, 12:00 – 4:00

Clark & Company Home, 1924 Broadway
Threadbenders 4th Annual Two Day Show and Sale: A Celebration of Fiber Arts - demonstration of weaving and spinning and a Navajo rug raffle. Dec. 3rd, 5:00 – 8:00 pm; Saturday, Dec. 4th, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, 2020 Auburn
Crossroad’s Annual Regional Open Christmas Show, continuing through the end of December. The show will feature five art, quality crafts, tree ornaments and original handmade items specific to the holiday gift-giving season (such as wreathes and toys). This year’s theme is The Twelve Days of Christmas. A People’s choice award will be given for the work of art best representing the theme.. Opening reception 5:00. Refreshments served.

Earth & Vine, Corner of 1st and Washington
E&V will be featuring the Batik Convergence Group out of La Grande. This includes Sue Orlaske, Denise Stone, Jan Clark, and Linda Peterson. Music will be by Larry Robb and Jerry Smith.

Geiser Grand Hotel & Gift Shop, 1996 Main Street
Meet the Artist: Linda Smith, crafter extraordinaire, will showcase her work at this First Friday event. Linda raises sheep on a Century Ranch in Haines, which makes her sheepskin creations that much more special! Stop in 6-8pm. Commissions accepted on this special night.

Also, First Friday (and every Friday night throughout winter): See Historic Baker City’s beautiful homes, decorated for Christmas from a horse drawn sleigh. Stop off at a historic house on the Powder River for a festive bonfire. Enjoy S’mores, Hot Spiced Cider and more; sing along with Christmas Carols. $24, Kids under 12 $12; kids under 6 no charge. Sleigh departs 7 and 8pm at the Geiser Grand Hotel; advance reservations please.

Short Term Gallery, 1829 Main Street
Opening reception for featured artist Linda Callaway - drawings on bone.
Live music and a wonderful assortment of snacks with wine and warm cider.

O Christmas Tree

2010-11-20T15:34:00.000-08:00

The downtown Christmas Tree we have every year is truly a “green” tree in every sense of the word. After 30 or 40 years in service to the local property owners, it is “volunteered” (donated) for the community Christmas Tree. Bringing the tree downtown is a volunteer event: Oregon Trail Electric Co-op donates lift trucks and equipment, OTEC linemen and employees donate their Saturday morning and expertise, and Chuck Carey, master wood faller, volunteers to cut the tree down. The tree is then carefully cradled unto Don Glerup’s log truck. Don gingerly drives the massive shuddering tree downtown to its spot on Court Avenue. Then the process is reversed: as the tree is suspended in the air with cables, Chuck whittles the tree’s base to fit precisely into the vertical culvert imbedded in the street. A week later, crews from Baker City help decorate the tree. The lights are not turned on until the Twilight Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony. For several years now school children have hung peanut-butter-packed pinecones on the tree for the birds; many times I’ve walked by to hear the tree come alive with bird chatter!
After the holidays the tree is taken down by City crews and hauled to the Powder River Correctional Facility; there it is cut into firewood for the needy. Can you ask for a harder working tree, serving so many people, and helped by so many volunteers?

DOWNTOWN TRICK OR TREAT

2010-10-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

Friday, Oct. 29th 4:00 – 6:00 pm
PREPARE FOR A GHOULISH INVASION DOWNTOWN
Historic Baker City’s Downtown Trick-or-Treat promises to bring smiles to the faces of a few thousand assorted ghosts, goblins, witches, superheroes and fairy princesses all in search of treats handed out by downtown businesses for Halloween.

Main Street will be closed from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. So boys & Ghouls – grab your mummies & daddies and head for downtown Baker City

First Friday Art Walk Aug. 6th

2010-08-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, 2020 Auburn
Opening reception for Jan Clark, mixed media collages and batik watercolors, and Marian Perdas, fused glass. Refreshments will be served. Live music by Gene Nelson and Debbie Friedman. Crossroads is open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Earth & Vine, Corner of 1st and Washington
Gallery show for the month of August. Live music by Ed Merriman.

Geiser Grand Hotel & Gift Shop, 1996 Main Street
First Friday festivities extended into the weekend with a 60’s Oldies party Saturday, August 7th, 7- 10 pm. Live music by Ed Merriman; he’ll have you rockin’ out to old favorites. Get your groove on ! Costume Contest, so get out those bellbottoms and tie-dye shirts.

Food & beverage service available. Fun for all ages, no charge!
The Geiser Grand Gift Shop features local artisans, and is open daily year round from 7am to 9pm. Complimentary shipping makes it easy to send gifts out of state.

Short Term Gallery, 1829 Main Street
Spirit Show: Bob Crump, oils, and Pat Kennedy Crump, pastels. Presented by Sarah Crump. Also a continuation of acrylic paintings of Harry Williams. As always, beverages and delicious food to nibble on. Live music by Hank Cramer, NHOTIC traveling folksinger.

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HBC ANNUAL DUCK RACE

2010-07-13T14:28:00.000-07:00

The Duck Race during Miners Jubilee (1:00, Sunday, July 18th) has always been one of the highlights of Jubilee for many years, drawing a big crowd in the Geiser-Pollman Park at the Library bridge. With over 1200 plastic numbered ducks released into the rushing Powder River, the duck flotillas are a sight to behold! Thanks to our generous donors and dedicated ticket-sellers, the Duck Race continues to be a successful and significant fundraiser for Historic Baker City, Inc. The rest of the year we are busy promoting Baker City through events designed to showcase our historic downtown, marketing Baker City state-wide and regionally, installing streetscape amenities (trash receptacles, bike racks, banners, and benches), and writing grants for our Destination Downtown 50/50 matching fund façade improvement program. Over the past 20 years, HBC, Inc. has facilitated the restoration of over 80 buildings in the downtown historic district, which has contributed greatly to the economy and vitality of the entire community.

ELKHORN CLASSIC BICYCLE RACE

2010-06-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

Historic Baker City, Inc. welcomes the Elkhorn Classic Stage Race this weekend (June 18,19,20. The Elkhorn is a 3-day, 4-stage bicycle race in and around the Elkhorn Mountains and headquartered in Baker City. The spectator-friendly time trial and criterium create an exciting atmosphere for participants, teams, and family.

HELLS CANYON MOTORCYCLE RALLY 11th-14th

2010-06-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

Downtown Baker City Restaurant Specials
During Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally

BAKER BISTRO. Now Open! 1925 Washington
Open Everyday
7 am - 3 pm breakfast & lunch

BAKER CITY CAFÉ, 1840 Main Street
Now Open for Breakfast Monday –Saturday (7:30am)
Serving coffee drinks, home made muffins, greek yogurt & fruit parfaits with house made granola, fruit cups and breakfast burritos. Enjoy the wireless internet or grab and go. During the Rally: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Hours 7:00 am-11pm, Monday-Sunday
Also at Baker City Café during Hells Canyon Motorcycle Rally: Live Music! The Smoking Guns Band Fri. 4:00-8:00, Sat.5:00-9:00
Under the Big Top (covered outdoor seating) HOT ROD BBQ (starts at noon)
Ribs, Chicken. Tri-tip, Roasted Pork, Beer & Wine, Pizza, Sandwiches, Soup, & Salads. Discount on food for official Rally wrist-band holders

THE CHAMEALEON, 1825 Main Street
Friday, June 11th Live Music- JD Rocket

GEISER GRAND HOTEL & RESTAURANT, 1996 Main Street
Friday, Saturday, Sunday 7a-9pm Great Food and Good Spirits!
Weekend Specials: Baby Back Ribs smoked in house over cherry wood, Buffalo Chicken Wings with our own secret hot sauce, Fish Tacos with Salsa Verde & Bottomless Bowl of Soup & fresh baked Sourdough Bread

In the 1889 Saloon, cold microbrews and a dozen fine wines by the glass til the wee hours.

Also, a “thank you to our community” event that will cap off the HCMR weekend:
J.W.Everitt Concert June 13th 7:00- 11:00
His music is a blend of jazz, rock, blues, country and soft tones, and his ability to play guitar is beyond words. After a distinguished career extending over 15 years, as a sideman, engineer and session player, J.W. has returned to his roots as a singer/songwriter and acoustic guitarist extraordinaire. We are securing tickets for our overnight guests. Steve Folkstead will be handing out the remainder of the tickets. Tickets are free.

FIRST FRIDAY JUNE 4th

2010-06-02T10:59:00.001-07:00

Baker City Downtown
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK June 4, 2010
(Consult specific galleries/establishments for times)

Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, 2020 Auburn
Opening reception, 5:30 to 8:00 pm, for Linda Elliott

of La Grande (oil paintings) and Scott Brown, Kevin Flynn

and Mandy Riley (staff, The Potter’s Center in Boise)

“Clay-One Medium, Three Visions”

The exhibit continues through June 29th. Refreshments

will be served.

Kevin Flynn of the Potter’s Center will be giving

a wheel throwing demonstration upstairs.
Downstairs in Student Gallery this month: Baker Head Start

students. Also, between 5:00 and 8:00pm First Friday is

the Bowl Building Bonanza downstairs in the pottery studio.

This is a free family event to help make ceramic bowls

for “Feed the Arts”. Instructors and supplies included.

Paizano’s Pizza will donate $1 for each bowl built.

The “Feed the Arts” project will culminate in

a buy-a-bowl-soup dinner in November, with all

proceeds benefiting the Crossroads Scholarship Fund.

Earth & Vine, Corner of 1st and Washington
Opening reception for featured artist Tena Bootsma McKim;

live music by Larry Robb and Jerry Smith.

Geiser Grand Hotel & Gift Shop, 1996 Main Street
Friday, June 4th, Oregon Porsche Club on Washington, between Main and Resort.

Oooh and ahh over beautiful sports cars that come to rally in Historic Baker City and

visit with the drivers 4-7pm at the Geiser Café/Bar.

Sat., June 5th, Bruno Dunes Trio/Live Music: Jazz and favorite standards like “Desperado”

will have you swooning with your partner. Is it Pink Martini? Can this be local talent?

All ages welcome in the Swans Room.7-10pm

The Geiser Grand Gift Shop proudly features local artisans, and is open daily year round from 7am to 9pm. Complimentary shipping makes it easy to send gifts out of state.

Short Term Gallery, 1829 Main Street
Featured artist will be Chris Cole: New Kinetic Works and Paintings.

B&W Photographs by James Colby. Live Music by Leon Brown. Refreshments provided.

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Downtown Free WiFi Upgraded

2010-05-25T16:43:00.000-07:00

The free wireless internet service, funded by Historic Baker City, Inc. for the benefit of downtown business owners, local citizens, visitors and tourists, has been upgraded. A free broadband connection has also been provided by the Greater Eastern Oregon Network, http://www.thegeo.net/. Our sincere thanks to Davis Computer Services Inc. at 1809 Main St., Baker City, for implementing the connectivity infrastructure and maintaining this service for Historic Baker City, Inc.

We Like Em Short FILM FESTIVAL

2010-05-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

The Baker Art Guild & the Eltrym Theater present:

WE LIKE EM SHORT

FILM FESTIVAL

June 24th 7:00 pm

ELTRYM THEATER

1809 1st Street

Baker City

Entry forms available at www.eltrym.com and the Short Term Gallery

$200 prize for Best Picture

Proceeds benefit Baker High School

Film Arts Club

2010-05-21T09:35:00.000-07:00

Historic Baker City's Annual Downtown Awards

April 23, 2010

Volunteer of the Year: Jeff Nelson

Community Partnership Award: BERA

(Baker Economic Resource Alliance)

Physical Improvements: Rosemary & Larry Abell

The Pythian Castle

Stepping Up To The Plate: Terry & Dan McQuisten

The Eltrym Theater

Business of the Year: Jimmy Chan's Restaurant

Downtown Success Story: Short Term Gallery

Dick & Marge Haynes

2010-03-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

WHAT'S HAPPENING DOWNTOWN
April 2, 3, 4
Friday, April 2^nd
First Friday Art Walk
(See listing of galleries below)

Friday & Saturday, April 2nd & 3^rd (also April 9,10, 11)

One Act Festival
Friday April 2^nd is preview night.

Fri. & Sat Shows- 7:00 pm, Sun. show 3:00 pm

In the Iron Gate Theater- Basche Sage Place, Main at Broadway

Tickets: Adults $10, Members $9, Preview $5

Rating: Adults and older children

Tickets available at Betty’s Books or at the door

For more information go to: http://www.eortonline.org/

ACT I - Save Me A Place at Forest Lawn Directed by Lynne Burroughs

ACT II - The Diary of Adam & Eve Directed by D.P. Brandt

ACT III - Postcards From Sicily Directed by Cindy Hutton

Saturday, April 3rd

Annual Children’s Easter Egg Hunt

Geiser Pollman Park, corner of Grove & Campbell

Line up for the hunt is 9:30 am sharp; fun starts at 10:00 am.

For more information contact Lynette Perry at Baker City Herald 523 3673

Saturday, April 3^rd

Geiser Grand : Live Music with Bruno Dunes

Fun for all ages, no charge, community welcome. Full food and beverage service available.

For more information call Geiser Grand at 523 1889

Specific Information:

FIRST FRIDAY DOWNTOWN ART WALK April 2, 2010
(Consult specific galleries/establishments for times)
Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, 2020 Auburn
Art and Soul of Agriculture opens 5:30 pm - 8 pm. The show will run through the month of April. It is a regional open show honoring the heritage of agriculture in eastern Oregon. In conjunction with the show we will be displaying Season's Edge, a pastel by artist April Waters, on loan from Oregon State University's "Art About Agriculture" permanent collection (see http://www.aprilwaters.com/). Refreshments will be served. Music by Gene Nelson and Debbie Friedman. Peoples choice awards of first, second and third will be awarded at 7:45 pm.

Earth & Vine, Corner of 1^st and Washington
Earth & Vine will feature Art by Robbe. He is a Portland artist with ties to Baker City. He will also be showing in the Castle Gallery next door. Live music by Ed Merriman.

Geiser Grand Hotel Gift Shop, 1996 Main Street
The Geiser Grand Gift Shop proudly features local artisans, and is open daily year round from 7am to 9pm. Complimentary shipping makes it easy to send gifts out of state.

Mad Matilda’s, 1917 Main Street
Keith Taylor on piano; 5:00 – 6:00

Pythian Castle Gallery, 1^st and Washington
The doors will be open for Portland artist Robbe to exhibit at the Castle Gallery and Earth and Vine next door. Music by Ed Merriman.

Short Term Gallery, 1829 Main Street
Welcome featured artist, Frank Janzen, Tamarind Master Printer at Crow’s Shadow Institute, Pendleton, Oregon. Live music by John Woodard. New works by local and regional artists, as well as hors d’oeuvres.

2010-03-01T15:07:00.000-08:00

Baker City Downtown

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK March 5, 2010

(Consult specific galleries/establishments for times)

Baker Bistro, 1925 Washington
Closed for remodeling

Clark & Company Home, 1924 Broadway
Open for First Friday

Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, 2020 Auburn
Opening reception for featured artists: Denise Elizabeth Stone – bakit watercolor, pastel and colored pencil
Suanne Achilles – fine jewelry from fine metals and semiprecious stones

Earth & Vine , Corner of 1^st and Washington
Reception for Sandra Ford from Halfway, beginning at 5:30. Live jazz by Gina Sizer- 7:00 – 9:00pm.

Geiser Grand Hotel Gift Shop, 1996 Main Street
Becky Litke, award winning painter, will showcase her work in the Gift Shop. Becky works in watercolor, oil, acrylic and pastels. She is a noted instructor and has curated and juried many shows. Her landscapes and animal portraits reflect the vibrancy and diversity of he Eastern Oregon home. Commissions accepted on this special night. 6:00 – 8:00

Mad Matilda’s, 1917 Main Street
Keith Taylor on piano.

Pythian Castle Gallery, 1^st and Washington
No featured artist this month

Short Term Gallery, 1829 Main Street
Welcome featured artist, Steve Bailey, new to town. Live music by Zak Friewald. New works by local and regional artists, as well as hors d’oeuvres.

Downtown This Week

2010-03-01T15:05:00.000-08:00

WHAT'S HAPPENING DOWNTOWN

Week of March 1^,2010

Tuesday, Mar 2

Gary Dielman Presentation

The making of OPB's program "Dielman's Monarch"

(Dielman's discovery of an ancient Eagle Cap Wilderness limber pine)

Geiser Grand Hotel, 6:00 pm (5:30 social hour)

No charge

Thursday, Mar. 4

Whit Deschner's "Mongolia"

Stunning imagery of Mongolia & of course more!

Crossroads Carnegie Art Center

2020 Auburn 7:00 pm

Friday, March 5

New Store Opening: Random Resales

1833 Main Street (next to Jimmy Chan’s)

Reg. Hours: Tues-Sat, 11:00 – 5:00pm

Open late Friday, March 5th

Friday, Mar 5

Baker Food Co-op New Store Grand Opening

Door prizes, free samples & special sale prices

Non-members welcome!

2008 Broadway 4:00 – 7:00 pm

Friday, March 5

Sane Jane’s Estate Sale

1921 Main Street 5:00-8:00 pm

Friday, Mar 5

First Friday Downtown Art Walk

Detailed listing follows

Saturday, March 6

Sane Jane’s Estate Sale continues

1921 Main Street 9:00 am–5:00 pm

Preservation, Authenticity and Cultural Heritage

2009-11-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

The comment I hear most often by visitors is “Your downtown is so beautiful.” Travelers want to know more about our town and its rich history; how did our town come to be, why are the streets so wide or the buildings so substantial, and how did we manage to preserve our authentic downtown?
Preserved and revitalized historic commercial districts are a major attraction when travelers seek a real experience or businesses and people consider relocating. Many people who have moved here mention the emotional pull and magnetic attraction of our historic downtown as a deciding factor in their decision making.
One look at the “before and after” pictures of our downtown tells the story of Historic Baker City’s revitalization efforts. Since 1993 HBC’s Destination Downtown has helped facilitate more than 80 restorations in the downtown district (with a 50% matching grant incentive program), attracting attention in state and national preservation arenas. The Destination Downtown program revolves around preserving, promoting, and capitalizing on downtown Baker City’s Historic District as a key strategy in Baker City’s economic development.
Downtowns are the heart and soul of a community. A trip down any USA Main Street will tell a lot about the history, community pride, vitality, livability, and the uniqueness of a community. Baker City stands out in everyone’s mind as something very special.
Preservation and heritage tourism are strong components in economic development of a community; jobs are created for local tradesmen and visitors help drive the economy, directly and indirectly through “the multiplier effect” (the increase in demand for local services, products and human resources).
"Over the past decade, travel industry research confirms that cultural and heritage tourism is one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry."
-US Dept. of Commerce A Position Paper on Cultural and Heritage Tourisn, 2005

As the globe shrinks and visitors grow tired of creeping homogenization, authentic experiences become a key factor in deciding where to go and what to do. Will I find a distinct sense of place, a genuine glimpse into other cultures, other times, other ways of living? Will I connect with real people? Will I learn something new? Will I create unique memories?*
Tourists are by and large a curious breed with a hunger for experience and knowledge of the world and the people in it. It’s the same urge that draws people to arts events, museums, and festivals, and that drives artists to create. In a world of interchangeable communities, cookie-cutter malls, and plastic souvenirs, a growing number of travelers are searching for the new, the different, the authentic. *
Ann Mehaffy, Program Director

*Last two paragraphs reprinted with permission from the Oregon Arts Commission- Exploring
Authentic Oregon: The Importance of Cultural Tourism

SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY

2009-05-06T16:03:00.000-07:00

Record crowd at HBC Annual Meeting & Awards Night April 23rd

2009-05-06T13:26:00.000-07:00

It was a spectacular evening with the Queen City Room at the Geiser Grand filled to capacity. HBC President Jeremy Thamert opened the evening with a review of HBC's 2008 accomplishments. Andrew Bryan took over as master of ceremonies to recognize outstanding business and property owners for their contribution to downtown revitalization efforts. After the awards, superb entertainment was provided by the Past Their Prime Time Players with their vignettes of early Baker County characters.

HISTORIC BAKER CITY, INC.'S
DOWNTOWN AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Volunteers of the Year
CORRINE AND BRIAN VEGTER

Business of the Year
CLARK & COMPANY HOME
Matthew Clark & Brian Olson, owners

Physical Improvements
BAKER GARAGE
Randy Daugherty, owner

Community Partnerships
JENNIFER WATKINS
Baker City Community Development Director

Stepping Up To The Plate
MARV SUMNER, ROCKY BROWN
TABOR CLARKE, RANDY DODSON

Downtown Business Success
THE SYCAMORE TREE
Jacki Adams, owner

2009-04-17T15:57:00.000-07:00

OPENING APRIL 21st

Starwood Garden Market
1623 Dewey Avenue
(across from old post office square)

Local produce, seeds, plants
and much more!

2009-04-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome
To the Neighborhood!
BAKER BISTRO
1925 Washington
Open Everyday
7 am - 3 pm
breakfast & lunch

Are You Part of the Solution?

2009-04-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

JOIN US
EVERY WEDNESDAY
BAKER CITY CAFE
1840 MAIN STREET
8:00 am
FOR RETAILERS' COFFEE
BRING YOUR IDEAS !

THANK YOU ROUND TABLE HOSTS

2009-04-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

Our heartfelt thanks to these Business Resource Fair round table hosts for taking time from their busy schedules to help the participants: Jacki Adams - The Sycamore Tree, Capitalizing On Your Assets, Matthew Clark - Clark & Company Home, Merchandising, Lisa Dawson, NEOEDD, Dennis Dorrah - York's Park Grocery, Destination Downtown, Don Hollis - REAP Program,
Kurt Miller - Baker Truck Corral, Diversification, Nancy Morris - CPA, Your Financial Tool Box, Linda Nobel - Oregon Employment Department, Kari Waldhaus - E Myth, Kina White - Paizanos Pizza, Marketing. A special thank you to our Business Resource Fair sponsors: Baker County Economic Development Council, Baker County Marketing, and Oregon Work Force Employers' Council. The Baker County Business Fair was organized by the Baker County Economic Resource Alliance (BC-ERA) : Baker County Marketing, Baker County Economic Development, Baker County Chamber of Commerce, and Historic Baker City, Inc.

DOWNTOWN BAKER CITY CLEAN UP DAY

2009-04-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

SATURDAY
MAY 16TH 9:00 - 2:00
Bring your gloves, clippers, brooms and enthusiasm. We'll meet in front of Coughlin, Leuenberger & Moon,
1650 Dewey Avenue.
Keep It Clean
is a community
TAKE CARE OF OREGON project
sponsored by
Historic Baker City, Inc.
Questions? Call 523 5442.

2009-04-07T13:17:00.000-07:00

YOU'RE INVITED

2009-04-01T14:43:00.001-07:00

HISTORIC BAKER CITY INC.'S

ANNUAL AWARDS NIGHT & CELEBRATION
GEISER GRAND HOTEL
QUEEN CITY ROOM
Thursday April 23rd 5:30 - 7:30 pm
complimentary hors d'oeuvres
with Past-Their-Prime-Time-Players
(The Baker Bunch)
150 YEARS OF BAKER COUNTY
Historic Baker City, Inc 523 5442
Promotiing A Healthy and Prosperous Downtown
Since 1982

Put Your Money Where Your House Is

2009-03-23T17:54:00.001-07:00

SHOP LOCAL CAMPAIGNS

In cities, towns and villages across the nation, there is an effective and growing Shop Local /Local First movement to support local economies by localizing consumer spending. This movement recognizes that self-reliance of a community and local ownership of businesses are critical requirements for a sustainable and prosperous economy. This Shop Local movement does not require or demand that we never go outside our community for consumer goods; it only asks that we first look locally and make conscious decisions to support our community businesses. It makes sense to start at home where our spending will have a great impact on our community:

●Locally owned businesses maintain the local character and diversity of our community. Our one-of-a-kind stores are an integral part of our distinct and unique character, adding to our sense of community and appealing to out-of-town visitors and investors.

●Dollars spent at locally owned businesses have three times the impact on the community as dollars spent at national chains.

●Local ownership means important decisions are made locally; by people who live in our community and who are invested in our community’s future.

●Local charitable and non-profit organizations receive an average of 350% greater support from local business owners than from non-locally owned business.

●Entrepreneurship fuels America’s economic innovation and prosperity.

●Customer service is better; small business owners consistently rate customer service as their top priority and best marketing tool.

●Local businesses create good jobs; small businesses are the largest employer nationally.

●Local businesses can make more local purchases, supporting local agriculture, producers, and other local businesses.

Interested? Try reading Michael H. Shuman’s The Small-Mart Revolution. “It’s not about stopping anything. It’s about starting something—vibrant local economies that will make our cities and towns the places we very much want them to be.” (Bill McKibben, in Foreward to M. Shuman’s book).

Ann Mehaffy, Program Director

Upcoming Free Business Workshop

2009-03-23T15:56:00.000-07:00

Baker County Economic Resource Alliance**
BUSINESS WORKSHOP AND FAIR

Friday, April 3^rd3:00 Pm - 7:00 pm
Saturday, April 4th 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Register now for this no-cost event

Full workshop schedule and registration at www.visitbaker.com or call Baker County Chamber of Comerce 523-5855 or HBC 523 5442

Changing Rules: Doing Business in a New Economy

No more business as usual! With the shift the economy, it is a whole new ball game these days. Things have to change. Figuring out where to start can be overwhelming. Statistics show that those who prepare for times of change are those who do more than just survive, they can thrive.

Prepare yourself to lead your customers and community. Entrepreneur and strategist, Kathie Nelson will inspire you with fresh insight and tools to sort through conventional business wisdom with critical new business strategies to guide you through the upcoming year.

get un-stuck when you find yourself stalled out.
successfully re-purpose, re-tool, or re-position yourself – and why you must do it.
create a business dashboard that keeps your finger on the pulse of the activities that make you money
identify your ideal customers and grab their attention
become the “Voice of Reason” in a turbulent business climate

Keynote Speaker:
Kathie Nelson, Entrepreneur, Coach & Strategist
Sharpen Your Entrepreneurial Edge in Tough Times
Bombarded with negative press it is easy to become fear and scarcity focused. Now, more than ever, you can’t afford to waste time in worry and despair. Kathie shares simple techniques to take charge of the attitude, words, and actions that keep you from moving forward. Leave with 3 easy to implement practices that set you apart as a leader and encourage those around you.

Kathie Nelson’s signature talks leave audiences motivated with tools in hand to more effectively serve customers and build sustainable businesses doing what they love!

Kathie Nelson, founder and CEO of Connectworks, is a serial entrepreneur and born powerhouse when it comes to connecting people to business growth. Kathie is a three time author, highly sought after speaker, top tier business strategist, and coach. Her contributions have impacted local organizations like Women Entrepreneurs of Oregon, Portland Business Alliance and IKEA Portland as well as businesses across the US from boutique law firms to wineries to day spas. More about Kathie and her latest e-book "Turn Passion to Profit: The Essential DIY Guide to Package your Talent, Leverage your Time, and Get the Clients you Want" at www.KathieNelson.com

Complete schedule and registration available on the Chamber’s Community Calendar for April 3^rd at www.visitbaker.com For more information call Baker County Chamber of Commerce 523 5855

**BC-ERA is a Business Resource Alliance formed by the Baker County Chamber of Commerce, Baker County Economic Development, Historic Baker City, Inc., and Baker City Economic Development.

Shopping Locally, even in 1907

2009-03-18T16:18:00.000-07:00

SHOP LOCAL CAMPAIGN 1907
The Baker County Library was kind enough to put aside for me a copy of the 1907 promotional brochure titled Baker City: The Metropolis of Eastern Oregon. This booklet was designed to lure prospective residents, farmers, ranchers, and businesses; it is filled with advertising and information about Baker City and Baker County, heralding Baker City as the most favored region of the great Northwest.
“It is a region where nature has stored away with great profusion her untold mineral treasures; a region of beautiful valleys with matchless soil; magnificent mountains, hills, trees and rivers; a region with a stimulating, vigorous, health-giving climate. Hither are coming the awakening multitudes of the Eastern States—the hard-toiling farmer, the city man, wearied of the daily grind of soul-less occupation, the scholar, the mechanic, the laborer, lured by the irresistible call of “the West”, to the land where there is a joy in living, and where men forget to grow old.”
The back page of the booklet is most surprising of all; readers are urged to shop locally!
“All of us have to spend money. There is an art to spending it where it will do the most good. If spent so that it will circulate around this community, it will help this community. You belong to this community. Therefore it will help you. Isn’t that good logic. Suppose you think it over next time you pick up the Mail Order Catalogue.”
Whether a hundred years ago or today, the self-reliance of a community and local ownership of businesses are critical requirements for a sustainable and prosperous economy. Locally owned businesses maintain the unique local character and diversity of our community. Additionally, dollars spent at locally owned businesses have three times the impact on the community as dollars spent at national chains. Our new Shop Local campaign suggests you put your money where your house is– Shop Baker!
•Ann Mehaffy, Program Director