April 2009 General Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order by President Barry Altmark as he welcomed both members and guests.

Barry introduced the board (Vice President - Vann Cook - CAM Video Productions, Treasurer - Natalie Pilato Andrews – Kathy G, and Secretary - Rachael Grammer – Two Hearts Weddings and Events and himself).

Barry acknowledged that Barry C Altmark Photography had sponsored the March meeting and went on to thank JAMM Entertainment for providing the sound system for the meeting.

Barry then thanked Tellis Shoemaker and Dorothy McDaniel's of Dorothy McDaniel's Flower Market for sponsoring the April meeting. He also thanked Geoff Carlisle of JAMM Entertainment for providing the sound system for the meeting.

Barry then introduced Dorothy McDaniel. Dorothy welcomed everyone and thanked them for coming out and visiting the store. She then went on to talk about the importance of working to keep a positive attitude and outlook in these trying economic times. Dorothy then acknowledge that the wonderful food and beverage were provided by George Saris of The Fish Market. The food was delicious!

Old Business

Minutes - Barry asked if any one needed to hear the minutes from last month’s meeting and reminded everyone they are posted on the AWEP blog.

Website – Barry reminded members that by now their listing on the website needs to be updated. If they haven't done so, to please get on that as soon as possible.

Briefcases - Barry called new members to the front to receive their AWEP briefcases (bags).

Byron Studdard (Financial Planner) - Barry thanked Angela Deaver of Main Street Productions for all her work at arranging for our March speaker, Byron Studdard, who presented a great presentation on "must do's" for financial planning.

New Business

Three New Member to be voted on -
Jerrod Brown with Jerrod Brown Photography
Dana Patillo with Avia Parking
Butch Oglesby with Blue Moon Studios

Marketing – Barry announced that AWEP is signed up for a booth at the Perfect Wedding Guide Bridal Show on August 2, 2009. More AWEP postcards have been ordered and information space will be provided to our members. The booth will most likely be managed by the AWEP board members.

Barry’s Deep Thought - Responsibility

Barry talked about conducting your business with responsibility. If you want to make a good impression with your current clients as well as potential clients, answer your phone in person as much as possible and always answer your emails promptly. Everyone likes and needs to feel important.

The May meeting will be sponsored by The Wynfrey Hotel and our speaker will be AWEP's lawyer. The presentation will be focused on the importance of liability insurance and reasons members should consider incorporating their businesses.

The ballots for the new members to be voted on were tallied. The announcement was made that Jerrod Brown Photography, Avia Parking, and Blue Moon Studios were new members. Congratulations Jerrod, Dana, and Butch!

A guest, Logan Greene of Affects Hair Gallery, provided a color, cut and style gift certificate for a door prize. Logan was given a few minutes to tell the members a little about Affects Hair Gallery. Vann Cook of CAM Video Productions was the lucky winner!

Barry thanked everyone for coming again and asked everyone to stay and network more.