President Debra Newton called the meeting to order.
Those in Attendance were: Debra Newton, President, Anna Duvurri Vice President, Somny Nelson, Roger Cox, Judy Massey, Al Schwerdt, Marlene Blom, Michael Turner
The minutes of the previous meeting were reviewed.
Debra Newton made three baskets and some cups. Three baskets were raffled and someone misappropriated a few cups. We received $103.50 in raffle proceeds. Expenses were about $60.00 for a net profit on baskets of $43.50. Also, $10.00 was donated.
Anna Duvurri presented donations of $1,104.00
It was agreed to continue to market baskets to the Atlanta Bldg., Corona Bldg. and to Bingo players. Judy Massey suggested that we keep the cost of each basket down to insure some profit. The basket raffle viability will be evaluated each meeting.
Other “cup” baskets were discussed which could include such items as spices, soap, chocolate, teas, coffees, welcome cups with local product samples, and plastic spoons heaped with flavors for coffees 11etc. “Branding” of items with Ability Counts, Inc. labels could enhance product. Donated items and seasonal items could further make these items profitable.
Planning for the December 13th putting on the Ritz holiday ball is progressing. Responsibilities assigned so far are:
- Al Schwerdt Chinese Food
- Michael Turner photography, including mat covers for photos
- Debra Newton baskets for flowers and flowers
- We still need people to help with the following:
- Decoration. Diane Razo will be contacted to help with making the room festive.
- Tickets production
- People to assist the night of the event
Tickets will be sold for $15.00 in advance and $20.00 at the door. If consumers purchasing tickets in advance need transportation the fee will be $20.00. A flyer will be made for the event, which can also be used to recruit volunteers to decorate and help the night of the event.
Diane Razo will be contacting a local church, which may have some volunteers.
Roger Cox presented two letters soliciting assistance from parents/care providers and local businesses. A membership concept was discussed which we will defer until after the holidays but an open ended donation will be included. The letter to businesses will be modified and mailed immediately. The letter to parents will be mailed after our tax exempt mailing status is renewed.
Marlene Blom suggested that we complete a “guest book” at our events for the purpose of getting contact information for people attending our events. The quality of our current mailing list will be tested.
There was a motion to adopt the web domain. Friendsofaci.com was selected as the domain name. Judy Massey will arrange to purchase this name. Ideas for the web page were discussed which included, chat, announcements, calendar, minutes of meetings, newsletter, links to Ability Counts, Inc. page. Roger will be responsible for developing the web page.
Al Schwerdt suggested that “Friends” might consider participating in the development of an “after hours” club at the Atlanta Bldg.
Ideas for this included big screen TV, tall tables to encourage mingling, Vito on guitar, Karaoke, pop corn, and silk trees with lights. Someone will contact Mr. Valdez for some silk ornamental plants.
Somny Nelson suggested that we consider an event, which would encourage attendance of all consumers served.
The meeting was adjourned. The next meeting will be November 19, 3:30 PM.
