Welcome to the January 16, 2018 edition of the Heartbeat where you will find information about the Heart of Birmingham Chapter and its activities. Each month the chapter presents a speaker or a program geared to the Birmingham business community. We welcome guests and encourage everyone to attend! Information about our chapter is always found in the Heartbeat.

Due to severe weather warnings for Birmingham, the monthly meeting of the Heart of Birmingham Chapter was held by conference call.  President Curtis called the meeting to order with the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance.  Nine members called in to the conference.

Secretary’s report:  The Secretary’s report was tabled for approval at the February meeting as Ms. Lewis was not able to email the minutes to everyone in advance of the meeting.

Treasurer’s report:  The Treasurer’s report was presented for review.  As previously reported the candle sales netted $400.00.  It was again stated that fund raising efforts were important.  Sara Cooley made a motion that the Treasurer’s report be filed for audit.  Bell Rogers seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Committee Reports:

• Hospitality:  no report
• Fund Raising:  The Spring fund raising brunch and membership drive event has been set for March 3, 2018.  A request was made for flyers to be produced and ticket prices were set at $35.00 in advance or $40.00 at the door.  Tables for eight are for sale and everyone is encourage to seek corporate sponsorship for the event.  A draft letter seeking sponsorship has been emailed to various members for use in requesting corporate sponsorship.  Ads in the program are also for sale and prices will be reviewed and determined.
• Professional Development:  no report
• Publicity/Website/Facebook:  The metrics indicate that people are viewing our social media.  We will continue boosting info on Facebook and will begin placing info about our March 3, 2018 event on the website.

New Business;

• Remarks:  Veronica and Lynda discussed having ticket sales on the website.  Ticket sales packets would be held at the door for guests.  This would help us firm up the number expected to attend and enable us to collect the funds in advance. Lynda will furnish two gift cards as prizes for the “Best Hat” contest.  Lynda will need program information prior to obtaining prices for printing the programs.  She has contacted the printing firm to give them notice.  All ads should be sent to Lynda in a pdf. or electronic format to facilitate the printer putting the programs together.
• Remarks:  President Curtis reminded us to be mindful of costs and that everyone is a fundraiser.  It was noted that we needed to prepare for 75 people or greater for our spring event.  With no other business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned with prayer.