On Wednesday October 5, the MCAI board meeting was called to order by President Dennis Backer at 7:00 p.m. After the last meeting’s minutes were approved, and the treasurer’s report was given,we went on to discuss the swap meet which proved to be quite successful. Larry Goldsmith mentioned that there were close to 20 sellers there and over 30 buyers. All in all, it was very well received.

We talked about our next meeting which will be held on Wednesday October 19 at Irvine studios. Dennis said that they will provide food as well as the program; The best ways to get the most out of a studio shoot. It was also mentioned that at future meetings, we will have everyone take turns as MC’s who will introduce the guest speakers. Bill Brown will be the first. Grace suggested getting a PA system for our meetings.

There was quite a bit of discussion regarding following up with first time guests after they have attended a meeting. All of us felt that we need to concentrate on follow-up notes or emails to encourage people to come back. It was felt that we need to continue to promote student, associate, and national membership. Emmett said that right now, we have 39 national members, and 14 associate members. Dennis mentioned that we need to begin invoicing associate members whose membership has expired. Teri mentioned that we need help at the registration table at our monthly meetings, and that we also need a sign-in sheet for guests to put names and emails on. Emmett mentioned that we need to make sure that we get the business cards of guests.

Dennis said that we need to set a date for our holiday party. We set a tentative date of December 21.

Larry mentioned that PVN is putting together an all-day seminar on Sunday December 4, along with another start-up organization called Forever Group. He said that the seminar is for wedding viteographers, and he wanted to mention it to our group for those who may be interested. He said that it will be an all-day seminar for three to four hours in the morning, and the same in the afternoon.

Travis suggested that PVN may want to mention MCAI and what we do at some of their events.

Dennis brought up the fact that it is good for members who want to grow their businesses to belong to both Media Communications Association and the Media Alliance of Orange County. Travis felt that even though our two organizations work very closely together, that we need to make sure that we keep our identities separate.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30, and for those who could not attend this month, we hope to see you next month. Who knows? You may even get a piece of pie.

Tina Wilson, MCA-I Secretary