Michigan Association of Professional Santas
Board of Directors Meeting
March 11, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Call to Order:
The regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Michigan Association of Professional Santas was called to order at 7:00 PM by President Michael Beurer.
Roll Call:
Vice President and Recording Secretary Melissa Rickard read the minutes from the previous meeting. The minutes were approved as read in absentia.
Reports:
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Membership Report:
Roger Minton informed the Board that Membership submissions have been significantly reduced, with only 30 members remaining to be contacted. Currently, there are 502 approved members. An email will be sent to members in the coming weeks. Roger is working on improving the website’s speed, as it is currently functioning at a minimum capacity. He is evaluating pricing options for a faster service due to the website’s growing limitations. -
Jingle Joy Membership:
Membership for Jingle Joy will close two weeks before the event. Membership numbers are looking strong following the initial email distribution. -
Website Update:
The website is continuing to be updated. Roger is working on expanding its functionality as the current setup is beginning to exceed its capabilities. -
Treasurer’s Report:
Kathy Norred presented the Treasurer’s report:-
January 31, 2025 Balance: $8,130.96
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Check #1044: ($871.62) for banquet supplies
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Stripe Deposits: $3,686.78
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February 28, 2025 Balance: $10,945.92
Kathy also reported that the federal tax returns are due five months and 15 days after the fiscal year-end. She indicated that she can file the tax return quickly as it is a postcard-style filing, which will be completed in April.
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Events:
Michael Howe and Chris Terry provided an update on events. The Red Suit Hotel has been confirmed for the event and is ready to go.
Ted has a contact who specializes in training for individuals with special needs. This training will also cover how to work with shy children. Chris will work on creating topics and class ideas. The responsibility for class topics and presenters will primarily fall to Chris Terry.
Kathy Norred also noted that Mrs. Claus, Kelly Mitchell, would like to host a class on books for Mrs. Claus during visits. -
Vendor Hotel Accommodations:
A discussion was held regarding the payment for hotels for vendors with special circumstances. A motion was made by Ted and seconded by Bill to address each vendor’s situation on a case-by-case basis. The motion passed unanimously.
New Business:
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Secretary Replacement:
There is a potential replacement for the Secretary position: Linda Holloman has expressed interest. Michael Beurer will reach out to her for further discussion and provide an update at next month’s meeting. -
Facebook Post for April 8th Meeting:
Michael Beurer reminded the board that the April 8th meeting will be open to the whole organization. A Facebook post will be made to announce this.
Adjournment:
A motion to adjourn was made by Roger and seconded by Kathy. The meeting was adjourned at 7:28 PM.
The next board meeting will be held on April 8, 2025.
Respectfully submitted,
Melissa Rickard
Vice President and Recording Secretary
Michigan Association of Professional Santas