18th March 2008

 

A sunny, but chilly Tuesday and it’s BNI Caterham again.

Apologies from Nic Howard under pressure workwise, Joe Nathanail subbed by Helen Pointer.

Warm welcome back to Ruth Coldspring, our visitor from the world of hairdressing.

Education:
An interesting, if unusual, Education Slot from Sue Ambrose who tasked Morag Matthews to give us a run down on the Budget. Thanks to Morag for achieving what Alistair Darling failed to do – making it all sound interesting.

60 seconds:
Some good 60 second slots with Matthew Baker awarding Star Speaker to Liz Copeland for her rousing call to arms (BNI wise) to younger potential members.

Reports:
Clive’s MC report told of referrals at 117 for the month and £15,248 Show me the Money Cards. He also appealed for website details from newer members (Tony Webb, David Dunnigan plus Patrick Cunningham) and explained that the Show me the Money card have to be directed at the referrer as the amount is logged against their name on the BNI database.

Liz Copeland was able to report a CR bank statement balance of £347 in our current account, but with uncleared payments and receipt it is a slightly better position than that.

The only member due for renewal in April is John Gooden and that is under way.

10 minutes:
This week's 10 minutes speaker was Frances Conn. With hobbies of rambling and languages, no wonder she can both talk the talk and walk the walk! Bit daunting to hear she was inspired and thrilled driving round Hyde Park Corner, in the days before the traffic light systems were put in, but not surprising to learn that attention to detail is the key to her success.

A meticulous presentation, explaining in great detail exactly what Frances can bring to the table in the essential accounting process, and clearly defining her role and position in the administrative chain. Her ability to be able up potential problems before they start attracting big fees must be invaluable to her clients.

Her motto “ I look after people” is clearly appropriate, let’s see what good, quality, referrals we can find for Frances.

Ruth Coldspring was the lucky winner of the door prize.

New exhibition:
Finally, with the success of last year's Meet Caterham Business exhibition, a second exhibition has been organised: 'Meet Coulsdon Business', open to businesses in and around Coulsdon (i.e. Caterham) and set to be on June 5th at the Coulsdon Manor Hotel, Coulsdon Court Road, Old Coulsdon, CR5 2LL.

Last year's event was so popular, would-be exhibitors were turned away from the Caterham exhibition so please book your stands ASAP as space is obvioulsy limited.

Further details and a booking form are available at: www.meetcoulsdonbusiness.co.uk

Thought for the week:

"There is no better time than the present, to be better than we were yesterday."
Gary Kelly, a TV Weatherman

Have a great week.