Present: Ed, Melanie, Beth, Kirk

Check-in happened.

Minutes: December’s minutes were approved.

Treasurer’s Report: The account balances are as follows: FRLC $3525.83, Conference $2113.40. We have paid a $1000 deposit on the hotel out of the Conference funds and also a $1200 retainer for our fundraiser.

Coordinator’s Report: We have signed a contract with the hotel, booking the Grand Ballroom (large banquet hall). We are anticipating 100 more participants than last year. This gives us room to grow and the possibility of selling individual event tickets. We are expanding to ten breakout sessions with similar topics but more options. The speakers are all lined up. Friday evening George Valent will speak on happiness & 12 steps. Amy Klobachar will give a welcome/introduction either in person or in video at supper on Friday. After the speakers there will be opportunities for spiritual direction, massages, and different kinds of meetings including a clergy only 12 step meeting.

The Saturday morning speaker will be Karen Casey, a writer for Hazelden. In the afternoon Sam Simmons will speak on addiction and racism. Retired ELCA Bishop Penrose Hoover will tell his story during Saturday dinner and will also preach for the Sunday morning worship. Rev. Dr. Brian McLaren is confirmed as the Saturday evening key note speaker. We are hoping he will address how recovery can be part of the emerging church.

We have been talking with Portico & Thrivent about their involvement next year. Portico would like to be more involved in the next Conference and be a sponsor in 2020. The Episcopalian recovery group has also assigned three people to partner with us and work on the conference. They have been in contact with Ed and are enthusiastic about working on the Conference.

New business: none

Kirk closed the meeting with prayer.

Next regular Board meeting: Thursday, February 7, 2019.