MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE ERA NATIONAL BOARD OF ADVISORS Saturday, September 11, 2004, at the Fairfield Inn in Atlantic City, New Jersey The ERA Business Meeting began at 2:20 PM following the planning meeting for the 2005 ERA Trade Show. In attendance were: Ronnie Charnes, Hank Henke, Kenny Turner, Chris Thompson, Alan Melton, Mike Schroeder, Polly Shea, Bob Wagner, Dennis Jacinto, Wes Grueninger, Dick Vensel, Dan Smith, Scott Furman and Bob Thomas. Chris Thompson gave a treasurer’s report. As of September 10, 2004, the ERA general fund had $32,538.38 and the ERA training fund had $7,144.24. The combined balance was $39,682.62. Mike Schroeder explained the trustee’s recent decision to allocate a portion of the dues directly to the training fund as they are received, to ensure the program is funded into the future. Based on attendance and costs of the 2004 seminars to date and the planned seminar schedule for 2005, it was determined (using conservative estimates) the training program would fall about $16,000 short in 2005. It was decided to allocate $25 from each rebuilder member’s dues, $100 from each supplier member’s dues, and $50 from each warehouse member’s dues, directly into the training fund. These amounts will be transferred throughout the year, as the dues are received. It was further decide to begin this procedure this month. At this time the 2005 budget was presented (copy attached with the minutes). Mike Schroeder then gave a membership report. As of September 8, 2004, there are 388 paid members, which included 4 individuals, 294 rebuilders, 90 suppliers & warehouses. Bob Thomas explained the fall membership drive which will run through November 30″. He also talked about the contest being held among the regional vice-presidents, which will be judged based on the percentage of increase over the three month period. Wes Grueninger gave a report on the new ERA website. He presented comparison figures on usage between EREN and the new forums. The number of messages was higher on the new site and Wes pointed out the quality of message content was also improved. He also presented download figures on various webpages and documents on the new site. Of particular interest was the number of page view of the test banner ads. All of the ads from the first group had well over 1,000 page views. Bob Thomas briefly explained the planned website sponsorship program, but said he planned to wait until more supplier services are completed before soliciting for sponsors. He said the proceeds from the sponsorship program would be used to fund and improve the website. Right now, any supplier member may take advantage of the free banner ad test by sending their ad to Wes. Once the sponsorships are sold, all free ads will be removed.