Department of Peace Meeting Minutes for March 10, 2011

Present: Peg Bozarth, Lowey Dickason, Carolyn Dixon, Marilyn Eccles, Shadia Kanaan, John Kinch, Janice Lakers, Scott Spicer, and Luanna Van Dam.

1. The meeting was called to order at 6:39 am.

2. Everyone revealed something generally unknown about themselves in lieu of introductions.

3. We spent a minute in silence honoring peace, following which peace testimonials were given.

4. We need to find a place to hold our peace outreach potluck event on April 12. Scott spoke of Advocacy Services for Kids as a potential source of funds for peace activities that could include our outreach event. Scott, Janice, Luann, and Peg will meet to apply for funding.

5. John outlined recent NVC (non violent communications) activities in the community. On March 2, the NVC committee met with AWARE (a support group for women who have experienced abuse) for the third time at the First Baptist Church. As in the past, the women seemed appreciative of our time and effort on their behalf.

On March 9, John went with Calvin Everly to make an NVC presentation to a social studies class at Kalamazoo's Phoenix School, an alternative high school. This was our first NVC presentation to high school students. They were all very courteous to us and some showed genuine interest. It's something for us to build on.

6. Peg gave a report on recent Peace Pizzazz planning activities. This event on May 22 will include entertainment, face painting, chalk art on sidewalks, and a children's art exhibit. A rain site alternative is still needed. At least $500.00 is yet needed to fund this event.

7. We plan to book our yard sale fund raiser at Skyridge Church on August 27 this year. August 25 and 26 will be used for set up. People are encouraged to save their spring cleaning give aways for this event.

8. We will join peace groups as individuals in the Memorial Day Parade and have a group entry as usual in the Doo Dah Parade the end of May and beginning of June.

9. Marilyn gave the treasurer's report. We have $3810.86 in our savings and checking accounts. She presented a 2011 budget. Income is expected from fund raising, yard sale, merchandise sales, and the Peace Pizzaz. Expenses include Peace Pizzaz, printing, marketing, web site registration, merchandise, advertising, Skyridge donation, organizational memberships, conference expense, donations, yard sale expenses, and peace group meetings.

10. Luana brought up the question of our future ISAAC membership. We will support ISAAC on an individual basis but not organizationally.

11. We have paid for ads in the Wellness publication and the Peace Jam program and will pay for an ad in the ISAAC program.

12. We need a new Department of Peace chairperson. Marilyn Eccles will be treasurer, John Kinch will be secretary, and tentative trustees are Janice Lakers, Peg Bozarth, and Lowey Dickason.

13. Lowey moved we change the bylaws so officers can serve two consecutive two year terms instead of two consecutive one year terms. Marilyn Eccles seconded the motion, and it passed.

14. Scott spoke of tax regulations that affect his further employment by the Department of Peace. A 1099 form must be filed for him should we pay him more than $600.00.

15. Scott will work on redesigning our web site. Robert Weir and Kevin Szwala will be featured on Scott's Blogtalk radio show on Saturday, March 19.

16. We will order ten Political Action Guides (2009-2010 edition) from Colleen Mills for our own edification and to offer for sale to others in the community.

17. Meeting was adjourned at 8:17 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

John Kinch