Department of Peace minutes of November 12, 2009, meeting
By Secretary Peg Bozarth

In attendance: Janice Lakers, John Kinch, Joan O'Brien, Luana Van Dam, Marilyn Eccles, Peg Bozarth, Chuck Harmon, Bobbi Jo Gamache, Marianne Orr, Salah Hamdoun, Bob Weir, Guest Speaker Rachel Tanner

Meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by co-chairs Luana Van Dam and Janice Lakers. We lit the peace candle and held a silent moment for peace.

Peace Testimonials: Chuck Harmon spoke about the wonderful speech given by Greg Mortenson at Gull Lake High School. Many of the attendees were at the event and were all very impressed by Mortensen's work.

The DoP MI 6th is considering joining ISAAC. Our guest speaker, Rachel Tanner, Director of ISAAC presented information to our group. ISAAC (Interfaith Strategy for Advocacy and Action in the Community), was started in 2002 "to build a powerful organization that can stand up to the oppressive values operating in our world".

Why- the philosophy of the community organizing is rooted in the best traditions of faith and democracy.
How – Community organizing engages a set of principles and practices that allow ordinary individuals – clergy, lay persons, and secular folk – to come together to address social, economic, and environmental decisions that affect our collective lives together.
Collectively, they engage elected officials, appointed officials, and other key decision makers around issues.
After Rachel left we discussed whether or not the members wanted to become active in ISAAC. The discussion was tabled until next month because we needed clarify the following issues: would we be able to have dual members attend the ISAAC meetings, what our commitment needs to be, and whether it fits our budget.

Correspondence: Letters were signed for President Obama and Representative Upton.

Reports and Discussion

Finance: Reported by, Marilyn Eccles, Treasurer.

Balance as of 10/31/09 $3,397

Church Outreach– Skyridge Church of the Brethren has drafted and passed a resolution to support HR808. They will be sending Representative Upton a copy.

Peace Pizzazz— Currently there are six schools who have committed to participating in Peace Pizzazz. The theme for 2010 is "The Golden Rule". Superintendent Rice is very enthusiastic about the project and offered $1,000 to help fund it if we add a literacy component. The committee asked that a preliminary budget be produced for next month's meeting.

Christmas Party—December's meeting (6:30 p.m. on the 10th)will be festive. We will be having a social gathering. If you plan on attending please bring a snack to pass.

We want to thank you for your continued support and invite you to attend a meeting if you have the opportunity.

Peacefully submitted by Luana VanDam and Janice Lakers (co-chairs)