Members present:: Michael Millican, Len Ellis, Stephen Brown, Bill Matthews, Sidney Burkins, Gene Tien, Valley Reed, Asma Salam, Zakee Iddeen, Reza Badiee.
proxies: Danna Pyke.
Staff present: Lon Burnam, Daniel Williams.
Visitors: Betty-Jean Ferguson.
1. Opening: Michael Millican called the meeting to order at 7:10pm; introductions were made.
2. Minutes: The February minutes were presented. Gene moved to accept as presented, Sidney second.
3. Treasurer’s Report: [Reza] New report format was reviewed. We now have an accounting program installed and all transactions will be recorded, beginning 1-1-2007. Gene asked that the "Fundraising" line item under Expenses be renamed as "Fundraising Team".
Gene moved to accept the report, Zakee second, affirmed by voice vote.
4. Office Search: [Stephen] "Monroe Shops" location discussions continue (1000 sq ft, Illinois/Corinth area; contractor has assured us he will meet the schedule. Suggested a letter-of-intent would convey that we are serious. Stephen moved a non-binding Letter of Intent be sent to the developer; Zakee second, all affirmed.
5. Teams:
Communications [Trish] - written report provided. The question of whether annual budget, monthly reports including board minutes should be posted on the website was raised; it was determined that board approval was not required and no vote was taken.
Participation in the Dallas Film Festival was discussed; past years DPC has spent $1500 to participate, this year there is no budget for this expense. Zakee made a motion to set a deadline of April 30 for raising the funds required; if the funds are not raised, DPC will not participate. Second by Stephen, agreed to by voice vote.
Dismantling Racism [Rob] - Sidney presented written request to sponsor and underwrite the Latino Film Festival participation. Discussion about source of funds, responsibility of committee to raise funds for projects, and content of films. Len moved to sponsor based on content of films, and DR Team's ability to raise the funds required; Zakee second.
Update on Farmer's Branch situation; the voter education program DPC is promoting could be funded by outside sources. There is concern about the source of the funds, and the content of the printed material to be distributed. Stephen will review the flyers; Sidney, Stephen Michael and Zakee will form a committee to review the funding.
Fundraising [Asma] - written report. Kathy Kelly has agreed to be the speaker for the Summer Dinner, which needs a chairperson. Discussed other possible venues for her to speak.
Organizational Development [Gene] - written report; 5-year planning retreat scheduled for Saturday April 14.
Peace Education [Michael] - oral report by Michael 'Solutions to Violence' discussion group continues, has good attendance.
Swords/Plowshares [Valley] -written report provided.
*EOI - events planned for the coming weekend.
*SOA Watch
*Darfur - a bill is being introduced in the TX HR
*Landmine Removal - no reply from UNA.
7. Immigration Detention Centers: [Asma] 361 people have been taken from a factory and placed in detention. Asma requested support from DPC for events, perhaps organize a bus trip. Advised to set up meeting to form a committee, and to discuss website usage with Trish.
8. Announcements: Valley discussed Drum Circle and Peace and Leadership training, focusing of children.
9. Adjourn: Asma moved we adjourn at 9:50pm, Sidney second.
submitted by Len Ellis
Secretary
April 6, 2007