Members present: Delia Castillo, Len Ellis, Reza Badiee, Asma Salam, Elizabeth Villafranca, Lynn Walters, Elaine Emmert, Rob Evans, Roger Kallenberg, Mehry Cornett, Diane Baker, Valley Reed, Michael Lynn Walters, and Ernest McMillan.
Staff present: Lon Burnam, Daniel Williams, Trish Major
Visitors: Hadi Jawad
Prospective members: J Kendall Johnson, Mike Ghouse
I. Opening: Delia called the meeting to order at 7:15 pm; introductions all around. To promote centering down, Delia read a selection about Martin Luther King.
II. Minutes: The December 2007 minutes were reviewed: Rob moved to accept the minutes and Mehry seconded the motion. The motion was confirmed by voice vote.
III. Treasurer’s Report: Reza presented out year-to-date financials: The month of December showed a negative $6,130 balance of income net of expenses. Len moved to accept the report, Ernest seconded the motion. The motion to accept was affirmed by voice vote.
IV. Board Development Committee
A. Two names were submitted as nominees for the Board of Directors, each to serve three years: J Kendall Johnson, Mike Ghouse. Rob moved to accept the nominees to the Board, Roger seconded the motion. All others indicated acceptance to the motion by voice vote.
B. Crawford Peace House: No request for action was requested at this time. The issue of developing a more formal relationship with the Crawford Peace House will be investigated and Board members that are available will attend the Peace House Board of Directors meeting on January 26, 2008.
C. Hadi presented the opportunity for the Dallas Peace Center to participate and sign a petition in support of a boycott of the “Big Three Oil” companies on February 23. The boycott is being organized by Consumers for Peace and Hands off Iraq Oil. The movement is in its infancy, but will involve a press conference at “Oil Places”. Mehry moved to support the boycott of the “big three Oil” companies. Diane seconded the motion and all affirmed by voice vote.
D. Stakeholders Retreat: Len Ellis provided a written summary of the activities at the Stakeholders Retreat.
V. Team Reports
A. Communications – a written report was provided. The question arose about the appropriateness of accepting ads from political candidates. The Board was reminded that if such ads are accepted from one candidate, equal space must be provided for opposing candidates. It was perceived that this would not be a problem considering the readership of the Dallas Peace Times
B. Dismantling Racism - no report
C. Fundraising – written report
D. Infrastructure and Long Term Planning – Job descriptions for Dallas Peace Center employees were completed and submitted to the Board for approval. Roger moved to accept the revised descriptions with Mehry as second, affirmed by voice vote.
E. Peace Education – No report
F. Swords into Plowshares
1. The Don’t Attack Iran Committee requested that the Board support the draft Resolution that was submitted with written committee reports and encourage the Dallas City Council to adopt the resolution. Rob made the motion to support the Resolution, Valley seconded, the motion approved by voice vote.
2. Roger requested that the Dallas Peace Center allocate $600 to join the Dallas Chamber of Commerce. The request was made in light of the fact that the economy of Dallas is heavily dependent on defense related contracts. Thousands of workers owe their livelihood to these contracts and should the current level of conflict abate, thousands could be out of work and the local economy would be in a state similar to that of Michigan with the decline of the auto industry. By joining the Chamber, the need for diversification in the economy could be introduced as an issue. Mehry mad the motion to approve the expenditure of $600 for the Chamber membership. Diane seconded the motion and it was approved by voice vote.
3. Alternatives to Military Service Update -
VI. Events
A. Gandhi the Man Class – started Jan 13, 2008 and is on going at 2 pm at DPC
B. Civil Disobedience Retreat - January 20-21 at CRC in Ft. Worth MLK Parade
VII. Other Business
A. It was requested the Dallas Peace Center be a sponsor for the Season of Non-Violence. A written report explaining the 64 day season was submitted. Diane moved to sponsor the Season of Non-Violence. Rob second and the motion passed by voice vote.
VIII. Adjournment - Diane moved, Rob second, to adjourn at 9:35.
Submitted by Elaine Emmert
Secretary
January 28, 2008
Members present: Len Ellis, Diane Baker, Valley Reed (had proxy for Mehry Cornett), Robert Dawson, Rob Evans, Lynn Walters, J Kendall Johnson, Elizabeth Villafranca, Elaine Emmert, Roger Kallenberg, Robert, and Sidney Burkins Jr.
Staff present: Lon Burnam, Daniel Williams, Trish Major, Beth Fred
1. Communications – A written report was provided. A draft of a flyer (one side will be in English, the other in Spanish) that encourages peaceful “Demonstrations” that will be distributed at events sponsored by the Peace Centerwas distributed. Several suggestions for alternate wording were provided.2. Dismantling Racism (written report submitted)a. Cesar Chavez Dinner Monday, March 31b. Summer Dinner Lecture Series Committeec. The Film Festival will be held in late March or early April in Irving3. Fund Raising (written report submitted)a. Bill Matthews has agreed to convene until a chair can be identified.4. Infrastructure and Long Term Planning (No Report)a. Staff Development
Staff have been cleaning, re-organizing and catching up. Efforts were hampered by electronic difficulties. A minute of thanks to the selfless efforts of Jason who donated time to assist in straightening out internet problems with the internet and also in rearranging furnitureb. Board Development – Bill Matthews hosted a Board member retreat and orientation. Approximately half of the Board attended. Another orientation is tentatively planned for the Spring.5. Peace Education (written report submitted after Board packets distributed)6. Swords in Plowshares (written report submitted)
A. Boycott Big 3 Oil Press Conference & Demonstration, Saturday February 21,11:00 am, Preston & Royal In DallasB. Voices for Peace (with Dr. Maya Angelo) March 1st, 2:00pm at the Myerson Symphony CenterC. China Blue Film Screening, March 11, 7:00 pm Oakcliff UUD. Deferred Giving brown Bag March 12:00 [, DPCE. Cesar Chavez Birthday Celebration March 31, 5:30 pm Cuquita’s in Farmers Branch.
A. SMU Library Update (written report submitted)B. 5th Anniversary of the War in Iraq
It was suggested that DPC support other events that are taking place such as Stand for Peace in Arlington from 5-7 pm or investigate “other events”C. Party Convention Resolutions/Peace Department Resolution
After some discussion Bob moved to support HR808 (included in the Board packet). Roger was second and the motion was affirmed by voice vote.
Members present: Delia Castillo, Len Ellis, Robert Dawson, Asma Salam, Reza Badie, Roger Kallenberg, Ernest McMillan, Rob Evans, Zakee Iddeen, J Kendel Johnson, Mike Ghouse, Sidney Burkins Jr., Elizabeth Villafranca, Elaine Emmert, Valley Reed
Staff present: Trish Major, Beth Freed
I. Opening: Delia as Board Chair called the meeting to order at 7:08 pm. Although there was no prepared topic for centering down, Zakee spoke of the necessity of maintaining an open dialog to develop and promote healthy race relations. The dialog must be sustained throughout the year, not only during the commemoration of Martin Luther King. There are difficult and uncomfortable issues must be confronted honestly and openly before unity can be approached.
II. Minutes: The February 2008 minutes were reviewed. Mike moved to accept the minutes, Rob was second and the motion was confirmed by voice vote.
III. Treasurer’s Report: Reza presented our year-to-date financials: The month of February was a difficult month. Expenses were at 100% of the projected budget level while revenue was only 66% of the projected level. Both board and non-board individual giving were substantially below projected levels. Roger moved to accept the report, Asma seconded the motion. The motion was affirmed by voice vote.
IV. Resolution of Film Festival Funds: Approximately $575 was raised by showing a film showing at the Magnolia Theater on April 26, 2007. At the time it was advertised that DPC would use funds for the Dallas Film Festival. Unfortunately, funding was insufficient to participate. The board decided that if a similar project could be identified during the following 12 months, the funds could be used to support the alternate project. If no project were identified, then the funds would be moved to the DPC general fund. Since the 12 month period is coming to a close and no alternate project has been identified, staff recommends that funds be converted to assist with the current budget shortfall. Roger moved to convert the $575 earned at the film showing to the general fund. Sidney seconded the motion and the motion passed by voice vote.
V. Team Reports
A. Communications: A written report was provided. This month the committee ran out of copies of Peace Times. Ernest voiced a motion to increase the quantity of papers produced by 500, from 1,500 to 2,000 after Roger and Ernest volunteered to fund the additional cost for the first month. Rob was second and the motion passed by voice vote.
B. Dismantling Racism (no report)
C. Fund Raising (written report submitted – identified as V.F.)
1. Cesar Chavez Birthday Celebration on March 31st.
2. Summer Dinner Lecture Series (Written Report Submitted)
3. Planned Giving Information (Written Report Submitted with supplemental information)
D. Infrastructure and Long Term Planning (No Report)
E. Peace Education: Mike Milican presented the idea of developing aframework of 4 essential questions that will bring our thinking more in-line with the values of non-violence. Before an action is taken each of the four questions would have to be answered in the affirmative. Several companies have used this approach effectively. This will be an on going process and will be discussed at future meetings.
F. Swords in Plowshares (written report submitted)
VI. Events Update
1. Cesar Chavez Birthday Celebration March 31, 5:30 pm Cuiquita’s in Farmers Branch.
2. Music Movies and Munchies 4-7 pm April 26 at Emanuel Lutheran Church (4311 San Jacinto at Peak
VII. Other Business
VIII. Adjournment – Ernest moved, Sidney second, to adjourn at 8:55, approved by voice vote.
Submitted by Elaine Emmert
Secretary
April 2, 2008
Members Present: Delia Castillo, Diane Baker, Valley Reed, Rob Evans, Roger Kallenberg, Reza Badie, J Kendall Johnson, Len Ellis, Ernest, Elaine Emmert, Mike Ghouse
Staff Present: Lon Burnam, Daniel Williams
I. Opening: The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. The topic discussed at opening and for centering was the dinner for Board members that was held at Diane’s home.
II. Minutes: The March 2008 minutes were reviewed. Rob moved to accept the minutes, Asma was second and the motion was confirmed by voice vote.
III. Treasurer’s Report: Report submitted. The ending balance for March was $11,887. Income less expenses for the month were a negative $4,408. It is important that a chair for the fund raising committee be enrolled soon. Rob moved to accept the report, Diane seconded and the motion passed by voice vote.
IV. Team Reports
A. Communications (written report submitted)
B. Dismantling Racism
1. Dialogue on Race – Zakee IdDeen & Jan Sanders
2. ICE Inhumanity Committee – Detention of Imam Safdar Razi Ali. Lon distributed background information on, the detention and planned deportation of Imam Safdar Razi Ali.C. Fundraising (no chair)
1. Cesar Chavez Birthday Celebration, March 31st. The event held at Chiquita’s Restaurant in Farmer’s Branch was viewed as a solid event and a means to reach out to the community. Hopefully, it could become an annual event. The Dallas Peace Center would like to make acknowledge Elizabeth Villafranca for the use of her business for the event.
2. Summer Dinner Lecture Series (Written Report Submitted). Three speakers have been confirmed for the lecture series that will take place on June 5, July 23 and August 6. .
3. Foundation Meetings: Meetings with foundations are moving forward.
4. Summer Intern – Lindsey McLennanD. Infrastructure and Long Term Planning: No report
E. Peace Education
1. US Department of Peace Conference, April 25 – 27. The agenda for the event may be obtained online
F. Swords into Plowshares (Written Report submitted)
1. Ann Wright Book Signing and Presentation April 24
a. Iraq list mailing
b. Iran list mailing
c. Today’s broadcast e-mail
V. Events Update
A. Ann Wright Lecture and Book signing, Thursday, April 24, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Boarders, Books and Music, 5500 Greenville at Lovers Lane, Dallas.
B. Breaking the Silence Rally Friday, April 25, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Reverchoon Park
C. Celebrate Spring Village Fest, Friday-Saturday, April 25-26, Midway Hills Christian Church, 11001 Midway Rd.
D. South Central Regional Conference for a U.S. Department of Peace, Friday-Sunday, April 25-27, SMU
E. Brown Bag: Kids for Kids: Relief in Sudan, Monday, April 28, Noon, DPC
VI. Other Business
A. Peace Center Credit Card. The need for a Peace Center Credit Card has become apparent. Diane moved that the card be obtained, Elaine second and the motion passed by voice vote
B. CAIR Banquet: Diane moved that the Peace Center endorse the CAIR Banquet, J second and the motion passed by voice vote.
VII. Adjournment – Diane moved and J second to adjourn at 9:10. The motion was approved by voice vote.
Submitted by Elaine Emmert
Secretary
May 14, 2008
Members Present: Len Ellis (chair), (Asma Salam’s proxy), Diane Baker, Sidney Burkins Jr.), Mehry Cornett, Rob Evans, Lyn Walters, Roger Kallenberg, (Valley Reed’s proxy), Reza Badiee, Elaine Emmert, (J. Kendall Johnson’s proxy)
Staff Present: Lon Burnam, Daniel Williams
Visitor Present: Betty Jane Ferguson, Lindsey McLennan
I. Opening: Len opened the meeting with a moment of silence for the victims of the natural disasters in China and Burma 7:15 p.m.
II. Minutes: The April 2008 minutes were reviewed. Lynn moved to accept the minutes, Diane was second and the motion was confirmed by voice vote.
III. Treasurer’s Report: Report submitted. The ending balance for April was $10,626. However, this balance still is a net loss of $506. The loss is smaller than in past years but with a smaller cushion in savings will not be sustainable in the upcoming months. Target expenses are between 10 and 12 thousand a month. The Director has been spending an increasing amount of his time on fund raising in the absence of a fund raising chair. In an effort to alleviate this situation, all Board members have been charged with presenting at least one name for consideration for fund raising chair. Diane moved to accept the report. Sidney was second and the motion passed by voice vote.
A concern was raised about the size of the financial report that is printed and contained in the monthly minutes. It was suggested to continue with the report as currently provided and including it in the monthly Board packets, but only printing the first three pages in the printed packet. The three pages to be included are: Narrative Report; Summary Budget; and Fundraising and Expenditures. Roger made the motion to that effect, Len seconded the motion and it was approved by voice vote.
IV. Update on Potential Office Move - Roger
V. Team Reports (Consent Agenda)
A. Communications (written report submitted)
1. Dallas Peace Times Distribution
2. Clarification of sponsorship and promotion of eventsB. Dismantling Racism
1. ICE Inhumanity Committee – Detention of Imam Safdar Razi – the attorney believes that Safdar Razi will be executed if he is returned because of his work with the inner-faith community following the 9/11 attacks.
2. ICE Inhumanity Committee – Detention of Hussin Rohaizad – Hussin Rohaizad was deported, leaving his children behindC. Fundraising (no chair)
1. Summer Dinner Lecture Series (Written Report Submitted). Three speakers have been confirmed for the lecture series that will take place on June 5, July 23 and August 6. Each dinner has a chair, but help is needed to sell tickets/tables. Board members were given names of people to call and remind/encourage to come to the dinners.
2. Foundation Meetings: Meetings with foundations are moving forward. Bill and Lon are visiting with some non-traditional foundations that control how funds are invested.
3. Summer Intern – Lindsey McLennan. Lindsey was introduced to the Board.
4. Other Funding – cards were passed around to all Board members along with a phone script so that grassroots supporters could be called with a request for donations. This will allow DPC staff time to dedicate to other issues.
It was suggested that DPC hold a garage sale. Various locations were suggested. Elaine will request permission from Dallas Friends Meeting to use the Meeting House as a possible location. (she did and Friends agreed to the use of the grounds only and only if the sale is in August)D. Infrastructure and Long Term Planning: No report
1. Board Training – The invitation to Board members to attend the Center for Nonprofit Management seminar on Board assisted fundraising was passed out to Board members.
E. Peace Education (written report submitted) Still under discussion is the organization of a monthly celebration of a Hero of Peacemaking that was born in the month. Other suggestions are welcome
F. Swords into Plowshares (no report)
1. Ann Wright Book Signing and Presentation April 24
2. Exxon Enough! – A call is out for clergy to support the action against Exxon.
3. Sudan (Success Story)
4. Death Penalty Abolition Committee – Coalition membership
VI. Events Update
A. Exxon Enough! – News Conference and Environmental Justice Hearing Tuesday May 27, 11:00 a.m. at Munger Place UMC and Wednesday May 28, 2008 at 8:00 a.m. Meyerson Symphony Hall, 2301 Flora Street, Dallas
B. Summer Dinner lecture Series with Rita Marie Johnson – Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at 6:00 p.m., FunAsia 1210 Beltline Rd., Richardson
C. Jeremy Scahill Book Signing (Blackwater) – Monday, June 23, 2008 evening – Half Priced Books, 5803 E. Northwest Highway, Dallas
D. Pastors for Peace Cuba Caravan Reception – Friday, June 27, 2008, Munger Place United Methodist Church 5200 Bryan St.
E. Sarah Hickman Concert – Sunday, July 20, 2008, evening, Cathedral of Hope, 5910 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas
F. Summer dinner Lecture Series with Col. Ann Wright – Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. FunAsia 1210 Beltline Rd., Richardson
G. Summer Dinner Lecture Series with Dr. Erika Frank – Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 6:00 p.m., at FunAsia, 1210 Beltline Rd., Richardson
H. Art Spirit Block Party - Saturday, September 20, 2008VII. Other Business
A. Copier/Printer Replacement
DPC office copier is in very bad shape and needs to be replaced. There has been a donation of $2,000 and authorization for use of funding was requested. Roger made a motion to approve the use of funds for a new copier, Lyn approved it and the motion passed by voice vote. Mehry mentioned that she may have a copier that would suffice. It is a professional grade copier and would bring it to the office.
B. CAIR Banquet
VIII. Adjournment – Roger moved to adjourn at 9:15 p.m. Diane second. The motion was approved by voice vote.
Submitted by Elaine Emmert
Secretary
June 10, 2008
Members Present: Len Ellis (chair), Diane Baker, Lynn Walters, Roger Kallenberg, Valley Reed, Rob Evans, Ernest MacMillan
Proxies: J. Johnson, Mike Ghouse, Bob Dawson
Staff Present: Lon Burnam, Daniel Williams
Visitor Present: Betty Jane and Allison Ball
I. Opening: Len opened the meeting with a lively and educational discussion of Juneteenth; 7:00 p.m.
Allison Ball was introduced and spoke about BePeace Training and a group trip next year to Costa Rica for training ($3000, May 2009). Also discussed the possibility of doing some local training.
II. Minutes: The May 2008 minutes were reviewed. Diane moved to accept the minutes with noted changes (Rob Evans was not here and Lynn Walters’ name was misspelled).
III. Treasurer’s Report: Report submitted. Diane and Bob Baker are the new co-chairs for fundraising.
Roger moved to accept the report and it was approved by voice vote.
IV. Discussion on 2008 Peacemaker of the Year (Committee & Nominees)
Len and Lynn agreed to serve on the committee for the Peacemaker of the Year dinner
Long discussion ensued about next board meeting and board retreat. It was decided that an email would be sent to the board regarding possible dates in August for the board retreat and that the meeting to discuss the Peacemaker of the Year would take place at the regular July meeting on 7/17.
It was also decided to invite past peacemakers of the year to help choose the Peacemaker of the Year for 2008.
V. Team Reports (Consent Agenda)
A. Communications (written report submitted)
1. Dallas Peace Times Distribution.
It was requested that staff send out a list of places still needing someone to deliver the DPT.B. Dismantling Racism
Latino activists requested that DPC partner with them to re-name Industrial Blvd. after Cesar Chavez as endorsed by the public vote.
Moved to accept by Ernest MacMillan, second by Rob; passed by voice vote.
It was also decided that DPC would follow the lead of the activists in determining what, if any, additional action would be taken.C. Fundraising (no chair)
D. Fundraising
1. 2008 Summer Dinner Lecture Series Status Report (written report submitted)
Diane challenged each board member to sponsor a table at the dinner ($500).
2. 2009 Summer Dinner Lecture Series Speaker Selection Committee
3. Communications Department Declares Financial Independence Project—hope to raise at least 50% by June 21st
Other Funding – cards were passed around to all Board members so that grassroots supporters could be called with a request for donations.E. Infrastructure and Long Term Planning:
1. Board Development – See III. It was decided that an email would be sent to the board to determine which of two dates in August would be best for the board retreat.
2. Staff Development—Liz Branch will be meeting with staff to further discuss changes/adjustments to implement plan.F. Peace Education
G. Swords into Plowshares (no report)
1. Ann Wright Book Signing and Presentation April 24
VI. Heroes of Peacemaking Project
VII. Events Update
A. Tuesday June 24 7:00 pm - Blackwater booksigning by Jeremy Skahill – Half Priced Books on Northwest Highway
B. Friday June 27 6:30 pm - Pastors for Peace Caravan Reception – Munger Place UMC
C. Saturday, July 12 10:00 am – Board Retreat – Location TBA
D. Sunday, July 20 evening - Sarah Hickman Concert –, Cathedral of Hope 5910 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas
E. Wednesday, July 23, 2008 6:00 pm - Summer Dinner Lecture Series with Col. Ann Wright –FunAsia 1210 Beltline Rd., Richardson
F. Wednesday, August 6, 2008 6:00 pm - Summer Dinner Lecture Series with Dr. Erika Frank –FunAsia 1210 Beltline Rd., Richardson
G. Saturday, September 20, 2008 - Art Spirit Block Party – Volunteers Needed
VIII. Adjournment – at 9:15 p.m.
Submitted by Lynn J. Walters
Acting Secretary
July 10, 2008
Members Present: Len Ellis (chair), Diane Baker, Ernest McMillen, J Johnson, Mike Ghouse, Rob Evans, Roger Kallenberg, Sidney Burkins, Jr., Valley Reed
Staff Present: Lon Burnam, Daniel Williams
Guests Present: Betty Jane Ferguson, Bill McElvaney, Hadi Jamad, Holsey Hickman, Liz Branch, Rachel Betzen, Rick Halperin, Stephen Betzen, [Missing name: Guest who spoke about Hungry for Justice Coaliltion]
I. Opening: [I wasn’t taking notes yet. I don’t remember if there was an opening or what it was.] Daniel read the Apathetics Anonymous creed
II. Minutes: The June 2008 minutes were reviewed. Ernest moved to accept the minutes with correction by Diane Baker to reflect her challenge to each board member to organize a table for the two remaining summer dinners. Seconded by Rob. Board voted to approve.
III. Treasurer’s Report: Report submitted, with review and commentary by Daniel. Len moved to accept; seconded by Roger. Board voted to approve.
IV. Update on Hungry for Justice Coalition: Kalil Meek shared an update on the status of the Holy Land Foundation pre-retrial preparations and reported an ongoing history of unjust treatment by the Federal district court, including no funds yet released by the Federal government to attorneys appointed to represent the defendants.
V. Peacemaker of the Year: Discussion began with past Peacemakers present: Rick Halperin, Hadi Jamad, Bill McElvaney, Holsey Hickman and Diane Baker. After discussion was concluded, Diane Baker requested highlights be recorded. Len and Ernest offered to add their notes to the minutes.
2008 Awards approved by vote of the board:
Peacemaker of the Year: Rev. Leonard Charles Stovall
(Motion: Diane; Second: Rob)
Commentary:
Valley: “A lionhearted advocate for peace.”
Organization of the Year: Hope for Peace and Justice
(Motion: Rob; Second: Roger)
Commentary:
Sidney: “Do we want to ‘step outside ourselves’? [This award to H4PJ would increase exposure and expand networking opportunities.”
Lifetime Achievement: Mavis Belisle
(Motion: Roger; Second: Sidney)
Lifetime Achievement: Bob Dennis
(Motion: Roger; Second: Sidney)
VI. Texas Coalition for Compassionate Care
Lon introduced a letter written to familiarize the board with the TCCC, a newly formed organization working to advocate the legalization of medical marijuana in Texas, and request fiduciary sponsorship by the Dallas Peace Center by means of a grant, whereby the DPC could receive tax-deductible donations on behalf of the organization and retain 5% as a sponsorship fee.
TCCC founder Stephen Betzen addressed the board. Stephen expressed passionate desire to help get the “sick and dying off the battlefield” in the war on drugs and noted that 12 states have legalized medical marijuana, with a 13th expected to follow soon.
Board discussion focused on protection of the DPC’s 501c3 status, “due diligence” investigation of financial and other types of possible liabilities before voting on the request, and development of a policy for responding to requests for fiscal sponsorship. Lon agreed to consult the DPC’s accountant and board member and attorney Bob Dawson.
The board agreed to table the item, pending the gathering of more information and consideration, until the next meeting.
VII. Team Reports
A. Communications Committee June 28 meeting report.
Lon recognized Ernest’s initiative that has expanded Dallas Peace Times distribution to all Dallas Public Libraries. DPT is currently distributed to about 75 locations throughout the DFW area.
B. Dismantling Racism – no report
C. Fundraising
1. Fundraising/Summer Dinners: Lon noted low sales of seats to the remaining 2 summer dinners, but expressed hope enough people would attend to bring in needed funding.
2. Fundraising/Communications “Independence Project”: $6511 was raised (52% of goal). In spite of not reaching the set goal, staff reported the project a “tremendous success for our first attempt at this type of orchestrated direct email campaign.”
D. Infrastructure and Long Term Planning
1. Icons of Peacemaking
Daniel expressed hope to have historical peacemakers identified and assigned to specific months in August. Volunteers are needed to develop programming for each month.2. Staff Development Committee
Liz Branch and Rob presented a status report.
Rob: Audit, finance, infrastructure and personnel committees are needed.
Liz: Current job descriptions do not accurately reflect the needs or the skills and jobs performed by the persons in those jobs.
Database management is needed for both media and membership.
Beth Freed is not interested in continuing in the office assistant role she is currently in, but has a keen interest and skills in community outreach. Beth is preparing a job description for the work she would like to do for the Dallas Peace Center.
“Now is a good time to transition to true volunteer coordination.” A paid volunteer coordinator might be needed.
The board might want to consider health insurance and worker’s comp benefits for staff.
Discussion & commentary:
Roger: “We need some physicians on the board of directors.”
Valley requested for more specific description for the volunteer coordinator job and suggested that outreach responsibilities could be volunteer.
Liz advocated establishment of a speaker’s bureau – “Ambassadors for Peace”.
Roger expressed concern about becoming “too structured.”
Len expressed hope that Beth’s ad sales will result in covering her salary.E. Peace Education – no report
F. Swords Into Plowshares
Diane Baker commentary: The Dallas Peace Center enjoys a sophisticated level of organization, compared to many peace center-type organizations in the country.
Diane also emphasized her concern and the importance she places on ending the Cuban blockade, remarked about the quality of healthcare she witnessed in Cuba, and noted “our ideals are weapons”.
Roger reported progress and growing interest at the Dallas Chamber of Commerce in exploring potential DFW economic conversion from dependence on weapons making to alternative, peace-building industries.
Death Penalty Abolition Committee: Lon and Patricia have agreed to co-sponsor a number of events this summer, where they will make available petitions to encourage the Texas legislature to put a moratorium on the death penalty.
U.S. House of Representatives bill H.R. 362: Lon and others urged board members and guests to contact U.S. Representative Gary Ackerman (Dem, NY) and ask him to withdraw the bill which could result in a blockade on Iran. Lon also urged calling U.S. Rep Eddie Bernice Johnson and other co-sponsors of the bill and ask them to withdraw their co-sponsorship of the bill. Valley suggested including the request in the weekly DPC email.
VIII. Other Business
A. A Sweatfree Dallas
A motion was made by Mike to endorse the campaign to get the city of Dallas to pass an anti-sweatshop ordinance. Second by Valley. Passed by a vote of the board.B. Fair Trade Coalition
A motion was made by Mike for the Dallas Peace Center to purchase a $100 membership. Second by Valley. Passed by a vote of the board.C. ArtSpirit Block Party Sponsorship
$120 was collected to pay for Dallas Peace Center Sponsorship of the September 21 celebration of the U.N.-sanctioned International Day of Peace. The board agreed to refrain from a vote to purchase the sponsorship until clarity could be gained from ArtSpirit about a sentence on the flyer for the event stating “NO supporters for or against any wars will be tolerated.”, after which a vote would be taken by email.Len noted that, pending the vote in favor of sponsoring, the Dallas Peace Center would need volunteers to staff its info table.
D. Moonlady U.N. International Day of Peace Picnic
Len announced that the Dallas Peace Center also needs volunteers to staff the DPC info table at this White Rock Lake event.E. Worldfest in Addison – October 25
Table volunteers also needed.F. Unity Day, Plano Civic Center
Mike moved for the Dallas Peace Center to become a co-sponsor of this event. Second by Diane. Passed by a vote of the board.
Mike announced this event is seeking organizations to sponsor information tables.
Members Present: Len Ellis (chair), J. Kendall Johnson, Diane Baker, Lynn Walters, Roger Kallenberg, Mike Ghouse, Reza [last name?], Rob Evans, Ernest MacMillan, Zakee Id Deen
Proxies: [I don’t know of any]
Staff Present: Lon Burnam, Daniel Williams
Visitor Present: Bob Baker
I. Welcome, Intros and Centering: Len opened the meeting by reading “It’s easy to be anti-war”
Lon announced that Jeff Wood’s execution was delayed due to the acceptance of his appeal by a Federal Appeals court.
II. Minutes: The July 2008 minutes were reviewed. Mike Ghouse moved to accept the minutes with noted changes; second by Rob Evans.
III. Treasurer’s Report: Report submitted. Ernie moved to accept the report, second by J, and it was approved by voice vote.
Presentation by Bob Baker of the Fundraising Team [moved from Team Reports VII C (3)]
Bob described the process used by the fundraising team:
1. Write Goals (all agree or don’t go with goals)
2. What problems prevent us from reaching goals (all agree are true & that it interferes with goals)
3. What plans already exist?
4. What plans do we need to make? (include subordinate tasks)Goals:
1. Meet operational budget ($13k/month)
2. Endowment of $1M in 2 years
3. Build and Maintain a reserve of 3 months worth of expenses
4. Plan for $170k budget for 2009Problems: (will be sent to the board confidentially)
Current plans:
Build fundraising team with specific intentions
Phone bank on Saturday (8/23 1-4 p.m. and possibly 8/24) and follow up with emails and fact to face meetings
By September board meeting to have proposals to vote on an endowment
Launch endowment at Peacemaker of the Year Award Dinner
Have urgent and long term needs to address
Ideas:
“Peace Sponsor for a Day” $500
(Roger Kallenberg took 9/15, his birthday)
Walk/Run for PeaceA. Short term Solutions to budget situation
Staff requested permission to make internal loans between two accounts if money was not raised to cover rent & salaries due next week.
Mike Ghouse made a motion to approval an internal loan to cover payroll and rent, if necessary, from the SEED & Landmine Removal Accounts; 2nd by Zakee IdDeen; approved by voice vote.
IV. Review of August 9th Board Retreat/Decisions
A. Committee of Compassionate Care: Suggested that rather than be a pass-through entity, that it become a DPC committee. Stephen Bentzen agreed. Motion by Ernie to accept the Committee of Compassionate Care as a committee of the DPC; 2nd by Rob; approved by voice vote.
B. Bylaws Update Committee: Bob Dawson is the chair; Sam Nance is a member of the committee; Rob Evans and Len Ellis also agreed to serve.
Motion by Diane to establish a Bylaws Update Committee and to approve the members suggested; second by Rob; approved by voice vote.
C. Budget Review Adjustments: postponed to September meeting.
V. Update on Holy Land Foundation Trial
Lon gave an update. DPC joined Hungry for Justice last year and was active during the last Holy Land Trial. September 15th is jury selection in the new trial. Hungry for Justice is meeting every Wednesday at La Madeline at Mockingbird. They have also been supported by LULAC and ACLU.
VI. Volunteers needed for upcoming partnership opportunities
A. Art Spirit Block Party Update—Volunteer Coordinator (September 21st)
There was a previous discussion among the board re: being part of the event. Gives DPC opportunity to be visible in the community; create awareness; has a lot of children’s involvement; may need to get materials translated into Spanish.
Mike Ghouse volunteered to be the volunteer coordinator for this event.
Need to raise additional $120 for the fee.
Motion by Zakee that the DPC will participate in ArtSpirit; 2nd by Mike G., approved by voice vote.
B. Peace Day at Bath House Cultural Center Volunteers (September 21)
Len will be there.
C. Fort Worth Event (September 20th): Peace Run.
DPC agreed to co-sponsor; will find out about tabling.
VII. Team Reports (Consent Agenda)
a. Communications (written report submitted)
It was requested that the board get a schedule for the CenterPeace ahead of time.b. Dismantling Racism (no report)
It has been requested that the Team look into training for board members that covers, for example, 1 night/week for 4 weeks instead of the weekend long Damascus Road training.c. Fundraising
1. Summer Dinner Lecture Series (written report submitted)
2. Awards Dinner on December 4th (Ernie M. and Lynn W. co-chairs;
Roger K. and Len also agreed to serve).
3. Fundraising Team met Wednesday (see report under III).d. Infrastructure and Long Term Planning: Rob met with Lynn Chandler re: board restructuring and endowment policies.
e. Peace Education: Larry B. resigned as co-chair; J. will follow up with board at next meeting re: status of committee.
f. Swords into Plowshares (no report)
VIII. Other business
IX. Events Update
a. September 21: Art Spirit Block Party—Volunteers needed
b. Saturday, October 25, Addison International Festival—Addison Circle Park—noon-6 p.m.; Volunteers needed.
c. Sunday, September 7th—Unity Day 4:30-7 p.m., Crowne Plaza Hotel on LBJ; booths available.
X. Adjournment – at 9:15 p.m.
Submitted by Lynn J. Walters
Acting Secretary
September 9, 2008