Juneau World Affairs Council Board Meeting
Monday, December 10, 2007

Board Members present: Geron Bruce, Doug Mertz, Elfrida Nord, Mary Miller, Bruce Botelho, Leslie Longenbaugh, Tom Lane, David Moe, Jim Baldwin and Dave Sturdevant. Doug chaired the meeting and Tom took minutes. The board approved the proposed agenda and the minutes of the August, October and November meetings.

Treasurer's Report: Geron Bruce reported that he had paid all bills except a couple of small bills and that the bank balance was $2661, with $115 to deposit. Travel costs have been up and membership fees down. (Dave Sturdevant said that he had about $500 in hotel bills that he would submit for reimbursement.) The need for a membership appeal letter was discussed. Dave mentioned that it would be a good idea to pass out sign up sheets at programs (as done in the past) to increase and correct our e-mail list.

Committee Reports
Program: David Moe noted that no program was scheduled for December. He said that he had additional correspondence regarding a proposed collaborative program on the missile defense system. The topic would be broadened to address a worldwide focus, not just local issues. The proposers were hoping for non-financial support from JWAC. The University might provide some support, but not as a part of the humanities forum. Leslie Longenbaugh suggested deferring to the Program Committee, which would review the proposal keeping JWAC’s options open. Bruce noted that Ian Williams would speak in January, and that the European Union ambassador might be available in Spring 2008. Another possible speaker in January or February would be the Russian Consul General. Bruce said that JWAC should get program information well in advance to the Juneau Empire editor, who asked for as much information as possible.
Outreach: The membership solicitation letter should include a list of future programs. Publicity for events includes: posters, Around Town column in the Empire, KTOO PSAs and the Juneau Afternoon program, e-mails to the high school, occasional advertisements, and general e-mail notification. Dave mentioned that it would be a good idea to pass out sign up sheets at programs (as done in the past) to increase and correct our e-mail list.
Special Events: Bruce said that he would ask Bob Storer to get a breakdown of costs from last years event for Geron, to help budget this year’s event. While 90 tickets were sold last year; he thought the goal for this year should be 120. Twisted Fish will cater. Auction items were needed (e.g., items from merchants, prints, host experiences, etc.) Bob Storer could not be silent auction coordinator, possibly Rene Gayhart could do it. Desserts are needed for dessert auction, which grossed almost $1,000 last year. Elfrida Nord asked if anyone could locate the missing trophy.
Tuesday Night Travelogue: Doug noted Linda Kruger’s concern about advertising for the travelogue programs—only a few showed up for the previous one. Travelogues scheduled include: Jan. 22 (Polar Bears); Feb. 26 (Liz Buck, Everglades); Mar. 25 (Elfrida, Nordland, Norway as a tourist destination); April 29 (John Roxburgh, India). Geron said a friend might do a presentation in May on bicycling in Europe. Bruce noted that a check for $300 was needed for the Nickelodeon, the travelogue venue :(6 mos. @ $50).
World Affairs Forum 2008: Bruce noted that the Forum would be on May 9-10 on South Asia. The Baranof is reserved and requests are out for speakers.

Unfinished Business
Doug asked if anyone wished to volunteer for a committee or change previous assignments. Jim Baldwin will serve on the Program Committee and Mary on the Travelogue Committee.

Next Meeting: The next Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 14, 2008.

Current Board Members and Term Expirations