ALL FAITHS UNITARIAN CONGREGATION

BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING MINUTES

                                          Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Call to order - The meeting was called to order by president Joyce Ramay, at 4 p.m.  Present in addition to Joyce were: Evelyn Evans, vice-chairperson, Midge Magstadt, secretary, governors: Robert  Nuding, David Morgan, Carol Elrod, past chairperson, Lou Pizzini, Wayne Robinson, minister, Pat Nuding, membership chairman, and Carol Siferd for the Social Circles Committee

Secretary’s report – The minutes of the September meeting were approved.

Financial  reports – (See handouts)

Treasurer’s report – Joyce reported on behalf of Doug Cartwright, that our September income was $11,647 and our expenses were $15,943 for a net loss of $4,297.  A balance sheet for all accounts through October 20, 2008 was presented.  Assets total $48,289.95.  Total liabilities & equity were $48,289.95.  Additionally this month, $1,204 was collected and distributed to the Harry Chapin Food Bank.   A Profit and Loss Statement that covers the time period from January 1, 2008 thru September 30, 2008 showed that most things are running as expected with expenses at 97% of the budgeted amount and income at 99% the budgeted amount.  Overall, the consensus is that we are doing a good job of operating within our budget. 

.As of October 20, 2008 our accounts were as follows:

• Checking – Florida Gulf Bank:  $8,124.32

• Florida Gulf Money Market:  $2,587.56

• Raymond James Legacy Fund:  $2,359.30

• Raymond James Operating Reserve:  $22,718.77

• Total Bank Accounts:  $35,789.95

Finance Committee – In Doug’s absence, Joyce reported on behalf of the Finance Committee.  It is time for the 2009 budget requests to be submitted and all committees are being asked to try to keep expenses down.  One way to increase our financial situation is to gain new members.  It was suggested one Sunday a month be designated as “Bring a Friend” Sunday, or something to that effect. Wayne felt that the last Sunday in the month might be appropriate for this.   There will be no fund raising parties this year due to the situation of the weak economy.  Neighborhood holiday parties would be on a strictly social basis.  End of year letters will show the status of giving, and requests for donations at that time will be directed toward the Operating Reserve.

Minister’s Report – (See handouts) Wayne reported that the Fall Fundraising Letters had been mailed and that the audio streaming is now up and running.  Video streaming is next and Wayne hopes a task force can be established to help further the development of this new aspect of our services.  Audio streaming is only costing about $5 a week, Video streaming would be approximately $99 a month and the finance committee has approved these costs.  A new person to handle Lunch Bunch is needed, and it was acknowledged that coordinating the lunch in not an easy task.  Lloyd Fish may do it in November, but a permanent person to take over for Carol who has served so faithfully in that capacity for so long, is definitely needed.   Wayne continues to make adjustments to the order of the service based on input from the congregation and his own analysis.  The addition of the first person witness segment lengthens the service, so the meditation portion will be after Joys and Concerns and will be without commentary. Conversation Café will return to being just after the message, and a little more time will be allowed for the Connection portion of the service, as it is important to let visitors know we’re glad they have come.  Wayne also mentioned that Hipolito has returned and does plan to stay.  Luis may be leaving in November.  If a position re-opens Hippy would be the likely choice.  The Service Support Council would decide who would be in the position of sexton, as David has been doing an excellent job and is very reliable.  It is hoped he and Hippy could work well together.

Committee Reports –

SSC – In Doug’s absence, Joyce reported that there will be a Holiday Dinner after the service on December 7.  All other issues had been taken care of in the Ministers Report.

Social Circles – Carol reported that a Thanksgiving dinner will be held at her house and that she can seat 40 people.  There are 3 free concerts coming up in November, a play date and a boat trip.  Carol and her committee will meet again December 8.  Their work in providing so many fun and interesting activities for the members is greatly appreciated.

Social Outreach – Robert was absent, but Evelyn reported on his behalf.  Evelyn is hoping to collect $425 through a collection on November 2 that would provide a $25 gift certificate to each young person at Hope House for a Christmas present.   A basket will be placed on the back table that day, and at the end of the service anyone wanting to contribute will have that opportunity.

Membership– Pat Nuding reported that we now have 240 members and 86 friends. Arlyne Goodwin has passed away and Jeanette Keyser, Dorothy Staley, and Mark and Betsy Kmetzko have asked to be removed from the membership.

 Old Business – Long range planning that would consider a home of our own continues to be on hold due to the economy.  Lou did suggest we continue to explore the possibility of sharing a facility with Temple Beth El.  Wayne also mentioned that the leadership at the Alliance of the Arts is changing.  With a different board it might be worth exploring our options concerning meeting there.

New Business - There will be a memorial service for Linda Jacobs Saturday, October 25 at the Hope Hospice of Cape Coral.  Wayne will speak and Carol is coordinating food that will be provided.  Sunday, October 26, the memorial service for Arlyne Goodwin will be held at Crestwell School. Family members are providing the food for that service.   Both these lovely women will be greatly missed.

Next Meeting - Our next meeting will be held Tuesday, November 18, at 4 p.m. in the Edwards Building.  Bob Nuding moved to adjourn the meeting seconded by Dave Morgan.  The motion carried and we were adjourned at 5:15 p.m. 

Respectfully submitted,

Midge Magstadt, Secretary

2008 Board Minutes

December 16

November 18

September 16

August 21

July 15

June 17

May 20

April 15

March 18

February 19

January 15