Board Meeting
January 26, 2011
Present: Greg Warner, Jill Smith, Terry Russell, Rita Russell, Eliza Mitchell, Karrie Geroux, Carolyn Tommeraas, Sally Arrindell, David Arrindell, Richard Geist, Kim Wettelson, Maggie Brimijoin
Greg Warner opened the meeting at Karrie Geroux’s studio at 7:20 pm. Members approved the Minutes of the previous meeting after a discussion of how the new mixer “mix” of foxtrot, waltz, and swing would work. Covering the dance admissions desk with rotating board members and one hired person worked out well and Greg noted that we had adopted several of the brainstorming suggestions.
Treasurer’s Report: The January Dance brought in $626.60. The Wells Fargo account contained $6,467 before final checks for instructors, rental, and other expenses cleared. Rita said a full report will be presented in February but did warn that a receipt will be required for future reimbursements.
National Membership: Greg reviewed several important USA National by-laws. Among these is a requirement to include on all banners and announcements the following in order to qualify for National’s liability insurance: “Southern Minnesota USA Dance Chapter 2017”. Local Board meetings must have 2/3rds of the officers attending. We can vote by email in between meetings and confirm at the following meeting. Under local rules and procedures, the board voted to publicize all dancing opportunities unless an event conflicts with our monthly dance on a motion by Jill and a second by Carolyn. The Annual Report to be written by Greg and the Treasurer’s final report to be written by Christine (former Treasurer) with Terry and Rita are due into Nationals by February 28th.
Musical Equipment: We need portable equipment for volunteer activities in the community (nursing homes, Mayo High School Swing lessons, Riverwalk, etc.). Terry and Richard presented two choices: the Bose SoundDock Portable at $459.70 (unit, extra battery and over the shoulder bag) and the 3 part Klipsch system at $100.00 (second hand). Both systems accept all types of musical inputs. Both can handle a microphone. The Bose can operate on a battery, the Klipsche needs an AC outlet. The Bose was much lighter, smaller and easier to set up than the Klipsche. We had raised $740.00 for music and a new system. Is the ease of set up, size and battery back-up worth the cost given that we have about 6 volunteer performances a year? The board voted for the Bose system. Karrie will be donating a CD player and Terry has a microphone we can have.
Pending: ASCAP music license. Although our national membership provides access to BMI licensed music, the selection through ASCAP is thought to be better. We received word from National that we need to review the contract with them before signing. It costs $350 per year. Before purchase, we will review the contract. D.J’s are responsible for obtaining permission for any music they play. If a performer gives a CD to a D.J, that performer is responsible for the license.
In reviewing the schedule of dances for the year, we have been asked to provide the University of Minnesota student dancers a chance to raise money for their competitions by charging for individual dances at one of our dances. We are looking into which dance will be suitable.
Committee reports:
February Dance: We need volunteers to help set up on Friday afternoon, February 11th. Please let Carolyn Tommeras know if you can help.
Music: We have D.J’s lined up but may need a new cable and/or look into installing a jack at the Senior Center. Paula has some outdated musical equipment in her basement which we no longer need.
PR: Jill will look into having our dances listed in the Visitor.
Demos: Sally said that we are scheduled to perform at the Salvation Army Adult Day Care Center.
Webmaster: Eliza will note the change of evening for the Board Meetings to the fourth Wednesday on the web site.
Community Education: Dave Wells reported that payment is still pending.
Meeting adjourned at 8:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Maggie Brimijoin
