TIAR March 19, 2015

Board Meeting Minutes

March 19 , 2015

Attending: R.Herman, M.Morich, E.Lemon, A.Cason, D.Bird, B.Swan, W.Spilly,

H.Parreño, G.Mott, M.Howden, G.Garman, B.Elwell, G.Payne,

G.Strother,M.Wienk and G.L’Esperance ; Guests- Jon Greenbaum and Tracy Farmer

1. Opening Reflection- By M.Morich.

2. Minutes- Motion by M.Howden; seconded by M.Hickey to approve the February 19, 2015 Board Meeting minutes. Approved unanimously.

3. Rochester People’s Climate Coalition- M.by M.Morich; seconded by M.Wienk to join this coalition. Approved unanimously.

4. Executive Committee Action- Motion by H.Parreño; seconded by A.Cason to endorse and approve the Executive Committee’s decision to contribute $100 to the Global Citizenship Conference held on 3/10/15.

5. League of Women Voters Educational Program about a NYS Constitutional Convention- Motion by R.Herman; seconded by G.Mott to cosponsor this event which is educational and which does not take a position. Approved unanimously.

6. Treasurers Report- D.Bird, Treasurer, distributed the 2015 budget.

7. Racial Dialog- Jon Greenbaum and Tracy Farmer led part 3 of a 3 part program. At the end they recommended that we view each of our programs through a “Racial Justice Lens.” This should be a criteria we should apply in determining the programs we undertake.

8. NYSPrevention-Justice- (No solitary confinement)- Question of TIAR participating on 4/22/15 in front of the jail or J.Morelle’s office referred to Executive Committee.

9. Fight For $15- Program initiated by MetroJustice. There will be a demonstration on 4/22/15 at 5 PM beginning at the Eastman Quad at the University of Rochester followed by a walk/march to a McDonalds on Mt.Hope Ave. near Elmwood Ave. Moderately should be forthcoming.

10. Mailing Address- Reminders: The TIAR mailing address is PO Box 25245, Rochester, NY 14625. The new (current) TIAR web site is www.tiar.org .

The next Executive Committee meeting will be Tuesday April 7, 2015 at 830 AM at the Golden Fox Restaurant, located on Culver Road across the street from Covenant United Methodist Church. The next Board meeting will be April 16, 2015 at 4 PM at Covenant United Methodist Church, (Culver at Parsells).

( the end of these minutes)

TIAR February 19, 2015

Board Meeting Minutes

February 19, 2015

At Covenant United Methodist Church

Attending: D. Bird, B. Elwell, P. Goodman, M. Howden, N. Jaschik, G. L'Esperance, G. Mott, H. Parreño, P. Peters, G. Strother, B. Swan

Guest Presenters from MetroJustice: Jon Greenbaum and Tracy Farmer

1. Opening Reflection: A moment of silence was held for the Muslim students killed in North Carolina

2. Annual Budget: Dayle presented the proposed 2015 TIAR Budget; it was accepted unanimously.

3. Presentation: The sheets from the January session were reviewed and a general discussion of how to organize our thoughts to get to a plan of action ensued.  Various institutions and current programs dealing with racism were identified.  We are requested to listen to two podcasts of “This American Life” and to take the Implicit Bias Exercise in preparation for the March discussion.  Specific directions on the relevant web sites will be sent to all Board members in the near future.

4. Organization Business:

- Pachamama Expense: Gail moved and Peter seconded authorizing Becky to contribute printing for the forthcoming April 19 program.  Approved unanimously.

- Donation to Sanctuary Village: Peter moved and Trish seconded to authorize a $100 donation to Sister Grace – House of Mercy for this project.  Approved unanimously.

5. Announcements:

- Information on the Moral Mondays program of the NYS Religion-Labor Coalition will be provided later

- Local fast food workers that are part of Fight for $15 movement are joining forces with members of the #BlackLivesMatter movement, calling for action in solidarity with the fired workers. Workers and community members will be holding a rally and delivering petitions from local supporters to McDonalds management at 3300 Monroe Ave, 5:00pm on Friday the 27th.

Executive Committee Meeting: Tuesday, March 3, 2015, at the Golden Fox Restaurant, located on Culver Road across the street from Covenant United Methodist Church.

- TIAR Board Meeting: March 19, 2015 at 4 PM at Covenant United Methodist Church, (Culver at Parsells)

- TIAR Annual Celebration: Sunday, June 14, 2015 at 3:00 PM at the Shults Center at Nazareth College. Our speaker will be James Lawrence, former opinion editor of the Democrat & Chronicle; topic to be determined. All members are encouraged to attend and bring a friend.

TIAR January 15, 2015

Board Meeting
January 15, 2015
Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

Attending: D. Barnes, D. Bird, A. Cason, B. Elwell, C. Garman, P. Goodman, M. Hickey, M. Howden, N. Jaschik, G. L'Esperance, M. Morich, G. Mott, H. Parreño, G. Payne, P. Peters, W. Spilly, G. Strother, B. Swan, G. Wethers, D. White, M. Wienk
Guest Presenters from MetroJustice: Jon Greenbaum and Tracy Farmer

1. Opening Reflection: Read by M. Howden, from the Buddhist Peace Fellowship.
2. Minutes: Approved unanimously.
3. Presentation: (see below).
4. Organization Business:
- Treasurer’s Report: D. Bird distributed the financial report. Even though there is somewhat of a “cushion,” after discussion it was pointed out that if we plan a forum, that money may be needed.
- Wage letter: copies addressed to the Acting Commissioner of the State Department of Labor were distributed in support of the campaign for a $15 minimum wage.
- NYS Single-Payer packets requesting support for Assembly Bill 5389 and Senate Bill 2078: were distributed including the following letters for members to mail:
 Thank-you letter to Assembly Members Gantt and Bronson who have co-sponsored the Assembly bill (for those persons who are in their respective districts).
 Letter to remaining Assembly Members who have not co-sponsored, asking them to do so. If you are NOT represented by Gantt or Bronson, please send this letter.
 Letter to your Senator asking for co-sponsorship of the Senate bill.
 Letter to the Governor requesting support for passage of the New York State Single-Payer Health Plan. Also:
Chart listing addresses of all local lawmakers. If you do not know who your legislators are, go to http://www.nysenate.gov/ and http://assembly.state.ny.us/. The home pages help you find your Senator and Assembly Member.
Please print your name and sign the letters, giving your address and zip. That way staff people opening your letters can verify that you are a resident of the district and state.
4. Organization Business (continued):
- M. Hickey distributed flyers from the N Y Disability Voters Network.
- G. Mott reported on the temporary two-week housing provided by Downtown Presbyterian Church for those who are homeless. All is proceeding in an orderly fashion. Sr. Grace has been working with Ken Glazer of Buckingham Properties to get his Canal Street building ready. Volunteer drivers are needed mornings at 7:30 to take people to Asbury Church or St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality.
5. MetroJustice Presentation
Jon Greenbaum and Tracy Farmer began with a sharing exercise in which we stood in two lines facing one another and shared for one minute each about our first experience of racism. Then one line moved down and the exercise continued with a different partner and question.
This gave us a chance to share our feelings and experiences and hear them from others, hoping for a greater understanding of white privilege. Also expressed was in the general discussion was the hope that the Board of TIAR could become more of a community.
Topics included the term “cultural humility:” whites often lack awareness and don’t have to think about this; understanding racism as both individually internalized and systemic: institutions working together with culture and media, creating interconnections (e.g., among banks, housing, courts, education) that structure policies and programs that maintain white privilege.
6. Announcements:
- The League of Women Voters of New York City will offer advocacy training by Bolder Advocacy – let B. Elwell know if you are interested.
- Pachamama Alliance: B. Elwell met with Joyce Herman and others to plan another seminar for Wednesday, March 18 at 2 pm at the Hickey Center.
7. Reminders:
- Mailing Address: The TIAR mailing address is PO Box 25245, Rochester, NY 14625.
- All members are welcome to any meeting:
- Executive Committee meeting: Tuesday, February 3, 2015, at the Golden Fox Restaurant, located on Culver Road across the street from Covenant United Methodist Church.
- TIAR Board meeting: February 19, 2015 at 4 PM at Covenant United Methodist Church, (Culver at Parsells)
- TIAR Annual Celebration: Sunday, June 14, 2015 at 3:00 PM at the Shults Center at Nazareth College. Our speaker will be James Lawrence, former opinion editor of the Democrat & Chronicle; topic to be determined. All members are encouraged to attend and bring a friend.
(end of these minutes)

TIAR December 18, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+

December 18, 2014 Board Meeting Minutes

Attending: D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Elwell, G.L’Esperance, G.Garman, P.Goodman, R.Herman, M.Hickey, M.Howden, E.Johnson, M.Morich, J.Noronha, H.Parreño, G.Payne, P.Peters, B.Swan, G.Wethers, D.White, M.Wienk and W.Wilkinson  

1. Opening Reflection-  By E.Johnson.   

2. Minutes- Motion by H.Parreño; seconded by E.Johnson to approve the November 20, 2014 Board Meeting minutes.  Approved unanimously.
 
3. Treasurer’s Report- By D. Bird;current balance -  $3.826.58.

4. Gandhi Earth Keepers International-  Presentation by George Payne -Executive Director of this  organization for the protection of animals. (Environmental Justice through active nonviolence)

5. Pachamama Alliance- Motion by R.Herman; seconded by G.Wethers for TIAR to co-sponsor an “Awakening the Dreamer,Changing the Dream Symposium” with other interfaith groups ( e.g.Interfaith Forum of Rochester, Center for Spirituality at Nazareth College, Hickey Center for Interfaith Study and Dialogue ).  Co-sponsorship would include helping to provide a venue and hospitality, promoting the event through media (traditional and social) to TIAR members and to the general public and encouraging TIAR members to promote the symposium in their own congregations and denominational entities. Approved 19 in favor; none opposed; one abstention.

6. Endorsement of the Executive Committee decision to co-sponsor the New Yorkers Against Fracking Event in Albany, NY on 1/7/15- Motion to endorse by M.Morich; seconded by M.Hickey.  Approved unanimously.  Although Fracking has been banned in New York State a number of related issues remain.  M.Morich will distribute more detailed information by e-mail.

7. Issues Raised by the Ferguson, MO events as further set forth by Unite Rochester-  Motion by M.Wienk; seconded by M Hickey for the TIAR board to have an @ 30 to 45 minute facilitated conversation about these issues at our January 15, 2015 Board meeting.  Approved unanimously.

8. Living Wage- B.Elwell reported. A letter in support will be  sent to the Governor,  and the leaders of the Senate and Assembly. (Fight for $15, right to unionize and rights to benefits)

9. Police Reform Coalition- W.Wilkinson reported.

10. Boulder Advocacy 1/2015- No Keystone XL.

11. NYS Labor-Religion Coalition- B.Elwell reported.

12. Annual Meeting- G.L’Esperance reported.  Speaker will be James Lawrence.  Topic still open. Date will be  Sunday, June 14, 2015, at 3 PM at the Shults Center.

TIAR November 20, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+
November 20, 2014 Board Meeting  Minutes

Attending: D.Bird, B.Elwell, G.L’Esperance, P.Goodman, R.Herman, M.Hickey, M.Howden, H.Ibrahim, N.Jaschik, E.Johnson, E.Lemon, M.Morich, G.Mott, J.Noronha, H.Parreño,  P.Peters, G.Strother, B.Swan, and M.Wienk; Guests- Joyce Herman and Sue Staropoli.  
 

1. Opening Reflection-    By J.Noronha.   

2. Minutes- Motion by G.Mott; seconded by P.Peters to approve the October 16, 2014 Board Meeting minutes.  Approved unanimously.   

3.  Pachamama Alliance- Joyce Herman and Sue Staropoli made a presentation on behalf of the Pachamama Alliance (PA) (www.pachamama.org <http://www.pachamama.org> ).  This is an international organization with local teams including the Rochester team.  It is dedicated to motivating people to bring forth a human presence on the earth that is environmentally sustainable, socially just and spiritually fulfilling.  They presented a short video :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoXJZ_3-J9w  followed by a presentation and question session.  An interactive multi-media session that is the gateway to the Pachamama work will be held on December 7 from noon (registration at 11:30) to 5:30 p.m. sponsored by the Sufi Order of Rochester at the Carriage House behind 494 East Avenue. To sign up for this symposium, call 248-0427.  A second session will take place on January 11 from 1-5 PM at Temple Sinai (to register, call Joyce Herman at 385-1155). All programs are free.
  
The local PA welcomes TIAR to join in co-sponsoring future programs, as well as to encourage TIAR members to host programs at their own congregations or other organizations.

4. Membership-  M.Morich, chair reported.  TIAR currently lists 153 members.  Forms to rejoin have been mailed.

5. Treasurers Report- D.Bird, Treasurer, reported a current treasury balance of $3,614.43.

6. Economic Justice- J.Noronha reported.  A public hearing on the health care single payer proposed N.Y. legislation, Gottfried/Perkins bills (A-5389; S-2078) will be held in Rochester on December 8,2014.  The details will be sent to all board members by email.  Activities with Metro Justice continue to work toward a $15 per hour minimum wage.  An event is planned for December 4, 2014. Details to follow by email.

7. Coalition for Police Reform- G.Mott reported that a focus on a civilian review board and body cameras is continuing.    

8. Peace and Nonviolence Coalition — H.Parreño, chair, reported.  There is a program to collect blankets for refugees entering Turkey.

9. Redistricting Amendment - N.Jashik reported.  TIAR is co-sponsoring with the LWV a presentation of both sides of this issue which is on the ballot in November.  Highly respected progressive organizations have differing views on this issue.  The event will be at the Unitarian Church on Winton Rd. on 10/24/14 at 7 PM.

10. Some Actions Taken by the President- B.Elwell reported. Signed the CHIP petition; honorarium check sent to Rev. Lewis Stuart; attended the Redistricting Amendment meeting and the Fight for $15 (minimum wage) meeting at the Universalist Church.

TIAR October 16, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+
Board Meeting Minutes
October 16, 2014
 

Attending: D. Barnes, D. Bird, B. Elwell, C. Garman, M. Howden, H. Ibrahim, E. Johnson, G. L'Esperance, M. Morich, H. Parreño, P. Peters, W. Spilly, G. Strother, D. White, M. Wienk;

Guest: The Rev. Lewis Stewart

1. Opening Reflection: Read by B. Elwell, on “The Common Things of Life as Uncommon,” written by the Rev. Richard Gilbert.

2. Minutes: approved unanimously.

3. Presentation: The Rev. Lewis Stewart was invited to speak about police / minority community relations before other business was to be conducted. (see notes below).

4. Organization Business:

- Treasurer’s Report: D. Bird reported that there is a total of $3,897.01 in our account.

- Proposal to send a $50 honorarium to the United Christian Leadership Ministries in gratitude for the Rev. Stewart’s presentation; moved by D. Bird, seconded by E. Johnson. Approved unanimously.

- Proposal for a letter to Federal officials by TIAR in support of funding for the Child Health Insurance Program, especially for those who fall through the cracks; moved by H. Parreño, seconded by M. Morich. Approved unanimously.

- Renewal of TIAR sponsorship for Human Rights Day at DUPC, December 8, 2014, which includes a potluck dinner. Topic: “Capitalism vs Human Rights.” Speakers: David Cay Johnston, Paola Macas Betchart, Colin O’Malley, Danielle Ponder and Ream Kidane; moderator: Denise Young. Moved by E. Johnson, seconded by M. Wienk. Approved unanimously.

- Support of the Executive Committee’s recommendation to send a special donation of $200 to Covenant United Methodist Church, in honor of the Rev. Paul Womack’s retirement. Paul is a founding member and former president of TIAR, and served CUMC as pastor. Moved by D. Bird, seconded by H. Parreño. Approved unanimously.

- Regarding Proposition 1 on the November ballot to change redistricting: after a brief discussion it was decided that TIAR has not determined a position on this amendment.

- TIAR sponsorship for the Children’s Weekend, Oct. 17-19 was approved.

- M. Howden has agreed to chair the Nominating Committee.

- G. L’Esperance has agreed to co-chair the Annual Meeting Planning Committee; P. Goodman is considering also becoming co-chair.

5. Announcements:

- Sunday, November 9: Witness for Palestine $10 cultural event: Celebrate Palestine at Asbury First United Methodist Church, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. It is intended to be a first-hand exploration of Palestinian food, music, and literature.

More information at http://www.witnesspalestinerochester.org/2014/celebrate_palestine.htm

- Saturday, November 15: “Community Celebration of Cultures” for the Jones Park, Edgerton, & Maplewood Areas; 2-6:30 pm at Lake Ave. Baptist Church, 72 Ambrose St. (between Lake Ave. and Jones Park), as a response to recent violence between minority groups. Peacemaking activities for all; cultural dances & songs; bring food to share from your cultural / ethnic tradition. Free and open to the public.

- Monday, December 8: Human Rights Day at DUPC, including a potluck dinner. Topic: “Capitalism vs Human Rights” (as noted above).

Notes from the Rev. Stewart’s presentation:

Background: He has served as a prison chaplain from 1988-1993 at Groveland; worked with the Rev. Raymond Graves who advocated for police reform; served for 9 years at the Five Points correctional facility near Waterloo.

Concern about the interaction between police and the African-American and Hispanic communities.  One sees primarily black and brown faces being warehoused by the prison-industrial complex in rural locations to upgrade their local economy. A Coalition for Police Reform is making a team effort to avoid another Ferguson case here.

- Make police accountable, e.g., by using police body cameras as a first step. The city is considering this.

- Form an independent civilian review board with subpoena power. Dialog with Police Locust Union needed.

- A public review of police activities. Suspicion exists that police are acting in revenge for the death of Officer Pierson by harassing young black men. In the local Clem Long case, Chief Ciminelli has requested videos of the incident; one video demonstrated that it was another man, not Long, who struck an officer with a broom handle.

What the public thinks does matter. Once we have a clear record from body-worn cameras, this can serve as a training tool to improve police performance. A study reported from the city of Rialto, CA, found reduced incidence, with both citizens and the police on best behavior.

Policies and procedures need to be developed regarding

- Filming encounters from first call to point of resolution; having cameras turned on at police discretion makes no sense

- Public access to footage, taking into account privacy concerns: e.g., in a case of the rape of a child

- Legal questions, including involvement of the DA and Public Defender

- Need to prevent editing of film

- How long and where to keep such records

Adam McFadden, who chairs the Public Safety Committee of the City Council, estimates the cost at about $1 M. 

TIAR September 18, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+
Board Meeting Minutes
September 18, 2014
 

Attending: D.Bird, A.Cason, G.Garman R.Herman,  M.Howden, H.Ibrahim, N.Jaschik, E.Johnson, E.Lemon, M.Morich, G.Mott, H.Parreño, P.Peters, W.Spilly, B.Swan, G.Wethers, D.White, and W.Wilkinson ; Guest-  Bruce Pollock
Elaine Johnson, Vice- President presiding in the absence of Becky Elwell, President

1. Opening Reflection-  By M.Howden ( from Joanna Macy).   

2. Minutes- Motion by M.Howden; seconded by M.Morich to approve the June 8, 2014 Annual Meeting minutes.  Approved unanimously.   

3.  Quorum Determination- M.by G.Wethers; seconded by B.Swan to adopt and confirm 10 to constitute a quorum for TIAR Board meetings so long as the total number of Board members is 31.  (Rounding down from 10.3)  Approved unanimously.

4. Executive Committee Action-  Consideration of endorsing actions taken by the Executive Committee since the May 2014 Board meeting was postponed until the October Board meeting.

5. Treasurers Report- D.Bird, Treasurer, made an oral report.

6. TIAR Web Site- N.Jaschik advised that the TIAR web site has been changed to www.tiar.org <http://www.tiar.org>  from www.tia-roch.org <http://www.tia-roch.org> .  Clicking on the former web site will not lead you to the new web site.  Note that our brochures no longer list the correct web site.

7. Police Reform Coalition- G.Mott reported that the next coalition meeting, led by Rev. Lewis Stewart, will be 9/26/14.  The focus is on the RPD, but will include the greater Rochester metropolitan area.  G.Mott and W.Wilkinson are participating in this effort.

8. Children’s Interfaith Weekend- by E.Johnson, our representative on the Children’s Collaborative of the Children’s Agenda reported.  Focus will be on more state funding with less optimism on receiving increased funding from the county.

9. Redistricting Amendment - N.Jashik reported.  TIAR is co-sponsoring with the LWV a presentation of both sides of this issue which is on the ballot in November.  Highly respective progressive organizations have differing views on this issue.  The vent will be at the Unitarian Church on Winton Rd. on 10/24/14 at 7 PM.

10. Gas Storage under Seneca Lake- M.Morich reported.  This is a complex problem resulting from differing positions of the NYS DEC from the federal energy commission.  The state wants to, at this point, to restrict storage and the federal agency wants to permit it.  The company in question is Crestwood Midstream.  More information is anticipated. Motion by N.Jaschik; seconded by G.Wethers to authorize letters from TIAR in opposition to such storage. Approved unanimously.  M.Morich also passed out and asked Board Members to sign individual letters to Gov Cuomo, Sen. Schemer and Sen. Gillibrand asking them to oppose storage.

11. Current issue of military intervention with ISIS/ISIL- No presentation in absence of M.Wienk.

12. Refocus Efforts to Relieve Systemic Poverty-  R.Herman reported.  Still gathering information and approaches.  After further discussion,  G.Wethers, W.Wilkinson  and P.Peters agreed to join R.Herman and E.Lemon in addressing this issue.  N.Jaschik will contact Jay Keller at TIA to see what. if anything TIA might be doing on this issue.

TIAR June 8, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER!
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+

Minutes of the Annual Celebration and meeting
June 8, 2014
Held at the Nazareth College Shults Center

Annual Meeting

1. Attending: Members and board members attending constituted a quorum.

2. Welcome- by Mary Pizzente-Morich, President. 

3. Reflection- by Edward Lemon,Jr.

4. Speaker- Dr. Elaine M. Spaull, Executive Director of The Center For Youth;
her topic “ If Our Streets Could Talk: Messages of Trauma and Hope.”

5. Annual Report - by Mary Morich, President was distributed. (to be sent
as a separate e-mail and will be posted on the TIAR web site, www.tiaroch.
org )

6. Treasurer’s Report- by B.Elwell, Treasurer; distributed.

7. Nominating Committee Report and Election of Officers and
Board Members-Heide Parreño, chair, distributed in writing, on behalf
of the nominating committee, the slate of Board Members and
Officers . She then read, on behalf of the nominating committee,
the slate of Board Members and officers. She moved; Gail Mott
seconded the acceptance of the nominating committee’s report and
the election of the board members and officers as reported. There
were no nominations from the floor. The motion was approved
unanimously. (See Nominating Committee report )

The next Board meeting will be held at a date and place to be announced by separate e-mail notice. The next Executive Committee Meeting will be held on Tuesday July 1, 2014 at the Golden Fox Restaurant at Culver Rd. and Parsells Avenue across the street from Covenant United Methodist Church.

TIAR May 15, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+ 
May 15, 2014
Held at Covenant United Methodist Church
Board Meeting
Attending: D.White, R.Herman, M.Wienk, M.Morich, E.Lemon, G.L'Esperance,
D.Rice, A.Cason, D.Bird, B.Elwell, H.Ibrahim, B.Swan, E.Johnson, G.Wethers,
N.Jaschik and Peggy Meeker ; Guests-

1. Opening Reflection- By D.White.

2. Minutes- Motion by P.Meeker; seconded by B.Elwell to approve the April
24, 2014 Board minutes. Approved unanimously.

3. Nominating Committee Report- Motion by A.Cason; seconded by
D.Barnes to accept the report of the Nominating Committee. Approved
unanimously.

4. Annual Meeting Committee Report- B.Elwell and M.Wienk reported.
Deadline for dinner following the meeting is June 4.2014 via B.Elwell.

5. Faith in Action/GRCC Annual Dinner- Event is June 10, 2014.
Reservations via B.Elwell.

6. Systematic Poverty- R.Herman presented. A discussion followed. We
agreed to further explore the possibilities. R.Herman will serve as a convener. A
number of board members volunteered to participate in the process.

7. Archive Update- by D.White. Currently the University of Rochester will be
holding our hard copy archive documents. Anyone who has copies of the
following documents can bring them to David. D.White will temporarily hold the
additional TIAR related documents at St. John Fisher College until the U of R is
ready to receive them.

8. Rebutal to portion of the presentation by Bruce Pollack at the April 24,
2014 Board Meeting- by D.White. D.White presented some information contrary
to some of the opinion statements made by Bruce Pollack concerning a program
at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church similar to B.Pollock’s program. E.Johnson
volunteered to follow up with Bruce Pollock.

9. Affordable Care Act- D.Rice distributed an article on this subject by Paul
Krugman

10. Mailing Address- Reminder: The TIAR mailing address is PO Box 25245,
Rochester, NY 14625.

The next Executive Committee meeting will be Tuesday June 3, 2014
at 830 AM at the Golden Fox Restaurant, located on Culver Road across the
street from Covenant United Methodist Church. 
The next Board meeting will be in September 2014 at 4 PM at Covenant
United Methodist Church, (Culver at Parsells). 
The TIAR Annual Meeting will be Sunday, June 8, 2014 at 3:00 PM at the
Shults Center at Nazareth College
( the end of these minutes)

TIAR April 24, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+

April 24, 2014

Board Meeting Minutes

Attending: G.Strother, D.White, R.Herman, M.Wienk, M.Morich, E.Lemon,

G.L'Esperance, D.Rice, M.Howden, A.Cason, D.Bird, B.Elwell, C.Garman,

H.Ibrahim, B.Swan, G.Mott, J.Noronha and Peggy Meeker; Guests: Clenetia Anderson, Bruce Pollock

1. Opening Reflection- By D.Rice.

2. Minutes- Motion by C.Garman; seconded by A.Cason to approve the March

20,2014 Board minutes. Approved unanimously.

3. Purge Names of nonpaying TIAR members from roster— Motion by

P.Meeker; seconded by D.Bird that the Membership Committee shall review the

membership list each summer with the discretion to remove the names of people

who haven’t renewed their membership, taking into account a 2-3-year

membership history, and to maintain a record of the names and addresses of

those no longer active for future mailings. Approved unanimously.

4. Ad for GRCC/Faith in Action dinner booklet- Motion by D.Bird; seconded

by C.Garman to purchase a 1/4th page ad for $100 and endorse this decision of

the Executive Committee. Approved unanimously.

5. Hydrofracking Update and motion- M.Morich provided an update. Motion

byM.Wienk; seconded byP.Meeker to authorize the text of a letter drafted by

M.Morich to be submitted in the name of TIAR to the New York State Energy

Planning Board regarding the Draft New York State Energy Plan. The comments

were submitted on the NYS Energy Planning Board web site.

6. “Friends of Educational Excellence” presentation- by guests Bruce

Pollock, Executive Director and Clenetia Anderson in relation to this program

which seeks and coordinates volunteers to work with students in Rochester City

School DistrictSchools. This opportunity for service will be disseminated to the

TIAR Board and membership lists.

7. Archive Update- by D.White. Currently the University of Rochester will be

holding our hard copy archive documents. Anyone who has copies of the

following documents can bring them to David at the May Board Meeting:

Previous Executive Committee agendas and minutes, newspaper clippings, and

documents related to committee work.

8. Nominating Committee Update- by M.Howden. Recommended for

nomination by the Committee: B.Elwell -President; E.Johnson,Vice-President;

D.Bird-Treasurer; R.Herman-Secretary; Peter Peters, George Payne and Patricia

Goodman, Board Membership.

9. Annual Meeting Update- by B.Elwell. Following the program at Nazareth dinner will be at St.John’s Meadows; 500PM pre-dinner (BYOB); 530PM dinner@$21. per person (new board members (and guests/partners ???) will be paid for by TIAR). B.Elwell will need all reservations by June 6,2014. Checks should be written to TIAR and should be sent to B.Elwell or brought to the May Board Meeting.

TIAR March 20, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+

March 20, 2014

Board Meeting Minutes

Attending: G.Strother, D.White, R.Herman, M.Wienk, M.Morich, W.Spilly,

E.Lemon, G.L'Esperance, G.Wethers, N.Jaschik, D.Rice, M.Howden, D.Barnes,

A.Cason, and Peggy Meeker ; Member Guests- Rev. Peter Peters, Marc

Jacobs; Guest- Michael Kliman

1. Opening Reflection- By P.Meeker.

2. Minutes- Motion by A. Cason; seconded by D.Barnes to approve the

February 20,2014 Board minutes. Approved unanimously.

3. Public Campaign Financing in NY- Motion by W.Spilly; seconded by

D.Rice authorizing the President to send letters members of the Assembly, State

Senate and County legislators with copy to the Governor supporting this issue.

Approved unanimously.

4. Ad for Metro-Justice Dinner Booklet- Motion by N.Jaschik; seconded by

G.Wethers to purchase a 1/4th page ad for $60. 14 in favor; 1 opposed.  Approved

5. Faith in Action Dinner TIAR Honoree- Motion by M.Wienk; seconded by

R. Herman to designate M.Morich as our honoree. Approved unanimously.

6. Membership Committee Report- by P.Meeker. Included follow up to

appropriate letters to the editor authors.

7. Moral Monday Rochester Report- by M.Morich. G.L'Esperance delivered

the prayer.

8. Children's Agenda Lobby Effort to Albany- M.Morich reported. Six

participated including M.Morich and Elaine Johnson.

9. Casino Update- Motion by R.Herman; seconded by G.Wethers to oppose

any additional casino gambling sites in the Genesee and Finger Lakes regions

and authorized statements and letters to this effect. Approved Unanimously.

10. Global Citizenship Conference Report- G.L'Esperance reported

11. Health Committee Report- D.Rice reported. D.Rice was authorized to write

a letter for Board members to sign in support of the single payer in N.Y. State

concept.

TIAR February 20, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+

Board Meeting, February 20, 2014  Minutes (revised 2/28/14)

Covenant United Methodist Church

Attending: D. Barnes, D. Bird, A. Cason, B. Elwell, C. Garman, M. Howden, N. Jaschik, E. Johnson,

E. Lemon, G. L’Esperance, P. Meeker; M. Morich, H. Parreño, D. Rice, G. Strother,

B. Swan, G. Wethers, D. White, M. Wienk, and W. Wilkerson.

Guest speaker: Dr. John (Lory) Ghertner, co-chair of the Greater Rochester Coalition for Immigration Justice.

Announcements:

(1) M. Morich requested volunteers to help serve breakfast and lunch at the Global Citizenship Conference, March 11, 2014, held by the Hickey Center for Interfaith Studies and Dialogue at Nazareth’s Shults Center. Volunteers include B. Elwell, P. Meeker, G. L’Esperance.

(2) Because some of our Board Members have been accosted by panhandlers after our meetings, M. Morich requested that conversations afterwards take place inside rather than in the parking lot, and that members leaving last accompany one another for safety.

1. Opening Reflection: G. L’Esperance shared a tribute from the Minority Reporter about the community’s loss of Tom Ferraro, Director of Foodlink.

2. Approval of Minutes of January 16, 2014: Motion by E. Johnson; seconded by M. Wienk.

Correction: Neil’s name

Item #4, add that “this proposal regarding homelessness is a continuation of TIAR’s focus on poverty.” (In January 2013, we had a presentation on the working poor by members of the Eastern Service Workers Association. Members were invited to sign petitions to the Public Service Commission to seek adjusted rates, and adjustments or waivers of utility arrears for people below a specified income level.)

With changes, approved unanimously.

3. 2014 Proposed Budget: B Elwell presented the proposed budget for the year 2014 for acceptance. Motion by C. Garman; second by H. Parreño; approved unanimously.

4. Honorarium Rule: M. Morich reported the Executive Committee’s recommendation to offer an honorarium to speakers whom we invite, and not to those who make a request to speak. Motion by N. Jaschik; second by P. Meeker; approved unanimously.

5. Pre-Kindergarten Funding: Gov. Cuomo’s proposal is a beginning; he is not prepared to do it for the indefinite future. The Rochester City School District has Pre-K programs but not enough for all children. M. Morich distributed a packet with 2 letters for members to sign and send to their state Senator and Assembly Member, along with a list of our area legislators, which is important to keep for future reference. Please also extend this opportunity to contact legislators to members of our faith communities / friends / family. This action places TIAR in a position to join with others on this and also other issues.

6. Homeland Security / Immigration: M. Morich requested endorsement of the letter that she sent to Homeland Security Secretary, Jeh Johnson, drafted by the Northern Borders Coalition / Southern Borders Community Coalition; she signed it in protest of the practice of the Border Patrol showing children how to shoot paintballs at targets resembling immigrants (see copy attached with the Feb. 2014 TIAR agenda). Dr. John Ghertner noted that the website of the boy Scouts of America had a section on “How to take down a Mexican” which was removed after complaints. Motion to endorse by G. Wethers; second by D. Barnes; approved unanimously.

TIAR Minutes, 2/20/14, p. 2

Speaker: Dr. John (Lory) Ghertner spoke powerfully about how the proposed immigration reforms are worse than doing nothing (see copy of “Republican Standards for Immigration Reform” attached with agenda). Enforcement is currently at a lull in our local area, thanks to groups who have protested; but children are severely affected. No child goes to bed without worrying, “What will happen if my parents are taken away?” and they are depressed, oppressed, and frightened all the time. César, for example, hides every night behind the couch, affected for life and permanently scarred. The Border Patrol and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents continue patrols in unmarked cars.

Dr. Ghertner then spoke of the Batavia Detention Center, which has moved out 120 serious felons to make room; 50% of current detainees have performed no criminal activity; some have been incarcerated in excess of 3 years. NY buses and trains continue to be searched and arrests made. Asylum seekers are incarcerated, just as during WW II, 650 Jews were locked up in Oswego, and German prisoners of war brought items to give them.

Some members of the Coalition have had a tour of the Batavia Detention Center and have secured clearance for a visitation program. Purpose: (1) to show those who are locked up that someone outside cares about them; (2) to oversee what is actually going on there. Visitors go two on one. Volunteers are needed for this: please spread the word among congregations / family / friends.

Lobby Day in Albany is March 5 on behalf of NY Dream Act and of issuing driver’s licenses to all who qualify (i.e., able to pass vision test and road test). Undocumented persons now are driving without license or insurance because they have to in order to work, keep appointments, get groceries. This increases the expense of damages for all of us.

7. Trans-Pacific Partnership: little or no media coverage. Please sign the petition that has been emailed.

8. Casino Update: M. Morich reported that the developer seeking to build in Henrietta, David Pflaum, is a big contributor to both Democrats and Republicans; it is alleged he is lobbying legislators. The Seneca Nation is purchasing a property, but would have to go through state and federal application processes.

9, Poverty Update: G. L’Esperance reported regarding the homeless that Sr. Grace Miller met with Mayor Warren near the beginning of February, and then with two of her deputies who assured us of their interest. Mt. Carmel Convent has been vacant for 2 years and could house 12 residents. Sr. Grace has spoken with the owner of a building which could house 40. There are funding and zoning issues to be resolved.

10. Interfaith Collaborative’s Trip to Albany: E. Johnson represents TIAR on the Children’s Agenda and is going to Albany March 11 for Child Day Care and Pre-K funding. Anyone from TIAR is invited to go.

TIAR January 16, 2014

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+ 

Board Meeting Minutes

Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

January 16, 2014

Attending: R.Herman, M.Wienk, M.Morich, G.Mott, C.Garman, B.Elwell, N.Jaschik, D.Rice, M.Howden, E.Johnson, W.Spilly, G.L’Esperance, D.Barnes, H.Parreño, G.Strother and P.Meeker ; Guests - George Payne of The Gandhi Institute and Marc

1. Opening Reflection- By C.Garman.

2. Minutes- Motion by H.Parreño ; seconded by D.Rice to approve the December 20, 2013 Board minutes. Approved unanimously.

3. Treasurer’s Report- B.Elwell distributed copies of the 2013 yearend report and interpreted it. Motion by E.Johnson; seconded by P.Meeker to accept the report. Approved unanimously.

4. Poverty Committee, a program to aid some of the homeless in Rochester - G.L’Esperance provided an outline of a project to provide safe shelter for homeless people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol, or both- Motion by M.Howden; seconded by D.Barnes to direct the Poverty Committee, along with such others they recruit ,or are able to form coalitions with, to pursue the feasibility of this program, a copy of which was previously distributed to the board members by email. The program will strive to provide safe shelter for the most unwanted segment of the homeless population. Approved 

5. “Season of NonViolence” program of the Gandhi Institute- George Payne presented the details of the program which is a project of the Gandhi Institute and which wants to enlist as many individuals and organizations as possible to join in. More information can be found on the Gandhi Institute web site: www. gandhiinstitute.org .

6. Membership Interests Update- N.Jaschik presented that there are currently 9 interest areas and recommended that we add a communications interest area to improve our use of the web, Facebook, twitter etc.

7. Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)- Motion by M.Jaschik; seconded by M.Wienk that TIAR oppose in all possible ways, including letters from the TIAR President, Board Members and members to all relevant members of Congress and others as quickly as possible to oppose fast tracking TPP by Congress. Approved unanimously.

8. Membership Update: P. Meeker presented.

TIAR December 19, 2013

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+ 

Board Meeting Minutes

Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

December 19, 2013

Attending: R.Herman, M.Wienk, M.Morich, G.Mott, C.Garman, J.Noronha, B.Elwell, N.Jaschik, D.Rice, M.Howden, E.Johnson, W.Spilly, G.L'Esperance and P.Meeker ; 

Guests - Bill McCoy of Metro Justice and Jim Berger 

1. Opening Reflection- By R.Herman. 

2. Minutes- Motion by B. Elwell; seconded by G. L'Esperance to approve the November 21, 2013 Board minutes. Approved unanimously. 

3. NY Single Payer Health Care- Bill McCoy stated in detail the reasons to support the proposed NY Single Health Care legislation. An extensive discussion followed. D.Rice further reported on this issue and with respect to general health care and health insurance issues. J.Noronha's recent letter to the editor on this subject was noted and appreciated.

4. Refreshments were provided by some members of the board for all present general discussion took place.

5. Annual Meeting Committee- Elaine Spaull, Executive Director of the Center for Youth, will be the speaker at the 2014 Annual Meeting.

TIAR November 21, 2013

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy

+Held at Covenant United Methodist Church 

Board Meeting Minutes

November 21, 2013

Attending: R.Herman, M.Wienk, M.Morich, G.Mott, C.Garman, J.Noronha, B.Elwell, N.Jaschik, D.Rice, M.Howden, E.Johnson, H.Parreño, G.Strother and H.Ibrahim ; Guests - Hon. James Mulley, Brigit Hurley and Joy Perkett

1. Opening Reflection- By M.Wienk.

2. Minutes- Motion by H.Parreño; seconded by B.Elwell to approve the October 17,2013  Board minutes. Approved unanimously.

3. Global Citizenship Conference- Motion by N.Jaschik; seconded by M.Howden to cosponsor this conference including a $100 contribution. Approved unanimously.

4. "Raise the Age"- Guest, Hon. James Mulley, Penfield Town Justice, made a detailed presentation on the issues related to raising the age for offenders from the current age of 16 to 18 or higher to separate some younger individuals from the current adult criminal justice system. He also distributed some handouts and commented on three currently pending pieces of legislation. Guest, Brigit Hurley from the Children's Agenda who support this concept was also introduced.

5. Health Care- J. Noronha and D.Rice reported.

6. Immigration- H.Parreño reported.

7. Fair Elections Practices Committee- R.Herman reported.

8. Introduction of Joy Perkett- Joy Perkett represents the Labor-Religion Coalition and The Capitol District Interfaith Alliance.

TIAR October 17, 2013

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+

Board Meeting Minutes

Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

October 17, 2013

Attending: G.L’Esperance, R.Herman, M.Wienk, M.Morich, W.Spilly, C.Garman,

D.Rice, G.Mott, D.Barnes, B.Klement, G.Strother, B.Elwell, M.Howden, N.Jaschik,

E.Johnson, H.Parreño and Peggy Meeker

1. Opening Reflection- G. Mott.

2. Minutes- Motion by H.Parreño seconded by D.Rice to approve the September 19, 2013

Board minutes. Approved unanimously.

3. The Financial Report for the period 1/1/13 through 9/30/13 was presented by B.Elwell,

Treasurer. A discussion followed. The report was received.

4. Human Rights Day- Motion by G. Mott; seconded by M.Howden to co-sponsor

Human Rights Day and contribute $50 in support. Approved unanimously.

5. Opposition to the proposed casino gambling amendment -Motion by W.Spilly;

seconded by N.Jaschik to endorse the decision of the Executive Committee to oppose this

amendment which action authorized the president to take further actions in her discretion

to support our opposition as well as for us to co-sponsor a forum with the League of

Women Voters and the Institute for American Values on the issue of casino gambling.

Approved unanimously.

6. Signing on to the petition of the Interfaith Alliance to seek a federal investigation of

the NYPD’s practices on surveillance of the Muslim Community- Motion by G.Mott;

seconded by C.Garman endorsing the decision of the Executive Committee to sign on this

petition. Approved unanimously.

7. Children’s Agenda- Motion by P.Meeker; seconded by M.Wienk for TIAR (among

others) to send a letter to the County Executive to include an additional $1,000,000 in

the 2014 County budget to allow @ 150 additional children in income eligible working

families to obtain quality child care.

8. Social Security- Colin O’Malley, Organizing Director of Metro Justice presented

information and action recommendation to protect and expand Social Security. Among

other items he recommended pressing particularly Sen. Schumer and also Sen. Gillibrand

to expand the income levels which require payments into the SS system, lower not raise

the ages of eligibility and improve the CPI formulas to better represent the real cost of

9. Health Care- D.Rice reported on the recent Forum on the Affordable Care Act at St.

Mary’s Church. He further recommended the NY Time web site as a good source for

information and expressed hope that this ultimately could lead to Medicare for all and a

single payer system.

10. Presidential Succession Report- R.Herman reported that the committee had developed

outlines for the tasks performed by the president and the secretary to facilitate increased

delegation of some tasks and the need for more board members to assume active roles

in day to day TIAR activities. In addition, B.Elwell has agreed to accept nomination as

TIAR President for 2014-2015. This requires seeking a nominee for Treasurer for 2014-

11. Annual Meeting- M.Morich announced that B.Elwell and M.Wienk have agreed to

chair the annual meeting committee for the June 2014 Annual Meeting. Send suggestions

for a speaker to them.

12. Fair Election Practices Committee (FEPC)- R.Herman reported that no information

has been received to indicate any complaints or hearing to this point in time.