TIAR June 15, 2017

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

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

June 15, 2017

Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

Board Meeting

Attending: D. Bird, A. Cason, R. Codding, R. Davis, B. Elwell, C. Garman, R. Herman, E. Johnson, M. Morich, J. Noronha, H. Parreño, P. Peters, M. Sutton, B. Swan, and G. Wethers,  ; Guest-  Jon Greenbaum (ROC ACTS)

1.     Opening Reflection-    By B. Elwell. 

2.     Introduction of Board members- G. Wethers

3.     Minutes:  Motion by A. Cason; seconded by H. Parreño to approve the minutes of the 4/20/17 Board meeting.  Approved unanimously.  Motion by B. Elwell; seconded by P. Peters to approve the minutes of the 5/21/17 Annual Meeting.  Approved unanimously.

4.     Treasurer’s Report- D. Bird reported.  $2,322.48 is current treasury balance.

5.     RCRGV- P. Peters reported

6.     Membership- M. Morich reported. 120 on roster; 70 paid, 7 honorary.  A second mailing has just gone out.

7.     Endorsement of actions taken by Executive Committee- Motion by A. Cason; seconded by E. Johnson to endorse renewal of TIAR’s membership in ROC ACTS for an additional 1 year at cost of $300.  Approved unanimously.;  Motion by P.Peters; seconded by J. Noronha to continue our participation with the League of Women Voters in the Fair Election Practices Committee (FEPC).  Approved unanimously.

8.     GRCC recognition of Martha Howden-  H. Parreño reported

9.     Gun Violence- At the request of E. Johnson, M. Sutton spoke about her work and experiences in connection with gun violence.

10.   Eastern Service Workers request for funds- By consensus we agreed that since we are not a funding organization we would leave it to individuals to   choose whether or not to contribute.

11.   Speaker- Jon Greenbaum of ROC ACTS re “Sacred Conversations” about race and ethnicity which will resume next fall.

12.   September Board Reflection- A. Cason volunteered to present the reflection at the September Board meeting.

TIAR May 21, 2017

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

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

Minutes of the Annual Celebration and Meeting

Held at the Nazareth College, Golisano Academic Center

May 21, 2017

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

2. Welcome- by Becky Elwell, President.

3. Reflection- Virginia Fifield

4. Nominating Committee Report and Election of Officers and Board Members- by Martha Howden, 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. M.Howden moved; Sr. Beth LeValley seconded the acceptance of the nominating committee’s report and the election of the board members and officers as reported. There were no other nominations from the floor.  The motions were approved unanimously.

5. Sr. Gratia L’Esperance was honored for her extraordinary service throughout the years which service still continues. She has served president and in more other important roles than it is possible to list.

6. Program- Panel discussion: “Deportation, the Bn and the Wall.”

Panelists: Ted O’Brien, Assistant Attorney-General in the Rochester Regional Office; Getachew (GG) Beshir, Refugee Resettlement Manager, Catholic Family Center and Grania Marcus Ph.D, long time immigration activist.

7. Annual Report - by Becky Elwell, President was distributed.

8. Treasurer’s Report- by D.Bird, Treasurer; distributed.

9. This marked the 20th Anniversary of TIAR. The members of the Initial Steering Committee and the first Board of Directors were listed in the program.

TIAR April 20, 2017

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

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

April 20, 2017

Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

Board Meeting

Attending: R.Herman, D.Bird, N.Jaschik, B.Elwell, P.Peters, H.Parreño, M.Howden, C.Garman, M.Morich, G.Strother, E.Lemon,Jr. and B.Swan.  Guests: Deborah Peifer and Farzana Islam

1.     Opening Reflection-    By D.Bird.  

2.     Minutes:  Motion by H.Parreño; seconded by M.Howden to approve the minutes of the February 16, 2017board meeting.  Approved unanimously.  The March meeting was cancelleddue to a snow storm.

3.     Treasurer reported-  D.Birdreported that the current treasury balance was $2,992.27.

4.     Nominating Committee Report-  M.Howden reported.  The following have been nominated as new board members: Rich Codding, Mubarak Bashir, Mary Sutton, Roberta Davis and Farzana Islam.  George Payne and Marie Hickey will be leaving the board. Nominees for Officers:   President- G.Wethers,  Vice-President- B.Elwell, Treasurer- D.Bird, Secretary- R.Herman. Other board members will continue or renew for an additional 3 year term.

5.     Membership -  M.Morich reported. There are currently 64 paid members; 7 honorary members for a total of 71 members out of a roster of 118 members.  A second mailing for due will go out in May.

6.     Annual Meeting Committee report-  H.Parreño reported.  The panelists will be Ted O’Brien (AG’s office, Getachew Beshir (GG).Refugee Resettlement Program Manager,Refugee, Immigration, & Language Services Department, Catholic Family Center and Carly Fox.  G,Fifield will deliver the Reflection.

7.     Rochester Coalition to Reduce Gun Violence (RCRGV)- N.Jaschik reportedThe coalition continues to expand with a focus on education and advocacy.  Motion by N.Jaschik; seconded by P.Peters to accept the statement of purpose of the coalition and to confirm membership in the Coalition.  Approved unanimously.

8.     Endorsement of action taken by the Executive Committee-  A $36 contribution to the Jewish Community Federation for the fund to repair and reset the damage done to the local Jewish cemetery. Motion by M.Morich; seconded by H.Parreño.  Approved unanimously.

9.     Speaker-  Chiara Smith- Program Manager ABC Save Our Youth Program.  She was accompanied by Mary Sutton and C.Nesmith of her staff.  The program addresses street violence, especially gun violence in theN.E. area of the city.There will be a vigil on June2, 2107 (wear orange).  June is gun violence awareness month.

10.  June Board Meeting Board-  By consensus it was agreed that we have a board meeting on June 15, 2017.  The Annual meeting has been moved from June to May.

TIAR February 16, 2017

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

People of Faith Working Together for Justice in Public Policy

February 16, 2017 Board Meeting

Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

Attending: D. Barnes, D. Byrd, B. Elwell, C. Garman, M. Howden, N. Jaschik, G. L’Esperance, M. Morich, H. Parreno, P. Peters, W. Spilly, G. Strother, and B. Swan

Guests: Barbara Lacker-Ware, Ted Forsyth, Roberta Davis, Farzana Islam, Mary Sutton

Introduction:  Guests and Board Members introduced themselves.

Reflection:  Given by Martha Howden

Minutes:  The acceptance of the January minutes were moved and seconded.  They were approved.

Treasurer’s Report:  Dayle Byrd reported a balance of $2, 122.47.

Nominating Committee Report:  Martha Howden stated that selecting a slate of new Board Members and Vice-President is still in process.  There are some prospects for the Board but they have yet to find a VP candidate.  Becky expressed a desire to have the slate completed by the end of March.

Global Citizenship Conference:  The Global Citizenship Conference will be held on March 14 from 8:00AM to 1:30PM at the Hickey Center.  Becky moved and it was seconded to contribute $100.00 to the Hickey Center.  The Board approved the motion.

Annual Meeting:  Becky stated that the Annual Meeting may occur on May 18 because our usual June date occurs during Ramadan.  The Committee is pursuing the possibility of having as the speaker either the Rev. William Barber of the Moral Majority or Rep. Keith Ellison of Minnesota, a candidate for chair of the Democratic Party.

 Program:  Barbara Lacker-Ware and Ted Forsyth presented their findings regarding the current process for investigating citizen complaints about police misconduct. To reform the process, they recommend the creation of an independent Police Accountability Board (CAB).  They asked TIAR to endorse their recommendation and write a letter of support to Rochester City Council. Peter Peters moved to endorse the CAB; Dorothy Barnes seconded the motion. The Board approved the motion unanimously.

Becky Elwell adjourned the meeting.

The Next Board Meeting will be Thursday, March 16,2017 at 4:00 PM at the

Covenant United Methodist Church (Culver at Parsells).

TIAR January 19, 2017

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

Board Meeting Minutes

January 19, 2017

Attending: D.Barnes, D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Elwell, C.Garman, R.Herman, M.Howden, N.Jaschik, E.Johnson, M.Morich, H.Parreño, P.Peters, G.Strother, and G.Wethers. Guest: Pamela Brown Coleman
 
1. Opening Reflection-    By R.Herman.   

2. Minutes:  Motion by H.Parreño; seconded by M.Howden to approve the minutes of the December 15, 2016  board meeting.  Approved unanimously.  

3.  Treasurer reported-  D.Bird presented the Treasurer’s Report for the fiscal yer ending 12/31/16. (This report was previously distributed electronically to the board) Motion by P.Peters; seconded by D.Barnes to accept the report.  Approved unanimously.  D.Bird presented the budget for fiscal year 1/1/17 through 12/31/17 (The budget was previously distributed electronically to the board)  Motion by M.Morich; seconded by H.Parreño to adopt the budget as presented. Approved unanimously.

4. Nominating Committee Report-  M.Howden reported.  Tabassam Javed will withdraw his resignation (which was to have taken effect 6/30/17) from the board and will continue to serve his full term.  The slate of officer nominees for 2017-2918 will be G.Wethers, President; vice- president position is still in process; R.Herman, Secretary; D.Bird, Treasurer. new board members: still in process.

5. REACH Bridge Home -  P.Peters reported. The opening of the new shelter has been further delayed and the temporary shelter continues with the social workers volunteering their time. Their position as expressed is that no one will be put out in the cold.
 
6. Annual Meeting Committee report-  G.Wethers reported.  A list of possible speakers and topics have been created and pursuit of speakers has begun. At lest two dates have been considered as well as two possible sites for the meeting. The next committee meeting will be 1/27/17.

7. Rochester Coalition to Reduce Gun Violence (RCRGV)- N.Jaschik reported  The coalition continues to expand with a focus on education and advocacy.

8. Endorsement of actions taken by the Executive Committee-  

A.   A letter in support of DACA ( Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) requesting signatures from organizations was, after circulating the request by email and receiving a positive response from board members, signed on behalf of TIAR by the President. Motion by G.Wethers; seconded by A.Cason to endorse the action by the Executive Committee/  Approved Unanimously.  

B.  Another action relating to our cosponsoring an event which was approved by the Executive  Committee requires additional clarification and will be deferred until the 2/16/17 board meeting.

9.  Discussion on Building Membership - Transcript of Notes relating to membership, board participation, and recruitment taken by Martha Howden

General membership:

1. Need an active recruiting plan
2. Informal members recruiting members
3. Advertise including, but not limited to church bulletins (as much free as possible)
4. Membership events and open invitation for members to volunteer, participate in particular areas.
5. Communicate to members what we are most passionate about  and what we have accomplished
6. Make presentation to Nazareth Young People’s World Religions program re who we re and what we do
7. Phone calls to members re something we are doing and ask for input from the  member called  “People appreciate being called; do more than 1x per year. We appreciate your being a member; what we are doing, your suggestions;  invite active participation from the member in a particular project, etc.
8. Identify and invite young people who want action and let them know about our actions
9. Make people aware that we are the only interfaith organization that is action as well as education oriented.
10. Ask members to recruit their friends and contacts.
11. Follow up is important
12. Form an Outreach/ action; college speakers/forum
13. Hold a tea for members
14. Mugs or pens with TIAR name, etc for presenters guests, and others.

Board membership:

1. Stress we want board members who will both attend meeting and actively participate in planning and projects.
2. Identify and seek out appropriate recent retirees
3. Ask each current board member to function as an active recruiter.

TIAR December 15, 2016

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

December 15, 2016
Board Meeting  Minutes

Attending: D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Elwell, R.Herman, M.Howden, N.Jaschik, E.Johnson, H.Parreño, and P.Peters.  Guest: Ryan Acuff
 

1. Opening Reflection-    By H.Parreño.   

2. Minutes:  Motion by P.Peters; seconded by A.Cason to approve the minutes of the November 17, 2016 board meeting.  Approved unanimously.  

3.  Treasurer reported-  D.Bird reported that the treasury balance was $2,372.22 (including a contribution by Elizabeth Osta received today), as of 11/17/16.

4. Cosponsoring Event with Pachamama Alliance-  Motion by A.Cason; seconded by H.Parreño to endorse the decision of the Executive Committee to cosponsor, accompanied by a $50 contribution, the January 20,2017 event, “Inaugurating Hope” which will be held at the First Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Rd. South from 7 PM to 9 PM.  Advance reservations are requested because of space limitations.  Approved unanimously.

5. REACH Bridge Home Contribution-  Motion by P.Peters; seconded by H.Parreño to contribute $200.  Approved unanimously.  This request toward funding arose because the new House of Mercy shelter will not be open at the earliest until sometime in January 2017. The $200 will go toward the expenses at the temporary shelter at 10 Ontario St.

6. Fair Elections Practices Committee (FEPC) Expenses-  Motion by P.Peters; seconded by H.Parreño to authorize payment, as previously agreed, of $100 as our share of the 2016 expenses for the FEPC project to The League of Women Voters.  Approved unanimously.

7. Rochester Coalition to Reduce Gun Violence (RCRGV)- N.Jaschik reported  Current focus is on safe gun storage in Monroe County.  Legislation in the county legislature will be needed.

8. Homelessness-  Ryan Acuff, a social worker at the House of Mercy briefed us at length about the current state of homelessness in Rochester, what is being done about it and what projects might be utilized including, but not limited to a new Housing Court, “Just Cause Eviction” legislation and use of the Rochester Community Land Trust.  We explored what roles TIAR might take.

TIAR November 17, 2016

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

November 17, 2016
Board Meeting  Minutes

Attending: D.Barnes, D.Bird, B.Elwell, P.Goodman, R.Herman, N.Jaschik, E.Johnson, J.Noronha, H.Parreño, P.Peters, G.Strother, B.Swan, and G.Wethers.  
 

1. Opening Reflection-  By E.Johnson.   

2. Minutes:  Motion by E.Johnson; seconded by D.Barnes to approve the minutes of the October 20, 2016  board meeting.  Approved unanimously.  

3.  Treasurer reported-  D.Bird reported that the treasury balance was $2,322.55 as of 11/17/16.

4. Nominating Committee-  H.Parreño reported: The committee is at work and in process.

5. Annual Meeting Committee-  Members of committee are at this point B.Elwell, R.Herman, G.Wethers, E.Johnson and H.Parreño.

6. ROCACTS dinner on November 17, 2016-  Our own Sr. Gratia L’Esperance was honored.

8. Homelessness-  The task force for Homelessness is scheduled to meet with Ryan Acuff on 12/2/16 to learn as much as possible for us to determine a useful role for TIAR.  It has been suggested for as many as possible of us to read the book “Evicted.”

TIAR October 20, 2016

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

Board Meeting Minutes
October 20, 2016

Attending: D.Barnes, D.Bird, B.Elwell, C.Garman, M.Howden,  R.Herman, N.Jaschik, E.Johnson, G.L’Esperance, M.Morich, P.Peters, G.Strother, and G.Wethers.
 

1. Opening Reflection-    By M.Morich.   

2. Minutes:  Motion by C.Garman; seconded by D.Barnes to approve the minutes of the May 19, 2016 meeting. Approved. One abstention. Motion by M.Morich; seconded by M.Howden. to approve the minutes of the September 15, 2016 meeting. Approved.  One abstention.

3.  Treasurer report-  D.Bird reported that the treasury balance was $$2,294.82.

4. Membership - M.Morich reported.  Roster: 128 members.  It was determined that the annual membership billing will occur in January of each year starting with January 2017 rather than in November.

5. Planning for the forthcoming year- A task force of:  E.Johnson, B.Elwell, G.Strother and H.Parreño was appointed to analyze as quickly as possible the three priorities determined at the Retreat/Workshop:  Racism, Gun Violence and Poverty to provide a basis for a discussion at the November 17, 2016 Board Meeting.

6. Interfaith Teachings- Beginning with the November Board meeting our Reflections will include the presenter’s concept of social justice as found in the presenter’s faith tradition.

7. ROCACTS dinner on November 17, 2016- will honor our own Sr. Gratia L’Esperance.

8. RCRGL- N.Jaschjk reported.  The coalition was expanding and in a process of reforming.  A current goal is a Monroe County law for safe gun storage.

9. Homeless Needs- P.Peters reported. Reach Home has ended.  House of Mercy’s new shelter will not be ready until January 2017. Reach Advocacy is in formation to try to provide shelter in the interim

TIAR September 15, 2016

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

Board Meeting Minutes

September 15, 2016

Attending: D.Barnes, D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Elwell, R.Herman, M.Howden,  N.Jaschik, E.Lemon, M.Morich, J.Mruthyunjaya H.Parreño, P.Peters, W.Spilly, and B.Swan; Member-Guests-  Richard Codding, Rev. Richard Myers and Beth Meyers; Facilitator for Board Workshop/Retreat Elizabeth Osta
 
1. Opening Reflection-    By H. Parreño.   

2. Minutes:  Motion by W.Spilly; seconded by D.Barnes to approve the minutes of the June 12, 2016 annual meeting. Approved unanimously.

3.  Treasurer reported-  D.Bird reported that the treasury balance was $$2,273.32.

4. Honorary Board Members- Motion by B.Swan; seconded by M.Morich to recommend at the next Annual Meeting to add three individual who have served TIAR in an extraordinary manner as additional Honorary Board Members:  Paul Brayer, Gail Mott and Marilyn Wienk.  Approved unanimously.

5. Workshop Retreat-  The remainder of the afternoon and evening was devoted to a workshop/retreat (including a potluck supper, all of which ended about 8:00 PM

The next Board Meeting will be Thursday, October 20, 2016 at 4:00 PM at the Covenant United Methodist Church (Culver at Parsells).

TIAR June 12, 2016 - Annual Meeting

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+
Minutes of the Annual Celebration and meeting
June 12, 2016
Held at the Nazareth College Shults Center
Annual Meeting

1. Attending: Members and board members attending constituted a quorum.
2. Welcome- by Becky Elwell, President.
3. Reflection- by Heide Parreño.
4. Program- Panel discussion: “Welcoming The Stranger In Our Midst:” A panel Addressing Our Broken Immigration System; panelists, Carly Fox, Lisa Hoyt, Rev. Chava Redonnet. (In addition, a farm worker appeared as part of the panel.)
5. Annual Report - by Becky Elwell, President was distributed. (to be sent as a separate e-mail and will be posted on the TIAR web site, www.tiar.org
6. Treasurer’s Report- by D.Bird, Treasurer; distributed.
7. Nominating Committee Report and Election of Officers and Board Members- by Martha Howden, 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; G.Wethers seconded the acceptance of the nominating committee’s report and the election of the board members and officers as reported. As the
result of the recommendation of Dr. Jay Mruthyunjaya by the nominating committee after their report was distributed, M.Howden moved the nomination of Dr. Jay Mruthyunjaya as a nomination from the floor. J.Noronha seconded. There were no other nominations from the floor The motions were approved unanimously. (See also 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 5, 2016 at 8:00 AM (one-half hour earlier than usual) at the Golden Fox Restaurant at Culver Rd. and Parsells Avenue across the street from Covenant United Methodist Church.
 

TIAR May 19, 2016

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

May 19, 2016
Held at Covenant United Methodist Church
Board Meeting Minutes

Attending: D. Barnes, D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Elwell, G.L’Esperance , R.Herman, M.Howden, E.Johnson, M.Morich, J.Noronha, H.Parreño, W.Spilly, G.Strothers, B.Swan and G.Wethers,
 

1. Opening Reflection-    By M.Morich.   

2. Minutes:  Motion by A.Cason; seconded by H.Parreño to approve the minutes of the 4/21/16 Board meeting.  Approved unanimously.  

3. Speaker- Speaker had to cancel.  

4. Treasurer’s Report- D.Bird reported.  $3,145 current treasury balance.

5. GRCC/Faith in Action Dinner Honoree- Motion by W.Spilly; seconded by M.Morich to endorse the decision of the Executive Committee to designate Peter Peters as the TIAR honoree at the dinner.  Approved unanimously.

6. GRCC/Faith in Action Dinner Book Ad-  Motion by M.Morich; seconded by D.Barnes to endorse the decision of the Executive Committee to take an ad for $125 in the dinner book.  Approved unanimously.

7. Nominating Committee- M.Howden reported.  At present the nominating committee has two individuals to propose:  J.M.Jay and Tabassam Javed.

8. Annual Meeting Committee- G.Wethers reported.   Because notices of the nominees for the board will have gone out later than desired, it was agreed by consensus that the nominations will be made by the nominating committee and as nominations from the floor at the annual meeting, June 12, 2016.

9. Retreat- B.Ellwell has appointed the following as members of the Retreat Planning Committee: P.Peters, B.Elwell, R.Herman and G.Wethers.

10. RocActs- B.Elwell reported.  For info., Jon Greenbaum is the organizer, W.Wilkinson, B.Elwell, and G.L’Esperance (on criminal justice task force) are active participants.

11. (Gun Control) An event will take place 6/2/16  under the auspices of UCLM.  Details are planned to be sent via email.

TIAR April 21, 2016

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

April 21, 2016
Held at Covenant United Methodist Church
Board Meeting Minutes

Attending: D.Bird, B.Elwell, G.L’Esperance, C.Garman, R.Herman, M.Howden,  E.Johnson, M.Morich, J.Noronha, , H.Parreño, P.Peters, W.Spilly, B.Swan, and G.Wethers., Guests-  Dr. Melody Cofield and Beverly Randall
 

1. Opening Reflection-    By G.Wethers.   

2. Minutes:  Motion by W.Spilly; seconded by H.Parreño to approve the minutes of the 2/18/16 Board meeting.  Approved unanimously.  Motion by W.Spilly; seconded by M.Howden to approve the minutes of the 3/17/16 Board meeting.  Approved unanimously.

3. Speaker- Dr. Melody Cofield, President, Community Microenterprise Center- “Legacy of ’64”  Effects of the 1964 Rochester Riots and a presentation about the Rippley Hall of Fame.

4. Treasurer’s Report- D.Bird reported.  $3,339.86 current treasury balance.

5. REACH- P.Peters reported- The REACH house has closed.  

6. Membership- M.Morich reported. Current roster of members: 122; 94 paid. The names of the members, without addresses, email addresses, or phone numbers (to protect privacy) have been distributed to the board members.

7. Nominating Committee- M.Howden reported.  At present the nominating committee has one individual to propose.

8. Annual Meeting Committee- G.Wethers reported.  There will be a panel of 3 speakers, Ruth Marchetti, Rev Chava Redonnet  Loret Steinberg followed by questions.  A dinner @ $25 per person At Monroe’s (Restaurant) to which board members and TIAR members will be invited.  

9. Retreat- B.Ellwell proposed the concept of a board retreat for long range planning possibly to be held on a morning or at an extended board meeting in September 1016.  She will appoint a committee to explore the possibilities with a goal to report at the May 3, 2016 Executive Committee meeting.

10. Climate Change- M.Morich reported.  She pointed out the 4 pieces of legislation presently pending in the state legislature.  She distributed form letters so we can support those bills by writing to our respective State Senators and Assembly people.

11. RCRGL- (Gun Control)  The next event will be 5/19/16 at 3rd Presbyterian Church (Meigs & East Ave.).

TIAR February 18, 2016

                                     TIAR BOARD MEETING MINUTES
                                               February 18, 2016
                                     Covenant United Methodist Church

Present: Dayle Bird, Alomoa Cason, Becky Elwell, Caroline Garman, Trish Goodman, Gratia L’Esperance, Elaine Johnson, Neil Jaschik, Heide Parreno, William Spilly, Gil Strother, Barry Swan, Gordon Webster, Gaynelle Wethers, George Payne.
Guest:  Rashid Muhammed

Reflection -  Gaynelle Wethers

Speaker - Rashid Muhammed -  ISLAMOPHOBIA  - Islam is a monolithic religion with diverse Muslim  groups.  The same biases from others toward them as other groups.  Same Hate but different target.

Treasurer Report - Dayle Bird

• Donation $50 to Rochester American Indian Culture Center in honor of Virginia Fifield for speaking to us about The American Indian 
• Donation$100 to Global Citizenship Conference
  

RocACTS is to have a Board Retreat at the Dugan Center at St. Mary’s

Melody Cofield to be asked to speak  on “History of Rochester Riots of 1964” by Heide Parreno

Neil Jaschik informed us that a Gun Violence Forum on April 14, 2016.  David Tenet to speak on the Second Amendment. Work to form a coalition continues.

Sr Gratia:  Voter Alliance Voter Registration volunteer training to be on May 10 at the Center of Disability Rights on State Street

Annual Meeting June 12, 2016 at the Shults Center on Nazareth Campus 3:00pm.
Topic to be determined.

TIAR March 17, 2016

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+
March 17, 2016 Board Meeting

Attending: R.Herman, D.Bird, A.Cason, N.Jaschik, B.Elwell, M.Howden,  P.Peters, D.Barnes, E.Lemon, H.Parreño,W.Spilly, B.Swan,W.Wilkinson, G.Strothers and G.L’Esperance ; Guest-  Jim Morris
 
1. Opening Reflection-    By A.Cason.   

2. Minutes:  The minutes of the February 18, 2016 board meeting have yet to be distributed.

3. Speaker- Jim Morris, Director of the Refugee, Immigration and Language Services Department of Catholic Family Center of Rochester, NY- Presentation on refugees, as distinguished from other immigrants, non-immigrants and undocumented individuals under US Immigration Law; how refugees are processed and an overview of refugee services in Rochester.

4. Rochester Voters Alliance- G.L’Esperance and H Parreño reported.There is a need for volunteers to do the registration.  Calls have gone out to Faith in Action among others.

5. REACH- P.Peters reported-  The REACH house will close @ 4/19//16.  24 have been placed in permanent housing.  The $50,000 promised by the City has not been received.  The new building via The House of Mercy will not be ready for several months.

6. RochACTS- B.Elwell reported.

7. April Speaker’ Topic- The Legacy of the 1964 riots.

TIAR January 21, 2016

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER

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

January 21, 2016 Board Meeting

Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

Attending: R.Herman, M.Morich, D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Swan, N.Jaschik, J.Noronha, B.Elwell, M.Howden, E.Johnson, P.Peters, C.Garman, G.Wethers, D.Barnes, P.Goodman, M.Hickey, V.Fifield and G.L’Esperance ; Guest- Paul Gongloff

1. Opening Reflection- By N.Jaschik.

2. Minutes: Motion by P.Peters; seconded by C.Garman to approve the minutes of the December 17, 2015 minutes; approved unanimously.

3. Speaker- Virginia Fifield- Topic:”The Invisible Race” - Presentation on the history and treatment of Native Americans.

4. Treasurer’s Report; D.Bird presented the annual financial report and the future budget (both previously distributed by email. Motion by P.Peters; seconded by V.Fifield to accept the financial report; approved unanimously.  Motion by E.Johnson; seconded by A.Cason to accept the future budget; approved unanimously.

5. Speakers for Future Board Meetings - A discussion took place with recommendations.

6. REACH- P.Peters reported- the house is full and they are seeking additional space.

7. RocACTS- B.Elwell reported.

8. Children’s Agenda- E.Johnson reported.

9. Annual Meeting- G.Wethers reported. The committee is likely to recommend amending the bylaws at the June Annual meeting to permit the meeting to be scheduled at times other than in the spring.

TIAR December 17, 2015

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

Board Meeting of December 17, 2015

Attending: R.Herman, M.Morich, D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Swan, N.Jaschik, J.Noronha, B.Elwell, M.Howden, E.Johnson, P.Peters, C.Garman, H.Parreño, G.Wethers, D.Barnes, P.Goodman, G.Strothers and G.L’Esperance ; Guest- John Jay Mruthyunjaya

1. Opening Reflection- By M.Howden.

2. Minutes: Motion by G.Strothers; seconded by M.Morich to approve the minutes of the September 17, October 15 and November 19, 2015 minutes; approved unanimously.

3. Covenant United Methodist Church- Motion by G.Wethers; seconded by M.Morich to donate $300 to the capital campaign of Covenant United Methodist Church which hosts our board meetings without charge. Approved unanimously.

4. Bright Horizons Fund of the Community Foundation; Gift from- TIAR was awarded $250 for social justice work. President Elwell appointed D.Bird, P.Goodman and herself as a committee to discuss and report back with a recommendation for the expenditure of that amount for social justice purposes.

5. RocActs- B.Elwell distributed a written report.

6. REACH- H.Parreño and P.Peters reported: REACH still raising funds for the homeless shelter. Donations can be made online through REACH or via mail through Canandaigua National Bank.

7. Anti-gun violence program- N.Jaschik reported Film 1/19/16 at Little and possible program in early April 2016.

8. Support of Muslim Community- B.Elwell sent a letter written by E.Johnson to the editor to the D&C.

9. Other Reports:

A.Burial Committee- G.L’Esperance St. Michaels is building caskets at a far lower cost.

B.Childrens Agenda- EJohnson reported.

C.Economic Justice- J.Noronha reported

D.Environment- M.Morich- working with RCause & Rochester People’s Climate Coalition.

E.Immigration- H.Parreño reported

F.Membership- M.Morich reported. Letters sent out. Currently 122 plus 6 honoree, 5 institutional; total 133 members.

G.Nominating- M.Howden reported.

H.Peace and non violence- H.Parreño reported.

I.Annual Meeting- G.Wethers reported. Scheduled for 6/12/16 at 3PM at the Shults Center at Nazareth. We should be considering other dates and places for future meeting and any necessary bylaws amendment to permit this.

TIAR November 19, 2015

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

November 19, 2015
Held at Covenant United Methodist Church
Board Meeting

Attending: R.Herman, M.Morich, D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Swan, N.Jaschik, J.Noronha, B.Elwell, M.Howden, E.Johnson, P.Peters, C.Garman,  H.Parreño, W.Wilkinson, G.Wethers, E.Lemon and G.L’Esperance ; Guest-  Mira Washington- President of State Church Women United   
 

1. Opening Reflection-    By A.Cason.   

2. Roc/ACTS (Rochester Alliance of Communities Transforming Society, Inc.)-  Detailed presentation by W.Wilkinson Motion by G.Wethers; seconded by H.Parreño to  join Roc/Acts with our annual dues of $300.  Approved unanimously.  

3. REACH-  P.Peters reported.  Motion by R.Herman; seconded by E.Johnson to contribute $500 since this is a one time emergency for the homeless.  Approved unanimously.

4. Gun Violence Forum- N.Jaschik reported.  There will be a film 1/19/16 at the Little Theatre.

5. Poverty- M.Morich reported on her experience at a poverty simulation.

6. Human Rights Day- 12/10/15 Topic: Food Justice-  Motion by H.Parreño; seconded by M.Morich to cosponsor and contribute $50.  Approved unanimously.

7. Syrian Refugees- Motion by R.Herman; seconded by M.Howden for President Elwell to write Senator Schumer opposing his position unreasonably restricting immigration by Syrian refugees and writing Governor Cuomo and Mayor Warren praising their positions.  Approved unanimously.

8. Membership-  M.Morich reported on what has been done.  She requested that each board member send her ideas to obtain new TIAR members.

TIAR October 17, 2015

Board Meeting, October 17, 2015
Held at Covenant United Methodist Church
Attending: D. Bird, B. Elwell, P. Goodman, M. Howden, N. Jaschik, E. Johnson, G. L’Esperance,
M. Morich, H. Parreño, P. Peters, G. Strothers, G. Wethers (not a quorum)
Guests: Rev. Katya, Rev. Delores V. Wynn

1.Opening Reflection - G. Wethers shared a passage from Pope Francis’ Joy of the Gospel.

2. Minutes – Approval postponed to November because some did not receive them.

3 Membership Report - M. Morich has made calls. After membership mailing goes out, those who have not responded in the last two years will be dropped from the list

4. Treasurer’s Report- D. Bird, Treasurer, made an oral report. The treasury balance as of October 15, 2015 is $4285.30.

5. Speaker - B. Elwell reported that Verdis Robinson of Monroe Community College was sick and unable to come. The topic was to have been “Race, Culture, Economic Class Implications on Living in Rochester.” Board members then shared their experiences and opinions.
- The largest increase in income has gone to the 1%.
- How do people on Social Security alone survive?
- High poverty statistics for single mothers

6. Annual Meeting – Planning Committee includes P. Goodman, G. L’Esperance, G. Wethers; ex officio B. Elwell; others welcome! Please contact committee members to offer suggestions for topic and speaker.

7. Homeless – (B. Elwell, E. Johnson, H. Parreño, P. Peters) Peter noted that three weeks ago, 100
people attended a meeting regarding shelter for people who are homeless, especially those who have been sanctioned. A possible interim space is being looked at since the House of Mercy project will not be ready until spring 2016. Need to make a pitch to both city and county for more money ($50 K each). The cost last year was about $150 K.

8. Moral Budget – Efforts regarding the Monroe County budget:

• Child Care / Early Education: the county budget has been reduced for child care, counting on the state to increase funding
• Homelessness: the county has not dealt with this issue well at all. A group called REACH formed when Sanctuary Village was moved from under the bridge. Need for advocacy with legislators. However, P. Peters stated that messages by phone or letter are screened by the office of the county Republican Party members, so they do not always see them. If true, the party should be challenged. Who are our allies in addressing systems? E.g., among others:
  • Rochester ACTS
  • Children’s Agenda
  • Metro Justice,
  • Anti-Poverty Task Force,()

9. Constitutional Convention - N. Jaschik mentioned a forum on Monday, Oct. 19, 700 pm, at Asbury Church sponsored by the League of Women Voters. Focus: information on what will happen if voters approve having a state convention in 2017 (such an opportunity comes only every 20 years). For more details, use this link: http://www.lwv-rma.org/

10. Gun Control - N. Jaschik proposed forming a committee to organize a program about gun control:

• What would this entail?
• How to be respectful of the Second Amendment?
• What would it accomplish?

Motion by N. Jaschik; seconded by E. Johnson; approved unanimously. Members who are interested, please contact Neil.

11. Recommendations by Executive Committee (to be approved in November when there is a quorum):

• Honorarium to the Children’s Agenda for Brigid Hurley’s presentation in September: Amount: $50.00.
• Donation to the Capital Campaign for building repairs by Covenant United Methodist Church, which has hosted our meetings since the beginning without charging rent. Amount: $200.00.
• Co-Sponsorship of Human Rights Day celebration December 10: Amount: $50.00.

Note: Themes for our 2015-2016 meetings, as suggested in previous minutes: 

• Child Care
• Climate Change
• Economic, Class, and Race Relations.

Reminders: The TIAR mailing address is PO Box 25245, Rochester, NY 14625. The new (current) TIAR web site is www.tiar.org. All are welcome to attend:

• the next Executive Committee meeting on Tuesday November 3, 2015, 8:30 AM, at the Golden Fox Restaurant, located on Culver Road across the street from Covenant United Methodist Church.
• the Board Meeting on November 20, 2015, 4:00 PM at the Covenant United Methodist Church (Culver at Parsells).

Respectfully submitted:
M. Gratia L’Esperance, RSM

TIAR September 17, 2015

THE INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF ROCHESTER
+People of Faith Working Together For Justice in Public Policy+
September 17, 2015
Held at Covenant United Methodist Church

Board Meeting

Attending: R.Herman, M.Morich, D.Bird, A.Cason, B.Swan, N.Jaschik,
J.Noronha, B.Elwell, M.Howden, E.Johnson, P.Peters,P.Goodman, C.Garman,
V.Fifield, H.Parreño, W.Wilkinson, G.Wethers and G.L’Esperance ; Guest- Brigit
Hurley- Policy Analyst for the Children’s Agenda

1. Meet and Greet- for the first board meeting of 2015-2016.

2. Opening Reflection- By G.Wethers.

3. Minutes- Motion by H.Parreño; seconded by G.Wethers to approve the May 21, 2015 Meeting minutes. Approved unanimously; Motion by A.Cason; seconded by G.L’Esperance to approve the minutes of the June 14, 2015 Annual Meeting as corrected to reflect that C.Garman reported for Nominating Committee Committee Chair, M.Howden. Approved unanimously.

4. Speaker- Brigit Hurley presented information about the Children’s Agenda including about the Children’s Interfaith Weekend, 10/17 & 18/15.

4. Children’s Agenda- Motion by E.Johnson; seconded by M.Morich to
support and sign on the the Children’s Sabbath for 2015 as we did in 2014. Approved unanimously.

5. Treasurers Report- D.Bird, Treasurer, made an oral report. The treasury balance as ofSeptember 17, 2015 is $4,253.39.

6. Committee Chairs- Voters Registration-H.Parreño and G.L’Esperance; Immigration and Peace and NonViolence- H.Parreño and M.Wienk; Healthcare-J.Noronha; Economic Justice-J.Noronha and P.Goodman; Environment and Membership-M.Morich; Fair Election Practices-N.Jaschik and R.Herman; Local & State Government Activities andCampaign Finance Reform-N.Jaschik; Political Communications-P.Peters.

7. Themes for 2015-2016 from B.Elwell- Childcare; Climate Change;
Economic Class and Race Relations.

8. 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 October 6, 2015 at 8:30 AM at the Golden Fox Restaurant, located on Culver Road across the street from Covenant United Methodist Church.The Board Meeting will be October 15, 2015 at 4:00 PM at the Covenant
United Methodist Church (Culver at Parsells). the end of these minutes)

TIAR June 14, 2015

Minutes of the Annual Celebration and meeting

June 14, 2015

Held at the Nazareth College Shults Center

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

2. Welcome- by Becky Elwell, President.

3. Reflection- by The Re. Aloma Cason

4. Speaker- James F. Lawrence, retired Editor of the Democrat & Chronicle Editorial page; Topic: “Are We Working Our Faith?”

5. President’s Report - by Becky Elwell, 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 D.Bird, Treasurer; distributed.

7. Nominating Committee Report and Election of Officers and Board Members- Carolyne Garman, 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; R.Herman 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 )