2019-11-19 Meeting

Notes From Board meeting

Tuesday, November 19, 2019 Killam Atrium, Dalhousie University 6 PM to 6:58 PM

Present: Barend Kamperman, Richard Crooks, Mike Sangster

  1. Financial Update. Since the Treasure was absent we had no accurate information to log in.
  2. Running a 50/50 Draw. We decided to take action on that early in the New Year.
  3. A Women Only Event. Pauline Federick is in charge. She was absent, so we'll await for further word later.
  4. Revitalising the Speakers Bureau. Anita Martinez, Mike Sangster, Eric Smith and barend Kamperman spoke at two small group sessions (11 am and 1 pm) at a GSA Conference at Dalhousie University November 9th. The Elderberries were presented with a cheque for $150.00 as an honorarium. That was given later to the Treasurer, Ann Gorman. Barend will write an upbeat promotion in our December newsletter for the bureau. It will encourage our speakers and other members to present at events. We're seeking ways to make our own direct connections with the GSA movement.
  5. Lowering the age of inclusion in the Elderberries. Discussion ranged on this one. In the end we decided to keep it at 50 and odler. Richard reminded that we exist for LGBT Seniors and our Allies. There is no age limit on allies. We want to keep the focus on the concerns of those 50 and over. This age bracket has fewer options in our community. We should make/find ways to make our group more visible with its worthwhile goals and achievements.
  6. Culling our kitchen supplies. Richard will consolidate our present baffling collecion. We'll use up odd napkins, utensils and cuttlery. We can wash better quality, reusable items in the kitchenette after a salon finishes. We will purchase matching, serviceable replacements. This will streamline set up preparations. We'll promote a "Bring Your Own Mug" campaign. Our aim is to curtail harm to the environment, to cut waste and costs. It would also make our food presentation more attractive.
  7. An Elderberries group in Cape Breton. Tuma Young contacted us about starting an independent Elderberries group in Cape Breton. We all heartily agreed to encourage them to do so. We'll give them all the advice we can to help them.

Meeting was adjourned at 6:58 pm. Motioned by Mike Sangster, seconded by Richard Crooks.

From Barend Kamperman, Chair of the Elderberries