Board of Directors Meeting Notes

__________________________________________________

November 6, 2008

2008 ANNUAL MEETING NOTES and ELECTION

Dignity NoVA held its Annual Meeting on Saturday, 11/1/2008, at ICOH. The meeting was called to order immediately following mass. There were 16 people in attendance. The president, Beth W., determined that there were a sufficient number of members present to constitute a quorum for the purposes of conducting the Annual Meeting as set forth in our bylaws.

Our president, Beth W. gave the following report:

            We at Dignity NoVA continue to be blessed with a group of people who value their Catholic faith enough to choose to participate as members of Dignity despite the hierarchy's lack of welcome. We have a core group of members who offer their time and talent to run the chapter Board of Directors and hold a weekly liturgy. We have several priests who generously share the duty of presider at our Mass, even though some parishes have difficulty finding priests to serve them. Some talented people serve in the ministry of music, playing the piano and organ for community participation. Others have helped us socialize by preparing refreshments after Mass, by hosting parties at their homes, and by bringing food for special potluck socials. We wish to involve more members in active work with our chapter. So we ask you to search yourselves for ways you can participate more fully in the activities of Dignity NoVA.

Our treasurer, David L. gave the following financial report:

     For the period 01/01/2008 through 10/31/2008, we had $10,454.64 in Income and $13,818.36 in Expenses. On 10/31/2008, we had a balance of $6,317.39 in the General Fund and $5,427.00 in the Belle Fund. We started off on 01/01/2008 with a total balance of $14,173.10 and we had a total balance of $11,744.39 on !0/31/2008.

     We are holding steady at 15 to 20 people at every mass. Although our attendance is sufficient to sustain our community spiritually, our finances continue to deteriorate as we spend more each week than we take in. On average, we spend over $300 each week, but we are taking in less than $200 each week.

     Our community could not continue without the countless hours of time freely contributed by our members. Just as volunteering is a personal decision, so is financial support for our community based on each persons' financial circumstances. Some will be able to give more and others less. On average, if each of the 15 to 20 people attending mass could contribute $15 to $20 per week, we would be able to cover our expenses and not continue to deplete our reserves.

Our Liturgy Chair, Harry B. gave the following report:

     We are going to try to have an anointingh service before Christmas. We will have the Christmas Eve mass at 8:00 Pm with a pot luck dessert social following mass. All will be encouraged to bring a poinsettia to decorate the church. HAry B. will be presenting our Second Saturday Seminar next Saturday, 11/8, at ICOH @5:30 PM on the gospel of St. Mark.

There was a discussion of moving to a church on a Metro line. The individual who made this suggestion did not attend the meeting to present any factual basis for the recommendation other than an opinion offered with the suggestion that it would be more convenient if D/NoVA was located on a Metro line. It was noted that the board had previously discussed and rejected the idea of moving. Kevin S. was of the opinion that since the board had previously decided the issue, we need not consider it further. Comments regarding how much we appreciated ICOH were offered. David L. noted that the board had received input on the issue and it was concluded by the board that while being located on a Metro might be more convenient for some people, it would be less convenient for others. In fact, there was an indication that if we moved from ICOH, certain members would seek another spiritual home. It was the consensus of those at the Annual Meeting that since no data was presented indicating the availability of another church, the cost of another church, the willingness of another church to let us use their facilities on Saturday evening and for Christmas Eve services and for Holy Week, and no evidence that the potential membership gain would offset the potential membership lost if we moved from ICOH, the issue of moving would not be considered any further until compelling evidence was presented which would warrant further consider of a move. Mark J. noted that we could increase our advertising of the fact that we usually can and do pick up people from the Metro who wish to attend mass with D/NoVA.

There was a discussion of possible fund raising events and implementing a dues structure for D/NoVA. Beth W. noted that D/USA had started charging $50 a year for dues. $10 of that is returned to the local chapter. Mark J. noted that raising dues would not generate very much income. He was of the opinion that we needed to be more aggressive about holding fund raisers for the chapter. David L. noted that D/USA requires that there be 10 dues paying members for there to be an official Dignity chapter. David also noted that we probably had no more than 10 or 11 members who were also members of D/USA. No decision was made to raise chapter dues at this time, but there was recognition of the continued shortfall of income.

There was a discussion of our gifts to other organizations. There was some sentiment that we had not been giving enough to other groups. David L. noted that the board had authorized $1200 from the General revenues be given to the Belle Fund which has been designated as the fund from which we give money to other groups. He noted that we had given $627 in 2008 with over $400 of that going to D/USA when the president of D/USA visited us a few months ago. He also noted that we needed to consider donating money to NOVAM (about $250) to continue our membership and involvement with that organization. In view of our deteriorating financial situation, it was the consensus of those at the Annual Meeting that we needed to be prudent in giving money to other groups.

Our secretary, Laura H. introduced the candidates for election to positions on the board starting on 01/01/2009 noting that we had just enough candidates to fill all of our vacant positions on the board. Harry B. made a motion to elect all the candidates to the appropriate positions. Gene V. and Benjamin C. seconded the motion. A voice vote was conducted and the secretary announced that following people were elected to the positions noted for a term of one year beginning 01/01/2009. For the position of president...................Mark J.; For the position of vice-president...........Beth W.; For the position of secretary...................Laura H.; For the position of treasurer...................David L.; For the position of At Large Member.....John W.; For the position of At Large Member.....Patrick McN.

Prior to adjournment, Kevn S. expressed for the entire organization, gratitude to Beth W. for her willingness to have served as president for the past 2 years.

The Annual Meeting was adjourned. A festive reception to honor the newly elected board was held following the meeting.

____________________________________________________

DIGNITY NoVA BOARD of DIRECTORS MEETING NOTES October 4, 2008

Opening Prayer KP lead us in an opening prayer
Role Call BW, LH, DL JW, KP present
Reading and approval of the Minutes of the preceding meetings   9/6 mtg approved



Reports of Officers and Directors

1. Treasurer Report     From 1/1/2008 thru 9/30/2008, DL reported that we had $12,033.58 in expenses and $9984.64 in income. Our net worth as of 9/30/32008 is 412,034.16

2. Others

Reports of Committees

            Liturgy Committee (Harry)    See Harry’s Comments below

            1.    Musicians    still looking for leads on new/additional musician(s) – please let

me know if you know of anybody who would assist us. We don’t

want to “burn out” Gene and Greg.

2.         Christmas Eve and any other special services:. Midnight Mass on 24 December

at 8:00 p.m. at Immanuel. Space (church and hall) already approved by Immanuel.

3.         Anointing service in October and one in December: Yes, one in each month,

probably October 18 and December 6.

            4.    Advent Wreath Status: We’ll be using our Advent wreath from previous

years. We have to find it somewhere in the back room at Immanuel. We’ll use last year’s candles – they’re too expensive to replace each year for the little use each candle gets with us.

4.         SECOND SATURDAY SERIES updates: Our schedule is set through the end

of the present calendar year. Jeannine G. will be with us in January –

after that I have to make contacts.



      VI. Old and Unfinished Business

1.      Feedback and/or community comments on past events   No comments

2.      D/USA convention in 2011 (David)   DL reported that he was working on getting a hotel for the convention.

4.   D/USA Teleconference (Beth)   BW talked about several items that were discussed during the DignityUSA leadership teleconference. BW will attempt to provide a report on these items to share with our membership.

5. Brochures (Mark)   Deferred

6.      Outreach Efforts.—JW reported that based on his research, we could purchase an ad in the Falls Church Free Press. A small weekly as for 3 months would cost $220. JW reported that we might have more success with getting new people with this ad than with continuing our ad in the Blade which runs every other week and which we share with DW and which us cost $91 every 4 weeks,. Following some discussion it was decided that we would continue with the Blade ad at this time and that we would try to find the names of local newspapers such as the GMU student paper, Alexandria packet, Craigslist, etc. which JW could contact to see if we could get any free space. JW will also look at redoing our website.

7.      Elections (LH)   LH advised that we had not received nominations for all the positions. LH extended the deadline for submitting nominations 10/15. There is a possibility that we could get MJ to run for president, BW to run for VP, LH to run for Secretary, DL to run for treasurer, and JW and PMcN to run for at large positions.   We will have our Annual Mtg and election by voice vote on 11/1.



VII.   New Business

1     Dues (BW) BW thinks that we should start charging dues, maybe $10. MJ (by email) reported that he was very strongly opposed to imposing any new dues on members. Discuss further at next meeting.

2.      Fund Raiser (BW)   Nothing scheduled. Maybe do something at the Christmas desert social. Maybe JW can host in the future.

3.      Belle Fund donations (BW)   BW wants regularly scheduled distributions from the Belle Fund. DL noted that we had 4,402 in the Belle fund; that we had 7,632.16 in our regular account; and that we had spent 402 from the Belle Fund this year; and that we had not yet transferred any funds from our general revenue to the Belle Fund even tho we have budgeted some 1200 to the Belle Fund for 2008. With our net assets declining by several thousand each year, DL was reluctant to support any regular distribution of funds from the Belle Fund as these funds might be needed to meet our regular expenses. BW noted that MJ needed to have a say in this as he has a personal investment in the Belle Fund which needs to be respected. Further discussion deferred to hear from MJ on the issue.

4.      Solidarity Sunday 10/4. We will recite the pledge during mass tonight.

5.      Annual Meeting Date and Date of Elections.       Set for 11/1/2008

VIII. Adjournment:   at 6:30 PM

____________________________________________________

DIGNITY NoVA BOARD of DIRECTORS MEETING

NOTES for September 6, 2008

Opening Prayer KP lead us in an opening prayer
Role Call BW, DL, KP, and JW present.
Reading and approval of the Minutes of the preceding meetings   Notes of 4/19 mtg were approved by voice vote.



Reports of Officers and Directors

1. Treasurer Report   DL reported that from Jan. 1, 2008 thru Aug. 31, 2008, we had $9,043.64 in income and $10,753.18 in expenses. We have $12,373.56 in total assets and no liabilities. We started 2008 with $14,173.10 in assets. We have $7,971.56 in the General Fund and $4,402.00 in the belle fund. We have not made any of the $1200 budgeted contributions from the General Fund to the Belle Fund yet this year. Not reported at the meeting, but for the record, we have spent $627.00 from the Belle Fund in 2008.

2. Others

Reports of Committees

            Liturgy Committee (Harry)                                                                                                                                                                   HB provided the following comments by email:                                                               LITURGY

    1.    Need to identify another musician so that we don't overtax Gene and Greg. Any contacts I can pursue would be greatly appreciated. Chris Hinkle is supposed to provide me with a name or two and I'll touch bases with him before Saturday evening to see where that stands.

    2.    No special feasts or celebration coming up that I know of, but we will have a blessing for the new Board once the election is complete.

    3.    We should have another anointing service in October and one in December - I'll work that out with the presiders.

    4.    First Sunday of Advent is November 30. We'll have a blessing of the candles before each liturgy of the Sundays of Advent. (NOTE from DL: We received the 50 hymnals for next year. They need to be modified for the Creed.)

SECOND SATURDAY SERIES

    1.    I should have the fall line-up confirmed and a printed flyer ready for this Saturday. In any event, as you have already announced, I will do September 13 (geography and history from the Bible) and November 8 (the Lucan texts in the New Testament - in preparation for Cycle B readings in the new liturgical year).

OTHER

    1.    Rev. Faeth, rector at Immanuel, announces:

            a) We're invited to Mass at 10:00 am on October 5 and then help with the "Big Pumpkin Unloading"

            b) Bring old electronics for destruction and disposal (mother boards destroyed in your presence) and remainders disposed of ecologically - Saturday, October 18, 10 am to 2 pm - church parking lot.

            c) We're announcing our Holy Land program to ICOH through Dr. Faeth

      VI. Old and Unfinished Business

1.      Feedback and/or community comments on past events   Angie and Eileen did a great job at the 25^th Ann party for Beth and Karen.

2.      Second Saturday Seminar (Harry) By a vote of 4-0, the board approved payment of up to $200 for the 3 special presenters.

3.      D/USA convention in 2011 (David) DL reported that a RFP has been sent to the DC Convention Bureau to get bids from hotels for the convention.

4.   D/USA Teleconference (Beth)   BW was unable to contact D/USA and was                                     unable to attend the teleconference. She will attempt to ascertain from D/USA how things went. BW will try to attend or get MJ to attend.

5. MJ will work on the brochures. DL noted that we had received a request to attend and /or provide pamphlets to a “Mixer” fro new college kids in town at HRC. We had none to provide.   JW noted that perhaps we could just print up some “flyers” giving basic info about who and where we are. Defer until we hear from MJ. ADDED by MJ: i was going to modify brochures for "gay pride" but dave gave them "as is" to d/w tp distribute and said most info was okay. so, please let me know what changes you want to make. i believe laura n sent me the original via email but i will have to check.

6.      Outreach Efforts — Any Ideas? BW reported on OLQP retreat. MJ will update our brochures and BW will send to OLQP. MJ will also try to get other organizations to provide a link on their web sites to us and vice versa. DEFER ADDED BY MJ: i made requests to 4 or 5 regional p-flag organizations asking if they would accept a web link from us. one replied that they no longer were a chapter; another p-flag chapter could not do it for a reason i can now no longer remember and i did not hear from the other three.

7.      JW pointed out that the advertisement in the Blade did not accurately reflect Dignity NOVA. DL to investigate. JW to check local community papers to see if we can get free ad space.                                                                                  VII. New Business   1. Elections   Need election committee. LH as Secretary will be in charge of conducting the elections. BW will start talking up the elections. Nominations due by 9/30. BW, KP, and JW indicated that they would not seek election. BW might run for AT Large position, but not as an officer. NOTE: LH indicted that she is inclined not to run for election.

2.       BW reported that she thought it prudent for the chapter to consider imposing dues on its members. DL noted that we have some 80 people on our mailing list which we are using as a membership list. DL was of the opinion that our membership would drop by half if we started charging dues. BW thought that it was best if we had an accurate count of members.

3.      BW wants to discuss doing a fund raiser. JW noted that we should try to tell people how much it costs and suggest how much they should donate at mass. If we have 20 people at mass and it costs $300 to put on that mass, each person should consider donating $15.   If we have 15 folks at mass, they should consider donating $20 as their fair share.

4.      BW wants to discuss regular, monthly donations from the Belle fund.

5.      DL noted that DW was considering raising the presider stipend to $80. No vote was taken but it was not consider to be a problem for us to go along with DW if they decided to do this.

VIII. Adjournment:   Next meeting October 4, 2008 @ 5:30 PM @ ICOH.

________________________________________________________

BoD Meeting June 21, 2008

A BOD Mtg was announced and held on June 21. BW, MJ, LH and DL in attendance. The board considered and agreed upon which candidates to vote for for the D/USA BOD. BW will send in the ballots. There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned. The next meeting will be at the call of the president.

_______________________________________________________

DIGNITY NoVA BOARD of DIRECTORS MEETING

Minutes for April 19, 2008 (DRAFT)

Opening Prayer BW lead us in an opening prayer
Role Call BW, MJ, LH, DL, KP, JW
Reading and approval of the Minutes of the preceding meetings (2/16 and 3/15 Mtgs)

      Notes of the 2/16 and 3/15 meetings were reviewed and approved unanimously      by the board

Reports of Officers and Directors

1. Treasurer’s Report (David) DL reported that so far in 2008 we had income of 4,959.64 and expenses of 4,456.78   We have a 10,000 CD; 4397.00 in the Belle Fund and 183.96 in our general fund. The Belle fund has “lent” 4,000 to the general fund to help pay our bills for the next few months until the CD comes due in December 2008. DL noted that while we are doing ok now, we are entering a period of several months when we have reduced attendance and continuing expenses as well as some special expenses related to hymnals and insurance coming up.

2. Others

Reports of Committees

1.      Liturgy Committee (Harry)



      VII. Old and Unfinished Business

1.      Feedback and/or community comments on past events (Easter Triduum and Potluck).   It was noted that the priest sometimes has to wait for the music to end at the Offertory. It was suggested that the gifts not be brought up to the altar until close to the end of the Offertory music.

            It was also noted that we need to get smokeless/dripless candles next year for the Easter Vigil.

It was also noted that while some folks did not have any problems with the 7 readings during the Easter Vigil, other folks did have a problem with doing all seven readings. The board concluded that next year, the president of D/NoVA should contact the president of DW and attempt to restore that historic compromise which called for all 7 readings one year and 3 or 4 readings the next year. This needs to be done at the presidential level. Only 3 or 4 readings should be dome in 2009 to be fair to the members of the D/NoVA community who find the 7 readings too much.

2.      Second Saturday Seminar (Harry) Harry working on schedule problems for 5/12 and will let us know when resolved.

3.      Offering to help DW with D/USA convention in 2011 (David) Nothing to report.

4.      March Membership Month (David)   DL reported that there were no request to delete anybody from the membership listing. Members must be members by March 31 to run for office in September. We have 87 members on our list even though in reality a dozen or more of those people do not attend any functions anymore. MJ will prepare a letter to the membership asking for donations to our chapter since we do not charge dues.

5.      Fund Raiser (Movie Night) (Beth) BW reported that we will have a fund raiser and potluck and film on 4/26 at Monica’s house. JW indicated a willingness to do a wine and cheese fund raiser at his condo in the future.

6.      Outreach Efforts — Any Ideas? BW reported on OLQP retreat. MJ will update our brochures and BW will send to OLQP. MJ will also try to get other organizations to provide a link on their web sites to us and vice versa.

     VIII.   New Business

1.      Presiders Issues (Off the Record) (David) Personnel issue off the record.

2.      Gift to ICOH in name of retiring organist (Harry/David)   Board voted 5 to 1 to send check to ICOH in honor of retiring music director who has been very considerate of us.

3.      Gift to New Ways to support Press Conference @ Pope (David) It was the sense of the board to defer giving money to New Ways until the night of Jeannine’s 2^nd Sat seminar.

4.      Annual Meeting and Anniversary Party May 17 (Karen)   We will not do an Annual Mtg. We will only do a potluck 16^th anniversary dinner. KP will handle the event as usual. DL will double check with Harry to make sure ICOH hall is available on 5/17.

5.      D/USA Teleconference (Beth) BW was unable to contact D/USA and was unable to attend the teleconference. She will attempt to ascertain from D/USA how things went.

6.      Pride Interfaith Service & Gay Pride Parade Sat, 6/14 & Festival, Sun, 6/15 (Brochure)   MJ will work on the brochures and DL will ask DW if we can place them on their booth at the fair.

7.      JW pointed out that the advertisement in the Blade did not accurately reflect Dignity NOVA. DL to investigate.

8.      Re inquiry from a person who wanted to do a martial arts demo at on of our events, the board concluded that it was not appropriate at this time. DL will relay the board’s feelings to the person who made the offer.

9.      It was announced that LH will now be doing the bulletin. Items should be sent to her.

10. BW/KP will do a renewal of vows and or special blessing to commemorate their 25^th anniversary at mass on 8/2. BW/KP will coordinate with Harry on the details of this. There may be a dinner afterwards at a local restaurant.



VIII. Adjournment:   Next mtg at the call of the president. Adjourned at 6:25 PM.

__________________________________________________

BOD Mtg Notes

March 15, 2008

BW, MJ, KP in attendance.

Adoption of prior minutes tabled.

Social Cmte. Karen P. purchased party supplies; BW wil get decorations; KP will get sodas & ice; BW will bring ice tea, etc. Set up helpers to arrive at 7:00PM on Holy Saturday.

HOLY WEEK--Harry will get needed suplies; Monica to acolyte; need to set up altar of repose;

Good Friday at St. M's in DC w/Elizabeth P preparing to lead the service.

2nd Sat Sem getting good turnout. Other presiders will do some seminars also.

March membership month: put out blank forms; approach new visitors/attendees; get info re bank direct deposits.

Fund raising: Eva willing to host; need to decide on what video to show; 50/50 only on special occasions.

Outreach: 16th Anniversary in May...special invites to old members & friends, "mothers", Mark will look into outreach; Mark will attend DC's 2011 convention planning mtg.

Movie "For the Bible Tells Me So" flyers available oin the back of church.

BW working on getting new at large member for the board.

Next Mtg set for 4/19.

____________________________________________________

DIGNITY NoVA BOARD of DIRECTORS MEETING

NOTES

5:00 PM Saturday, February 16, 2008 @ ICOH

Opening Prayer   Beth W lead us in prayer
Role Call BW, MJ, LH, DL, KP, Jack K.
Reading and approval of the Minutes of the preceding meetings Notes from the 12/10/2007 and 1/19/2008 BOD meetings were reviewed and approved as written.

Reports of Officers and Directors

1. Treasurer’s Report (David) David reported that from 1/1/2008 to date, we had $1,790.35 in EXPENSES and $1,327.00 in INCOME, and that our Net Worth was $13,584.75

2. Others Beth appointed Laura H as our new Secretary to replace Gina V. who resigned because she was moving for work. The duties of the Secretary are set forth in our bylaws which are available on our web site at dignitynova.org   Laura will start to prepare the “weekly” bulletins. David will send her a template, but she can use whatever format is easiest. We will seek a volunteer to fill the vacant At Large seat on the Board.

Reports of Committees

1.      Liturgy Committee (Harry)

      a.         Palm Sunday

                  Kevin will assist us with providing palms. The liturgy is very simple

                  – the reading of the Gospel, blessing of the palms at the church’s

door, the procession into the church and the reading of the Passion according to Matthew during Mass. I will try to identify readers for the parts of the Passion ahead of time.

      b.       Triduum March 20, 21, 22

                  Planning underway – Harry will follow through in identifying

                  readers, etc. Jack K. reported on the Triduum planning meeting. Of particular note, we will do all 7 readings again this year. Noting that the Easter Vigil was very long last year and too long for some children and elderly in our congregation, the Board wants to communicate to DW that next year we want to return to the principles of the great Compromise and do shorter readings at the Easter Vigil in 2009.

     c.         Lent penance (?) and/or anointing (?) service –Presiders ok for anointing                                                  service on 2/23. Penance service for 3/1 ok.



      VII. Old and Unfinished Business

1.      Feedback and/or community comments on past events.   2^nd Sat Sem going very well. Attendance of over a dozen last time and nothing but rave reviews received on Harry’s presentations.

2.      Second Saturday Seminar (Harry)

Harry still identifying speakers and dates – will advise. Harry will do the session on 3/8 – “How The Bible Came To Be”

3.      Offering to help DW with D/USA convention in 2011 (David) .David noted that he attended a meeting with DW on this. While 2011 sounds like a long way off, DW needs to get things ready for presentation at the 2009 convention in SF. They are looking at developing a theme, a logo, a budget, etc. They need help in these areas especially in event planning. DL will inform our membership of DW’s needs to see if anyone might have talenst that they are willing to contribute.

     VIII. New Business

1.      Easter Vigil Pot Luck KP will take the lead on this and do much the same as last year. She will obtain all the plates and napkins and utensils, and cups, etc. We plan on requesting finger foods such as cheese trays and sweets. The board approved KP’s idea to do a 50-50 drawing to raise money for our expenses. KP will prepare a sign up sheet for folks to indicate what they are bringing. We will also request they bring Easter lilies to decorate the church. We will need to provide sodas and drinks.

2.      March Membership Month (David) We will make an effort to update and expand our membership in March. We will send out an email to all those on our email list saying that we assume they want to continue as members unless we hear to the contrary form them. We might also use this month to encourage members to contribute funds to sustain our organization in view of the fact that there is no membership dues. David to find out and advertise how folks especially those who don’t attend regularly can contribute by snail mail and by wire transfer. David to investigate how folks can contribute by credit card payments. Also remind folks that we charge no membership dues but that our expenses are running over $100 more each week than our income. A individual must be a member by COB 3/31/2008 to run for the board in the fall.

3.      Fund Raiser (Beth) BW suggested movie nights and rummage sales as possible fund raisers for DNOVA. Movie night would be held at a member’s home with a rented movie and donations from attendees. Rummage sales could be either renting a spot at a designated and highly attended location such as CIVITAN, or holding the sale at ICOH and pay for advertising. Members would be asked to donate items with proceeds going to DNOVA or sell their own items and donate a percentage of their sales to DNOVA. We will consider this and address again later.

4.      Outreach Efforts — Any Ideas? DL discussed sending a letter to local colleges. MJ noted that this had been tried before. We will all consider ways to expand our membership as this could help our income shortfall as well.

5. Next Meeting: 3/15/2008 @ ICOH @ 5:00 PM.

VIII. Adjournment: @ 6:25 PM.

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

DIGNITY NoVA BOARD of DIRECTORS MEETING NOTES

5:00 PM Saturday, January 19, 2008 @ ICOH

Opening Prayer Lead by GV

Role Call BW, MJ, GV, LH and DL present

Reading and approval of the Minutes of the preceding meeting (deferred)

Reports of Officers and Directors

1. Treasurer’s Report (David)

a. Financial Statement for 2007 DL reviewed the income and expenses for 2007 and reported that we had 4492.00 in the Belle Fund and 9681.10 in the General Revenue Fund. Our total assets as of 12/31/2007 were 14173.10 The Board discussed the income and expenses and the summary statement and agreed with the language in the report.

b. Budget for 2008 Based on 2007 expenses, DL presented a budget for 2008 totaling 18,025.57 and projected income based on 2007 income of 12,246.64. The Board discussed the shortfall but decided to continue on the present course with efforts in the future to expand our membership and attempt to increase out income. The Board approved the budget by a 5-0 vote.

DL also noted that he had prepared the tax statements for 2007 to give to each individual who contributed by check in 2007 showing their total contributions. DL noted that he has also prepared IRS-1099 forms for those two individuals who were paid more than 600 by D/NoVA during 2007.

2. Others

Reports of Committees

Liturgy Committee (Harry) Harry reported by proxy

a. Throat Blessing Feb 2 To be done after mass on 2/2

b. Triduum March 20, 21, 22 DW & D/NoVA mtg on 2/9 to work out details.

c. Lent penance (?) and/or anointing (?) service Need to consult with presiders, but tentative date set for 2/23 to anoint and 3/1 for penance. This will be an individual penance made available before mass starting at 6:00 PM.

ICOH clearance Church and social hall cleared for Holy Thur & Easter Vigil.

VI. Old and Unfinished Business

Feedback and/or community comments on past events. Nothing but good things heard about the first of our 2^nd Sat Seminars.

Second Saturday Seminar (Harry) By Proxy, Harry reports that he will do 2^nd and 3^rd seminars and is inviting our presiders to participate in future sessions.

Offering to help DW with D/USA convention in 2011 (David) DL reports that ball in DW's court and we are waiting for them to advise how we can be of assistance.

After mass socials and restaurants (Gina) GV reports that the consensus of those responded to our survey was to keep the after mass social as they are, I.e., have social in the vestibule after mass and then gather a group to go to dinner after that. GV reports that 5 individuals volunteered to help with the socials and those names will be given to KP.

VIII. New Business

Spiritual and Social Calendar (David) DL presented a proposed calendar for 2008. We will have our annual meeting and 16^th anniversary party on 5/17 if ICOH hall is available. The party will be low key. Harry B confirmed that ICOH church and hall is available for us for 5/17.

Easter Vigil Pot Luck We will start work on that next month.

March Membership Month (David) We will make an effort to update and expand our membership in March. We will send out an email to all those on our email list saying that we assume they want to continue as members unless we hear to the contrary form them. We might also use this month to encourage members to contribute funds to sustain our organization in view of the fact that there is no membership dues.

Fund Raiser (Beth) BW suggested movie nights and rummage sales as possible fund raisers for DNOVA. Movie night would be held at a member’s home with a rented movie and donations from attendees. Rummage sales could be either renting a spot at a designated and highly attended location such as CIVITAN, or holding the sale at ICOH and pay for advertising. Members would be asked to donate items with proceeds going to DNOVA or sell their own items and donate a percentage of their sales to DNOVA. We will consider this and address again later.

Outreach Efforts — Any Ideas? DL discussed sending a letter to local colleges. MJ noted that this had been tried before. We will all consider ways to expand our membership as this could help our income shortfall as well.

Co-Sponsor Film w/ALGCA (Gina) GV presented info on a movie to be shown by ALGCA. The Board voted 5-0 to give $100 to AGLCA to co-sponsor the film.

The Board also voted 5-0 to pay $25 to AGLCA (Alexandria Gay & Lesbian Community Association) to place a ¼ page ad in the program of AGLCA’s upcoming 25^th Anniversary party to be held on April 19, 2008 program. GV will work on the details and provide DL with more info as to both programs and how to pay the money.

Virginia State Incorporation Assessment for 2008 and Annual Report (Gina) GV obtained updated addresses form the board members and signed the form. DL will cut the check and send the forms into the State of Virginia.

Next Meeting date 2/16 @ 5:00 PM. It was noted that GV, our Secretary, has accepted an assignment that will require a move to Dallas. The board noted with sadness that we were just starting to get to know her, and expressed its appreciation for her efforts on behalf of our community, and wished her well in the future, and reminded her not to throw away her winter clothes because they will still be needed in Dallas!.

VIII. Adjournment: Adjourned at 6:25 pm. ________________________________________________________________

DIGNITY NORTHERN VIRGINIA

Board of Director’s Meeting Notes

Minutes 12/10/07

I.                    Opening Prayer: Beth W

II.                  Roll Call: Beth W, Laura H, Karen P, Gina V, David L, Mark J

III.                Reading and Approval of Minutes of 11/17/07 meeting: Minutes approved as written.

IV.                Reports of Officers and Directors

1.         Treasurer’s report: DL distributed and discussed our bank statement dated 12/8. We have $10,000 CD; $2562 in the Belle Fund; and $1595 in our regular account. However, the regular fund owes the Belle Fund $2000 and there was about $600 in uncashed checks from the regular account. The regular account will repay the Belle Fund in March when the CD comes due.

DL reported that HB had repaid in full and in a timely fashion the loan that D/NoVA made to HB.

2.        None.

V.                  Reports of Committees:

            1.         Liturgy Committee:   (Harry’s report given by proxy).

      a. Harry meeting with DW on 12/8 re: Triduum (on March 20-22, 2008). Meeting on 11/20 with Chris H. went well. Same basic schedule as in the past - Thursday evening at Immanuel, Friday at St. Margaret, Saturday night at Immanuel. Minimum number of readings at Vigil on Holy Saturday. Silvio does not want his Passion Play done on Good Friday. Other ideas for that liturgy are welcomed. Holy Saturday - as last year - one or two readers at most, not one reader for each reading.

            b. Christmas Eve at ICOH 8 p.m.



·         Crèche: As ICOH will not use the Crech on 12/25, it will need to be taken down prior to 12/29/07 as there will be a wedding on that day at IHOC. Kathleen has the décor for the crèche – Mark will be in charge of picking up crèche but will need help with decorating and setting it up. Mark - thanks for your e-mail. Can you follow through on this - set up and tear down on 12/24 although Immanuel will not use the church on Christmas - but there is the wedding there on 12/29 (and that's why we'll be at St. C. that evening.) Mark will do this.



·         Poinsettas: We have to decide if we will leave them in church or have the members take home due to the wedding taking place on 12/29/07. Can people be asked to bring decorations as in the past? YES

·         Dessert Social: This will follow the Mass on Xmas Eve in the social hall at ICOH. Elizabeth P. will be the lead on this social and will need assistance to set up. Karen has most of the items for the set up.

                        c. Advent penance and confessions were available on 12/8/07 prior to Mass from 6:00-6:30 pm.

                        d. Anointing Service to be held at the 12/15/07 Mass at ICOH at 6:30 pm. This is an anointing for healing (physical, mental and spiritual).

                        e. Mass on 12/29/07 will be held at St. Clement’s due to the wedding at ICOH that day.

VI         Old and Unfinished Business

1. Saturday Seminar: The Second Saturday seminars will begin in January, 2008. Harry will do sessions1, 2 and 3. Topics for sessions 1, 2 and 3 are already announced (see purple or green sheets on table at back of church). Future topics and presenters to be announced right after the first of the year.

VII.              New Business

            1. Christmas Charity Events:   The Board voted 6-0 to approve sending a check for $100 to support the ICOH Christmas toy drive. Mark was not able to contact Jennifer at ICOH yet. He will try again. On Saturday, December 15, we will be collecting toiletries and other small personal items (such as toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant, toothbrush, soap as well as warm outer garments like hats, mittens, gloves, scarves, etc.) for Carpenter's Shelter in Alexandria. We will also be collecting toys and other gifts to support ICOH's toy drive. In both instances, items should not exceed $10 in value and should not be gift wrapped. In lieu of purchasing gifts, people might consider making a small cash (or check) donation which we will give to the respective charity along with the gifts collected.

2.       DIGNITY USA Convention 2011 – DW to host Dignity USA convention in 2011 and would like to know the level of support from NOVA. It is too early to commit members to the convention. The Board decided that we should make an inquiry about the 2011 convention and offer to help where or when or how we can.    DL will do this.

            3. Socials after Mass – Beth will host the socials after Mass while Karen is gone until the end of January 2008. Gina will put together a survey in attempt to ascertain community desires re: after mass social and dinners.

4. SoTheBibleTellsMeSo - A movie about religion and homosexuality and how the lives of 5 people were affected by their family’s views. AGLCA (Alexandria Gay & Lesbian Community Association) would like to co-host the showing of this film with DNOVA – Cost is $300 and AGLCA wants to share costs and maybe request $5 cover, date and time to be determined. To be discussed at next board meeting.

5. Board members on leave during Holidays – Beth: 12/19 to 12/30/07; Karen: 12/10 to 1/31/08; Laura: 12/23 to 12/26; Gina:12/22 to 1/1/08.

            6. Next Meeting: Saturday Jan. 26, 2008 @ ICOH @ 5:30 p.m.

VIII. Adjournment   Adjourned at 6:20PM

___________________________________________________

DIGNITY NoVA BOARD of DIRECTORS MEETING

NOTES

6:00 PM Saturday, November 17, 2007

Opening Prayer (Waived)
Role Call BW, MJ, DL, KP, LH
Reading and approval of the Minutes of the preceding meeting of 10-28-2007 and of the General Membership mtg of 11-3-2007.   Minutes of both meetings approved as amended by 5-0 vote.
Reports of Officers and Directors

         1.   Treasurer’s Report (Nothing new to report)

Reports of Committees
1.      Liturgy Committee

      a.         Harry meeting w/DW 12/8 re: Triduum Mtg changed to 11/20/2007

     b.         Christmas Eve @8:00pm w/dessert social to follow (Will work on that more next month)

     c.         Maybe do an Advent penance and anointing service Wiating for the presider schedule to be finalized by DL.

      d. Advent Wreath. By 5-0 vote the Board approved Harry's plan to purchase Advent Wreaths



      VII. Old and Unfinished Business

1.      Feedback and/or community comments on past events.

a. Veterans Memorial Mass very well received although attendance was not as high as expected.

b. Father Joe S. was very well received by the community.

c. No extra money was collected for the Servicemember's Legal Defense Network. DL will prepare a check for $100 for D/NoVA to contribute to SLDN.

2.      Second Saturday Seminar (We will get update from Harry B.)



    VIII. New Business

1.      Thanksgiving or Christmas Charity Effort

a. We are still considering what local charity to support during the holidays. Beth is looking at Carpenter's Shelter. Mark J. will contact Eileen about info she has obtained, and he will contact Jennifer @ICOH re what their Christmas Drive is about this year. If we are giving toiletries or other items, we need to know from the receiving organization if the gifts should be gift wrapped with a tag or not wrapped at all. Mark wil also inquire about our use of a shelf in the kitchen.

b. The Board again discussed a negative comment received about the Creed. It was noted that we invited everyone to use the reverant term for God that they were most comfortable with and that we could not enforce people to use any specific gender-sensitive language. We tried a Creed that attempted to be gender neutral, but we received many complaints about the awkward language. So the board adopted the current Creed. It was noted that there was no more gender sensitive Dignity Chapter in the country. The Board decided to take no further action to change the Creed anymore at this time.

c. At St. Clement's on 12/29.

2.      Next Meeting Date (Dec. 8 @ ICOH @ 5:30 pm.)

IX. Adjournment

____________________________________________

____///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////________

DIGNITY NoVA ANNUAL GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

NOTES

Saturday, November 3, 2007

The Secretary will establish that there is sufficient number of members present as to constitute a quorum for conducting official business. Karen P., the acting Secretary, called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm. KP determined that there were 25 people present at the meeting and that a sufficient number of members were present to constitute a quorum for the purpose of conducting official business.

Introduction of the President for general discussion of any items of interest with Q&A. Beth W., the president, gave a recap of recent activities and reported on plans for future activities to solidify, increase, and strengthen our community.

Introduction of Treasurer for discussion of finances with Q&A. David L., the treasurer, provided a written report which is available on our web site and gave a report of current our financial status. The Belle Fund has a balance of $4,224.50 and our general account has a balance of $9,336.93. We have net assets of $13,561.43 as of 10/31/2007. However, we are falling short of our expenses by about $110 each week, a situation which cannot go on forever. There was some further discussion with the membership of certain items of expense and income.

New Bylaws:

Introduction of Treasurer to discuss new bylaws with Q&A.

Voice vote on adoption of new bylaws.

Announce the results of the vote. (2/3rds of those present needed to pass) David L. gave a report on the need to adopt new bylaws. The existing bylaws from 1993 when D/NoVA was first established were woefully obsolete and beyond salvage. The new bylaws have been written to incorporate as much of the old bylaws as possible. They have been reviewed and reviewed by the Board, and reviewed Eileen H., a lawyer on the board. The Board recommends that the new bylaws be adopted. David L. made a motion that the new bylaws as approved by the board be adopted by the membership. The motion was seconded by Benjamin C. The acting Secretary called for a vote. The new bylaws were approved by a unanimous vote of the membership present at the meeting. The new bylaws became effective 12:01 am on November 4, 2007.

Election

Introduction of announced candidates for the board.

Request for any new nominations from the floor.

Vote

Announce the results of the vote. The acting Secretary introduced the candidates for office. There were no additional nominations from the floor. The Secretary called for a vote on the candidates for office. The candidates were all elected by a unanimous vote of the membership. Congratulations to the new board of directors of Dignity NoVA for the period running from now through 12/31/2008. The new board consists of the following:

Beth W.—President

Mark J.—Vice President

Gina V.—Secretary

David L.—Treasurer

Karen P—At Large Member of the Board

Laura H. –At Large Member of the Board

VI. Request motion to adjourn, a second, vote, Adjournment. With the conclusion of business, John W. made a motion that the meeting be adjourned. Benjamin C. seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The acting Secretary adjourned the meeting at 7:55 PM.

___________________________

__________________________

DIGNITY NOVA BOARD of DIRECTORS MEETING

NOTES

2:00 PM SUNDAY, October 28, 2007 at DL’s home

Opening Prayer Eileen H. lead us in prayer

Role Call KP, BW, EH, MJ, DL were present

Reading and approval of the Minutes of the preceding meeting Notes of 9/28/07 mtg approved without change

Reports of Officers and Directors

1. Treasurer’s Report DL gave report of financial status for the first nine months of 2007. We started 2007 with $17,167.18; and as of 9/30/2007, we have $13,615.19. While there were some unusual expenses this year, it was noted that overall we are dipping into our reserve to meet our ordinary expenses. For the report to be given at the Annual Meting, the board wants to emphasize our fixed weekly expenses to encourage folks to give more and thus reduce the need to dip into our reserves. The board also wants a more detailed “line item” report of expenditures from the Belle Fund so that folks will know where we have given money this year. DL noted that he might try to piggyback onto DW’s QuickBooks software if DW buys it. It is believed that using QuickBooks would make reporting easier.

Reports of Committees

1. Liturgy Committee DL reported for Harry.

a. Harry has a meeting w/DW 12/8 re: Triduum

b. Harry is preparing a blessing for 11/10 installation of the new BOD

c. Harry has cleared ICOH for our use for Christmas Eve @8:00pm w/dessert social to follow in the social hall.

d. Harry suggested doing an Advent penance service. The board would like to do both an anointing service and a penance service during Advent if this will work into the schedule. Also, do both during Lent.

e. Harry will bring the Book of remembrance for use starting 11/3. If possible, the presider should say a pray or blessing of the book on 11/3, the first time we use it. The board does not want to do a mass of remembrance.

2. Election Committee DL reported that we still had not found anyone to run for the office of Secretary. An individual is considering it if work permits and BW/KP will contact her regarding this. KP, as the acting Secretary, will conduct the Annual Meeting on 11/3. DL will come up with an agenda. The meeting should take place immediately following mass with no break. In accord with the current bylaws, KP will indicate that those in attendance constitute a quorum for the purpose of conducting the annual meeting and election. KP will introduce the president and then the treasurer for whatever reports they have to make to the community. Q&As are in order. After that, KP will introduce DL for a discussion of the new bylaws. Following any discussion, KP will take a voice vote on adoption of the new bylaws. In accord with the existing bylaws, the new bylaws must receive 2/3 vote of the members present at the meeting to be approved. KP will announce the vote total and announce whether the new bylaws have been approved. KP will then proceed to the election. KP will read the names and/or introduce the candidates for office. She will ask for any other nominations from the floor. Assuming that there are no other nominations, KP will ask for a voice vote on the candidates, count the votes, and announce the winners. If there is no other business to conduct, KP will ask for a motion to adjourn, get a second on the motion, ask for a voice vote, count the votes and adjourn the meeting to celebrate the election of the new BOD.

VI. Old and Unfinished Business

1. Feedback and/or community comments on past events.

2. Annual Meeting 11/3 (Reports, Election, Bylaws)

3. Second Saturday Seminar This is starting in January. DL will try to send out the flyer to all those on the e-mailing list. The Board would like to know from Harry what in his opinion is the cut-off number for a go/no go on this project. The board confirmed that it approved a stipend of $75 to each presenter at the seminar.

VI. New Business

1. Veteran’s Day service 11/10 This will be to honor and recognize those who are Veterans. Mark will provide Harry with an outline of the events during mass. It is expected that Tom will be providing music along with Susan. By a 5-0 vote, the board authorized a payment of $100 to the Servicemen’s Legal Defense Fund. There should be an opportunity for others to contribute to this fund as well.

2. Blessing of the new board 11/10 at end of mass Harry is working on a blessing for the new board at the end of mass on 11/10

3. Thanksgiving or Christmas Charity Effort. EH will research a possible local charity for us to focus on for Christmas. Perhaps a party at Susan’s house as well. D/NoVA will also consider giving money7 to ICOH for their Christmas toy drive.

4. Next Meeting Date. At the call of the president, perhaps a dinner meeting after mass on Saturday, 11/17

Other Items: DL will respond to two inquiries received on D/NoVA’s email address. He will advise the one to try MCC as they might be able to assist, and he will advise the other that we will not be able to advertise at the Gay Travel Expo. DL will also respond to the D/USA inquiry left on out phone answering machine about the times of our mass for the USA directory.

BW asked DL to inquire about the accuracy of our Blade ad. DL noted that since the bulletins were now available online at our website, there was no longer a need for the “While You Were Out” publication. The board wants to encourage all members to visit the website to get needed info.

MJ will look at updating our pamphlet so that we cvna have copies available on the table after mass. We also need to make sure that there is a table there with our info as it appears that folks are not getting info/flyers that are in different places at different times.

VIII. Adjournment

______________________________________

____________________________________________________________

DIGNITY NOVA BOARD of DIRECTORS MEETING NOTES

2:00 PM SUNDAY, September 23, 2007

Opening Prayer (Harry B. lead us in prayer.)

Role Call (Beth W, Karen P., Eileen H., Mark J., Harry B., David L. were present)

Reading and approval of the Minutes of the preceding meeting(Notes approved, as amended)

Reports of Officers and Directors

(Beth W. read a letter from Elizabeth P, our Secretary who resigned for personal reasons. David L. reported that as of 9/22/207, we had $386.75 in our general operating fund; $4,117.00 in our Belle Fund; and a $10,000.00 CD which was earning 5% interest and which comes due in March 20008. As an organization, we are not eligible for the same type of CD account from BBT where we have our money as an individual can get and the rates are generally a little lower than an individual can get in a CD. With our electronic banking, we can easily temporarily transfer funds from the Belle Fund to the general operations account for a short period of time to cover any shortfalls.

Reports of Committees

Liturgy Committee (Father Tim will preside on 9/29; BoD will arrive a few minutes early to meet and greet.)
Election Committee (Elizabeth P. and Eileen H. will not run for the Board. Beth W, Karen P, Mark J and David L indicated that they would run again. Each member will try to find one person to run for the board. Deadline for nominations for the board will be extended to 10/7. There will be a general annual meeting on 11/3 at which time we will hold the elections probably by voice vote.)

Old and Unfinished Business

Feedback and/or community comments on past events.(Anointing was very well received. Harry will check the liturgical schedule and try to set a date for another anointing. We will try to do it every 3 months. 3

10/6 pet blessing; Solidarity Sunday Pledge; social.(Harry to get pet blessing for presider to use at the end of mass. Karen P will get St. Francis cards to distribute. The Solidarity Pledge will be done as part of the Prayer of the Faithful. David will get cards from DigWash or print out from D/USA website. Eileen H. is dong all the work on the social at her house after mass. She will provide directions to her house as well as information on a few animal charities which people may donate to. Checks should be made payable to D/NoVA and D/NOVA will send checks to charities on behalf of the community. Friends are also invited to the fund-raising party.)
Annual Meeting (Postpone until Election Mtg) (Meeting to be held on 11/3 along with the election.)
Bylaws (Further revisions need to be made. Board members will submit any additional comments in a week or two. After that, the draft should be sent to all members for discussion and hopefully adoption at 11/3 meeting.)
“New” Creed - Any comments? (People are satisfied with the new Creed. David L. will mark up new Hymnals so that we do not need extra sheets of paper.)

6. Thanks to Tom and Tom for work on Anniv. Dinner (The Board authorized payment of $50 to Dignity USA to be given to Tom Y in appreciation of his work for the anniversary and the board sent a “thank you” card to both Tom Y and Tom J.)

7. Memorial mass for Freddy (Harry)(We will wait until we here form John W. on this.)

8. Regularly scheduled anointing (Harry)(Harry will try to schedule anointing every 3 months.)

9. Gift to Laura (We still have the plaque at ICOH to present to Laura.)

VII. New Business

Advent Retreat?(Reconsider after January 1. Stipend about $400 depending on the work needed to be done by retreat Master. Off site, perhaps at Rehoboth. There was some discussion that with our busy lives, a weekend retreat might be too much for people to do and that perhaps we should consider a day of recollection followed by our regular Saturday mass. Conversely, if we are all too busy for a weekend retreat, that might demonstrate the need for a weekend retreat even more. Plus, if would be a community building event. )
Blessing of the new board 11/10 (Harry will find or prepare blessing to be used.)

3. Guest presider – homilist 12/29 (We will try to get the rector from St.Clement's to preside and give the homily on 12/29/2007.)

4. Thanksgiving or Christmas Charity Effort. (Deferred)

5. Lent: Ash Wednesday is Feb. 8^th; Holy Week Begins March 16, 2008. Do we want to do the Triduum with DW again? Is ICOH available for Holy Thursday/Easter Vigil? (The board wants to do the same as we have done in the past. NoVA pays for expenses on Thursday and Saturday and takes the collection; DW pays expenses and takes collection on Good Friday. Harry will check on availability of ICOH on Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday. There were some comments about how very long the service went last Holy Saturday.)

6. New survey request (The board decided to forward the survey request to male members with a disclaimer.)

7. Liturgy 40 years after the Council (Harry discussed important changes coming in the mass and the need for us to conduct some type of continuing education in the faith for our members. This could be a monthly meetings starting at 5:00 pm on Saturdays or some other forum. The board approved the concept and requested Harry to flush out the proposal some more. The board agreed that we would have to pay a stipend to the instructors probably in line with what we pay the presiders.)

8. Next Meeting Date. (10/28/2007)

VIII. Adjournment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BOD Mtg 8-19-2007 (Notes approved 9/23/2007 as amended)

PRESENT: Beth W; Karen P; Eileen H; Elizabeth P; David L

1. Revised the Creed as indicated.

2. Eileen will review bylaws and hopefully have comments by early September. If no significant problems, we would like to preset them to the community for discussion and adoption at a community meeting on 10/13. Even if the bylaws are not ready by then, we want to have a community meeting on 10/13.

3. We want to do a blessing of pics of animals on 10/6 with a party of some sort at Eileen's afterwards. This may be a fund raising party for some animal charity. We may do some sort of community charity project we would like to undertake around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

4. The current board's terms end 10/31. I will head an election committee and submit some ideas about how to conduct the election.

5. The web site was approved and I will see that it is in our advertising, etc.

6. Solidarity Sunday is 10/7. I'll send you and the board an email about this.

7. Regarding music, Eileen reports that Susan is burnt our and needs to take some time off. So hopefully she will be back soon. We have Gene, Greg and Tom to pay for us so hopefully we will be ok in the music department.

8. We are still holding off on a memorial mass for Freddy until John is ready for it.

9. Regarding finances, our two CDs came due and we now have just two bank accounts. Both are non interest bearing checking accounts. The regular account has $11,015.65 in it and the Belle fund has $3989.50 in it.

10. Beth gave a nice report on Austin. Our flowers dominated the chapel and were used at various other functions. Our banner was spectacular and had a place of prominence right in the center of the display wall. No other chapters had any better ideas on BOD insurance than we have.