Lawrence Sister Cities Advisory Board
August 10, 2011
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MEMBERS PRESENT: |
Linda Hyler, Jon Josserand, Kathleen Hodge, James Hilliard, Gina Ross, Dennis Christilles, Michael Kennedy, Ken Albrecht, Lynn Ground, Stacy Van Houten, Bob Moody |
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MEMBERS ABSENT: |
Bill Keel, Kelly Herndon |
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STAFF LIAISON PRESENT: |
Cynthia Wagner |
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PUBLIC PRESENT: |
Ted Kuwana, Chris Grolock, Lizzy Smith, Ginnie Ellis, Sara Tryon, John Eakes, Emily Eakes, Jason Foote, Holden Zimmerman |
The meeting was brought to order by Vice-Chair Hyler at 5:35.
Introduction of guests
A number of youth associated with the evolving Jet Stream organization attended the meeting and gave a report on the recent Hiratsuka youth visit. A number of jet stream youth accompanied the youth on their visit and assisted the chaperones with the trip. In addition the group hosted a dance at the going away party.
The board indicated their thanks and gratitude for this evolving youth group.
New board member
Stacey Van Houten was recently appointed to the board. Stacey and her husband have a son who has participated in both Eutin and Hiratsuka exchanges, and a daughter who participated in the Hiratsuka exchange.
Minutes
The July minutes were approved as previously distributed.
20th anniversary of Hiratsuka - Hilliard
The board reviewed and discussed details of the upcoming visit which are essentially the same as listed in last month’s minutes. Fifteen guests from Hiratsuka are still expected.
Fundraiser - Hodge
Hodge reported on the committee meeting occurring just before the board meeting. The dinner/fundraiser will occur on Wednesday, October 5 at the Lawrence Country Club. Hodge expressed the need for all board members to work to secure sponsorships to secure contributions for scholarships.
Friends of Eutin – Albrecht
Albrecht indicated they are searching for a homestay for the teacher. It is believed that the students have been placed.
An issue outstanding is the need for transportation for the teacher. The costs of car rental are being investigated, but it is hoped that we may be able to secure the donation of a vehicle for this teacher’s short term use while in Lawrence.
Albrecht reported that German Consul General Onno Hückmann recently bestowed the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany upon Professor Frank Baron . This accolade represents one of the highest distinctions that the Federal Republic of Germany bestows upon any private individual, whether German or foreign. Speaking on behalf of the Federal President of Germany, Consul General Hückmann commended Professor Baron on his contributions to the German culture, German scholarship and the German-American friendship.
Friends of Iniades - (Christilles)
Christilles indicated there was little to report. He indicated that Iniades is thinking about inviting an official delegation from Lawrence to visit next July.
Announcements
It was reported that Lilly Tsubaki is making a $500 contribution to Sister Cities in recognition of her late husband and board member Andrew Tsubaki.
Wagner reminded the board about an invitation to an interfaith event on Sunday, August 21.
The meeting adjourned at 7:00 pm.