May 25, 2011

MAY 16^TH EVENT:The meeting was a success. Close to 90 people attended with many new faces in the crowd. We almost broke even. We had good speakers, the subject was timely, and there was good publicity -- a formula for success. There was discussion about whether or not we got political answers to our questions. There was a suggestion that it would be worthwhile for Phyllis Bennis to have exposure to campuses to spread information to our college youth.
 
UFPJ SURVEY:
Duncan got the consensus from the group in filling out this survey. He also agreed to be the contact person.
 
DONATION TO FESTIVAL FOR A NUCLEAR-FREE FUTURE:
MA Peace Action Ed Fund is asking for our sponsorship of this Festival in July 6. After discussion and questions about their budget and other sponsorship, Cole presented his motion that we become a sponsor for $500. There being no objection, it was approved.
 
OCTOBER 10 CONFERENCE:
Discussion centered on speakers and the format for the conference. It is imperative that we have a title and idea of how the conference should be structured. Everyone was encouraged to circulate ideas for titles and Duncan volunteered to conduct the contest.
 
We have two confirmed speakers: Chomsky and Mcpherson. More suggestions for speakers came up and reports on the status of inquiries were reported.
 
The structure so far is to be: 10: 00 A three speaker panel; 11:00 Chomsky; 12:00 Lunch; 1:00 Workshops; 3:00 Three speaker panel. 
 
BU is being checked out as a possible site. MIT has indicated interest but we have no answer yet. Nor have we had an answer from Tufts. Harvard is also being investigated.
 
PALESTINE REPORT:
The letter asking people to refrain from buying Sabra hummus will be sent to the UJP activist list and people were urged to sign up to distribute flyers on June 8 and June 27.
 
FLOTILLA AUDACITY OF HOPE:
Ridgely is leaving June 19^th to board the Audacity of Hope Flotilla and wants us to have a “send-off” event to publicize the event. We agreed with pleasure to such an event and a committee is being formed to carry it off.
 
A letter is being circulated to UJP Coalition to include other groups as well. It was suggested that the names of groups supporting this action be included.
 
The meeting was adjourned at 9 pm.