Planning Meeting Minutes

February 27^th, 2005

Present: Revoe Robinson, Michael Jones, Maryanna Jones, Jody Held, Mark Stein, Bob Woolridge, Tim, Dan Wolverton, Jeff, Tony Glore.

1. Finances

The Sangha’s current bank balance was $130.96.  With the new owners of the building, rent will continue to be $100 per month.  Due to the increased numbers of participants each Sunday, there was discussion about how we might utilize any collections that exceed our rental fees.  

Some ideas that were discussed were:

-         Buying new Thich Nhat Hahn books

-         Donating to Plum Village

-         Sitting benches for Sangha 

No final decision was made about how to spend any excess funds. 

2. DOM

There was discussion about whether and when a Day of Mindfulness might be held. Jody will write a description about what a day of mindfulness usually entails to more fully inform new participants.  We might then have a better idea of the level of interest. 

3. Library

It was suggested that we ask for a volunteer to call those who have checked out books and invite them to return for a visit, along with the books.

Bob volunteered to ask Tom, the new building manager, if there might be space available for a book shelf, to house sangha books. 

4. Web Site

If there are any members who would be interested in lending some time to help manage the web site, please talk with Mark Stein.  His email address is mstein@mediationfirst.com 

To give the newer members, and perhaps some who are not so new, more context for understanding the Sangha, it was suggested that we include a history of the Sangha on our website.  

5. Newsletter

From time to time, it may be helpful to include features in the newsletter that give tips on sitting and walking meditation, and other “Buddhist basics”.