Minutes of FCCNY Board Meeting February 9, 2004
Held at: Morgan Stanley, New York City

FCCNY Board Members Attending:
Marylou Cooper Green (by phone), Aileen Koger, Kevin Matthews (by phone), Joe Kelly, Tim Stoenner, David Youtz,

Board Members Not Attending:
Barry Radick, Ross Lewis, Toby Volkman, Marjorie Berman, Beth Rosenthal, Edna Moy, Elizabeth Mao

Visitors: Consultant David Farren,

Minutes by David Youtz, President

Call To Order, 6:10 PM

I. FCC Events
• The Chinese New Year Celebration & Annual Meeting (Jan. 17) was attended by a total of 646 people attended (a record!). There seemed to be overwhelmingly positive views of the event from attendees, and we demonstrated that families will go to Queens – both from NYC boroughs and from Long Island. We learned some lessons for next year (we’re likely to return to the NY Hall of Science again after this good experience). The only unsuccessful outcome was that NY area press did not seem to cover the event as hoped. In terms of expenses, this was unexpectedly successful, given that we priced the event to be relatively inexpensive for families ($15 person), and such that families received a strong package for the money (events, museum admission, shopping, science talks, etc.). A surplus was recorded of $8,500 over expenses (not including funds raised separately by Orphanage Assistance sales). The surplus is a very welcome outcome, and will be put toward FCC’s general operating expenses and getting the 2004 operating budget into the black. Many thanks to the organizing committee: Ross Lewis, Clare Timoney, Kathy Urbina, Corrine Patrick, and David Youtz.

• Kay Johnson Benefit Program (February 21). Planning for the upcoming Benefit was discussed. The historic National Arts Club venue has been secured by Board Member Ross Lewis – for free (thank you Ross!). A mailing and e-mailed messages are going out to FCC members and targeted donors (thanks to Tim Stoenner and Joe Kelly).

• Ametz Conference (February 29) Marylou Cooper Green is coordinating FCC’s involvement in this event for adopting and prospective parents.

• Children’s Museum of Manhattan: FCC Members Day (March 13). Low-key planning for this program. FCC families may attend at half-price. No speakers currently planned.

• Chinese Culture Day (May 8): Marjorie Berman, Culture Day Coordinator (who couldn’t attend the Board Mtg.), has reported a major glitch with the Liberty State Park venue. The train terminal, as we know, is under renovation. However, we were supposed to be able to use most of the building. It now transpires that the terminal is essentially unavailable due to the renovation. Deanna Hunt, our liaison with the Park, recommends doing the event in tents nearby. Marjorie is exploring the implications, in terms of cost (possible as high as $10,000), and changes to the event and decorations. Alternatives would be to move to a different site (return to NY Hall of Science…?) – however, she has strong concerns about how much logistical work would be required in moving to a new, untested space with an event this large (around 2,000 people).

II. Treasurer’s report: (Kevin Matthews via telephone)
- The budget numbers are coming – not available today.
- FCC books will be reconciled to prepare the Tax Returns later this month.

III. Orphanage Assistance:
- Aileen presented a proposal for distribution of funds to Amity Foundation.
- Following the Annual Appeal, $170,000 (approx.) is on hand in these funds.
- Requested distribution requested is $13,000.
- This includes $3,700 for heart surgeries (Wuhan), $3,600 for nin-cleft palate surgeries (funds raised for this purpose by Karen Jani), $2,600 for surgeries for specific cases raised by several donors, and $3,100 designated for medical needs with specific uses to be determined in consultation with Amity.
- Request for distribution was voted and accepted unanimously.

IV. Proposal from Qiu Meng Fogarty (11-year old FCC member): - FCC kids could take various actions to raise funds for Orphanage Assistance.
- Idea that seemed most interesting was for a “Read-a-thon” by the Kids, with proceeds to go to Orphanage Assistance. It was suggested that this be done to coincide with Asian American Heritage Month (May). - Very welcome to receive a proposal from one of the FCC kids!

V. Seeking New Board Members (David Youtz): - FCC Board will consider new candidates for Directors
- David Youtz, Beth Rosenthal, and Barry Radick will seek candidates. Anyone with suggestions should contact them.

VI. Next meeting -- March 8

Meeting Adjourned: 8:10