MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES
September 11, 2006

at Adam Clark's home, 387 Staples St., San Francisco

PRESENT: Alison Antelman (AA), Adam Clark (AC), President, Ron Elson (RE), Ellis Gans (EG), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Maureen Harvey (MH), Susie Hojel (SH) and Emiko Oye (EO). The meeting opened at 7:20pm.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

1. Food allowances at board meetings: The Board approved an increase, up to $50.

2. Hospitality: AC will ask Deborah Lozier for contact infor- mation for Shabnam, the possible replacement for Reed Easley. Holiday party arrangements: RE will pursue his offer of using his home/studio as the venue. Date: Either Dec. 9 or 10. A fallback venue might be c/o Tex Gieling (AC will contact Mike Holmes or Elizabeth Shypertt to ask Tex). AC will also e-mail members, possibly using Evite to ask for an RSVP and what food they will bring. AC

Golden Hammer Award: instead of making this an annual award, traditionally given at the holiday party, the Board will make it an occasional award for outstanding contributions to the metals community. For future discussion: a specially designed pin with the MAG logo, in silver or gold plated, for past and present Board members etc. SH will report on costs. SH

3. Payment for demonstrations/lectures: this belongs with the Programs Committee, allowing the committee some flexibility but hopefully not overrunning its budget.

PROGRAMS

1. AC and Deborah Lozier would like to do a photoetching class, possibly next February. AC, DL

2. Photoshop class: MH reported difficulty in finding a venue. The Board suggested trying City College, the Academy of Art U, and Learn-It. MH

MEMBERSHIP

EO reported we now have 204 members. If/when membership approaches 250, the GUILDLETTER editor will need to increase the print order. AA will bring a supply of MAG postcards to the Richmond Art Center, where she's teaching. LD, AA

EXHIBITIONS

RE reported the next MAG show at the Oakland Museum's Collectors Gallery from Nov. 8 - Jan. 19. Entries are due between Oct. 20- 27. Opening will be Nov. 11.

THE COMMITTEE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH SETUP (Oct. 28-9).

RE will remind AC to email MAG members. The committee will discuss possible speakers at its Sep. 17 meeting (Board suggested only members with pieces in the show, e.g. Aimee Golant and Susan Brooks). The committee still needs suggestions for music. RE, AC

DL will do new inserts for the MAG cases.

TREASURER'S REPORT

EG has emailed the Board specifics about MAG's current budget, which looks healthy.

NOTE -COMMITTEE CHAIRS SHOULD EMAIL EG WITH PRELIMINARY 2007 BUDGETS BY OCT. 20 FOR DISCUSSION AT THE NOV. BOARD MEETING. ALL

AC and EG will email reminders. AC, EG, EG asked for Board (particularly committee chair) comments on the current financial statements, suggestions for additions or sub-tractions in items listed. Committee chairs should give detailed breakdowns of their budget requests. ALL

EG has also prepared a separate binder to guide future treasurers. He is taking care of filing Federal and State tax returns (saving MAG about $475 in accountant's fees.)

GUILDLETTER REPORT

AA will talk to LD about the possibility of her attending each Board meeting. AA, LD

GUILDLETTER items should be sent to LD in the body of an email.

Contact information about Board members was reviewed, and is correct.

For possible future discussion: a new name for the GUILDLETTER.

Future articles: JCG suggested interviewing about 12 different MAG members (at different stages of their careers) to obtain information on if/how they know they are making a profit. AA suggested a piece on what to do if your gallery fails to pay promptly (or ever!). LD, JCG, AA

For future discussion: should MAG act like the Better Business Bureau and collect information about problem galleries? AC

PUBLICITY REPORT

Arlene Pritzker had requested photos to help publicize the next Collectors Gallery show. The Board agreed these should be of 2006 (not 2005) work, and ought to be high resolution (300 dpi) digital images, 5" x 7". The Exhibitions Committee should email participating members to request photos (sent to magexhibitions). RE

WEBSITE

SH reported she presently puts links to other guilds etc. on our website, usually on a reciprocal basis. She is receiving increasing requests to do so, but did not want MAG to appear too commercial. The Board welcomes appropriate links, and asked SH to check whether our hospitality is being reciprocated by the requesting organizations. SH

AC reported several requests for on-line signup, and felt it would increase membership, particularly among younger people. SH will check on costs, procedures, need to take credit cards etc. EG recommended a separate bank account for this. SH

NEXT MEETING

Monday, November 6, at home of Ellis and Jennifer Gans,
301 Surrey St., San Francisco, 6:30pm.

The meeting adjourned at 9.25pm. - JCG

MINUTES OF THE METAL ARTS BUILD BOARD MEETING
July 17, 2006
c/o Alison Antelman, 2834 Hillegass, Berkeley.

PRESENT: Alison Antelman (AA), Adam Clark (AC, President), Larissa Dahroug (LD), Reed Easley (ReedE), Ron Elson (RE), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Ellis Gans (EG), Aimee Golant (AG), Maureen Harvey (MH), Susie Hojel (SH), Deborah Lozier (DL), Kelly Nedderman (KN), Emiko Oye (EO), Kate Short (KS) and Eric Smith (ES). The meeting opened at 7.05pm.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT
After welcome and introductions, AC reported on the demonstration by the Tuareg metalsmith Elhadji Koumama (June 21). This very successful event was attended by 41 people, raised $575 in donations (all going to the artist), plus 60 oz. of scrap silver. Ann Elston, Elhadji's Amerian collegue, also reported excellent sales of his jewelry. Elhadji donated a finely engraved silver camel harness buckle, which will go into MAG's permanent col- lection. JCG and AC apologized for the short notice given for the demo. and failure to notify the program committee. In future, last minute program dates should be discussed with AC and the Committee. Next year AC recommended finding a bigger location than Scintillant Studios. Meanwhile, SH requested photographs for MAG's website. SH, AC, ES

Display cases: a production company involved with the Emmies is negotiating with MAG for a 2-3 week rental. The deal is not yet firmed up, nor are details of a higher deposit and rental fee. For future discussion: a flexible commercial rental rate. AC SH will change the rental contact number from DL to AC's studio (415) 221-0810. SH

PROGRAMS
The committee ideas for 2007, circulated in advance, were discussed. All the ideas were approved and the committee will work out details.

January: Big Metal. Speaker suggestions should include Rebecca Fox. Later:

1. An update on "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly". In addition to Susan Cummins, the board suggested Sharon Campbell and Mike Holmes. Location: the Academy of Art University.

2. Bruce Busby, metallurgist with David Fell. The board requested the speaker also cover ethical mining issues, and anti-tarnish products (how toxic?)

3. Stuart Moore: Gallery Tour (Union St., SF).

4. Grant writing for artists and nonprofits. Lecture by Carol Tanenbaum and possible workshop.

5. Production jewelry and trade shows (Thea Izzi). The board felt this should be a lower priority, particularly since the GUILDLETTER will publish JCG's article on the recent SNAG lecture about trade shows.

6. Jessica Calderwood (enamelist): slide lecture at the Crucible on Friday, July 21 sponsored by the Enamel Guild. The board voted to provide $50 as a cooperative sponsorship. AC will email the MAG membership. DL, AC, EG

7. Collaboration with Velvet da Vinci on artists' shows/talks. DL will discuss specifics with Elizabeth Shypertt. DL

8. Photoshop with EO (October), if EO is willing and available. This could be followed by a 1-day workshop with AC on photo- etching, and another with DL on torch enameling. EO, AC, DL Possible locations: Academy of Art University, Phelan Building.

9. JCG suggested a lecture by Kim Eric Lilot (see her review of Lilot's show in the current METALSMITH). All board members will invited to submit further suggestions.

10. A report was given on the 18k granulation workshop (June 1). Despite small attendance (3 people), the event was successful. One student came from Tucson to attend; MAG got one new member, and netted $90, thanks to lower fees taken by AC and the instructor.

LIBRARY
DL reported that the big bookshelf in her studio will be moving out in October. She would eventually like MAG's library to be relocated to a more central location. Meanwhile, she could box back issues of our magazines, and keep the books meantime. AC will check Craig's List for bookase options. DL, AC For future discussion: a new home for MAG's library. AC

TREASURER
EG circulated a detailed report on MAG's financials ahead of the meeting. He asked for any bills or checks to be submitted. He reported MAG's income was ahead of expenses to date by $2,812.16.

EG asked for comments on the financial information he was providing for future reports.

Looking ahead, EG advised the board to think about preparing a new budget for calendar year 2007 and presenting it at the September meeting. Final budget will be submitted to the Board at the November meeting. Next year's reports will include this year's actual and budgeted figures for comparison.

A reminder to anyone needing bills paid: EG (and JCG) will be out of the country from mid September-mid October. EG

HOSPITALITY
ReedW reported that the summer picnic/elections will be held Aug. 13 at the home of AG and David Casella, 1-4pm. Christine Dhein will do a keum boo demonstration: possibly show a new video. EO will prepare and mail a card: AC will do email reminders. DL may have found a replacement for ReedE, who is leaving the board in August: DL will invite her to the Aug. 13 picnic. ReedE, AG, AC, DL ReedE will prepare ballots for new board positions: these include EG (treasurer), RE (programs); LD (Guildletter) and the replacement for ReedE (hospitality). ReedE

MEMBERSHIP
EO reported we currently have a record 201 members. SH will change MAG's website to consolidate membership forms, and include information on joining the guild. SH

EO is preparing a new MAG postcard, using some color (yellow suggested for the front), and including MAG's website address. She will send a draft to the board for approval. The board suggested 5,000 print order. EO

EXHIBITIONS
KS reported that RE will replace her as board member and contact person, though she will continue to work with the exhibitions committee. Celeste Howell will also take over some of KS's work, to help create a decentralized committee. KS will continue to chair committee meetings for the next two months.

The next MAG show at the Collectors Gallery will run Nov. 8-Jan. 19, 2007, and be called "User Friendly". A prospectus has gone to Shana Astrachan, which KS will forward to LD to be included as a GUILDLETTER insert. This will include thought-provoking questions on what constitutes "user friendly". KS, LD

By next Jan. the committee will have a new protocol for choosing artists for the ongoing exhibitions at the gallery. MAG is also working with Mary Ellen Landes on obtaining more information on what sells; how to publicize the shows to generate a larger collector base. Artists will be advised about the option to submit digital images: 72 dpi for the MAG website and 300 dpi for print, and how/where to get slides scanned.

GUILDLETTER
LD, who is replacing AA as editor after the next issue, works with a MAC and needs information sent as a pdf and link to imges: she has no Word capability. Newsletter deadlines will remain the same.

AA requested new board candidates send LD brief information about themselves. LG, EG, RE

OTHER BUSINESS

AC has a new home phone number (415) 334-9432. His studio number remains at (415) 221-0810.

The board thanked AG, AA, and KS, who are retiring from the board, for their service to MAG.

JCG suggested MAG produce a pin (possibly of the logo) to be made available to MAG members and to be given to past and present board members. AC, for agenda

JCG also offered free discounted tickets to the upcoming San Francisco Gem & Mineral Society show next month.

Future board meetings: as far as possible these will be held on the second Monday of each month.

NEXT MEETING:

1. Summer picnic: Aug. 13, 1-4pm, c/o Aimee Golant, 2250 21st Ave., San Francisco, CA. 94116.

2. Board meeting: Sept. 11, c/o Adam Clark, 387 Staples Ave., San Francisco, CA. 94112.

The meeting adjourned at 8:45 pm. JCG

MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES -March 13, 2006
Location: c/o Adam Clark, 387 Staples Ave., San Francisco, CA. 94112

PRESENT: Alison Antelman (AA), Adam Clark, President (AC), Larissa Dahroug (LD), Reed Easley (RE), Ellis Gans (EG), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Aimee Golant (AG), Maureen Harvey (MH), Susie Hojel (SH), Maria-Tina Karamanlakis (MTK), Kelly Nedderman (KN) Emiko Oye (EO) and Arleen Pritzker (AP). The meeting opened at 7.07pm.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT
AC recommended the Board recruit a Vice President, or Administrative Secretary, to help with administrative work and (if VP) transition to President. The Board agreed to put out the word via e-mail, GUILDLETTER and personal contact. AA, AC, All

PROGRAMS
KN and AP discussed public relations activities for the copyright lecture (March 20). AP has publicized this on Craig's List; the MAG website; GUILDLETTER. SH reported a news story in the Enamel Guild newsletter. Other suggestions included Artopolis.com, Art Lister etc. AC, LD to send details to AP. AC, LD, AP AP also needs another copy of the MAG calendar. AC

No details are yet available for the Susan Summins lecture (April 22).

AP requested receiving details of upcoming lectures and workshops as far in advance as possible, to be able to reach magazines which have a long lead time (2 months or more).

Gold granulation workshop (June 3-4): there will be a flier in an upcoming GUILDLETTER. EO will send out a postcard one month ahead. Target attendance is 4 people (maximum of 6).

Photoshop with EO: July. Possible locations include City College, Kinko's, a Silicon Valley tech. company, the Bayview Business Center. LD and others to send suggestions to KN. LD, KN Workshop proposal (from AG): a Yemenite expert on filigree. MH will followup for later this year. AG, MH

Gate project: AC gave a progress report, including a supply of enamelling steel and a "virtual" design. Good headway is being made on this and a new lathe project.

For future discussion: raising the speakers' honorarium, possibly to $100. (Range is now $75-$200). AC for agenda

TREASURER'S REPORT

EG reported that MAG's safety deposit box is now stored with H&SB Bank. AC turned over a $35 deposit fee for a MAG display case rental.

EG discussed the 2006 budget (previously e-mailed to the Board). He asked for clarification on certain issues:

1. Hospitality: whether food for program committee events should be included in this committee's budget (yes - hospitality pays for general meeting, summer picnic and winter holiday party). Board meeting food will be included in President's budget.
2. Food at Board meetings: the Board voted to raise this from $25 to $35.
3. Display cases: AC recommended a $300/yr budget for these, under Exhibitions. Also under Exhibitions: juror fees, shipping and printing costs (total $400-$500/yr).
4. Growth & Development; name has been changed to Development, to reflect new emphasis of the commmittee, particularly volunteer recruitment. Budget: $40/yr.
5. Library: Deb Lozier to submit budget. DL

EG urged everyone to submit estimates for all sources of income as soon as possible. He will e-mail the Board details of MAG's current financials. He also warned the Board about possible deficit spending, based on actual income and expenditures Jan-March to date. He will prepare MAG's Federal income tax returns this year, and added there would be no filing fee for this since our gross income would be under $25,000. EG also offered to do monthly reports if needed.

JCG will write to Levi's thanking them for the $600 community donation to help update the Suppliers' Guide. AC will e-mail her the contact information. JCG, AC

GUILDLETTER
AA introduced LD who will be her assistant editor, and hopefully transition to editor. Deadline for the April-May issue will be March 31. AC will send in a President's Report by Mar. 17. AC

JCG will send in a report on the SNAG conference (May), and requested 50 extra copies of the GUILDLETTER to take to the conference. She will also do more book reviews, and may donate copies of Arnoldsche publications to the Library. JCG

MEMBERSHIP
EO reported we have 163 members to date, and new memberships or renewals are still coming in.

The Board agreed we need more MAG postcards: AA will ask Deborah Boskin for the disk to print more cards. AA MTK will research new design and printing ideas. MTK

For future discussion: how to get information about MAG to interested non-metalsmiths, possible collectors, museums and school districts. Also to explore partnering opportunities. AC for agenda

EXHIBITIONS
1. Art is Community: this student/community show opened Mar. 13.
2. Collectors Gallery: now has one MAG display case on permanent loan featuring a selection of members' work. This is a trial run arranged by Kate Short and curated by Mary Ellen Landis. Work may be changed every three months - but we need a procedure for submission, selection etc. AC for agenda: Kate S.

DEVELOPMENT
MTK was the only volunteer who followed through on our request for volunteers at the annual membership meeting. AG and MTK will followup with calls to people on EO's list. AG, MTK

HOSPITALITY
RE will continue in this position only until mid-year, but will stay on the Board to do exhibitions or other commmittee work. The Board thanked her for her excellent work. She will provide hospitality for the summer picnic (August). KN will provide limited refreshments, e.g. tea, soft drinks, cookies, at other events.

Possible locations for the summer picnic include MTK's apartment complex; Rhonda Coryell's apartment; Hessel Studios; The Crucible. The space must be suitable to hold about 50 people, plus a demo. Projected date: August 5 or 6. RE, MTK, AC for agenda

NEW BOARD MEMBERS
We unanimously voted Maureen Harvey and Arline Pritzker onto the MAG Board.

NEXT BOARD MEETING
Monday, May 15, 6:30pm, c/o Arline Pritzker, 5397 Bryant Ave.,
Oakland, CA. 94618 (near CCA).

The meeting adjourned at 8:57pm. JCG

MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES - January 9, 2006
Location: Alison Antelman, 4321 Montgomery St.#308, Oakland

PRESENT: Alison Antelman (AA), Adam Clark, President (AC), Ellis Gans (EG), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Aimee Golant (AG), Susie Hojel (SH), Kelly Nedderman (KN), Emiko Oye (EO), Arlene Pritzker (AP) and Kate Short (KS).

The meeting opened at 7:20pm.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT:

1. Goals for 2006.
After a brief discussion, the Board wanted to continue its expanded program activities, but keep the subject open for later meetings. AC

AC pointed to the generosity of Levis Strauss in contributing $800 to update MAG's resource guide. He and a friend are working

on the hard copy version. There was a discussion about putting it on the website, possibly free to non-members as well as members. MAG members need to be involved in keeping it current.

2. Voice Mail
The Board discussed whether we need to continue this number, which currently gets about 20 calls month. Both EO and SH also get calls or emails from it. EO will check with Harriete Estel Berman (who updates messages) if any messages need a reply. EO

3. Golden Hammer
AC raised his concerns about the award criteria and process for choosing the recipient, which are currently seen as political and somewhat confused. MAG may also run out of appropriate candidates unless the search is widened and made more open to the general membership. One solution would be to have a small committee to make recommendations about the focus and criteria for this award. Meanwhile, the subject was referred for discussion at the general meeting on 1/22. AC

TREASURER'S REPORT
EG referred the Board to his earlier e-mailed report (1/6/06)

He reviewed MAG's current financial position, and the Board agreed that in future our financial information would be circulated separately to the Board. EG, JCG

EG will invest MAG savings in new 6 month CDs in February, March and April, which will earn 3.8-4% interest.

EG also recommended (and the Board agreed) to change MAG's financial year to the calendar year.

AC is currently working on a budget for 2006. He reminded all committee chairs who have not already done so to submit their budget to him by the end of January. ALL

Safety deposit box: The $135 bill for this year's rental at Wells Fargo box is due Jan. 16. After considerable research on box sizes, fees, and rules for usage EG recommended MAG switch to HSBC bank, which offers a much bigger box for $150. The rental would be conditional on opening an account, with a $500 minimum balance (lowest found among various banks). The Board voted to approve the move. EG

Website host: the cost for continuing to use Laughing Squid would be $144/yr. EG recommended switching to Go Daddy ($75.84 for 2 years). SH and AA moved to do this, and the Board voted to approve the change.

EXHIBITIONS
KS reported that MAG's show at the Collectors Gallery will end this weekend, and committee members will supervise the removal of unsold work. A report on the show will come later. KS

Plans are to have an all-member show this year, probably at the Collectors Gallery. Details are being worked out. She is also checking out the Berkeley Arts Center as a possible venue. KS added she is currently working on a show of McClymonds High School student work, to be held in March.

Plans for 2007 include another show at the Oakland Cultural Arts Center.

Board members were invited to stop by the Blue Room Gallery at 2331 Mission @20th St., San Francisco, which is unfortunately closing its doors. A final sale is currently going on, and there will be a farewell party on Sunday, Jan. 15, 6-9pm.

PROGRAMS
Surplus magazines
The Board agreed to donate any duplicate copies of magazines received by the Resource Center to McClymonds, Waldorf or any other interested school.

Photoetching workshop (Jan. 14-15)
To date, there have only been 3 sign-ups, and this workshop will be postponed unless we receive at least 2 more. The Board agreed attendance would be helped by including more information, and photos, on our website. AA and AC agreed to send SH more information; AG will ask Maureen Harvey to send more text and pictures. AA, AC, AG, SH

Copyright protection lecture (Mar. 20)
KN will send information to AP (a.pritzker@sbcglobal.net) to help publicize this in the local press and on Craig's List.

Susan Cummins lecture (Apr. 15)
This may possibly be held at the Academy of Art. The Board discussed (but did not decide on) a suggested honorarium of $250, which is outside MAG's usual range of payments.

Gold Granulation workshop (May).
Possible presenter is Diane Dewey. KS also offered to co- present. AC will contact Diane Dewey to firm up details. AC

Arrangements are currently being worked out for the following:

* Velvet Da Vinci Gallery visit, talk (June).
* Photoshop with EO (July).
* Annual picnic and elections (August)
* Visit to April Higashi and Eric Powell's callery (Sept.)
* Annual members' show and lectures.
* Kim Keyworth event (Nov.) This may be postponed until
Jan. 2007 to avoid conflict with the holiday season.
* Holiday party, demonstration (Dec.) KN

MAG grant (June)
KN will increase the mailing budget by $100. After discussion, the Board recommended opening the $250 award to part time as well as full time enrolled students, and giving a $100 gift certificate to their school to buy tools or supplies. KN

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING (Jan. 22)
1. All Board members should arrive early (2:30 pm at latest) to help set up. ALL

2. Tables will be set up for member sign-in and slides (EO), volunteer sign-ups (AG), critique groups, and food. Harriete, EO, AG, RE

3. On arrival, MAG members will sign in at the membership table, be invited to leave their slides, and asked to make a BRIEF presentation about their work. EO

4. AC will open with a welcome and presentation of MAG's goals and achievements. ALL

5. Each Board member will introduce themselves, show one slide of their work, and briefly introduce their role on the Board. Also invite volunteers, if needed, e.g. a new GUILDLETTER editor. ALL

6. Critique Group Presentation and discussion.

7. Food. RE

8. Member slidesAC will ask Deb Lozier for help preparing an agenda and program, and to borrow projector and carrousels. AC, DL

KN will ask Shana Astrachan for general assistance. KN, SA

EO will mail out member postcards 1/10. EO

AP will post information on Craig's List. AP

MEMBERSHIP
EO reported that 72 members have renewed to date. Last year's membership was a record 231.

GUILDLETTER
AA asked whether the Makens discount would be available this year. AC will check. AC

AA receives complimentary newsletters from two other groups. The Board recommended passing on relevant information, and recycling the paper.

AA would like to find a replacement editor. The Board agreed it would be desirable to find someone with metalwork knowledge as well as writing and editing ability. AA will approach instructors at the Academy of Art and CCA: AC also knows of a student who may be interested. AA will make a strong pitch at the upcoming membership meeting. If no suitable volunteer is found, AP will post an item on Craig's List. AA, AC

Article ideas: AA repeated her hope that more Board and other MAG members would submit news and ideas. JCG suggested an interview with Alan Revere; also a report on the general meeting (including critique groups); possibly pearl culturing. JCG report on the general meeting. JCG

PUBLICITY
AP is waiting for a folder with details of MAG's previous PR activities and contacts. KS's committee may have this. KS

AC will send her general information about MAG. AC EO reported that Christine Dhein has offered to lend MAG a copy of her mailing/contact list, which EO will send to AP on Excel. EO

AC also has a list, which is 18 months old and may be out of date. However, he will remind MAG members to send news and images to AP. AC

A longer discussion about MAG's publicity and goals will be held at a future meeting. Possible ideas include a "photo extravaganza" - photographing members' work at a future MAG event. Meanwhile, AP will email AA when she needs images, and AC will talk more with AP about MAG's needs. AC, AP

NEXT MEETING; MONDAY, MAR. 13, at Adam Clark's house, 387 Staples Ave., San Francisco, 6:30pm.

The meeting adjourned at 9:37pm (JCG)

MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES - Nov. 15, 2005
Location: c/o Deborah Lozier, 3016 Filbert St. #11, Oakland

PRESENT: Alison Antelman (AA), Adam Clark (AC), Reed Easley (RE), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Ellis Gans (EG), Kelly Nedderman (KN) Deborah Lozier (DL), Emiko Oye (EO) and Kate Short (KS).
The meeting came to order at 7.53pm

GROUP HEALTH PLAN FOR MAG MEMBERS
AA suggested there might be a need for group health insurance, and offered to check out the cost, enrollment and administrative requirements in time for the Jan. board meeting. AA, AC (agenda)

PRESIDENT'S REPORT
1. Bi-monthly meetings. After a brief discussion the Board agreed to continue this schedule, finding overall advantages and no disadvantages.

2. Approval of the minutes: it was agreed JCG would continue to submit (draft) minutes, and incorporate any Board members' changes in the final version. JCG

3. Revised list of board members, email addresses etc.: AA will submit this to AC. AA, AC

4. Postcards: AC will ask Deborah Boskin for the card disk, and check printers for the best prices for a reprint. He will email the Board a draft of the back side for review. AC, ALL

5. Cases: there was a discussion about work needed on MAG's display cases, which are currently stored with AC and DL, plus insets with KS. It was agreed these need to be rust-proofed (paraffin wax or powder coating); protective covers; re-finished plexiglass (one case); refinished insets. These are a member service rather than a money-maker, but we might consider raising the rental fees to cover maintenance. DL will ask Bill Maltzburger the cost of refinishing the insets, possibly in dark gray or black, and Scotchgarded. KS will check into bags for the insets. DL, KS

TREASURER'S REPORT
1. EG asked if any new bills need to be paid, which he would do before going on vacation (Nov. 20-Dec. 2).

2. We currently have $4,529 in (no interest) checking. $23,052 in savings (BofA, at 1% interest)

3. After a lot of checking around, EG proposed moving MAG's accounts to the Franklin Templeton Bank. MAG could get 3.4% on a high interest savings account with a $2,500 minimum investment, which allows only 3 free checks or transfers per month, which is OK. Ordinary savings accounts only get 0.8%.

4. Checking accounts here pay 1%, with unlimited checks. The bank, located off Hillsdale Blvd. in San Mateo, provides postage free return envelopes. Franklin Templeton also offers on-line banking. On-line banking: EG noted he preferred paper checks, that provide a record of their endorsements, which is easier to prove delivery in case a question arises AC as a co-signer can also check our accounts on-line

5. MAG currently has $20,000 in savings, which EG proposed dividing into four equal parts. One part would be invested every 3 months, so that after one year the Board would have a matured CD every 3 months. This will give the Board greater flexibility in deciding how to invest, since interest rates are likely to rise over the next few years. These 6 month CDs currently pay 3.69% APR and we may even earn an additional 1/4% since EG already has a personal account with this bank. EG

KS moved, AA seconded and the Board passed a motion to change banks. EG promised to provide financial statements before each Board meeting.

6. Currently the fiscal year runs July 1 to June 30, while the membership year is Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. EG said there is no reason for this and recommended that the fiscal year be the same as the membership year. We must get IRS approval and while EG will try to complete the paperwork himself, he may need the services of Cindy Duchateau, our accountant, at a possible cost around $300 or more. Last year she charged $675 to prepare MAG's state and federal income tax returns. EG

DL moved, RE seconded and the Board passed a motion to approve changing the fiscal year to Jan. 1 to Dec. 31.

7. Expenses: EG handed out the form now required for submitting expenses, and will send all Board members a version in Word that can edited on the computer. He asked that Board members be very careful to record what the bills was for, and which committee they fell under, so that MAG would have an accurate paper trail of expenditures.

He promised that checks would be sent within 2-3 days. He also asked for clarification as to who was authorized to submit bills for MAG. (Committee chairs can do this because they have a budget). EG reminded the Board he has a new e-mail address (eljens@sbcglobal.net). EG, ALL

8. Voice mail: EG noted he saved $50 by paying Answer California a year in advance instead of on a monthly basis.

9. Post office box key. DL will ask Elizabeth Shypertt if she would like to continue handling this, and if she'd like to be reimbursed for postage. DL

10. Safety deposit box: keys are held by Shana Astrachan and JoAnn Donivan. AC will ask JoAnn to transfer the key to him. EG will ask Shana for an inventory of the contents which will be included in the treasurer's guide. Board members were asked to check with their banks to try to identify a rental rate lower than the current $135/year. AC, EG, ALL

11. Records: EG is updating the historical record of past treasurers, with the help of DL who will check in MAG's archives. He has also prepared a 5pp guide for successive treasurers. EG, DL

12. Budget: MAG has no up to date budget. DL suggested that each committee draw up a provisional one and send to EG. This should be done by e-mail before the January Board meeting - AC will send out a reminder. EG will submit a draft budget for the next meeting. EG also asked EO to send details of members' status (current for '05 or '06). EG, AC, ALL

13. Reconcilation of accounts etc. with previous treasurer: EG noted only an $18 discrepancy. He will discontinue using Quickbooks, and switch to the more convenient Excel '97, which can easily be pasted into Word 97. He still has the Quickbooks CD's (which probably aren't saleable).

14. Credit cards: AC and Wayne Sutton used these for emergencies but these have now lapsed and been cancelled.

The Board thanked EG for his hard work as incoming treasurer.

PROPGRAMS
DL and KN circulated a calendar of events for 2006. They invited other committees to submit information for inclusion; AA asked for details to be sent her in time for the GUILDLETTER deadlines. The calendar will also go on MAG's website, and will be updated by DL with new information (including the revision date). AA suggested it go out as a separate insert in the January GUILDLETTER. DL, AA. SH, ALL

Golden Hammer award; the only new candidates were Marilyn and Jack daSilva (as a couple). AC will send out a reminder to MAG's memberwhip to send more nominations. He will also check details of Jack daSilva's new appointment at Evergreen College, replacing Walter Soelner, for inclusion in the GUILDLETTER. AC

MEMBERSHIP
EO reported we now have 214 members. Newcomers include David Laplantz, Mark Norstad and Kent and Lynn Raible.

Membership roster: EO will get this out by June 2006, instead of August. There was some discussion about a pdf version.

EXHIBITIONS
KS reported on the current show at the Collectors Gallery, which had a standing room only opening and lecture event, and will hopefully be a commercial as well as an artistic success. She mentioned some disagreements with the gallery (Mary Ellen) and its designer over the show's postcard, resulting in a final black, text-only version. There were also a few complaints from artists whose names had been omitted. If a show is held there in 2006 the postcard design will be revisited. Meanwhile, all the pieces in the show have been photographed for future reference. The committee will shortly start to work on plans for 2006. KS, EXHIBITIONS

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
There was no report, in the absence of Aimee Golant. However, there was brief discussion about her idea of a possible lifetime MAG membership. This will be revisited at the next meeting. AC, AG

HOSPITALITY
MAG's holiday party will be held on Dec. 4, 1-4pm, at KN's studio at Yosemite Place. Jonathan Russell will do a casting demo, and give out business cards. There might also be a quick visit to Eric Powell's studio in the same building. DL will cook the turkey: all Board members were asked to bring a potluck dish, and any folding chairs they have. MAG members will be asked to bring food, plus a gift from the bench. These will be distributed by a lottery (numbered tickets) and there will be no "stealing" (though whining will be allowed). EO will send out a postcard, including directions. RE, DL, KN, EO, ALL

GUILDLETTER
AA reminded the Board of the next deadline (Jan. 1, or 6th at the very latest) for the Feb/Mar. issue. This will be mailed by Jan. 24, since AA will be in Tucson. Contents include JCG's book review, her review of "Design for Survival", and the holiday party. AA asked for more help writing articles, and recruiting volunteer writers/editors/book reviewers.

RESOURCE GUIDE
AC reported his girlfriend is updating this, with an on-line format. She's being helped by her employer, Levi-Strauss, which encourages employees to do community work by giving them some paid time and making a contribution to chosen non-profits. MAG will receive $1,000. AC noted that much information in the old Guide was out of date, including the recent (lamented) demise of Bryant Labs in Berkeley.

OTHER BUSINESS

1. AC asked for approval to renew our membership in California Lawyers for the Arts. This was proposed by KS, seconded by DL, and passed by the Board.

2. EG will be away from Nov. 20-Dec. 2. Urgent bills should go to him immediately for payment.

3. General meeting: Jan. 22, 3-5pm in Fort Mason (see handout). Featured subject: "Critiquing the Critizue Group - Creating and Maintaining a Group that Thrives". There will also be opportunities for members to meet the Board, and share up to 5 slides each. Contact person: KN.

4. Wanted - a new studio mate for KS. She will send details to AC (for email circulation) and AA for the Guildletter. KS

NEXT MEETING: Monday, Jan. 9 c/o Alison Antelman.

The meeting adjourned at 9pm. JCG

MINUTES OF THE BOARD MEETING - Monday, Sep. 12, 2005
at the home of Emiko Oye, 190 San Carlos, San Francisco

PRESENT: Alison Antelman (AA), Shana Astrachan (SA), Adam Clark, president (AC), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Ellis Gans (EG), Aimee Golant (AG), Maureen Harvey (MH), Deborah Lozier (DL), Kelly Nedderman (KN) and Kate Short (KS).

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

1. New Board Members: joining the board were Kelly Nedderman, member at large, programs. Ellis Gans joined as interim treasurer. Maureen Harvey attended as a new member of the program committee. AC will circulate a revised board member list, and names will be printed in an upcoming GUILDLETTER. AC, AA

2. Silver donations for Elhadji Koumama: these now total 150oz, which AC will get refined, and will ask the company to waive the refining fee. The money will be sent to Elhadji in Niger, since it's unsafe to send silver. There was a discussion of whether to donate the entire profits from the recent raffle ($200). It was decided that MAG should have this money, but would make a donation to Elhadji of $180 (taking 10% for MAG). AC is working in cooperation with Anne Elston, Elhadji's attorney friend, who can arrange a money transfer to a bank in Algadez. MAG's contribution will help Elhadji and his family survive the famine in Niger, and keep producing jewelry. AC

3. Golden Hammer Award. Existing nominations were given to DL - Michael Sturtz, for his work as co-founder of The Crucible; Harriete Estel Berman, for her work on SNAG's professional guidelines; and Deborah Boskin for starting the MAGgrant. Fresh nominations will be requested in the GUILDLETTER, with a later email reminder. AA, AC

4. Hurricane Relief: AC had been approached by a MAG member suggesting a fundraising project to help these victims. AC will refer her to CERF, to see what this organization is doing. AC AC also told the board that Thomas Mann had prepared a special disaster plan for his New Orleans business, which he hoped to continue there or elsewhere. JCG will try to get more informa- tion for the GUILDLETTER, and also research disaster planning for small businesses in our area. JCG

5. AC requested - and the board approved - a $50 honorarium to Jessica McEwen, who demonstrated at the recent MAG picnic. EG will write a check. EG

PROGRAMS

KN gave some information about the Arts Business Institute, which gives a series of classes around the country, in cooperation with interested local organizations. She was advised to contact other organizations who have done this local planning to find out their experience. Another possibility was for MAG to work in cooperation with an organization like the Renaissance Center. KN

Display Cases: DL reported she still had some of these; the others are with AC. She is still planning to make covers for these to protect the plexiglass, and estimates a $5 per case cost for fabric, plus an additional cost for padding, e.g. from a hardware store. The board voted to appropriate $75 for this.

Repousse class: AG has only three checks so far, plus one new membership, and would like another 3 or more to make this class viable. EO will send a postcard, and AC will add an email reminder. AG will re-crunch the numbers. EO, AC, AG

New workshops: ideas included acid etching with AC; photoshop with EO, and 18k gold granulation with Diane Dewey. A January 15 date was set for acid etching. MH will get other dates and application deadlines to AA for the GUILDLETTER. Another suggestion was copyright protection for small businesses. A volunteer lawyer has offered to do this, for a $100 honorarium. MAG could ask for a $5 donation ($10 for non-members). MH, AA

General meeting: this will be held on January 22, 2006. We need a good speaker as a "draw" for this event. There will be a MAG meeting on Monday, Jan. 9. ALL

Website workshop: September 24. KS has a contact who could lend a digital projector for this (Paige Thomas). AC will send out an email reminder. In future, members should be asked to RSVP if they plan to attend. AC, KS

Gate project: DL reported delays in this project, but it will re-start in a couple of weeks. She and KS ran a small summer art project at McClymonds High School, and will re-start during the new semester. DL has received a SNAG Minority Outreach Grant to do this work ($2,760, for MAG volunteers and supplies).

EXHIBITIONS
KS reported that four pieces had been sold at the Blue Room Gallery show, valued at $5,000. Striking the show caused some problems, including inadvertent damage to one member's piece by improper packaging. AC had discussion with the member's teacher, Kristin Beeler. An apology will be sent to the member, with information on steps MAG will take to prevent a recurrence. Ideas included a photo of each piece before it is unpacked (might require the purchase of a digital camera); guidelines on setting up, unpacking and re-packaging for volunteers; also a summary by KS on what went well and what could be improved to help with future exhibitions. Aside from this, it was a great show and brought in 4 new members, including David LaPlantz. KS

KS regretted she may have to cut back on attendance at board meetings, but will send a substitute from her committee.

SA reported the upcoming show at the Collectors Gallery - "MAG 2005" - had produced 66 entries. It will run from Nov. 2-Jan. 15, 2006. The opening will be Nov. 5, 2-5pm, with artists' talks at 1pm. Forms giving details will go to the participating artists, and there will be a story in the GUILDLETTER. AC has an envelope with entry and new membership money. AA, AS, AC, EG

MEMBERSHIP
EO reported we now have 200 members. We could now qualify for a nonprofit mailing permit, if we satisfy the Post Office we are an educational organization. We currently spend about $766 on mailing (mostly the GUILDLETTER and reminder postcards). With the nonprofit mailing permit we would spend $429, plus a one-time $150 imprint fee and an annual $150 administrative fee. We'd save money in the second year. Disadvantages would be that everything must be mailed from the same post office, and mailings would be slower. It was decided to watch all mailing expenses and revisit at the next board meeting. ALL

GUILDLETTE
R AA reported that the October/November issue was done. The December/January issue would have an earlier deadline - Nov. 1. In addition to JCG's update on Tom Mann and piece on disaster preparedness, she will review a new art book sent to her by Arnoldsche publishers. AC will write a piece on charitable giving. AG will write something on working with inner-city kids, and (future) working with a business rep. JCG, AC, AG

TREASURER's REPORT
The board thanked EG for stepping in as interim treasurer. Wayne Sutton has handed over everything except the treasurer's notebook, and the safety deposit box key (if he has one). Current financials are: checking: $8,945.37 savings: $301.41 CD: $18,199.48 AA might consider being treasurer at some future time, but would need interested and skilled volunteers to take over the GUILDLETTER.

HOSPITALITY
Reed Easley was sick, and could not present a report. The board discussed plans for a holiday party on Dec. 4 KN will consult with her studio mate about lending her studio in the Yosemite Building for this, and will email AC to confirm. We need a better way of organizing the gift exchange (place limits on "stealing" from each other). The successful summer BBQ was attended by 29 members plus at least another 10 non-members. KN, RE

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
AG has given Romina comments on her plan but has not yet had a response. She reported MAG has a volunteer to handle PR - Arlene Pritzker. Suggestions for her included: a press package, press releases to the media and Craig's List about MAG workshops and other activities, possible features e.g. the San Quentin/McClymonds High School projects, and assistance to Elhadji Koumama. Board members should come up with their ideas and committee needs for discussion at a future meeting. ALL AG will talk to Ron Elson about his ideas for space and growth. She also persuaded The Crucible to offer MAG members 10% off one class in the fall or next summer. She is talking to R. J. Leahy (now moved to Yosemite) to ask for a similar benefit. AG

NEXT MEETING

Monday, November 14 at Deborah Lozier's home, 3016 Filbert St. #11, Oakland.

The meeting adjourned at 9pm. JCG

MINUTES OF THE MAG BOARD MEETING - JULY 11, 2005
Location: c/o Kate Short, 1041A 55th St., Oakland, CA.
Present: Alison Antelman (AA), Adam Clark (AC), Reed Easley (RE), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Aimee Golant (AD), Emiko Oye (OE) and Kate Short (KS). The meeting opened at 7:08pm

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

1. American Craft Council cross-promotion program. AC was sent a stack of postcards, plus 8 free passes for the upcoming show this August. He refused to lend MAG's mailing list, but we will circulate the postcards at our August picnic. ACC will allow us to put out our postcards at their next show. The Board voted to print another 5,000 at PC Print, at a cost of $300. Adam will try to obtain the postcard disk from Deborah Boskin, and pass this, plus MAG's credit card number, to EO. AC, EO

2. Elhadji Koumama demonstration. AC reported that this demon- stration by the Tuareg jeweler (July 10) was a resounding success. 13 attendees contributed $325 in cash and checks, all of which went to the artist, who also sold several pieces of jewelry. AC was not only impressed by Elhadi's skill but the effectiveness of "primitive" metalworking techniques, and is seriously considering a visit to Niger. JCG will ask Christine Dhein to report the demonstration for the GUILDLETTER and include one or more photographs. JCG, CD AC will follow up with Ann Elston, Elhadji's American agent, on future visits (2006?); if MAG could co-sponsor an event with him at that time, and if he has any need for small hand tools that MAG members could donate. AC

AC also mentioned MAG will co-sponsor Tom Hill's application for a visa extension.

3. AC has talked with Dan Macchiarini, who has archival information about MAG, some written by his late father, Peter. Dan has agreed to supply this on disk, which AC will forward to Susie Hojel. Parts could be included in future GUIDLETTERS. AC, SH, AA

TREASURER'S REPORT

The retiring Treasurer, Wayne Sutton, was not present and did not present a report.

AG gave AC 7 checks received from members for the upcoming workshop on sandcasting (resulting in an income of $205 each for MAG and AC and $515 for RE, the instructor). She expressed concern at the lack of a treasurer, and the need to deposit these checks promptly, in case any did not clear by the weekend, and to allow her time to send out attendance confirmation.

The Board thanked Ellis Gans for his offer to act as Treasurer pro tem, and voted him in both as acting Treasurer and an honorary MAG member. EG will call AC to arrange the transfer. AC, EG

Transition bills and paperwork: AG gave JCG some receipts. EO will give EG bills for the new membership roster as they occur. AC will email MAG members about the change in Treasurer. He will also ask WS to return any blank checks and stamps, and email Elizabeth Shypertt asking her not to send any more checks to WS coming in through MAG's PO box.

PROGRAMS

1. Calendar reminder (from DL): Board members are reminded not to set clashing dates for any MAG events. (The recent double- booking of artists' talks and portolio review was an accident, caused by the needs of the Blue Room Gallery schedule.)

2. Wendy Rosen (The Art Business Institute) wants to pursue a Bay Area event (2006?) consisting of classes open to the general public. AC will ask for a discount for MAG members in return for promoting this to our mailing list of individuals and organizations. AC

3. MAG's display cases will move to AC's home for storage. AC will ask DL the cost of creating protective covers, and will ask the Board to approve a budget request. AC, DL

4. Portfolio Review: three people who signed up will take the second class at Harriete Estel Berman's this weekend (July 16-17). There was a discussion on holding further reviews, e.g. using Harriete in the S. Bay and finding another expert for the N. Bay, and/or holding an annual class. The GUILDLETTER might run an article to help people get ready for portfolio review, including interviews with Harriete and a few members who've taken the classes. AA, AC (agenda)

5. Sandcasting class: 7 people have signed up. RE reported the pricing structure (discounts for early sign-ups) was successful.

6. Chasing and respousse: AG reported that this Oct. 1 class will include some materials and elementary tools, plus instruction on tool-making and making holiday gifts. A minimum of 6 people will be needed, and the GUILDLETTER should carry a news item and flyer. AC will send an email reminder later. AA, AC AG reported she has found a new board member who may handle workshops, and will gain experience with the Oct. 1 event. Marianne's name should be added to the ballot form. RE

7. Equipment loan: KS reported she had a friend who might lend sound and light equipment for MAG events.

EXHIBITIONS

1. KS reported that the Blue Room Gallery show had a very successful opening; so far three pieces have been sold (done by Ron Elson, Christine McWhorter and Evind Sarto). Two of these were first-time sales. MAG's only income from the show is 60% of the entrance fees. KS asked the Board to continue to publicize this show, and reminded us that this non-profit gallery is in urgent need of more income. The artists' talks were very successful. KS and JCG will do an illustrated article on these, and the show, for an upcoming GUILDLETTER. KS, JCG

2. MAG 2005 show: KS will discuss with the Exhibitions Committee the need to extend the Aug. 15 deadline for submissions to accommodate students. KS

New Exhibitions Committee member: Laura Coomen has joined the committee. She will teach beginning metals at CCA, and has some connections in the gallery world. The committee is still deciding the best way to have a Board presence, and is also looking for other Board members e.g. Sabrina Antonio.

4. Brainstorming Lunch: the Committee would like to host a lunch for gallery owners, museum curators and collectors to get advice on how to raise money, e.g. from the di Rotasa Foundation, Mill Valley, which funds catalogs for major jewelry exhibitions. The Committee will work out details, and a budget, for Board discussion and approval. KS

GUILDLETTER

AA reported her difficulties in finding a replacement editor, and will continue in this position until further notice. She also reminded the Board on their responsibility for submitting news items and article ideas to her for publication. ALL

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

There was a discussion about the logistics, pros and cons, of a revised HTML system, and the problem that computers with spam blockers would not be able to receive this. The Board felt that MAG was not quite ready for the Committee's proposal, but agreed it would be a major goal for the future. AG explained that her expert volunteer, Romina, had a marketing rather than a PR background, but has invited her to join the Board. For future discussion; how to find a PR expert, who can publicize MAG shows and events, and make personal contact with local reviewers. AC is also talking with two people who might help MAG fundraise. AG, AC (agenda)

MEMBERSHIP

EO reported we now have 187 members. The new roster will be ready at the summer picnic; AC will invite attendees to pick it up, along with the new GUILDLETTER. AC Next "member of the month" will be John & JoAnn Donovan.

EO has a cheap source for postcards, and will work on reminders for upcoming events, e.g. chasing & repousse and picnic. EO

Mailing lists: at present we have one list for members, and a separate one for schools and galleries. Ron Elson is putting the "Big-Little" mailing list on the computer for the start of an exhibitions list. KS will ask him to discuss this with EO. KS will also ask The Blue Room and other galleries we work with for customer names. KS, EO

HOSPITALITY

The summer picnic will be Aug. 7 at AC's sculpture studio. AC will demonstrate, and will probably add three smaller demonstrations by other artists. RE will send information to EO for a reminder postcard, and will email Deborah Boskin to ask for the ballot form. Nominations for Board positions should go to RE. RE, EO, ALL

There will not be a tool swap this year, but RE will organize a raffle: she'll ask Christine Dhein to request a donation from John Frei, and will also donate a sandcasting kit. Needed: raffle tickets and cash box. AC will sell tickets and also bring the MAG sign, and ask for volunteers to add small squares to complete the border. EO will bring templates for these to the picnic RE, CD, AC, EO.

OTHER BUSINESS

1. The Board approved JCG's request for $45 to pay for the video/disk/booklet of Thomas Mann's "Design for Survival" program. This is presently with AA, but will go to the MAG library. AA, DL

2. JCG invited Board members to look at the "swap pins" she collected at the recent SNAG conference.

3. Bi-monthly meetings: the Board agreed to continue these, but revisit at each meeting to see how well these are working.

NEXT MEETING; MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 c/o Emiko Oye, 190 San Carlos @ 19th St., San Francisco.

(The meeting closed at 9:32pm). JCG

MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES - May 9, 2005
Location: c/o Adam Clark, 387 Staples Ave., San Francisco, CA. 94112
PRESENT: Adam Clark, President (AC), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Aimee Golant (AG), Deborah Lozier (DL) and Kate Short (KS).
The meeting opened at 7:10 pm, but there was no quorum.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

Board positions: there are several vacancies, and we need a new (nominating) committee, ideally with two board members, and two non-board members.

GUILDLETTER editor to replace Alison Antelman, who has offered to follow Wayne Sutton as Treasurer. Ron Elson might do this, provided he has enough help. One of AC's students, Maria Tina, might help, and JCG will continue to provide articles and advice. Other vacancies: Programs. Action: all board members are urged to search for prospects for the board and the nominating committee. ALL

Frequency of meetings: AC proposed the board meet every other month, starting in January, and alternate with other committee meetings. We should revisit outcomes after 3-6 months. One consequence could be a higher (e.g. $30) budget for hospitality at board meetings. AC for agenda

Direction: AC advised against getting too stressed by board work. We should individually take a step back, and try to get more volunteer help when needed. There was discussion about ways to attract volunteers, particularly how to make people feel good about helping and convince them how they will personally benefit.

PROGRAMS

Master plan: DL stressed we need a master plan for programs that would enhance MAG's goals/mission. AC for agenda

Tom Mann lecture: JCG said that Mann was coming to San Francisco for the ACC show in August and might be willing to do a slide lecture (costing us $250). AC will talk to Cecile about planning a program around this. AC

Cases: DL reported that $90 would pay for the cost of cloth coverings for MAG's cases. She will check out materials, e.g. flannel, or felt with magnets. DL

Copier: DL spent $100 for a new ink cartridge for the Resource Center copies, which still prints poorly and may have a defective drum. She may decide to buy her own copier, and charge for its use for MAG business.

McClymonds/San Quentin: DL reported that she and KS visited the prison gift store. The San Quentin project is going well and the high school students are getting more enthusiastic. She has the money to buy materials, and there will be a meeting soon to discuss the gate design. She has more grant ideas, e.g. to document the project, and she urged the Board to think up additional ways of raising grant money for their projects. DL also has another volunteer willing to come to the high school.

Portfolio Review: AC recommended MAG start a mentoring service that would include portfolio review on request. Meanwhile, we need a postcard to publicize the workshops on this, plus Reed Easley's workshop on sandcasting. DL wil ask Emiko Oye to do a separate postcard for MAG's summer party (Aug. 7). DL, EO

MAG SHOW
KS reported that 107 people applied for thie show, 44 were accepted and 66 pieces out of 275 were selected. The deadline to submit the winning pieces is June 24. All the acceptance/ rejection letters have been sent out.

Publicity: Stephane Threlkeld is working closely with the Blue Room Gallery's PR person. Press releases will go out locally and to national trade (metal, arts etc) media. JCG requested images from the show to send to METALSMITH for a possible review: KS will send JCG a disk. KS

AC reported he knows a good photographer in Sausalito, whose charges are very reasonable ($25/shot, $100/day).

Future plans: KS reported we have the "Big/Little space" for 2007, and would like to do a symposium. She needs more volunteers for a planning committee. MAG could also piggyback on future SNAG or MAKER events, and must also make activities attractive to collectors. AG will send KS her old notes on the successful MAG/SNAG workshops, and discuss ideas with Romina at their next meeting on May 15. AG/ROMINA

All member show: this will be Nov.1 2005-Jan. 15, 2006 at the Collectors Gallery, and needs promotion assistance. AG/ROMINA She also needs help for a 2006 event there.

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
AG is meeting with Romina to discuss MAG's PR needs, and will include DL's and KS's programs (AG will call KS to get full details). Stephane has already sent Romina a blurb about the upcoming MAG show, but AG will remind Romina about the need to promote this. AG/ROMINA

No immediate commmittee meeting has been scheduled; AG reported some people did not reply to earlier meeting emails, perhaps because these were not received. A short mission statement is being finalized, and there will be a new MAG brochure in the works. AG would like to organize a workshop given by Griffe Griffiths on chasing and repousse. AG

MEMBERSHIP
We currently have 175 members (and more may join during the rest of 2005).

TREASURER
In the absence of Wayne Sutton, there was no report. The Board expressed concern that WS has not responded to phone calls or emails. If he cannot be contacted within a week, we recommended AC get the full board's OK to freeze our bank accounts, and also check for any activity on our credit cards (AC said he has not yet activated his card). DL is currently owed $65, and has other bills to submit: JCG has a food bill for the April board meeting to submit. AA has agreed to be acting treasurer (this needs to be formalized by the full board). AC will again try to contact WS. AC

WEBSITE
Suzie Hojel wants to put the names of past presidents on line.

GUILDLETTER
AC suggested we could publish this quarterly if we have difficulties finding a new editor, a proposal no-one liked. Our informal opinion was that MAG should try to find someone with writing/editing experience. (see also earlier discussion).

NEXT MEETING

July 11 c/o Kate Short, 1041 A 55th St. Oakland, CA. 94608. 6:30pm.

The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.

MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES - April 18, 2005
Location: c/o Jennifer Cross Gans, 301 Surrey St., San Francisco, CA. 94131M PRESENT: Alison Antelman (AA), Adam Clark, President (AC), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Aimee Golant (AG), Reed Easley (RE), Susie Hojel (SH), and later, Romina Chatterjee (RC).

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

New treasurer needed
AC and the board regretfully accepted the resignation of Wayne Sutton, who agreed to remain as treasurer until a replacement can be found. AA expressed interest in the position, and there was discussion about how to find a new GUILDLETTER editor. Suggestions included approaching Ron Elson, Craig's List and journalism students. AA will talk to Elson to gauge his interest and his help with the next newsletter. AA

Donations
AC reported that MAG member Virginia McClellan had donated 5 boxes of books, magazines etc. Deb Lozier and the library committee will sort and catalog these. DL

MAG emails
AC reported on the popularity of these news items, and their value in making members feel connected.

Guild connections
AC mentioned the California Blacksmiths Association conference in Petaluma (4/24); he planned to attend, as did MAG member Jack DaSilva. Theme of this year's event is food and cooking implements.

EXHIBITIONS
RE provided hospitality for the recent jurying of the upcoming California Metals Now show. The event was very professional, and was ably assisted by Ron Elson, Eivind Sarto, Deborah Boskin & Stephane Threlkeld. Jurors were Paul Mahder (Blue Room Gallery owner), Susan Cummins, Suzanne Baizerman and Shana Astrachan. 107 artists had submitted work, and 57 had been selected to show 63 pieces. The work was very diverse, ranging from furniture, wall pieces, installations and jewelry, showing a trend away from wearable. Many entries came from San Diego. All the notifications will go out on May 1. The next meeting of the exhibitions committee will focus on publicity. JCG will email KS with suggestions, including the Art Jewelry Forum newsletter, and the Blue Room Gallery publicist. Other contacts include the N. California Enamels Guild and Bay Area metals groups. JCG

The committee is asked to report back to the board on the fees being paid to the jurors. KS

PROGRAMS
Publicity budget: the board asked for recommendations from RC.

McClymonds High School: KS is doing classes with the students, however not many were very interested in going to San Quentin for the joint project. Courtney Green (a machinist) visited San Quentin recently to talk about using these and other metalworking skills to get jobs on the outside (a very popular subject).

Sand Casting: RE will teach a 2 day course at Scintillant on July 16-17 from 10am - 2pm. Metals used will be pewter, silver and bronze, and the class can accommodate up to 8 people (minimum of 6). Fees are likely to be $125 per student, or $150 for non- members, providing a suggested hourly rate of $50 for the instructor, and payments of $90 to Scintillant and $90 to MAG. RE will write a blurb about the course and send to AG, who will do a flyer. RE will also send information to the GUILDLETTER by June 1. Students must register by July 1. Anyone registering from July 2-10 will be charged higher fees ($150 for members and $175 for non-members). RE, AG, AA

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
RC reported on her early thoughts on publicizing MAG activities, starting with classes and workshops. She asked for board members' suggestions. ALL AG is looking for volunteers from the Academy of Art College for different committees. RC is willing to work with inexperienced people on marketing. Another publicity goal is to increase the usage of MAG's website, and SH will work with RC on this, including how to obtain more slides from members RC, SH MAG exhibition: RC will followup with the exhibitions committee on publicizing this. RC Mission statement There was discussion on different versions of a proposed mission statement for MAG (to be used for publicity and other purposes). An interim statement was approved, to be revisited and finalized by the full board. ALL MAG data collection for public relations: AG will resubmit her earlier 3pp report. AG will also email the full board to introduce RC. AG

CASE RENTAL RATES
These will be increased to include a one time flat fee for travel and wear and tear expenses ($10 per floor case and $5 per wall case). Weekly rental fees are unchanged. SH will include the new information on our website. AA, SH

WEBSITE
A few problems were reported opening certain links on the website, including the MAG grant link. SH will check these. SH

MEMBERSHIP
In the absense of EO, there was no report.

TREASURER
In the absense of WS, there was no report.

GUILDLETTER
The next issue will include a report on the general meeting done by JCG, plus one page on volunteer opportunities, and thank-yous to current volunteers. Board members should submit names of the volunteers they work with to AA. ALL There will also be a feature on Thomas Mann's studio and gallery in New Orleans.

HOSPITALITY
Summer party
AC volunteered his new studio on Sunday, August 7, 1-4pm. AC and friends will lead tours and do blacksmithing demos. AC, AA, RE, ALL. There was a discussion on a request by MAG member Amy O'Connell to sell her stones at this event. The board felt it would be better to organize a separate resource fair, to include the sales of stones, tools and equipment etc. It was also recognized that this kind of event would require much additional volunteer help.

NEXT MEETING
Monday, May 9, 6:30pm, at the home of Adam Clark. 387 Staples Ave., San Francisco.

The meeting adjourned at 9.05pm. JCG

ADAM’S ANNUAL REPORT- March, 2005

A very good year for MAG: lots of success stories:
Membership figures at Feb. 2005 and Feb. 2004. These have certainly increased.

1. Exhibitions:
Wonderful (and profitable) show at the Oakland Museum’s Collectors Gallery (last Sept/Oct) “From the fire” - exhibition, with the Association of Clay and Glass, at the Alameda Art Center (last October) Also many MAG members had their work in major national and international shows.

2. Programs:

(a) Recent lectures and workshops:
Falcher Fusager on “How to make your business succeed” (Jan. 19/05)
David Casella: Chainmaking workshop (Jan. 29-30, 05)

(b) Field trip:
Visit to the 8 Star diamond cutting workshop (July).

(c) Social events - combining pleasure with business (demos)

Summer party at the Crucible (last August)
Holiday party ( December) at the Sawtooth Building, Berkeley

(d) MAGgrant: now in its 2nd year, awarded to Kathleen Bostick.

(e) Community work - a new venture for MAG
Education program at San Quentin and cooperative project with McClymonds High School
to create and make a decorative gate

(f) Service to members:

1. Special rates for metals, tools and supplies at Makens, Sausalito

2. MAG display cases available for low-cost rent to members

3. Golden Hammer Award for service to the metals community, now in its 2nd year. First winner was Aimee Golant; 2nd Deborah Lozier.

4. Ongoing services:

(a) Bi-monthly Guildletter, and periodic emails about metals news, jobs, deals etc.
(b) Website
(c) Library/Resource Center

3. A new venture for MAG - a membership survey (2004) ...... to find out more about you, your needs, and your wishes for our organization. (Let Aimee give details).

Thank the Board members for their hard work organizing and running these activities. Then introduce the individual Board members, who will give more information about their activities, and our plans for 2005 and beyond. Also how you can get more involved.

MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES- March 13, 2005
Location: c/o Adam Clark, 387 Staples Ave., San Francisco, CA.94112

PRESENT: Adam Clark, President (AC), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Susie Hojel (SH), Deborah Lozier (DL), Emiko Oye (EO) and Kate Short (KS).

PRESIDENT'S REPORT:

General Meeting Review
All the board members had received several enthusiastic comments from attendees saying the Mar. 6 meeting was very interesting and professional. A few also offered to volunteer. EO added that 51 people came to the meeting; we got 3 new members and 2 re-ups.

Ideas for next year's meeting included:
* written reports from the president and committee chairs.
* ask attendees to introduce themselves and show a slide of their work (which we'd encourage them to donate to our slide library).
* also show slides of the year's major MAG events.

New PR person Introductions were held over because she did not attend.

Ideas from and liaison with other groups:
AC shared the quarterly glossy magazine of the California Black- smiths' association, and offered to get information about its printing costs. AC AC added the CBA paid some costs for long distance travel to board meetings, and also offered scholarships. SH discussed the California chapter of the Women's Jewelry Association, which mostly represents fine jewelers and people working in retail jewelry sales. WJA meetings are more elaborate (cost about $40 for dinner, plus speaker, usually at a hotel), and membership dues are higher ($75). WJA provides some grants e.g. for study, and scholarships. It also organizes a year-end auction of high end items. SH will think of possible ideas for a joint event. SH

PROGRAMS:
DL asked for ideas on how to make better ongoing connections with gallery owners to find visiting speakers for joint gallery/MAG events. She has invited Richard Mawdsley (a Yuma Symposium/MAKER speaker) to come to San Quentin. AC will email Elizabeth Shypertt (Velvet da Vinci) and Tracy Rose (Flux Gallery). AC

Building Your Portfolio (July 9) will be a free meeting for members ($5 for non-members). Harriete Estel Berman will facilitate:
DL will also ask Elizabeth Shypertt or Susan Wood to be one of the reviewers. Harriete and Cheri La Brun will be the other two. They will do a 20 minute individual portfolio review, costing $15 (MAG members) or $25 (non members). The reviewers will each receive a $150 honorarium. There may be a small charge for duplicated materials for the first program (Building Your Portfolio). DL

Introduction to Website Design
(Sept. 24) will be led by Carol Windsor.

DL said volunteers are needed to write up these events for the GUILDLETTER. ALL
JCG offered to help with writing, and also mentor volunteer writers. JCG

Display case repair:
DL discussed options for different qualities of plexiglass to repair the 4 scratched wall cases. A motion was made by KS, seconded by EO, to approve $68 for this. The board also discussed ways to make or buy protective covering for the cases (e.g. movers' pads), and possibly add an additional charge of $15 per floor case or $10 wall case to cover handling and transportation.McClymonds High School:
DL and KS were enthusiastic about starting to teach here (Mar. 14), and reported the students were eager to learn metalwork. They encouraged other MAG members to act as volunteer teachers in the future. ALL

San Quentin:
DL reported the instructor was away and the metal shop was being restructured. The board agreed both these projects would make excellent articles for the GUILDLETTER, preferably with photographs (taken by students or a MAG volunteer).

KS reported needing grants for a proposed exhibition of work resulting from the McClymonds High School/San Quentin projects, She is talking to the Oakland Museum of Children's Art, and working on a grant proposal stressing the larger context of art in the community. The Board agreed these projects would make an excellent documentary, possibly combined with the Crucible project on youth and leadership. DL and AC will try to find a documentary film maker. AC, DL

2007 Juried Symposium:
KS reported plans to hold an event at the Big/Little site, and make as many contacts as possible, e.g. with the Art Jewelry Forum, CCA, Velvet da Vinci and other galleries, the Collectors Gallery, MAKER participants, Laney College etc. She will need lots of support from the MAG board and membership. KS, ALL

There will be a MAG exhibition opening May 1, 2007, in conjunction with Laney College and CCA (June), and possible artists' open studios. KS would like to work out details in time to publicize at the 2005 and 2006 SNAG conferences. JCG will write up these plans for SNAG NEWS. JS, JCG

California Art Metals Now
KS asked the board to continue publicizing this show to increase the flow of entrants. ALL

All Member Invitational Show 2005
KS reported this will be Nov. 1-Jan. 15 at the Collectors Gallery. All the MAG cases will be required. Information about the show will appear in the June/July GUILDLETTER. KS, DL, AA

Safety Deposit Key:
Keys are presently held by Shana Astrachan and JoAnn Donovan. DL proposed, SH seconded, and the board approved the transfer of keys to the board president, treasurer and exhibitions committee chair. Shana Astrachan has agreed to organize the transfer. AC, SA, WS, KS

MEMBERSHIP:
EO reported we currently have 144 members, and more are coming in. SH added she has the program and responsibility for the Resource Guide. SH

BYLAWS:
EO reported there are 11 pages of bylaw information, which should be reviewed by each board member, prior to a separate meeting to discuss revisions. ALL

Board meetings
The board discussed possibly holding meetings every two months, supplemented by more electronic sharing of information. AC will email the board for feedback on this, also asking for ideas on how to improve our communication and prevent burnout.

TREASURY REPORT:
This was held over until the next meeting in the absence of Wayne Sutton.

NEXT MEETING
Monday, April 4, at the home of Jennifer Cross Gans, 301 Surrey St., San Francisco, CA. 94131 (415) 586-1073.

MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES - February 7, 2005
Location: Emiko Oye, 190 San Carlos St., San Francisco, 94110

PRESENT: Adam Clark, President (AC), Reed Easley (RE), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Aimee Golant (AG), Emiko Oye (EO) and Wayne
Sutton (WS). The meeting opened at 7:20pm.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT
AC discussed plans for the upcoming general meeting. He will present an annual report, with the assistance of JCG, and AG and EO on visuals. AC, JCG, AG, EO, AC will also e-mail the board, plus Shana Astrachan and Deborah Boskin to solicit ideas. AC E-mail etiquette: AC asked board members not to hit the "reply all " button if their message has a limited audience.

TREASURER'S REPORT
WS reminded the board that expense forms are now on-line. In coming checks are recorded electronically; WS retains copies. He has set up new checking and savings accounts with Bank of America, plus a 9 month CD (at 2 1/2 %). Current financials are $8,072.97 (checking); $300 (savings); $17,957.79 (CD). There are two credit cards, for the use of AC and WS. We still have (and the board voted to retain) the safety deposit box at Wells Fargo, housing the permanent collection. WS will email Shana (SA) asking her to return the box key, and any other MAG items she still has. WS

2004-5 budget: there was a lengthy discussion on the budget, but approval was delayed until the next board meeting. Meanwhile, WS will rework the categories, and produce more accurate numbers. These will reflect (hopefully) an increased membership and income from exhibitions; reduced President's expenses: new or increased budgets for Programs (DB and KS), plus a new item covering an annual general meeting (proposed by AG, seconded by JCG). The t-shirt item will be eliminated; the Resource Guide item may also be eliminated, particularly if it can be done on-line, and we can find a volunteer to do this. WS will email all board members for their input and budget requests/changes and submit a reworked budget before the next meeting. JCG will send her detailed notes to WS. For the future: amend the bylaws to change our fiscal year to the calendar year. AC, JCG, WS.

GENERAL MEETING
After AC's annual report, he will introduce individual board members, who will have 2 minutes to make a presentation (future plans and need for volunteer help). ALL AG and EO will make signs, badges and sign-up sheets; EO will make name tags for the board, AC will bring blank name tags for members. EO will also send AC the MAG logo. AC, AG, EO AC will mention the member survey and AG will give more details. AC, AG. The business meeting will conclude with a Q @ A and opportunities for the audience to meet individual board members. JCG will take notes for review at the April board meeting. A summary report will go to members in the GUILDLETTER. AA, JCG A $300 budget was approved for this meeting, including an increased speaker fee ($100).

FALCHER FUSAGER WORKSHOP
EO reported an excellent attendance: 42 total, including several members of the N. Ca. Enamel Guild. 11 people renewed, and we got 4 new members.

CHAINMAKING WORKSHOP
This was also successful, and could be an annual event, possibly with with different instructors. MAG and Scintillant Studios each received $200 from the event; the instructor received $590, and $160 was spent on materials.

MEMBERSHIP
EO reported that our current membership is 136, with renewals still coming in, and we have a record number of new members. She noted that more people have their own websites. EO outlined her renewal survey (which the board approved), which she will send. She has also reworked existing "re-up" letters, e.g. to educators, which she will sign and send. AC will send a jpg of his signature to use for new member letters. EO, AC

PROGRAMS
Discussion of Deborah Lozier's materials was held over until the next board meeting. AC will get more details of the State of California's annual fair (August) to enable the board to vote on the request to help sponsor a metal arts award. AC

EXHIBITIONS
Discussion on Kate Short's materials was held over until the next board meeting. AC

HOSPITALITY
AC offered his new sculpture studio, situated near Evans/Cesar Chavez, to which he is moving in April) as a location for the summer party. He also offered to do a demo. AC, R

SAN QUENTIN
AC reported that some heavy equipment may be donated to MAG, thanks to downsizing of the prison metals program. He will check on the cost and logistics of moving it, current prices, and possible buyers, e.g. The Crucible, buyers on E-Bay.

NEXT MEETING
Tuesday, March 8, 6:30 pm, at Aimee Golant's home, 2250 21st Ave.
San Francisco, CA. 94116.
AG will lead the meeting, since AC cannot attend.

The meeting adjourned at 9:40pm.

MAG BOARD MEETING MINUTES- January 8, 2005
Location: Adam Clark, 387 Staples Ave., San Francisco

PRESENT
Alison Antelman (AA), Adam Clark, President (AC), Reed Easley (RE), Jennifer Cross Gans (JCG), Aimee Golant (AG), Susie Hojel (SH), Deborah Lozier (DL), Emiko Oye (EO), Kate Short (KS), Wayne Sutton (WS) and Don Wollwage (DW).
The meeting opened at 11.47am.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT
Email guidelines. AC and DL proposed the need for guidelines in email etiquette. The board agreed on the following:

• The MAG board email list should be for board business only.
• Board emails should be confined to business issues. Any personal issues should be discussed face to face or on the phone.
• Board minutes should be approved by the full board, then published on the MAG website. AC and SH to coordinate. AC, SH
• Urgent e-announcements will be sent out to the membership as necessary.
• Other less urgent ones will be grouped and sent periodically. Every month these will include a template of reminders, e.g. of GUILDLETTER deadlines, need to send in professional news items etc. AC

FUNDRAISING VOLUNTEER
One of AC's students is a professional fundraiser for KQED and volunteered to assist MAG. She'll be invited to the Growth & Development Committee meeting on Jan. 17. AC

MAKENS
This company will renew its 2004 offer of a 10% discount on tools and a discount on bulk silver purchases for MAG members. Makens had a fair reponse last year, including 2-3 new customers. AC will check out approaching Frei Borel. AC

PROGRAMS (see handout)
DL passed out a two page handout designed to make it easier and more efficient for MAG to do advance planning: a program outline for 2005 and a draft planner for each event. The Board agreed on the following goals:
1. A general membership meeting each January, starting 2006.
2. A general membership meeting this March (tentative date, March 6). This will include a "job fair", with each Board committee prepared to make pitches for new volunteers; general MAG information (posters, membership forms, t-shirts and the MAG sign). Jack Da Silva will be invited to repeat his talk given at the November conference at CCA. Location will be Fort Mason. DL, RE, all
3. Two member shows each year. KS
4. Workshops and lectures - on technical and business subjects.
5. To continue the MAGgrant (deadline - May 1). DB
6. To explore new programs, e.g. on mentoring.
7. The Board also voted to impose a $5 charge on non-members for attendance at MAG lectures, starting with Falcher Fusager's talk on Jan. 19. Board members will wear badges at these events. Non members will be greeted, and encouraged to sign in.

SAN QUENTIN
DL reported this project was going well; the instructor was delighted with MAG's participation. The next goal is to devise project that could be turned into tools, e.g. a tapered mandrel, and sold. The gate project is also going well, and McClymonds High School is still open (despite media rumors of its impending closure), and the students are enthusiastic about DLs art teaching. She is working with the publicity agent at the City of Oakland (grantor) on future print and TV media, and with the school on a possible videotape.

CHAINMAKING WORKSHOP
AG reported four people have signed up, each paying a $165 fee. The Board voted on principle to design a slightly higher fee for non-members, and a set percentage of the instructors' fees for MAG. For this workshop, MAG will receive $25. Further details to be discussed later. AC (Agenda)

WORKSHOP PUBLICITY
EO will add a note about the Fusager and Casella workshops to the renewal postcard. SH will do a separate postcard about these. EO, SH

MEMBERSHIP REPORT
69 members have renewed to date. EO reminded Board members present to renew for 2005. All The Board discussed EO's emailed list of member zip codes, which showed that 31% of our members live in San Francisco, and 24% in the East Bay. EO will revise the "clumping", and update the list as more members renew. EO

EO recommended improving communication with new and renewed members, to guarantee they receive the GUILDLETTER and other communications in a timely manner. WS will contact Elizabeth Shypertt to ensure enquiries and renewals from MAG's PO box go first to EO (who will contact AA), then WS. WS, EO, AA

The Board agreed with EO's recommendation of more publicity for MAG events, e.g. in the SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE and Craig's List, and on the need for a PR volunteer. KS will approach Stephane Threlkeld. We also need more outreach to other metals and related guilds, e.g. enamelists, blacksmiths, Marin Jewelers' Guild etc., including the offer to trade newsletters and a representative membership. EO welcomed the Board's suggestions. We should also form alliances with other non-profits, and invite representatives to Board and committee meetings. EO, KS, all Other outreach:
* EO will send packets to educators, including forms, postcards.
* She will also send letters to 2-year lapsed members.
* EO will draft a short survey to find out why people haven't renewed. She will email the draft to AG's friend Stephanie, now in London. EO

HOSPITALITY
About 50 people came to the holiday party. AG will do a short description of it, and Curtis Arima's demonstration, for the GUILDLETTER Two MAG t-shirts will be given to the owners of the host building. This year we need to re-think the gift exchange, particularly how often gifts can be swapped or "stolen". Future ideas included an ornament swap, and recruiting at least one volunteer to help RE. AG, AC, RE Summer party: RE reported we might be able to hold this at the late Carl Jennings' home. RE will do refreshments at the Jan. 19 lecture. RE

EXHIBITIONS
KS reported that the Blue Room Gallery exhibition will be held June 30-Aug. 14, and will be a state-wide show entitled "California Art Metal Now". Jurors recruited so far are Paul Mahder (gallery owner), Susan Cummins, Suzanne Baizerman and Shana Astrachan. Another juror is needed from S. California, e,g, Bela Feldman, Christina Smith (Fullerton) or Helen Shirk (San Diego). KS will discuss an honorarium for jurors with Paul Mahder. KS

Application rules will call for 3 pieces and up to 5 slides; slide deadline April 1. Letters will go out May 1, for a June 26-27 setup. MAG will be credited as a sponsor; exhibitors must be California residents but not necessarily MAG members. There will be a $20 entrance fee for members, or $30 for non-members. The exhibition will be publicised both by the Blue Room, and by MAG - an insert in the Feb/Mar. GUILDLETTER, and on our website. People may also contact a new special email address: magexhibitions@yahoo.com. KS, AA, SH

DISPLAY CASES
DL reported that these are showing signs of wear - scratched plexiglass and rust spots. She will check out the polishing kit sold by TAP plastics, and make some sort of jackets to protect during transit. We need permanent traveling cases; also a permanent storage facility. She recommended semi-permanent storage for two cases, e.g. in a gallery (Collectors Gallery, or the Blue Room) leaving 4 for regular rental. AG suggested we increase the rental fee to include an allowance for maintenance, after we know the rental income and cost of repairs. DL, AC

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
AG invited Board comments on the draft agenda for the Jan. 17 meeting, and will report on this at the next Board meeting.

Attendees at this meeting are invited to bring a vegetarian side dish. Committee, AG, AC

TREASURER's REPORT
WS is in the process of closing our Wells Fargo account, and rolling over the CD to savings. Current financials are:

$7,042.14 - checking $18,251.55 savings In view of the unsatisfactory performance of MAG's last accountant (including a 10 month delay in reporting), WS wrote saying we would not pay any professional fees: he has not had a response, so the payment issue is closed.

The Board needs to approve a new budget at the Feb. meeting. WS plans to open two new accounts (savings, checking) with

Bank of America; the Board will also decide whether to open a new CD. WS, AC (Agenda), All

GUILDLETTER
AA reported she needs an assistant editor, and will make a pitch at the next general meeting. AA Since she will be away for three weeks in May, the GUILDLETTER will not be published on schedule.

OTHER BUSINESS
By-laws: EO recommended we need a special meeting to update our by-laws, e.g. in March. All Board members should re-read these

and prepare to make recommendations. All, AC (Agenda) Special compensation for Board members: the question of special

compensation, e.g. reduced or waived membership fees, was tabled for future discussion. AC (Agenda)

NEXT MEETING
SUNDAY, FEB. 6, 5pm, c/o Emiko Oye, 190 San Carlos, (@ 19th st.) San Francisco.

The meeting adjourned at 1.05pm. JCG