Up North Green Party

A Local of the Green Party of Michigan

Charlevoix Chapter Minutes
2/19/03

Called to order at Dilworth Hotel in Boyne City at 7:00 pm

Agenda Items

1.Peace Activities Discussion of February 15 protest march in Petoskey. A large and enthusiastic group participated, drawn from various sections of society. Generally favorable comments. Suggestion was made that we might request inclusion of mention of the Green Party since our group was instrumental in initiating these activities, and also that representatives from the nurses's union might be put on the speakers' list next time. Also discussed peace movement in general and the need to ensure good communication among participants so that the movement doesn't splinter and continues to focus on the common goal.

Continuing action was discussed. The newly-formed local People for Peace group will be holding a meeting next Monday (February 24) at the Big Boy in Petoskey at 8:30pm. This group also has yard signs for sale. We may want to purchase some of these. Other ideas for the next protest were offered including taking part in the International Women's Day (March 8). Women's groups including Women in Black intend to focus on peace protests on that day. More information will be forthcoming. Other ideas were offered such as a teach-in, film series, perhaps march in Charlevoix, take part in a virtual march on-line on February 26th (additional information available over the internet at www.moveon.org/winwithoutwar/), convene on People's Corner in Petoskey on the day the war starts (if it does), blue ribbons tied to car antennas to show support for peace.

Concerns about dissemination of information were voiced. How to respond to those who are worried about biological warfare. What to think about media reports about "ghost ships" carrying weapons etc.

2. Nurses' Strike A meeting was held in Lansing but no progress was made. Nurses have an offer but hospital hasn't asked for it and therefore it hasn't been presented. If the hospital asked it would indicate that their "final offer" wasn't really final. Trustees have written a letter to the paper which shows no indication of flexibility. Friday February 21 is the 100th day of the strike. There are 268 nurses on strike. It is encouraged that Green party members and other community members show their support by stopping at the strike tent and offering to march, man the tent for an overnight period, give donations.

3. Kite-In This will be held on Saturday June 14, 2003. Kite-In is an environmental awareness activity. It was discussed that affiliation with the Green Party is limiting the number of participants because it is perceived as a political affiliation. Whether or not this perception is accurate, it was agreed that the Green Party will withdraw its affiliation. We will continue to support ($25 contribution was moved and seconded) and we will have a booth at which we can give away pamphlets, buttons, perhaps green bandanas which Green Party insignia.

4. Other Thumb Lake--thanks to local activists and especially the Green party, Charlevoix County has agreed to fund the Thumb Lake Park project, development of donated land for a park off C-48 near Thumb Lake.

Wolverine Power Plant Sale--Group is working on purchasing this property to keep it in the ownership of the people, at least in part. Grants and fundraising seem to be making this possible.

Boyne City dock--meeting will be held next Tuesday in Boyne City. Dock plans extensive.

Instant Runoff Voting (IRV)--discussed need for this reform to ensure that government is responsive to people rather than to corporations which is the mandate for current leaders (this agenda is actually spelled out in 4 editions of a document called Mandate for Leadership). Suggestions made regarding getting the word out about IRV and providing some demonstations of how it works.

Mention of Wind Turbine issue and Lake to Lake Charlevoix trail, both plans in progress.

Meeting wrapped up about 8:45 and adjourned.