# articlecontent

articleid: 640
position: 1
type: text
content:
  Waterwheel Squares is celebrating the 1986 founding of our club. We celebrate all of the current dancers, our current caller, and cuers as well as those who came before us and supported this club from Dyngus day, March 31, 1986 till now. All of our commitments to dancing, and this club are the reason Waterwheel Squares has kept square &amp; round dancing alive in Western New York. 

  Two of the original founding dancers of this club still dance with us, Mary Lou Thompson, and David Kowal. After a long search by Mary Lou to find a hall, they held their first dance at St. Paul&rsquo;s Lutheran Church on the corner of Eagle &amp; North Ellicott St. in Williamsville. Dave contacted Mike Harris about being the caller. Mike lived in Rochester, and his preferred night to call was Monday. Mike Harris was only available every other week in early 1986 so the club danced every two weeks until September when Mike was freed up to call every Monday. Mike Harris&rsquo;s father was Art Harris who had a large club in Rochester that danced on Mondays. Mike would cover for his dad when needed so Waterwheel Squares would hire guest callers. Some of those guest callers were Jack Barnes, Larry Dunn, and Harry Slocum. In 1990 when Art Harris wanted to cut back on his calling, Mike took over his Monday night club in Rochester. This meant that Waterwheel Squares had to find a new caller. They eventually hired Denny Frey. Denny called till 1992. Gary Bubel also from Rochester was the caller from 1992 to 1994. This was the first time that round dancing became a regular part of the dance with Gary&rsquo;s wife Alice cueing the rounds. Prior to this, rounds were not a part of the program. In 1993 as the club expanded, they moved from the concrete basement floor at St. Paul&rsquo;s to this beautiful hardwood floor of Amherst Community Church. Due to the fact that St. Paul&rsquo;s was air conditioned and as we all know this hall is not, several summers Waterwheels would return to St. Paul&rsquo;s. The last Summer that the club did that was 2011. Now we like to sweat all summer and make poor Gary set all the fans up! Mike Callahan, and Mike Hearne both from Rochester took over in 1994 alternating weeks till Mike Callahan could call weekly in 1995. Norm Koharski was the round dance cuer until Elaine became our cuer in 2009. Mike Callahan gave up calling for Waterwheels in 2015, and Bill Ryan was hired but since Bill had another club on Monday in Batavia, Waterwheels had to move to Tuesdays. Bill Ryan called his last dance on March 9, 2020. The following week Covid hit and the world closed. Bill passed away before he had a chance to call another dance for us. In October of 2021 after being shut down for a year and a half, we were lucky enough to have Jim Gotta become our caller, Elaine came back as our cuer, and Mary Hinkle our back up cuer. 

  Here's a little fun fact about how the founders came up with the club&rsquo;s name. The original dancers were thinking of a name for this club. Many names were suggested including Dyngus Day Club since that was their first dance, and many people attended the first dance just to learn what Dyngus Day meant! The most prominent feature of Williamsville back then was the water mill located in the center of the village of Williamsville. The Williamsville Water Mill was built in 1811. The mill was part of a complex that served as a sawmill, gristmill, and cement works. The site was crucial for producing cement for the Erie Canal. Today the mill serves as the home of Sweet Jenny&rsquo;s Ice Cream Shoppe. The person who came up with the name &ldquo;Waterwheel Squares&rdquo; which was ultimately chosen is our very own Shirley Klute! Although Mary Lou was the one who submitted the name for consideration, Shirley was really the author of the name. Thank you, Shirley, for your clever, creative mind. 

  Just the fact that this club has been in existence for 40 years, and some of the original dancers are still on the dance floor tonight is proof that this hobby is good for the mind, body &amp; soul. Of course those original dancers were kids when they started! I think about the different dancers that we danced with here that celebrated their 90th birthdays. That is proof alone that dancing keeps us young. 


articleid: 641
position: 1
type: text
content:
  Silver Squares held its amazing Soup and Sandwich event on March 3rd. Five different soups, a variety of sandwiches and salads plus a whole array of desserts make this a truly special event! Jim Gotta made sure we danced and a great time was had by all who came!


articleid: 642
position: 1
type: text
content:
  Silver Squares had an amazing St. Patrick&rsquo;s dance on March 16th.  

  Lots of fun, wonderful food, the wear&rsquo;in of the green, much socializing and Jim Gotta as our caller/cuer made his a very special dance!!!


articleid: 643
position: 1
type: text
content:
  Silver Squares held a very special dance on Western Day. 

   We said good by to a very special person, Jim Gotta. He has been our caller/cuer since Mike Callahan left on January 1st. We all thank you, Jim, for the wonderful job you did. We will miss seeing you!  

  We also had a visit from Stu Jones. He came and socialized with us and it was just so awesome to see him.  

  We danced in our western gear, ate wonderful snacks, socialized with friends and welcomed Charlie and George as they also joined us for the afternoon. George wore his most unique and amazing shoes!! Take a peek at the picture!!  

  What a fun day!! 


articleid: 644
position: 1
type: text
content:
  Susan M. King (Marston)  February 10, 1942 - May 14, 2025  
  <br><br> 
  <a href = " https://www.carpentersphillipsflint.com/obituaries/Susan-M-King?obId=42546192 " target="_blank">Online obituary</a>  
  <br><br> 
  Susan M. King, age 83 of Lindley, NY peacefully passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at home surrounded by loved ones. She was born on February 20, 1942, in Waterville, Maine to Walter L. Marston and Grace E. (Hinkley) Marston. Sue graduated as Valedictorian in 1960 from Williams High School in Oakland, ME. She married Paul E. King on July 20, 1963, in Oakland, ME where they lived for many years raising their family. 

  Sue and Paul spent many hours on the square dance floor where they made life-long friends. 

  At Sue&rsquo;s request, there will be no services. Carpenter's Funeral Home in Corning, NY has been entrusted with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations in Sues name may be sent to an animal rescue/shelter of your choice.   

  Clubs: Shamrock Squares   

  Square Dance Memories:   

  &ldquo;Sue and Paul shared our honeymoon with us. We went to a square dance weekend at East Hill Farm in New Hampshire. Sue and Paul always attended this event and they were there to share our honeymoon weekend with us! Sue was a beautiful person inside and out. She always had a wonderful smile, even when she was in pain!&rdquo; <br>&nbsp; <i> &hellip;Memory from Wileen Webster </i>   

  &ldquo;Sue was a great dancer and was always friendly and cheerful.&rdquo;  <br>&nbsp; <i> &hellip;Memory from Alice and Gary Bubel </i> 


# singlepage

location: process.html
heading: ePromenader Production Process
content:
  <p>Promenader production steps have been arranged over the years to make
  best use of limited time on the part of many volunteers. One thing
  that distinguished the Promenader - and hopefully will also
  distinguish the ePromenader - from other publications is its accuracy
  and reliability. We plan to maintain this standard through a continued
  team effort to produce an online resource that readers can rely on for
  information about dancing in our area.</p>
  <p>In terms of production mechanics the new format will flow more
  directly from the various club reporters and section editors. This is
  because there will be no more need for page layout and composition,
  making the editorial job far more &ldquo;do-able&rdquo; than it was for the
  commercially printed version. This was a major goal of the ePromenader
  transition. But the work of reporting and organizing Promenader
  content has not changed and the staff of volunteers is still in place
  as before.
  <ul>
  <li>The process starts on or before each publication deadline with Club
  Reporters submitting their Club News, Dance Schedules and Flyer/Ads
  in the prescribed format to the Promenader email inbox. Dick
  Halstead, our &ldquo;Roving Reporter,&rdquo; also submits his articles and photos
  at this stage.
  <li>To make the next step easier and less error-prone, Dick Halstead puts
  his &ldquo;Log-In Editor&rdquo; hat on and gathers submissions into bundles by
  category. He converts them each into appropriate format and re-sends
  them to the inbox.
  <li>Individual section editors, Bonnie Allen (Schedules), Sharon Meyer
  (Class/Club Dances), and  *Your Name here* (We are looking for a
  volunteer to edit Club News.) then open the &ldquo;bundles&rdquo; to organize and
  combine the contents into a format that &ldquo;fits&rdquo; the web site
  template. When this is done, they re-send these &ldquo;processed&rdquo; files to
  the inbox as attachments.
  <li>The web administrator watches the inbox and pulls out the various
  sections as they become available from section editors. These are run
  through a series of semi-automated steps to eliminate
  &ldquo;web-unfriendly&rdquo; characters and add web markup, and establish the
  needed linkages so that they can take their proper place on the web
  site. When enough content is ready, it is posted to a special
  proofreading site and the proofreaders are alerted.
  <li>The proofreaders review all content and report any errors directly
  back to the web admin and online editor who review them and take
  appropriate action, identifying and filling in gaps where needed. The
  proofreading team currently consists of veterans Susan Thomas, Sharon
  Meyer and Mike Herne, along with more recent volunteers Cindy Adams,
  Jim Gotta and Carl &amp; Eileen Webster.
  <li>After (hopefully) two rounds of proofreading and corrections the site
  is ready to be switched to the &ldquo;live&rdquo; WNYF space, replacing the
  previous contents at squaredancingrochester.org. At that point the
  online editor sends out an announcement to email subscribers that the
  new &ldquo;issue&rdquo; is up for browsing.
  </ul>
  </p>


location: rationale.html
heading: ePromenader Rationale
content:
  <p>There have been many ideas and opinions expressed about online
  communications in the WNYF. In addition to the Promenader and the WNYF
  web site there are several individual club web sites, and from time to
  time various clubs and individuals issue email
  &ldquo;broadcasts&rdquo; with overlapping mailing lists. It seemed
  that publishing the Promenader as a standalone online magazine would
  simply add to the confusion and duplication. However, combining the
  Promenader with the WNYF web site has many benefits, including the
  following:
  <ul>
  <li>Avoids duplicated efforts, such as entering schedule data from the
  Promenader into the WNYF database.
  <li>Boosts usage of the WNYF web site, making it a more effective
  communication platform for the dancing community.
  <li>The process of creating the new format engaged Betty &amp; Andy in
  designing not only an online look for the Promenader but also the
  beginnings of a new look for the WNYF site itself.
  <li>Since dance schedules and most other items are stored in a
  database, each updated item (date, caller, venue, etc.) only needs to
  be entered once for it to be displayed correctly in the many different
  pages where that item occurs.
  <li>Most formatting features on the new site are controlled by
  &ldquo;style sheets&rdquo; that need only be altered once to take
  effect in every page that uses that style.
  <li>The main benefit from the ePromenader point of view is that
  production efforts for each issue can be concentrated on the content
  and not on the layout or page composition. That is because page
  layouts are built into templates that accept plain text.
  </ul></p>
  <p>How did we get here? When it became clear that no successor would
  come forward to succeed Betty and Andy Ludwick, and talk began to
  circulate about a successor newsletter, a few of us who had
  &ldquo;some&rdquo; level of interest (but not enough to tackle the
  editorial job) got together to see what could be done to preserve the
  Promenader legacy by streamlining the job enough to attract a
  volunteer. What came out of that discussion was a re-imagined
  Promenader that would have the look and feel of the familiar paper
  publication but the efficiency of an online format, where content
  could flow almost directly from authors to readers.</p>
  <p>In thinking through what that format could be and how to get there,
  we asked many of the questions listed in the FAQ and considered many
  possibilities, including various forms of newsletter. However, even an
  electronic newsletter takes some amount of layout and page
  composition, especially if it is important to maintain printability
  for subscribers who do not have easy access to computers or
  printers.</p>
  <p>Page layout and composition work accounted for a substantial
  fraction of the time that the Ludwicks devoted to each paper issue. In
  other words, an electronic newsletter, such as could be published
  using one of the many available &ldquo;desktop publishing&rdquo;
  software packages, would still leave a substantial amount of effort
  for the content editor.</p>
  <p>On the other hand, the WNYF web site, being essentially a database
  query viewer, could be adapted to display text submissions as well as
  data from the database. Pages could be presented in a set of
  pre-established layouts with pre-established style rules. Blending the
  Promenader with the WNYF web site would have the additional benefits of
  avoiding duplicated efforts, such as entering schedule data from the
  Promenader into the WNYF database, and boosting usage of the WNYF web
  site to make it a more effective communication platform in the dancing
  community.</p>
  <p>An additional benefit was that this idea sparked Betty&rsquo;s
  imagination and motivated her to design not only an online look for
  the Promenader but also the beginnings of a new look for the
  Federation side of the site. Others might have done it very
  differently, but with Betty &amp; Andy engaged in making this happen,
  there was no doubt that it would be done.</p>
  <p>Since preparation of this winter, 2014, issue has coincided with
  debugging the new web site design, it remains to be seen how much the
  editorial role has actually been streamlined. However, indications are
  good because processing the content, which is presumably all that will
  be needed next time, has only been a small fraction of the overall
  production effort.</p>
  <p>Those who are familiar with software tools for web site creation or
  desktop publishing (including Betty at times) have questioned the
  wisdom of this approach, but no better path was available. Also, the
  result has several benefits that would not be found in a more
  conventional online newsletter or magazine:
  <ul>
  <li>Since dance schedules and most other information on the site is
  stored in a database, each updated item (date, caller, venue, etc.)
  only needs to be entered once for it to be displayed correctly in the
  many different pages where that item occurs.
  <li>Similarly for many formatting features on the new site, which are
  controlled by &ldquo;style sheets&rdquo; that need only be altered
  once to take effect in every page that uses that style.
  <li>And there&rsquo;s no reason that a &ldquo;newsletter&rdquo;
  section can&rsquo;t be incorporated. New content can be posted at
  almost any time. The &ldquo;Announcements&rdquo; page of the
  Federation section is intended for just such a use.
  <li>But the main benefit from the ePromenader point of view is that
  production efforts for each issue can be concentrated on the content
  and not on the layout or composition.</p>


location: printing.html
heading: Printing Details
content:
  <h3>Printing Details for &ldquo;Ads &amp; Flyers&rdquo; Thumbnail
  Array and for &ldquo;Photos &amp; Features&rdquo;</h3>
  <p>Almost every ePromenader section can be printed without any special
  steps, by simply &ldquo;hitting the Print button&rdquo; in your
  browser, just as you would for any other web page or document.</p>
  <p>This page covers the two ePromenader sections that do not always
  print in the best-looking format from a simple print command.</p>
  <p>These sections are the &ldquo;Ads &amp; Flyers&rdquo; thumbnail
  array section and the &ldquo;Photos &amp; Features&rdquo;
  section. Both of these sections give better-looking hard copy in some
  browsers when print scaling is adjusted away from default values. The
  hard copy layout for these two sections will be more pleasing (and use
  less paper) if you use your browser&rsquo;s &ldquo;print dialog&rdquo;
  or &ldquo;Print Preview&rdquo; options to adjust the
  &ldquo;Scale&rdquo; (and in some cases the orientation) of your print
  output.</p>
  <p>Each browser has its own particularities in displaying and printing
  web content. The following &ldquo;recipes&rdquo; give steps needed for
  scaling printouts to get the best results when printing these two
  sections from four specific setups.</p>
  <p>If you don&rsquo;t find your specific setup here, then maybe one of
  these will be close enough that you can adapt it for your setup. If
  that doesn&rsquo;t work, ask a friend for help or contact us at
  promenader@rochester.rr.com and tell us what Internet device and
  browser you are using. We will do our best to find the answer.</p>
  <p>If you find better settings that given here, please contact us also
  so we can add your feedback to our knowledge base.</p>
  <p>In our opinion the best print format for the Ads &amp; Flyers
  thumbnail set is a 2x2 (four-to-a-page) array in
  &ldquo;portrait&rdquo; orientation, and the best format for Photos
  &amp; Features is with two columns per page, also in portrait
  orientation.</p>
  <p>To get these results we have found that on a Windows PC Microsoft
  Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox browsers give the best results,
  while on a Mac the Mozilla Firefox browser gives the best results. The
  Safari browser on a Mac gives useable hard copy but not as pleasing as
  the others.</p>
  <ul>
  <li>Microsoft Internet Explorer on a Windows PC: Adjust the print
  scale as follows&hellip;
  <ul>
  <li>First, locate and choose the &ldquo;Print Preview&rdquo; option,
  <li>Then, in the resulting dialog box, locate and choose the
  &ldquo;Scale&rdquo; menu.  (It might show &ldquo;Shrink To Fit&rdquo;
  or it might already show a default % value.)
  <li>Experiment with values until you like what you see in the preview
  window.  Lower scale values make the print smaller, but fit more
  images on the page.
   <li>For printing the entire Flyer Thumbnail array at
  4 per page, try 70%
  <li>For printing the Photos &amp; Features section the result depends on where pictures fall. If Shrink-To-Fit doesn&rsquo;t look right try 90%
  </ul>
    <li>Mozilla Firefox on a Windows PC:
      <ul>
  <li>Locate &ldquo;Print Preview&rdquo; (either in File/PrintPreview or
  in Menu/Print, depending on your setup).
  <li>Set the Scale for a good-looking preview (Try 80% for Thumbnails
  or 90% for Features.)
   </ul>
    <li>Mozilla Firefox on a Mac:
      <ul>
  <li>On a Mac, before trying to print from Firefox, pull down the File
  Menu and choose &ldquo;Page Setup.&rdquo;
  <li>There&rsquo;s no preview to let you zero in on a good scale
   factor, but try mine and see what you get.  (Only print two pages at
   first, so as not to waste paper on settings that don&rsquo;t work for
   you.)
  <li>For printing the entire Flyer Thumbnail array at 4 per page, try
  80%
  <li>For printing the Photos &amp; Features section, try 90%
  </ul>
  <li>Apple Safari on a Mac (not recommended if you have any other
  option):
    <ul>
      <li>Printing the Flyer Thumbnail Array or Photos &amp; Features
      from Safari gives disappointing results.
  <li>The thumbnails come out in a single column unless you choose
  &ldquo;Landscape&rdquo; orientation.
  <li>The Photos &amp; Features section comes out in a single column no
  matter what you choose.  (Anyone finding better print settings for
  Safari . . . please contact us so we can post them here.)
    </ul>
    </ul>
  <p>Remember that these adjustments are only needed for printing the
  best-looking hard copy for two ePromenader sections: Photos &amp;
  Features and the thumbnail array on the Ads &amp; Flyers page.  All
  other ePromenader sections and all Federation pages print just fine
  with default print settings.</p>


location: printingstatistics.html
heading: Statistics of the first ePromenader issue
content:
  <p><ul>
  <li>Email alert subscriptions for WINTER 2014 = 177 (now expanded to 193).
      <br>&nbsp;
  <li>Email addresses had errors that led to NDNs = 12 (now corrected)
      <br>&nbsp;
  <li>Number of &ldquo;Got It&rdquo; reply emails received = 46
      <br>(plus about 7 more &ldquo;got-its&rdquo; in-person)
      <br>&nbsp;
  <li>Number of issues printed for hard-copy subscribers = 12
      <br>(mostly delivered in person at dances)
      <br>&nbsp;
  <li>This leaves many announcements (112 out of 177 or 63%) unaccounted for
     <br>(Blocked by Spam/Junk filters or folks didn&rsquo;t see the &ldquo;got it&rdquo; reply request.)
      <br>&nbsp;
  <li>Total number of printed sides = 71
      <br>(compared with 44 for the final printed issue)
      <br>&nbsp;
  <li>Total number of printed sheets  = 46
      <br>(compared with 44 for the final printed issue)
      <br>(using 2-sided printing but starting each web page on its own sheet)
      <br>&nbsp;
  <li>Total file size for 32 printable PDF &ldquo;sections&rdquo; = 33 MB.
      <br>(including 3 mos each of &ldquo;month view&rdquo; and &ldquo;week view&rdquo;)
      <br>&nbsp;
  <li>Breakdown:
      <br>Features = 25 MB
      <br>Flyer Thumbnails = 3 MB
      <br>All others combined = 5 MB
      <br>&nbsp;
  </ul></p>


location: printpdfs.html
heading: Premade ePromenader Sections in .pdf Format
content:
  <p>Below are links to print-optimized PDF versions of selected Promenader sections.</p>

  <p>[NOTE: Other Promenader and Federation pages and schedules should print well
  directly from your web browser with no special settings. If you have trouble with printing,
  or have a better idea handle it, please contact the editor  via email to promenader@rochester.rr.com.]
  </p>

  <ul>
  <li>Click each link to download the related PDF file.
  <li>Then print the file in the way you normally would &mdash; no special scaling is needed.
  <li>You can also save the PDF file for reference when you are off-line.
  </ul>

  <p>Links to the Fall 2021 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2021-09.pdf">2021 Fall articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2021-09.pdf">2021 Fall club news</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2021-09.pdf">2021 Fall flyers</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the summer 2021 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2021-06.pdf">2021 SUMMER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2021-06.pdf">2021 SUMMER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the spring 2021 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2021-03.pdf">2021 SPRING articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2021-03.pdf">2021 SPRING club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the winter 2020 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2020-12.pdf">2020 WINTER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2020-12.pdf">2020 WINTER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the fall 2020 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2020-09.pdf">2020 FALL articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2020-09.pdf">2020 FALL club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the summer 2020 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2020-06.pdf">2020 SUMMER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2020-06.pdf">2020 SUMMER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2020-06.pdf">2020 SUMMER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the spring 2020 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2020-03.pdf">2020 SPRING articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2020-03.pdf">2020 SPRING flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2020-03.pdf">2020 SPRING club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the winter 2019 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2019-12.pdf">2019 WINTER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2019-12.pdf">2019 WINTER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2019-12.pdf">2019 WINTER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the fall 2019 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2019-09.pdf">2019 FALL articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2019-09.pdf">2019 FALL flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2019-09.pdf">2019 FALL club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the summer 2019 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2019-06.pdf">2019 SUMMER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2019-06.pdf">2019 SUMMER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2019-06.pdf">2019 SUMMER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the spring 2019 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2019-03.pdf">2019 SPRING articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2019-03.pdf">2019 SPRING flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2019-03.pdf">2019 SPRING club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the winter 2018 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2018-12.pdf">2018 WINTER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2018-12.pdf">2018 WINTER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2018-12.pdf">2018 WINTER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the fall 2018 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2018-09.pdf">2018 FALL articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2018-09.pdf">2018 FALL flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2018-09.pdf">2018 FALL club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the summer 2018 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2018-06.pdf">2018 SUMMER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2018-06.pdf">2018 SUMMER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2018-06.pdf">2018 SUMMER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the spring 2018 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2018-03.pdf">2018 SPRING articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2018-03.pdf">2018 SPRING flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2018-03.pdf">2018 SPRING club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the winter 2017 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2017-12.pdf">2017 WINTER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2017-12.pdf">2017 WINTER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2017-12.pdf">2017 WINTER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the fall 2017 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2017-09.pdf">2017 FALL articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2017-09.pdf">2017 FALL flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2017-09.pdf">2017 FALL club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the summer 2017 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2017-06.pdf">2017 SUMMER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2017-06.pdf">2017 SUMMER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2017-06.pdf">2017 SUMMER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the spring 2017 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2017-03.pdf">2017 SPRING articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2017-03.pdf">2017 SPRING flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2017-03.pdf">2017 SPRING club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the winter 2016 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2016-12.pdf">2016 WINTER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2016-12.pdf">2016 WINTER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2016-12.pdf">2016 WINTER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the fall 2016 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2016-09.pdf">2016 FALL articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2016-09.pdf">2016 FALL flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2016-09.pdf">2016 FALL club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the summer 2016 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2016-06.pdf">2016 SUMMER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2016-06.pdf">2016 SUMMER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2016-06.pdf">2016 SUMMER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the spring 2016 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2016-03.pdf">2016 SPRING articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2016-03.pdf">2016 SPRING flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2016-03.pdf">2016 SPRING club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the winter 2015 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2015-12.pdf">2015 WINTER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2015-12.pdf">2015 WINTER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2015-12.pdf">2015 WINTER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the fall 2015 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2015-09.pdf">2015 FALL articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2015-09.pdf">2015 FALL flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2015-09.pdf">2015 FALL club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the summer 2015 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2015-06.pdf">2015 SUMMER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2015-06.pdf">2015 SUMMER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2015-06.pdf">2015 SUMMER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the spring 2015 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2015-03.pdf">2015 SPRING articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2015-06.pdf">2015 SPRING flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2015-06.pdf">2015 SPRING club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the winter 2014 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="compressed/Articles-2014-12.pdf">2014 WINTER articles</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/FlyerThumbnails-2014-12.pdf">2014 WINTER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="compressed/ClubNews-2014-12.pdf">2014 WINTER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>



  <!--
  <p>Links to the spring 2015 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/29323485/eProm_Articles-2015-Q1-Spring_FF-Mac-80pct-8pp-8MB.pdf">2015 SPRING articles</a>
  <li><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/29323485/FlyerThumbnails-2015-Q1-Spring_FF-Mac-80pct-9pp-5MB.pdf">2015 SPRING flyers</a>
  <li><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/29323485/ePromClubNews2015q1.Spring.FFMac.100pct.8pp.2MB.pdf">2015 SPRING club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>

  <p>Links to the winter 2014 ePromenader premade pdfs
  <ul>
  <li><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/29323485/eProm_Articles-New-FF-Mac-80%25-13pp.pdf">2014 WINTER articles</a>
  <li><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/29323485/FlyerThumbnails_2014q4_Winter_FFMac80pct_6pp_3MB.pdf">2014 WINTER flyers</a>
  <li><a href="https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/29323485/ePromClubNews2014q4.Winter.FFMac80pct.6pp.2MB.pdf">2014 WINTER club news</a>
  </ul>
  </p>
  -->


location: bannerstealing.html
heading: Banner Stealing Rules
content:
  <h2>Banner Stealing Guidelines - Updated!</h2>

  <div class=twocolumn>
  <img width=100% src="png/20160901-BannerStealingLogo.jpg" alt = "20160901-BannerStealingLogo.jpg">

  <p>
  Banner stealing is a great way for dancers from different clubs to get
  acquainted and for clubs to support one another by increasing
  attendance at regular dances.
  <br><br>
  In our area, banner raids were popular for many years but died out
  when too few clubs could muster enough raiders or retrievers to
  support it. However, news of a recent raid in Batavia by the Copy Cats
  indicates this lively tradition is being revived. So, we thought now
  would be a good time to remind everyone how Banner Stealing
  works. It&rsquo;s not a sneak attack; The &ldquo;thieves&rdquo; come
  in, pay their door fees, socialize and dance; A banner changes hands;
  Nobody gets hurt.
  <br><br>
  Here&rsquo;s how it works:
  <br><br>
  1) Since not all clubs are able to support Banner Stealing, clubs
  interested in participating should register with the Western New York Federation of Square and Round Dancers (email to promenader@rochester.rr.com), where a list will
  be maintained online on the &ldquo;FEDERATION&rdquo; page. Registered
  clubs should also have at least one &ldquo;Traveling Banner&rdquo;
  available to be stolen.
  <br><br>
  2) To steal a banner, the &ldquo;Stealing&rdquo; club must bring at
  least four couples who pay the visitors&rsquo; fee at the
  &ldquo;Host&rdquo; club&rsquo;s dance. Exception: Smaller and less
  mobile clubs may meet the &ldquo;four couples&rdquo; level by either
  (a) including up to two &ldquo;allied&rdquo; couples (from other clubs
  than the Host club), or (b) by prior agreement with the Host club,
  accumulating any combination of smaller &ldquo;serial raids&rdquo;
  that add up to four couples over a three-month period. Remember, the
  spirit here is to encourage dancers to get around to other clubs, so
  actually, any arrangement that works for both clubs is fine!
  <br><br>
  3) A representative of the Stealing club must advise the Host
  club&rsquo;s president at least 48 hours in advance. If more than one
  club is planning to steal the same club&rsquo;s banner, then the first
  club to notify the Host club takes precedence.
  <br><br>
  4) To actually earn the right to take home the banner, the raiding
  party must demonstrate its dancing abilities&nbsp;&mdash; and its
  good humor&nbsp;&mdash; to the Host club in a demonstration tip of
  the Host caller&rsquo;s choice. In the case of serial small raids,
  it&rsquo;s up to the Hosts and raiders to agree on a suitable
  demonstration of skill and good will. Exceptionally large raiding
  parties of eight couples or more have been known to return home with
  the Host caller&rsquo;s shirt, but naturally this would have to be
  arranged in advance with the Host club.
  <br><br>
  5) It is the responsibility of the Stealing Club to safeguard the
  stolen banner, display it at their club dances and return it only to
  its owner club.
  <br><br>
  6) To retrieve a stolen banner, the owner club must bring at least
  four paying couples to a dance hosted by the Stealing club. Stealing
  the new Host&rsquo;s banner at the same time, requires an additional
  four paying couples, and 48-hour advanced notification to the new Host
  club president. (Exceptions for smaller clubs can be arranged with
  club leadership, as noted above.)
  <br><br>
  7) If a banner has not been retrieved within a reasonable time (three
  months of the dance season), the Stealing club is allowed to bring it
  back to its owner club, with up to four couples admitted as non-paying
  guests. The owner club&rsquo;s president shall be notified at least a
  week in advance of the planned return.
  <br><br>
  8) Banner stealing and retrieving are restricted to regular scheduled
  club dances only. Special dances with a guest caller are subject to
  approval in advance by the Host club&rsquo;s president.
  </p>
  </div>


location: website.html
heading: Documentation for Maintaining the WNYF Website
content:
  <p>There is a lot of documentation for maintaining the WNYF website.
  Basically, there is a database with the details of the website. To
  update the website the database is updated and a special program is
  run to update a copy of the website. This copy is then uploaded to
  the actual website.
  </p>

  <p>Try these links for documentation:
    <ul>
      <li>An overview of website maintenance: <a href="Website.pdf">Website.pdf</a>
      <li>The database editor: <a href="DBEditor.pdf">DBEditor.pdf</a>
      <li>The file browser: <a href="Filebrowser.pdf">Filebrowser.pdf</a>
    </ul>
  </p>

  <h2>Source code for the programs used to maintain the web</h2>
  <h4>Clean.java</h4>
  <p>The program, <a href="Clean.java">Clean.java</a>, searches for
  &ldquo;funny&rdquo; characters in a file. Funny characters are bytes
  that are not between 0x20 and 0x7e or 0x0a (a new-line). The
  parameters are file names of files to search.
  </p>

  <h4>DatabaseEditor.java</h4>
  <p>The program, <a
  href="DatabaseEditor.java">DatabaseEditor.java</a>, edits an SQLite
  database. It is actually a general purpose program and will edit any
  SQLite database. The website&rsquo;s database is in squaredance.db
  although there is another database, test.db, for testing or just
  playing with the database editor. Documentation for this program is
  listed above.
  </p>

  <h4>MakeWeb.java</h4>
  <p>The program, <a href="MakeWeb.java">MakeWeb.java</a>, executes SQL
  statements found in squaredance.db in the current directory. This
  will make all of the variable pages in the website. As an option, it
  will also build a complete site map in the database table
  &ldquo;sitemap&rdquo; which the SQL statements will turn into the
  full site map.
  </p>

  <h4>Copyfiles.java</h4>
  <p>The program, <a href="Copyfiles.java">Copyfiles.java</a>, is a
  special purpose copy program that copies files between two local
  directories&mdash;copying only files that have changed. This is so
  the number of files that need to be uploaded to the website is
  minimized.
  </p>

  <h4>FileBrowser.java</h4>
  <p>The program, <a href="FileBrowser.java">FileBrowser.java</a>, is a
  general purpose file transfer program that mimics WinSCP or
  FileZilla. It has the capability of comparing and transfering between
  two local file systems, two remote file systems, or a local and
  remote file system. It also has editors for editing files and a diff
  program for comparing two files. It also has a remote shell
  capability. The documentation is listed above.
  </p>


# content

page: home
part: intro
comment: web site home page
content:
  <ul>
    <li class="box"><b>Are you new to square dancing? Do you want to know more
    about who we are? &hellip;What we do? &hellip;How to join us?
    &hellip;and What&rsquo;s in it for you?</b> Visit our <a
    href="newdancer.html">&ldquo;Welcome Prospective New
    Dancers&rdquo;</a> page and learn about the enjoyable and healthy
    activity of organized square dancing in our area.
    <li>Scroll this page to see a list of <A href="#openhouse">Open House events</a> that introduce square dancing to folks with no prior experience.
    <li>We invite you to explore our site by clicking on the <b>colored buttons below</b> or by using our <a href="sitemap.html">Site Map</a> (including links to archives).
    <li>Click  the <b>Yellow Promenader</b> button below to read our quarterly online news publication.
    <li>Here is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/315003042261167/" target="_blank">Our Facebook Page</a> where you will find photos and news about current activities.

    <li>Other useful links: &bull; <a href="https://livelivelysquaredance.com/" target="_blank">Square Dancing Benefits &amp; More</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
      &bull; <a href="http://www.you2candance.com/" target="_blank">You2CanDance</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
      &bull; <a href="http://www.tamtwirlers.org/taminations/index.html" target="_blank">Taminations</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
      &bull; <a href="http://videosquaredancelessons.com/lessons" target="_blank">SaddleBrooke Video Lessons</a>
      &bull; <a href="http://www.squaredancefingerlakes.com/" target="_blank">Finger Lakes Area Council</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
  </ul>

  <!--
  <p>If you are new to round or square dancing, or simply want to know more
  about these healthy and enjoyable activities, click <a href="newdancer.html">HERE</a> for a special
  message and links that may interest you. This website is also the home to
  our online news publication, the Promenader. Please bookmark this page in
  your browser, and explore the site by clicking on the quick links (colored buttons) below. We
  hope you will return often to keep up to date on dance schedules and WNYF
  announcements.</p>
  -->


page: home
part: clubs
content:
  Click this button for an
  alphabetical listing of clubs, with contact information and links to dance
  schedules and club web sites.


page: home
part: federation
content:
  Click this button for  activities, President's message, plus listings of Officers, Meeting times and
  places, Minutes and agendas.


page: home
part: schedules
content:
  Click this button for our schedule pages, with quick access to all
  scheduled dances, including clubs,
  callers, venues, and flyer links.


page: home
part: promenader
content:
  Click this button for the Promenader, our quarterly online publication, full of news, flyers,
  schedules contacts, and more.


page: home
part: special
content:
  Click this button for our &ldquo;Calendar of Special Events&rdquo; of special interest to dancers across our area.


page: home
part: awards
content:
  We are grateful to outstanding dance leaders in our community.  Click this button to see
  how we can honor them for their service.


page: homeold
part: body
content:
  <div class="center">
  <h2>Welcome to the New /Promenader Web Site</h2>
  </div>
  <div class="twocolumn">
  <p><b>We hope you will be pleased with the new web site,
   which combines the old RAF web site with Promenader
   news and information.</b></p>

  <p><b>This first ePromenader issue is dedicated to Betty and
   Andy Ludwick. During their 16 years as editors, they turned
   the Promenader into a work of art.</b></p>

  <p><b>Betty has tirelessly and meticulously shepherded the
   transition from the printed version to this electronic
   version. Her attention to detail is amazing. All of the
   good looks and organization of this new web site can
   be traced back to the Ludwicks. (Any ugliness or other
   issues you find are solely due to the implementers&rsquo;
   inability to follow her design.)</b></p>

  <p><b>Most of the material that was in the printed Promenader
   is now available on the web site. So look around and see
   what you can find.</b></p>

  <p><b>And when you see Betty or Andy, congratulate them on
   all of the good features you find on the new web site.</b></p>

  <p><b>Thank you, Betty and Andy, from the entire square dance community.</b></p>
  </div>
  <div class="center">
  <p><img src="jpg/BettyAndy.jpg"></p>
  <p>Betty and Andy working on the ePromenader</p>
  </div>


page: classclub
part: body
content:
  <p>This is a list of upcoming dances which are especially planned to
  provide class members with an opportunity to try out the steps they
  have learned, and experience the fun of dancing to a variety of
  callers! Mainstream tips are featured at all of these dances.
  </p>For a list of Open House events click <A href="newdancer.html#openhouse">HERE</a>.
  <p>


page: publicationstaff
part: deadlines
content:
  <h3>Submission Deadlines</h3>
  <p>The due dates for submission of club news, dance schedules, ads, and event listings are as follows:
  <br><br>
  WINTER (DEC/JAN/FEB): Nov. 1<br>
  SPRING (MAR/APR/MAY): Feb. 1<br>
  SUMMER (JUN/JUL/AUG): May 1<br>
  FALL (SEP/OCT/NOV): Aug. 1<br>
  <br>
  Please follow the <a href="ePromenaderSubmissionGuidelines-2016-04-18.pdf">ePromenader submission guidelines</a>.
  <br><br>
  The Promenader is published under the auspices of the Western New
  York Federation of Square and Round Dancers Inc. The editors reserve
  the right to edit, omit, or delete any material submitted for
  publication.
  </p>
  <p>The Promenader encourages and welcomes other publications to
  reprint articles of interest. Please give proper credit.
  </p>
  <p><br></p>


page: publicationstaff
part: adinfo
content:
  <a name="special"></a>
  <h3>Listing Your Special Event</h3>
  <p>To have your dance or other event listed on the Promenader Home
  Page in the Calendar of Coming Special Events, please send (before
  the submission deadline) $5 one-time payment per event (check made
  out to <b>WNYF</b>) to <b>Rick &amp; Donna
  LaDonna, 67 Grandview Drive, Fairport, NY 14450.</b> On your check,
  please note your organization name and event date(s). Also, before
  the submission deadline, please email your event information to:
  promenader@rochester.rr.com. In your email, please include the event
  date, club, event name, location, and caller/cuer, and attach any
  flyer that is associated with the event. List early, as your event
  listing stays in place until the event happens. </p>
  <p><br></p>

  <h3>Ad Information</h3>
  <p>All WNYF-affiliated clubs may advertise their dance flyers for
  free. There is a $5 charge for listing a WNYF-affiliated club dance as
  a special dance.
  </p>
  <p>Items sponsored by non-WNYF groups are $10 each, for each
  three-month posting period, regardless of size. Each paid ad includes
  a free listing in the Calendar of Special Events, where it will
  remain until the event occurs.
  </p>
  <p>Multi-page ads will display only the first page but will display
  or download all pages when clicked. Dance flyers, notices and lists
  of special dances will stay posted until the dance or event occurs.
  </p>
  <p>For details about ads and flyers, please refer to the Ads &amp;
  Flyers section of our &ldquo;Submission Guidelines&rdquo; document,
  using the link given in the Submission Deadlines section above.
  </p>
  <p>Items for this section can be submitted at any time and will be
  posted as they are received, without regard to quarterly submission
  deadlines.
  </p>
  <p>Payment should be made by check payable to <b>WNYF</b> and sent before the deadline to the <b>WNYF Treasurers,
  Rick &amp; Donna LaDonna, 67 Grandview Drive, Fairport, NY 14450</b>.
  </p>
  <p><br></p>


page: meeting
part: body
content:
  <ul>
    <li>No meetings in June, July, August or December.
    <li>Due to the increased attendance at WNYF meetings using Zoom, all meetings will be held via Zoom.
    <li>Notification of Zoom Meeting Codes via email.
    <li>* Indicates Presidents, Callers and Cuers Meeting
    <li>DOR subcommittee meets at 6:30 pm prior to the Federation meeting which starts at 7:30 pm.
  </ul>


page: awards
part: body
content:
  <div class="awards">
  <img src="../jpg/dn.jpg" width="100%">
  <p>The Daphne-Norma Leadership Award is the way that our dancing
  community recognizes a couple or individual dancer who has
  demonstrated leadership for an extended period of time, furthering the
  cause of square and round dancing. Think about efforts that have been
  made over past years as well as recently.</p>

  <p>Leadership styles vary greatly as each person is different. But
  going that extra mile for the sake of other dancers, and of dancing
  itself, is something we want to recognize.</p>

  <p>If you know someone whom you feel stands out in their continuing
  service to others, please help us to celebrate and take note of
  them.</p>

  <p>You don&rsquo;t have to know their life history. Just tell us what you do
  know. Most likely, others will fill in some of the information.</p>

  <p>Every single nomination is very important, so please don&rsquo;t think
  that what you have to say doesn&rsquo;t matter! It boils down to: who do YOU
  feel should get the leadership award, and why?</p>

  <p>Please open the forms provided here in PDF format to learn more
  about the Award, and to put together your nomination of deserving
  dancers!</p>

  <table>
  <tr><td><a href="DNHistory2024.pdf" target="_blank"><img class="border" src="DNHistory2024.jpg"></a>
  <td><a href="DNRecipients2025.pdf" target="_blank"><img class="border" src="DNRecipients2025.jpg"></a>
  <td><a href="DNBallot2025.pdf" target="_blank"><img class="border" src="DNBallot2025.jpg"></a>
  </tr>
  <tr><td><p class="label">History and Guidelines</p>
  <td><p class="label">Past Recipients</p>
  <td><p class="label">Nomination Form</p>
  </tr></table>

  </div>

  <div class="awards">
  <div class="center"><p><img src="../jpg/circleofservice.jpg" width="50%"></p></div>
  <p><i>This circle is a symbol of service
  to square and round dancing.</i></p>

  <p>It is designed to be worn with pride by dancers who, for three or
  more years, are determined to have made a significant contribution to
  the Square and Round Dance community.</p>

  <p>The stellar hub of the circle, formed by a pattern of arcs,
  symbolizes the importance of each such individual to the total
  picture. The same circular shapes flow outward to help define
  interlocking squares and stylized musical symbols. This linear
  interplay suggests the strong bond between the two &ldquo;sister&rdquo; dance
  activities: Square and Round Dancing.</p>

  <p>Presentation of this Circle of Service should be made to dancers
  only, as in &ldquo;I&rsquo;m just a dancer.&rdquo; Those presenting the Circle of
  Service must have themselves been the recipients at an earlier
  date.</p>
  <a href="CircleOfService-2026.pdf"><img class="border" src="CircleOfService-2026.jpg"></a>
  </div>


page: minutesxxx
part: body
comment: NOT USED see federationmeetings table
content:
  <h3>WNYF MEETING MINUTES &mdash; 5/14/15</h3>

  <p>Welcome/Call To Order @ 7:35 PM </p>

  <p>Attendees: Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren Olson, Sharon &amp; Chuck
  Meyer, Barbara Green, Jim Gotta, Sally Baechle, Russ &amp; Ruth
  Uhrenholdt, Donna Mc Cagg, Peter Emmel, and John Benesch </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: John Benesch - Approved with
  modification: All nominations were accepted.  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Mary Ann&rsquo;s report read by Terry
  Pratt - Balance: $6509.89 </p>

  <p>Committee Reports: </p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama: Warren - Dance results: See 5-14-15 D. O. R. Meeting
  Minutes for details. Survey responses -33; Club reps. to request club
  members to mail additional comments to J. Gotta.  </p>

  <p>Insurance: Sharon/Carol Ann (Insurance for Graduates now due) </p>

  <p>CCR: Chuck - Summer Sizzler on August 22 @ Henrietta Fire Hall </p>

  <p>Promenader/Web Site: Peter/Sidney - June 1 Issue in Production;
  </p>

  <p>Current Business: </p>

  <p>1. State Fair Square Dancing. Date &amp; Time [Last Tuesday in
  August; See promenader for information].  </p>

  <p>2. Our 2015/2016 RAF Meeting Schedule is available </p>

  <p>3. Passing the Torch. Welcome to our new President &amp; Vice
  President (Warren Olson and Jim Gotta).  </p>

  <p>4. A donation of $50 was approved in memory of Bob Stevens [to
  Unity Health Foundation] </p>

  <p>Thank you to Silver Squares and Southern Tier Wheelers for
  tonight&rsquo;s refreshments. And I very big thank you to everyone for
  all of your support of the Federation and for being a part of the
  organization that works so hard to keep square and round dancing
  active and growing in the Rochester area! We couldn&rsquo;t do it
  without YOU !! Terry Pratt </p>

  <p>Next meeting: Wednesday September 16,
  2015. Tent. Rms. 9/11. Federation officers will provide refreshments
  for this meeting.  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at: 8:45 PM </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch </p>

  <h3>RAF MEETING MINUTES &mdash; 4/15/15</h3>

  <p>Meeting called to order at 7:30 p.m.
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Joe Pratt, Sharon Meyer, Warren Olson, Barbara Green, Jim
  Gotta, Ed Briggs, Mary Ann Lane, Irma &amp; Dick Halstead, Carol Ann
  Stahl, Stu &amp; Jane Jones, Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholdt, Warren
  Patterson Cynthia Whited and John Benesch
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved w/o change
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Current Balance: $6509.89; report provided
  </p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:
  </p>

  <p>DANCE-O-RAMA: May 2, 2015; 2:00 PM to 9:45 PM @ Perinton Rec. &amp;
  Parks Dept. See DOR Meeting Minutes for detailed information
  </p>

  <p>Promenader: Financial controls in place; User feedback
  incorporated. June/July/August issue submission deadline is May 1.
  </p>

  <p>CCR: August 8, 2015: Summer Sizzler scheduled
  </p>

  <p>USDA: New Square Dance logo developed as part of &ldquo;Re-Imaging
  Square Dancing&rdquo;. We have permission to copy &amp; use but cannot
  change proportion.
  </p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:
  </p>

  <p>PROMOTION Fall 2015: The Federation will individual clubs with up to
  $60 for advertising expenses. Clubs must submit paid receipts to
  Federation treasurers.
  </p>

  <p>CONSTITUTION: Adopted as of 2/9/15 with minor correction: Name
  revision to: &ldquo;&hellip; Square Dance Clubs, Inc.&rdquo; [NOT
  &ldquo;Club&rdquo;]
  </p>

  <p>OFFICER NOMINATION FOR 2015/2016: Warren Olson [Pres.], Jim Gotta
  [VP], Mary Ann lane [Treasurer] &amp; John Benesch [Secretary]. Terry
  Pratt will serve as Past-President.
  </p>

  <p>PROMOTION/COMMUNICATIONS LIAISON: No one has stepped forward to accept
  this challenge. A change in job description may be in order.
  </p>

  <p>FEDERATION CABIN PARTY; Poorly attended. Feedback from member clubs
  [on timing &amp; agenda] is sought to make this gathering of club
  presidents and representatives a worthwhile event. The Federation
  representatives for the member clubs are encouraged to communicate
  issues that arise at the meetings back to their own Board sessions.
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 8:25 PM
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting: Thursday May 14, 2015 in RMS. 9/11. Refreshments: STW
  &amp; Silver Squares
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>


  <h3>RAF MEETING MINUTES &mdash; 3/10/15</h3>

  <p>Meeting called to order at 7:30 p.m.
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Terry Pratt, Sharon &amp; Chuck Meyer, Warren Olson,
  Mary Ann Lane, Barb Green, Sybil &amp; Ed Briggs, Russ &amp; Ruth
  Uhrenholdt, Warren Patterson, Cynthia Whited, Peter Emmel and Carol
  Ann Stahl
  </p>

  <p>Introductions
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Warren made motion, Ed seconded, Approved
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance on hand 2/16/15 was $6,643.69,
  income of $10, Expense of $50, leaving a balance of $6,603.69.  Barb
  made motion, Warren seconded, Approved.
  </p>

  <p>Committee Reports:
  </p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama: Terry, Warren, Gil Porter and Jerry Carmen met with
  representative at Perinton Recreation to check out the sound in the
  gym and finalize details.  It was decided to not use the gym because
  of the high ceiling and they checked out other rooms on the main floor
  and chose to use them instead.  Now everything will be on one floor.
  </p>

  <ul>
  <li>Club Challenge design was chosen
  <li>Reps to send # of class graduates to Warren so packets can be
  prepared. Names will be put on at DOR.
  </ul>

  <p>Insurance: Nothing new to report
  </p>

  <p>Promenader: Peter sent notice to 190 people to notify Promenader
  readiness.  He did not receive responses from everyone.  Still needs
  some work to find out why some did not receive the notice.  It was
  much smoother this time since the content editors did their part.
  Some address corrections also need to be made.
  </p>
  <ul>
  <li>Peter checked with FreeNet, our service provider, and we have
  unlimited storage, unlimited email a/c&rsquo;s
  <li>Mail chimp could be used for the email notification service.  It
  is free for up to 2000 names, people can unsubscribe.  He will check
  on cost.
  <li>Ken received a check from Red Bates for his ad.  Winterfest ad
  &mdash; someone will be sending a check.
  <li>A new bank account was opened for the Promenader funds.  Ken and
  Warren are signers.  Ken will receive the statement online and save a
  service charge.  Current balance in a/c is $4,050.45.
  <li>Peter will put a link on the Federation website linking it to the
  Facebook page.  Sharon has been posting items on the Facebook page
  periodically.
  <li>There needs to be determination as to who is an affiliated club or
  a non-affiliated club.
  <li>Convention advertisers sometimes give a Press Pass to the
  Promenader.
  </ul>

  <p>Promotions: Someone needed who can check out community bulletin
  boards and other avenues for free publicity for advertising square
  dancing.  The promotion last year that any club who had an ad
  promoting square dancing or classes would receive up to $60 to
  reimburse them for their ad whether in the paper or on the radio will
  be discussed to see if we want to continue it next year.
  </p>

  <p>USDA: No report
  </p>

  <p>CCR: Beginner&rsquo;s Ball is Saturday, March 14 at the Chili
  Baptist Church from 7&ndash;10.  Summer Sizzler will be August 8th at
  the Henrietta Fire Hall.  Bob Ellis, former caller from Rochester,
  passed away.
  </p>

  <p>Communications Liaison: Someone needed to work with Promotions
  </p>

  <p>Nomination Committee: Vice President is still open for a volunteer
  </p>

  <p>Thank you to Cloverleaf Squares for refreshments tonight.
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at 8:30.  Motion made by Peter, seconded by Carol
  Ann.  Approved.
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting will be Wednesday, April 15, 2015 in rooms 9/11.
  Refreshments to be provided by Village Squares.
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: Sharon Meyer
  </p>


  <h3>RAF MEETING MINUTES &mdash; 2/16/15</h3>

  <p>Meeting called to order @7:30.
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Ken Georger, Warren Olson, Carol Ann
  Stahl, Ed &amp; Sybil Briggs, Ruth &amp; Russ Uhrenholdt, Sharon
  Meyer, Sid Marshall, Mary Ann Lane
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report:  Corrections
  <br>1. Add Day of Dance approved paying $50 to caller
  <br>2. Showcase of Ideas should be Barb instead of Sharon
  <br>3. Motion to approve with corrections made by Carol Ann, 2nd by Ed.  Approved
  <br>4. CCR DANCE is March 14, not March 4
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance on hand $6,643.69. Donations
  received for Bob Platt.  Report provided.  Motion to approve Warren,
  2nd by Ed. Approved.
  </p>

  <p>Promenader: Sid: $5 ad Special Event.  Clubs wanting the Special Event
  listing should send the check to Ken with a cc to Sid saying what the
  listing is and that they sent their check so both have a record.  For
  other outside ads, Ken will cc Sid to let him know what was paid.
  </p>

  <p>Sid asked for an explanation of what a class/club dance is.  It is a
  dance that is solely at the classes&rsquo; level for the entire
  evening. However, this is each club&rsquo;s decision to make.
  </p>

  <p>Sid will accept flyers and dance schedules anytime.  Please make sure
  they have all the necessary information: club, location, date, time,
  etc.  as some have been received without this.
  </p>

  <p>Promotions: If clubs are wanting help to promote square dancing, we
  need to have volunteers to be on a Promotions Committee.  Please ask
  your members to encourage them to participate.
  </p>

  <h5>Committee Reports:</h5>
  <h6>DOR</h6>

  <p>Change in the schedule: Dance will end at 9:45 in order to allow time
  to clean up and be out by 10.
  </p>

  <p>Club Challenge: Changed to allow each member to sign in for EACH club
  they belong to so each club can count them as a member toward the
  percentage.
  </p>
              
  <p>Club banners: you will need a stand to hang your banner on as they
  cannot be hung on the wall
  </p>
              
  <p>50/50 tickets will be sold until 8:30 and one ticket drawn by 9:00.
  </p>
              
  <p>Basket raffle tickets will be drawn by 9 and posted.
  </p>
              
  <h6>Insurance</h6>

  <p>All certificates have been received and distributed
  </p>

  <h6>USDA</h6>

  <p>We know that insurance is covered by USDA, but what else do they do.
  Are there any other benefits?  Can a report be given by one of the
  officers that receive the USDA magazine?  The DOR ad was sent in for
  the next issue.
  </p>

  <h6>CCR</h6>

  <p>Beginner&rsquo;s Ball is March 14, 2015 at the Chili Baptist Church.
  </p>

  <h6>Current Business</h6>

  <p>Financial Audit completed.  Both DOR and Federation were excellent.
  The Promenader had several issues.  There should be only one signer
  (Ken) with a backup of an officer.  This will be Warren Olson. No
  checks should be written to themselves; a receipt for every expense,
  there should be an email for each ad and a receipt given; each year
  use a new check register.  These were the suggestions made by the
  auditors and now put into effect.
  </p>

  <h6>Communications Liasion</h6>

  <p>Another opportunity for someone.  Facebook page maintainance:
  Currently Sharon Meyer has been posting pictures and reminders along
  with Carl Webster.  Is there anyone else interested in helping?
  </p>

  <h6>Nominating Committee</h6>

  <p>Seeking a Vice President
  </p>

  <h6>Day of Dance</h6>

  <p>Saturday, Feb. 21 at Eastview Mall, Center Court from 3:30-4:00.
  Please be there by 3.  We will have some flyers with all the clubs
  listed to hand out.
  </p>

  <br><br>

  <p>Daphne Norma award-forms available online.  Need to be sent to Dick
  &amp; Irma Halstead by the end of Feb.
  </p>

  <p>Cabin Party-April 12 at Buckland Lodge from 11-3.  Meat &amp; water or
  coffee provided; bring a dish to pass &amp; your own table service.
  Eat at 12:15.
  </p>

  <p>Ken Georger mentioned that the last 2 dances held at Washington Irving
  were not charged by Doreen for setting up.  It was decided to pay her
  $10/hr anyway and refunds for overpayments to Country Twirlers were
  sent to the Promenader and Cloverleafs for $73.40 each.
  </p>

  <p>Thanks to Grand Squares for the refreshments tonight.
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at 8:30.  Motion made by Ken, 2nd by Carol Ann.
  Approved.
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2015 with refreshments
  from Cloverleaf Squares.
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: Sharon Meyer
  </p>

  <h3>R.A.F. Meeting Minutes &mdash; January 15, 2015</h3>

  <p>Meeting called to order @ 7:37
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Ed &amp; Sybil Briggs, Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholdt, Carol
  Ann Stahl, Ken Saffer, Jill Zimmermann, Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren
  Olson, Mary Ann Lane, Chuck &amp; Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green, Stu
  &amp; Jane Jones, Karen Bigenwald, Peter Emmel and John Benesch
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved 
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Approved. Balance $5843.19. Report provided. 
  </p>

  <p>Promenader: Peter E: E-mail listing @ 200; total &lsquo;copying&rsquo;
  pages: 71; 12 hard copies made for distribution to clubs; new ideas
  welcomed. Feedback on website from member clubs has been positive.
  </p>

  <p>Promotion: Looking for participants
  </p>

  <h5>Committee Reports</h5>

  <h6>D.O.R. Committee Report</h6>

  <p>Warren Olson: See D.O.R. Meeting Minutes for January 15, 2015.
  </p>

  <h6>Insurance</h6>

  <p>Sharon M. / Carol Ann S. - Responses received from all clubs.
  </p>

  <h6>USDA</h6>

  <p>No report. Provide DOR 57 flyer for next issue; Cost: $25.
  </p>

  <h6>CCR</h6>

  <p>Chuck Meyer: &lsquo;Beginners&rsquo; Ball&rsquo; - 3/4/15;
  &lsquo;Summer Sizzler&rsquo; - 8/8/15.
  </p>

  <h6>Current Business</h6>

  <p>Communications Liaison position: Still seeking person/people 
  <br>Financial Audits: Being done for DOR, RAF and Promendader accounts. [To be done annually.]
  <br>Nominating committee - [Terry/Warren/Sharon] to report in March.
  <br>&lsquo;Day of Dance&rsquo; - RAF invited to participate: Feb. 21 [3:30-4:00] @ Eastview.
  <br>&lsquo;Showcase of Ideas&rsquo; - Sharon to reserve a display table; June 23-27.
  </p>

  <p>Thanks to the Copy Cats for tonight&rsquo;s refreshments. 
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting will be held on Monday, February 16, 2015
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 8:45  Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>

  <h3>Dance-O-Rama Meeting Minutes &mdash; January 15, 2015</h3>

  <p>Meeting called to order @ 6:48
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren Olson, Mary Ann Lane, Sharon
  Meyer, Barbara Green and John Benesch
  </p>

  <p>Minutes from November meeting: Approved 
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Mary Ann Lane - Balance: $2302.22. Report
  provided.
  </p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama 57: Name: Rochester&rsquo;s Dance Festival. Location:
  Perinton Rec. &amp; Parks Dept., Turk Hill Road, Perinton. Date: May
  2, 2015. Ribbon colors: Lavender/purple with black printing; sample
  provided; 304 pcs. have been ordered. Dangles: Sample provided; will
  include 2 holes with rings; cost: $1.35 each plus a set-up charge;
  will sell for $2 [1] or $3 [2]; Mary Ann to order 50. There will be
  one 50/50 drawing for the dance. Basket raffle: no
  change. Responsibility matrix completed.
  </p>

  <p>The size of the dance floor to be adjusted by placement of chairs to
  outline the optimum area.
  </p>

  <p>Dining options at local restaurants [maps to be available]. $50 prize
  for the club with highest participation rate at the event [based on
  ribbons distributed].
  </p>

  <p>Flyers: Copies [300] have been printed [including map on the back].
  </p>

  <p>Callers: Dance schedule completed [ending @ 9:45]. Recommendation: Mix
  experienced dancers with new class graduates for first dance at the
  ceremony.
  </p>

  <p>Assembly of DOR packets: Date: January 24 [3 o&rsquo;clock], 2015 at
  the Meyer residence. Packets to be ready for pick-up at the February,
  2015 DOR Committee meeting. Those not picked up will be mailed to the
  RAF member clubs. Flyers to be mailed to geographically distant Square
  Dance clubs.
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting: Monday, February 16, 2015 [@6:30]. 
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 7:27
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>

  <h3>R.A.F. Meeting Minutes - November 10, 2014</h3>
  <p>
  Meeting called to order @ 7:31
  <br><br>
  Attendees: Ed &amp; Sybil Briggs, Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholdt, Carol Ann Stahl, Cynthia Whited, Warren Patterson, Ken Saffer, Jill Zimmermann, Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren Olson, Dick &amp; Irma Halstead, Mary Ann Lane, Chuck &amp; Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green and John Benesch
  <br><br>
  Secretary's Report: Approved with the following correction: Chuck &amp; Sharon Meyer were also in attendance.
  <br><br>
  Treasurer's Report: Mary Ann Lane: Balance $5922.99. Report provided. Approved!
  <br><br>
  Committee Reports:
  <br><br>
  D.O.R. Committee Report: Warren O.: See D.O.R. Meeting Minutes for the Nov. 10 meeting.
  <br><br>
  Insurance: Sharon M. / Carol Ann S. - Responses received from all clubs.
  <br><br>
  USDA: No report.
  <br><br>
  Promenader: Peter Emmel - This status was provided subsequent to our meeting:
  <br><br>
  All,
  <br><br>
  I'm sorry I was not able to make it to Monday night's RAF meeting.  No doubt you heard from Terry and Betty about how Promenader operations would be linked to the RAF and managed via a 3-person committee.  If Betty was there you may also have heard about the status of the first on-line issue, so maybe the following is redundant.
  <br><br>
  Thanks to the efforts of Sid and Betty and the experienced Promenader staff of section editors (Dick Halstead, Bonnie Allen &amp; Sharon Meyer - who organize submissions from Club Reporters), content for the first on-line Winter Promenader issue is all "in" and the Editorial/Web team is hard at work getting it organized into the new format.  We hope to have it ready for the team of proofreaders by the end of this week.
  <br><br>
  So far we have received about 200 email subscription requests and heard from a couple of club presidents who plan to print copies of at least some sectionsfor their flyer table - such as Club News, Feature Articles and the Special Events List.  Also nine people without access to computers have contacted me for paper copies, though I suspect there will be a few more after December 1st.  Hopefully most who need hard-copy will find ways to get it through friends or club leaders.
  <br><br>
  One important thought to keep in mind - and communicate to readers in your club - is that the new format will NOT be perfect and that we welcome constructive feedback from readers.  Our top priorities are to make the content complete and accurate and as accessible as we can.  But in order to get it on-line in a recognizable "Promenader" style we have had to make numerous choices and compromises.  With patience - and feedback - the format can evolve.  Comments should be sent to promenader@rochester.rr.com, with the word "FEEDBACK" in the subject line so we'll be sure not to miss it.
  <br><br>
  CCR: Chuck M. - Workshop with Tim Mariner completed last weekend.
  <br><br>
  Promotions: We are again in need of people for our Promotions Committee.
  <br><br>
  Current Business:
  <br><br>
  Still seeking person/people for the Communications Liaison position.
  Job description:<br>
  * Attend Promenader Committee and Core Group meetings<br>
  * Coordinate & facilitate the exchange of informationbetween Promenader groups and the Federation.<br>
  * Work with &amp; guide the Promotions committee.
  <br><br>
  Constitution Review Committee: (4-6 people best) to review the current Constitution and make recommendations. Terry P. /Warren O./Sharon M. +?.<br>
  RAF Club representatives are encouraged to provide input.
  <br><br>

  Thanks to the Executive Board for tonight's refreshments. 
  <br><br>
  Next meeting will be held on Thursday January 15, 2015. Refreshments will be provided by the Copy Cats.
  <br><br>
  Thank you for your participation in the Rochester Area Federation. We can't do this without YOU ! Have a wonderful holiday season!  Terry Pratt
  <br><br>
  Meeting adjourned @ 7:57
  <br><br>
  Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>

  <h3>Dance-O-Rama Meeting Minutes - November 10, 2014</h3>
  <p>
  Meeting called to order @ 6:33
  <br><br>
  Attendees: Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren Olson, Dick &amp; Irma Halstead, Mary Ann Lane, Chuck &amp; Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green and John Benesch
  <br><br>
  Minutes from October meeting: Approved with the following change: Chuck &amp; Sharon &lsquo;Meyer&rsquo; - name spelling correction
  Treasurer's Report: Mary Ann Lane - Balance: $2480.22. Report provided.
  <br><br>
  Dance-O-Rama 57: Name: Rochester's Dance Festival. Location: Perinton Rec. &amp; Parks Dept., Turk Hill Road, Perinton. Date: May 2, 2015. Colors: Lavender/purple with black printing. There will be one 50/50 drawing for the dance. Basket raffle: no change. Dining at local restaurants [maps to be available].
  <br><br>
  Dangles: Mary Ann is checking on cost &amp; format. Qty. to purchase: 50
  <br><br>
  Flyers: Warren O. to create a strawman [copy attached to mailing]. Copies to be printed by January, 2015. Qty.: 300.
  <br><br>
  Assembly of DOR packets: Date: January 24, 2015 at the Meyer residence. 
  Packets to be ready for pick-up at the February, 2015 DOR Committee meeting. Those not picked up will be mailed to the RAF member clubs. Flyers to be mailed to distant Square Dance clubs.
  <br><br>
  Transferring of funds from DOR acct. to RAF acct.: Merging of the accounts is under consideration. Further discussion in January.
  <br><br>
  Checklist of Responsibilities by clubs at the event: To be reviewed in January
  <br><br>
  Dance Schedule at DOR 57: Warren O. to develop format [w/Mike Callahan]
  <br><br>
  Next meeting: Thursday January 15, 2015. 
  <br><br>
  Meeting adjourned @ 7:14
  <br><br>
  Enjoy your holiday season! Thank you for your work on this committee.
  <br><br>
  Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>


page: history
part: body
content:
  <h3>Scanned Back Issues of the Promenader</h3>

  <p>
  With the donation of (almost) all of the printed Promenaders by Dick
  Halstead and the donation of more issure to fill in some missing
  publications by Betty and Andy Ludwig and Jack Kramer I have now scanned and
  upload all of the promenader issues to the federation website.
  </p>
  <p>
  I am still missing some pages from earlier issues (Sept 1968, April
  1976, Oct 1983). Please contact me if you have these issues.
  </p>
  <p>
  Here are links to scanned images of the back issues of the Promenader.
  </p>
  <p>
  Note that Promenader issues are filed by date rather than by volume
  and issue. If an issue spans multiple months it is filed under the
  first month of the issue.
  </p>


page: promenader
part: date
content:
  <div class="issue">
  <hr class="orange">
  <p>VOLUME LXIII, NO. 1 &bull; ROCHESTER, NEW YORK &bull; WINTER 2024&ndash;1 &bull; FREE</p>
  <hr class="orange">
  </div>


page: promenader
part: calendartop
content:
  <hr class="orange3">
  <div class="center">
  <a name="specialdances"></a>
  <p><span class="big3">CALENDAR </span><span class="italic2">of Coming Special Events</span></p>
  <p><i>(For information about listing your event here, please see <a href="publicationstaff.html#special">Listing Your Special Event</a> in the &ldquo;PUBLICATION AND STAFF INFO&rdquo; section.)
  </i></p></div>


page: newdancer
part: body
content:
  <p>Welcome to square dancing &mdash; a casual, non-competitive social
  activity that <a href="articles/articles-2023-09.html#484">helps you
  stay healthy</a> and connected. This web site helps Rochester area
  &ldquo;round and square&rdquo; dancers keep up to date on dance
  schedules and news from dance clubs in Western New York. In our area
  there are numerous active clubs dancing in two overlapping formats.
  One of these is &ldquo;western-style&rdquo; square dancing (THE
  American Folk Dance) and the other is &ldquo;cued&rdquo; ballroom
  dancing (known as &ldquo;round dancing&rdquo; because the dancers
  progress around a circle). (For video demonstrations, take a look at
  <a href="http://www.you2candance.com/"
  target="_blank">You2CanDance</a> link.)</p>

  <h3>What We Do</h3>

  <p>This type of dancing is a low-key social activity that involves a
  healthy amount of exercise for body and mind and gets us out among
  friends on a regular basis. Some clubs dance weekly, while others
  dance every other week or monthly. Dance fees are modest - generally
  around $7 per person - and venues are mostly schools and church
  fellowship halls. Although this type of dancing is done in couples,
  there are clubs that are geared for singles and many
  &ldquo;couples&rsquo; clubs&rdquo; also accommodate dancers who do not
  have partners.</p>

  <h3>Music &amp; Clothing</h3>

  <p>Square dancing is often associated with country music and western
  clothing, but special clothing is not required at most dances, and you
  would be amazed at the variety of musical styles that some of our
  local callers use - from &ldquo;Phantom of the Opera&rdquo; to
  &ldquo;Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer&rdquo; and everything in
  between!</p>

  <h3>Instruction</h3>

  <p>All of our square dance callers and round dance cuers teach classes
  that can take you from novice to expert. However, it is not necessary
  to become an expert to enjoy this healthy and universal social
  activity. New classes generally form in early Fall and there is a good
  chance that one of them is near you. From &ldquo;day one&rdquo; you are dancing, and
  the more you dance the more familiar and comfortable you become with
  the various steps.</p>

  <h3>Getting Started</h3>

  <p>Clubs offering beginner classes usually start the dance season with
  a September "Open House" event, to introduce newcomers to square
  dancing. An open house is a dance party where anybody can participate
  because no prior knowledge is assumed. These are a great way to get
  a taste of what square dancing is like without making a commitment.
  Click <A href="index.html#openhouse">HERE</a> to see a list and
  choose one in your area or at a time when you are available.</p>

  <h3>Pardon Our Dust</h3>

  <p>Our web site is still under construction, but we have plans to list
  class dates and details as well as provide a more complete
  introduction to this activity that so many of us enjoy.</p>

  <h3>Browse Our Site</h3>

  <p>Meanwhile, we invite you to browse our site and get a sense of the
  square dancing community in Western New York. In addition to <a
  href="schedule/clubdancelist.html">Schedules</a> and listings of <a
  href="clubs.html">Clubs</a> and <a
  href="callerscuers.html">Callers</a>, the &ldquo;Promenader&rdquo;
  pages contain &ldquo;<a href="articles/news-2024-12.html">Club
  News</a>&rdquo; from each club and &ldquo;<a
  href="articles/articles-2024-12.html">Photos and Features</a>&rdquo;
  with articles about dance-related activities in the area. There is
  also a section with &ldquo;<a href="thumbnails.html">Flyers</a>&rdquo; and
  notices of up-coming dances and <a
  href="promenader.html#specialdances">Events</a>. In addition to using
  the links in this paragraph, you can also open these sections and
  others by clicking the yellow circles and squares on the <a
  href="promenader.html">Promenader</a> page.
  </p>

  <p>For a guide (created by one of our dancers) that will introduce
  you to these and other resources available on our site, you can click
  <a href="RAF-WebGuide.pdf">HERE</a>.</p>
  <h3>Our Facebook Page</h3>

  <p>We are present on Facebook. If you are already a Facebook member,
  you can find us as &ldquo;Square Dancing Rochester&rdquo; or click <a
  href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/315003042261167/">Square
  Dancing Rochester</a> (login required). If you are new to facebook,
  here&rsquo;s how to <a href="CreateFacebookAccount.pdf">Create a
  Facebook Account</a>.</p>

  <h3>Web Links</h3>

  <p>You can search the web and find a great deal of information about
  square dancing. If you haven&rsquo;t already looked at <a
  href="http://www.you2candance.com" target="_blank">You 2 Can
  Dance</a>, we suggest you start there. If you have already started
  square dancing and would like to see clear demonstrations of the
  various calls, we recommend the <a
  href="http://videosquaredancelessons.com/lessons"
  target="_blank">SaddleBrooke Video Lessons</a>.</p>

  <p>Most square dancing and round dancing is enjoyed locally, with
  friends in local clubs, but the same calls and cues are used across
  the country and around the world. Almost everywhere you go, there are
  friendly people dancing. You can find them by contacting regional and
  national square dance organizations, and you can find dances
  worldwide at sites like &ldquo;<a
  href="https://www.wheresthedance.com/">Where&rsquo;s The
  Dance</a>&rdquo;.</p>

  <p>The following link will take you to the Finger Lakes Area Council of
  Western Square and Round Dance Clubs, our neighboring regional
  organization, representing dancers in central New York and northern
  Pennsylvania: <a href="http://www.squaredancefingerlakes.com/" target="_blank">Finger Lakes Area Council of Western Square and Round Dance Clubs</a>.</p>

  <h3>Come Dance With Us!</h3>

  <p>All around our area there are dancers who will welcome you to join
  them. We look forward to meeting you on the dance floor soon!</p>


page: thumbnails
part: body
content:
  <p>Browse our ads and flyers by scrolling through the full array of thumbnails.  Click on an individual thumbnail to open it as a full-sized PDF file for download or printing.</p>


page: key
part: body
content:
  <H4>Key to Codes</H4>

      <TABLE class="left">
        <TR><TD>W = 1/2 hour Workshop or Teach at start of dance</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>WH = 1/2 hr. Workshop, Then 1/2 hour Rounds at start of dance</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>B = Basic Program (Callerlab eliminated September 2026) </TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>M = Mainstream Program</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>P = Plus Program</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>A1tip = Advanced 1 tip</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>A2 = Advanced 2 Program</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>D = Dancing by Definition</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>R = Rounds between Tips</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>H = 1/2 hour of Rounds at start of dance</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>HH = 1 Hour of Rounds at start of dance</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>HA = 1/2 hour of Rounds after the dance</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>L = Line Dancing</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>RDC = Round Dance Club numbers following indicate levels</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>O = Open House</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>X = Community Dance</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>F = Free Dance</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>N = National/International Caller or Cuer</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>CA = Choice of Attire</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>+ = See the Promenader or contact the club</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>* = Classes Invited</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>v = Visiting Caller</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>^ = Visiting Cuer</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD># = All Singing Calls</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>$ = Reservations Required</TD></TR>
        <TR><TD>= = Dance Closed (members only)</TD></TR>
      </TABLE>


page: faq
part: body
content:
  <h3>Frequently Asked Questions
  About the ePromenader and the new WNYF Web Site</h3>

  <p>The Promenader began publication in October, 1962, as the official
  newsletter of the Rochester Area Federation of Round and Square Dance
  Clubs. Over the years since then, a long list of dedicated volunteer
  editors diligently composed and mailed out the Promenader, using the
  most practical technology at their disposal. They gathered and
  assembled news and dance schedules from WNYF member clubs, as well as
  flyers and ads for special dances and events, and articles about
  topics of interest to dancers. Their energy and creativity kept it
  lively and its circulation growing. Until 2000, the Promenader was
  composed, printed and distributed monthly (except for the summer
  months), but as printing and mailing expenses rose, the schedule was
  reduced to bi-monthly and eventually quarterly.</p>

  <p>The advent of personal computers, tablets and smart phones helped
  to spread the production load, with page composition done
  electronically and with article submission and proofreading done via
  email. But even with a nearly-all-electronic process, the Promenader
  was still printed in booklet form on the familiar yellow paper and
  mailed to subscribers. Income from the $10 yearly subscription price
  did not fully cover the cost of printing and mailing, so a fundraiser
  dance and fashion sale was held late in September every year.</p>

  <p>Beginning in June, 2014, when no successor could be found to follow
  retiring long-time general editors, Betty and Andy Ludwick, a group of
  interested dancers calling themselves the &ldquo;Promenader
  Perpetuation Panel&rdquo; met to outline the parameters of an on-line
  Promenader. Besides the obvious benefit of avoiding the cost and
  headaches of printing and mailing, they were determined to preserve as
  much as possible of the traditional look and feel of the printed
  version, while at the same time reducing the burden on the general
  editor. A concept was developed and approved for blending the
  traditional Promenader content with the WNYF website. Over that summer,
  Betty and Andy Ludwick and Sidney Marshall (WNYF webmaster) brought the
  concept to life by developing the graphics and linkages that you see
  here now. The first electronic issue was posted on September 1, 2014,
  in parallel with the final printed edition on the same date.</p>

  <p>Many of us (including the &ldquo;Perpetuation Panel&rdquo;) greatly
  miss the printed Promenader, but it was impossible to continue it
  without an editor with the time and skills to carry it on. The
  electronic version is not the same, but it does have a few side
  benefits besides its extremely low cost and a manageable production
  workload. For one thing, it allows color photos and flyers. It also
  allows flyers to be linked to schedule listings; it allows listings to
  be updated any time new information is available; it makes WNYF
  information (such as meeting schedule, minutes, forms and by-laws
  accessible; and it has greatly extended the use of the WNYF schedule
  database throughout the dancing community in Rochester and
  beyond. True, it does not fit well on your coffee table, but it makes
  past articles and other content available instantly without having to
  save a stack of back issues.</p>

  <p>We hope the following questions and answers will cover most of what
  you need or want to know about the Promenader and the WNYF
  website. Please let us know if there is something else we should
  cover. Our email address is promenader@rochester.rr.com.</p>


page: sandhome
part: front
content:
  <h1>ePromenader Proofreading</h1>
  <p>Here are links to sections of the web site that need to be proofread.
  Proofreading suggestions are after the links.
  </p>
  <p><a href="news.html">Club News for Proofreading</a></p>
  <p><a href="articles.html">Other Articles for Proofreading</a></p>
  <p><a href="../sitemap.html">Prototype site map</a></p>
  <p><a href="../fullsitemap/sitemap1.html">Prototype full site map</a></p>
  <p><a href="../cgi-bin/cgiscript.cgi">Test CGI script</a></p>
  <p><a href="../cgi-bin/log.cgi">Test CGI script logs</a></p>
  <p><a href="x/test.html">Test password protection. Test user is fed. Password is wnyfx.</a></p>


page: sandhome
part: back
content:
  <p><a href="../ePromenaderSubmissionGuidelines-2025-03-01.pdf">ePromenaderSubmissionGuidelines</a>
  </p>

  <h3>Links to parts of the "live" website for consistency checking</h3>
  <p><a href="../specialevents.html">Special Events</a></p>
  <p><a href="../schedule/clubdancelist.html">Dances Sorted by Club</a></p>
  <p><a href="../classclub.html">Class / Club Dances</a></p>
  <p><a href="../thumbnails.html">Flyers</a></p>

  <h3>Proofreading Process</h3>
  <p>The proofreading process is currently:</p>
  <ol class="number">
    <li> Section Editors (Club News, Schedules, Class/Club) do a
  first-pass edit of their particular section from the
  &ldquo;bundled&rdquo; submissions that the Login Editor prepares
  (dickhalstead@gmail.com).  This includes the following steps:
    <ol class="lower">
      <li> Logging into the Promenader Roadrunner account and download
      their particular bundle (copy/paste or forward to yourself, etc.)
      <li> Organize the copy into the appropriate format for their
      section.
      <li> Make the obvious corrections (spelling, punctuation &amp;
      basic grammar).
      <li> Identify any gaps (missing clubs, missing or confusing
      information, etc) and bring them to the Editor&rsquo;s attention
      via email to Promenader.
      <li> Send the resulting prepared section back to the Promenader
      inbox, with CC to the Webmaster (sidneym@frontiernet.net)
    </ol>

    <li> Webmaster processes each section, as follows:
    <ol class="lower">
      <li> For &ldquo;Articles&rdquo; and Obituaries: Pull these from
      the Roadrunner email (in a folder named "&hellip; Articles") and
      post to the Sandbox.
      <li> For Club Schedules, Class/Club Schedules, Event Listings, and
      Flyers: Process edited files from the Inbox and post to the live
      website
      <li> For &ldquo;Club News&rdquo; and &ldquo;Articles&rdquo; the
      Webmaster posts edited copy to the Sandbox.
      <li> When each wave of items is posted to the Sandbox, send an
      alert email to proofreaders, with CC to the Promenader.
    </ol>

    <li> Proofreaders comb Club News and Articles in the Sandbox for any
    remaining issues.
    <ol class="lower">
      <li> List corrections in the body of an email to the Promenader,
         with CC to the Webmaster and all other proofreaders.  (Please
         note that Eileen wishes to be removed from the proofreader
         list.)
      <li> Use the Subject Line of your email to identify the SECTION
      you are referring to (Example: &ldquo;CLUB NEWS -
      CORRECTIONS&rdquo;)
      <li> After the Webmaster has posted a corrected version, take
      another look to see if anything was missed in the 1st round.
      <li> Use &ldquo;quick links&rdquo; on he Sandbox page to navigate
      to the current &ldquo;live&rdquo; WNYF site for checking facts and
      consistency.
    </ol>

    <li> When all pages are acceptable, the Webmaster will post them on
    the &ldquo;live&rdquo; WNYF web site and alert the Editor.
    <ol class="lower">
      <li> This will be on or before the scheduled publication date.
    </ol>
  </ol>






  <h3>Dance Schedules</h3>
  <p>I put up dance schedules when I receive them and do not wait for the 3-month cycle. The easiest way to proofread a club's schedule is to go to the schedules page and click on "Sorted by Clubs". This will get all of the dances sorted by clubs.
  </p>
  <h3>Proofreading Guidelines</h3>
  <p>The sandbox is a copy of the web pages that will be published after the proofreading process. If you see something you don&rsquo;t like be sure to mention it. However, the web is different from print media and web pages will look different on different web browsers. In particular, line breaks will be different on different browsers fonts are up to the browser. Certain characters on the web are handled specially:</p>
  <ul>
  <li>&quot; Quotation mark
  <li>&amp;  Ampersand
  <li>&lt; Less-than sign
  <li>&gt; Greater-than sign
  <li>&lsquo; Open single quote
  <li>&rsquo; Close single quote
  <li>&ldquo; Open double quotes
  <li>&rdquo; Close double quotes
  <li>&ndash; En dash
  <li>&mdash; Em dash
  <li>&bull; Bullet
  <li>&nbsp; Non-breaking space
  <li>&hellip; Horizontal ellipsis
  </ul>
  <p>
  I attempt to fix these characters when I first put up content to the web. Please check all of the quotes and flag any &ldquo;straight quotes&rdquo; you find. Also note any strange characters. I replace all dashes with a hyphen &ldquo;-&rdquo; but the Em dash and En dash are available if you think they are appropriate.
  </p>
  <p>When pointing out errors please give the paragraph and some context for the error. Different web browsers break lines differently so counting lines is not very useful.
  </p>
  <!--
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  <nav class="hs">
    <ul>
      <li><a href="#x1">Home</a></li>
      <li><a href="#x2">Tutorials</a>
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            </ul>
          </li>
        </ul>
      </li>
      <li><a href="#xA">Articles</a>
        <ul>
          <li><a href="#xB">Web Design</a></li>
          <li><a href="#xC">User Experience</a></li>
        </ul>
      </li>
      <li><a href="#xD">Inspiration</a></li>
    </ul>
  </nav>
  <hr>
  <p>style vs</p>
  <nav class="vs">
    <ul>
      <li><a href="#x1">Home</a></li>
      <li><a href="#x2">Tutorials</a>
        <ul>
          <li><a href="#x3">Photoshop</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x4">Illustrator</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x5">Web Design</a>
          <ul>
            <li><a href="#x6">HTML</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x7">HTML1</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x8">CSS1</a></li>
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              <li><a href="#x9">CSS</a></li>
            </ul>
          </li>
        </ul>
      </li>
      <li><a href="#xA">Articles</a>
        <ul>
          <li><a href="#xB">Web Design</a></li>
          <li><a href="#xC">User Experience</a></li>
        </ul>
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      <li><a href="#xD">Inspiration</a></li>
    </ul>
  </nav>
  <hr>
  <p>style hs xv</p>
  <nav class="hs xv">
    <ul>
      <li><a href="#x1">Home</a></li>
      <li><a href="#x2">Tutorials</a>
        <ul>
          <li><a href="#x3">Photoshop</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x4">Illustrator</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x5">Web Design</a>
          <ul>
            <li><a href="#x6">HTML</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x7">HTML1</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x8">CSS1</a></li>
            </ul>
              <li><a href="#x9">CSS</a></li>
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  <nav class="vs xh">
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      <li><a href="#x2">Tutorials</a>
        <ul>
          <li><a href="#x3">Photoshop</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x4">Illustrator</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x5">Web Design</a>
          <ul>
            <li><a href="#x6">HTML</a>
            <ul>
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          <li><a href="#xB">Web Design</a></li>
          <li><a href="#xC">User Experience</a></li>
        </ul>
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      <li><a href="#xD">Inspiration</a></li>
    </ul>
  </nav>
  <hr>
  <p>style vh</p>
  <nav class="vh">
    <ul>
      <li><a href="#x1">Home</a></li>
      <li><a href="#x2">Tutorials</a>
        <ul>
          <li><a href="#x3">Photoshop</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x4">Illustrator</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x5">Web Design</a>
          <ul>
            <li><a href="#x6">HTML</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x7">HTML1</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x8">CSS1</a></li>
            </ul>
              <li><a href="#x9">CSS</a></li>
            </ul>
          </li>
        </ul>
      </li>
      <li><a href="#xA">Articles</a>
        <ul>
          <li><a href="#xB">Web Design</a></li>
          <li><a href="#xC">User Experience</a></li>
        </ul>
      </li>
      <li><a href="#xD">Inspiration</a></li>
    </ul>
  </nav>
  <hr>
  <p>style vv</p>
  <nav class="vv">
    <ul>
      <li><a href="#x1">Home</a></li>
      <li><a href="#x2">Tutorials</a>
        <ul>
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          <li><a href="#x4">Illustrator</a></li>
          <li><a href="#x5">Web Design</a>
          <ul>
            <li><a href="#x6">HTML</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x7">HTML1</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x8">CSS1</a></li>
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              <li><a href="#x010">Zero One Zero</a></li>
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            </ul>
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          <li><a href="#x02">Zero Two</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x020">Zero Two Zero</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x021">Zero Two One</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x022">Zero Two Two</a></li>
            </ul>
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        <ul>
          <li><a href="#x10">One Zero</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x100">One Zero Zero</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x101">One Zero One</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x102">One Zero Two</a></li>
            </ul>
          </li>
          <li><a href="#x11">One One</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x110">One One Zero</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x111">One One One</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x112">One One Two</a></li>
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          <li><a href="#x12">One Two</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x120">One Two Zero</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x121">One Two One</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x122">One Two Two</a></li>
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        <ul>
          <li><a href="#x20">Two Zero</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x200">Two Zero Zero</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x201">Two Zero One</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x202">Two Zero Two</a></li>
            </ul>
          </li>
          <li><a href="#x21">Two One</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x210">Two One Zero</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x211">Two One One</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x212">Two One Two</a></li>
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          </li>
          <li><a href="#x22">Two Two</a>
            <ul>
              <li><a href="#x220">Two Two Zero</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x221">Two Two One</a></li>
              <li><a href="#x222">Two Two Two</a></li>
            </ul>
          </li>
        </ul>
      </li>
    </ul>
  </nav>


  <p>
  xxx<br>xxx<br>xxx<br>xxx<br>xxx<br>xxx<br>xxx<br>xxx<br>xxx<br>xxx<br>
  </p>
  -->


page: publicationstaff
part: subscribe
content:
  <h3>To Subscribe</h3>
  <p>Online subscriptions: Put SUBSCRIBE in the subject box, and email
  to promenader@rochester.rr.com. In the body of your message, please include your name and club affiliation.
  </p>
  <p>Online subscribers receive an email alert when each new issue is posted. All content is available to everyone even if you do not subscribe.
  </p>


page: sitemap
part: a
content:
  <div>
  <h1>Site Map&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="faq.html">FAQ</a></h1>
  <p>Here is a direct link to (almost) every page on this web site.
  </p>
  <ul class="nobullet">
    <li><a href="newdancer.html">Welcome to new dancers</a>
    <li><a href="clubs.html">Our Clubs</a> - listing of clubs and contacts
    <ul>
      <li><b>Club Web Sites (if available)</b>
      <ul>


page: sitemap
part: b
content:
      </ul>
    </ul>
    <li><a href="federation.html">The Western NY Federation</a>
    <ul>
      <li><a href="whoswho.html">Who&rsquo;s Who</a>


page: sitemap
part: c
content:
      <li><a href="formsanddocuments.html">WNYF Forms</a>
      <li><a href="WNYFentry.html">Meetings and Minutes</a>
      <li><a href="history/history.html">History</a>
      <li><a href="publicationstaff.html">Publication / Staff Info</a>
      <li><a href="thumbnails.html">Ads and Flyers</a>
      <li><a href="callerscuers.html">Callers and Cuers</a>
      <li><a href="clubs.html">Club Presidents and Contact Information</a>
      <li><a href="awards/awards.html">Awards</a>
    </ul>


page: federation
part: body
content:
  <div>
      <h2>The Western New York Federation of Square and Round Dancers</h2>
      <div class=twocolumn>

  <h4>About Us</h4>
  <p>
  The Western New York Federation of Square and Round Dancers is a
  regional organization of dance clubs in the Rochester area, as well
  as parts of the Buffalo and Finger Lakes regions. The
  Federation&rsquo;s purpose is to promote interest in round dancing
  and square dancing through a variety of activities, and to provide a
  forum for coordination among its affiliated clubs as well as the
  Callers Co&ndash;op of Rochester. The Federation&rsquo;s executive
  Board meets with club representatives most months to keep clubs
  up-to-date and help coordinate inter-club
  activities.
  <br><br>
  The premier Federation&ndash;organized event is the annual
  <a href="flyers/DORcurrent.pdf" target="_blank">Dance&ndash;O&ndash;Rama</a> festival, generally held on the first Saturday in May.
  </p>

  <h4>Our Clubs: <a href="clubs.html">see Our Clubs Page</a></h4>
  <p>
  Most days or evenings there is a club dancing somewhere in our area: 
  Auburn, Batavia, Bath, Campbell, Chili,
  Dalton, Fulton, Geneva, Henrietta, Penfield, Penn Yan, Pittsford, Greece, Snyder, and
  Webster. See each club&rsquo;s page for contact information.
  <br><br>
  Many of these clubs offer instruction in square dancing and/or round
  dancing. Clubs often begin the season with an &ldquo;Open House&rdquo;
  event geared to those with no dancing experience at all. Most of these occur in
  September. Our <A href="newdancer.html">Information</a> page has a listing of our clubs
  that are planning to hold Open Houses and offer instruction for beginners.
  </p>

  <div style='margin-top:140px'></div>

  <h4>Latest News:  see News &amp; Photos Page</h4>
  <p>
  This web site is also home to our online news.  Here you will find articles, and photos
  covering the activities of our many round and square dance clubs. 
  Updates are posted at least every three months &mdash; on the first day of
  March, June, September, and December.
  </p>

  <h4>Support for New Dancer Recruitment and Retention</h4>
  <p>
  The WNYF helps its member clubs to attract and retain new dancers by
   reimbursing part or all of their promotion and recruitment expenses.
   The program descriptions
   and downloadable forms are provided in the 
  <a href="formsanddocuments.html">&ldquo;WNYF Forms &amp; Documents&rdquo; section</a>.
  </p>

  <h4>Our Facebook Page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/315003042261167/" target="_blank">Square Dancing Rochester</a></h4>
  <p>
  For announcements, photos and &ldquo;late-breaking&rdquo; news
  you can follow us on Facebook.
  </p>

  <h4>Helping Clubs Increase the Number of Dancers Who Visit From Other Clubs</h4>
  <p>
  Banner Stealing is a fun way for clubs to draw visiting dancers from
  other clubs. Dancers from your club attend another club&rsquo;s dance and,
  by demonstrating dancing skills and good will, earn the right to
  bring home their &ldquo;traveling&rdquo; banner&nbsp;&hellip; then dancers from
  the other club will have to come to one of your dances to earn it
  back. It&rsquo;s a great way to enlarge your circle of dancing friends. The
  WNYF facilitates this attendance-boosting activity by identifying
  participating clubs by including their banner stealing interest on their 
  club information page and by 
  publishing the <a href="bannerstealing.html">Banner Stealing Rules</a>.  
  </p>
  </div>
  </div>


page: callerscuers
part: top
content:
  <p>CCR callers and cuers are members of the Caller&rsquo;s Co-operative of Rochester. Non-CCR callers and cuers are either from outside the Rochester area or are local non-members.
  </p>


page: sitemap
part: e
content:
  </ul>
  <p><a href="schedule/danceschedules.html">Dance Schedules</a></p>
  <p><a href="sandbox/index.html">Work area for constructing this web site - information here is unproofread, ungrammatical, misspelled, misleading, and wrong</a></p>


page: promenader
part: bulleta
content:
  <ul>
  <li><span class="sc">Click inside a square or circle above to choose the section you wish to view.</span>


page: promenader
part: bulletb
content:
  <li><span class="sc">Frequently asked questions are answered <a href="faq.html">HERE</a>.</span>
  <li><span class="sc">For links to downloadable print-optimized pages click <a href="printpdfs.html">HERE</a>. For other help with printing click <a href="faq.html#Q4">HERE</a>.</span>
  <li><span class="sc">To return to this page, click the promenader logo at the top of whichever page you are viewing.</span>
  <li><span class="sc">To view the &ldquo;calendar of coming special events&rdquo; (below), scroll this page.</span>
  <li><span class="sc">For a list of Open House events in the fall issue only, click <A href="index.html#openhouse">HERE</a>.</span>
  </ul>


page: publicationstaff
part: about1
content:
  <h3>About the Promenader&hellip;</h3>
  <p>This publication includes information to help Round and Square
  Dancers stay informed about dance activities planned for Rochester,
  NY, and surrounding areas. It is divided into eight sections, as
  indicated by the yellow buttons on the Promenader page. Return to the
  Promenader Home Page by clicking the &ldquo;Promenader&rdquo; button
  at the top of this and every other page.
  </p>
  <p>Some sections, such as the DANCE SCHEDULES, can also be accessed
  via the HOME page and the FEDERATION page. Navigate back to the
  Promenader, Federation or Main Home pages by using the buttons at the
  top of each page.
  </p>
  <p>Please click 


page: publicationstaff
part: about2
content:
   to read our <i>Editor&rsquo;s message</i> for the current issue, and
   please click <a href="faq.html">HERE</a> for answers to
   <i>Frequently-Asked Questions</i> about the
   &ldquo;ePromenader&rdquo; and its online presence and the new WNYF
   web site. The FAQ explains many of the choices that were made in
   creating the new format. Click <a href="faq.html#Q4">HERE</a> for
   advice on how to save paper and ink when printing the various
   sections.
  </p>
  <p>We hope this publication will keep you as informed as possible
  about Square and Round Dancing in our area. You may contact us at:
  Promenader@rochester.rr.com
  </p>
  <p><br></p>


page: formsanddocuments
part: body
content:
  <p>This page provides a link to the WNYF Constitution and By-Laws. It also
  contains descriptions of WNYF club reimbursement and insurance
  programs, providing links to further information and/or downloadable
  forms.
  </p>

  <h1>WNYF Documents</h1>

  <h2 id="constitution">1) Constitution And By-Laws</h2>

  <p>Click <a href = "WNYFedSqRoundDncrsIncbylaws.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> to
  download a copy of the Constitution and By-Laws of the Western New York Federation of Square and Round Dancers, which was last
  updated on April 10, 2024.
  </p>
  <h2 id="2=membership">2) Membership and Renewal Form</h2>

  <p>The club renewal form is <a
  href="WNYFMembershipForm.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</p>

  <h2 id="promotion">3) Club Promotion, Recruitment and Dancer Retention Funding Programs</h2>

  <p>As our Constitution states, one of the main purposes of the Federation
  is to &ldquo;promote interest in Western style Round and Square
  Dancing&rdquo;. The Federation is supporting 2 different financial
  assistance programs to help clubs as they &ldquo;promote&rdquo; themselves.
  </p>

  <h3>3a) New Dancer Advertising Reimbursement Program</h3>

  <p>(Click <a href = "AdvertisingReimbursementForm-2025-05-10.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> to view or
  download the reimbursement form as a PDF file)
  </p>
  <p>The intention of this program is to help clubs offset the cost of
  advertising for open houses or other events intended to get new
  dancers into square dancing. Advertising can include a variety of
  things including promotion over Internet, radio and print media such
  as lawn signs, posters, and flyers. Valid expenses may include
  printing cost and posting cost / air time. The reimbursement is limited to a
  maximum of $60 per club per calendar year. Valid expense receipts
  should be submitted to the WNY Federation Treasurer with your
  application form. This reimbursement is NOT guaranteed. The WNY Federation
  has the right to deny a reimbursement application. If denied, the President
  will send an explanation to the Club.
  </p>
  <h3>3b) New Dancer Recruitment and Dance Retention Grant Program</h3>

  <p>(Click <a href = "RecruitmentRetentionGrantForm2025-04-05.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> to view or
  download the grant form as a PDF file)
  </p>
  <p>Even with our &ldquo;normal&rdquo; open houses and club dancing, we are still
  losing a good percentage of our dancers at the end of each
  season. These dancers are not being replaced. Therefore &ldquo;special&rdquo; or
  &ldquo;different&rdquo; events may be necessary to get new dancers or retain the
  ones we have. Events can be anything from advertising, to a community
  event, to special dances, etc. In order to potentially help both
  organizationally and financially with a special event, the WNY
  Federation created the New Dancer Recruitment and Dancer Retention
  Program for our clubs.
  </p>
  <p>The financial aspect of the grant program will be tracked by the WNY
  Federation treasurer. A club may only use one grant per calendar
  year. The club completes a grant form PRIOR to the event and submits
  it to the Federation President. The grant form gives the Federation
  the intention of the event and how the success of the event will be
  measured. The Federation President / Board may provide suggestions on
  enhancing or optimizing the event or may encourage other clubs&rsquo;
  participation. The Federation President may approve funding of up to
  $125 per Club per year. After the event, the updated grant form along
  with supporting receipts are sent to the Federation Treasurer. Payment
  will be sent to the Club.
  </p>
  <p>We hope these programs will be utilized by all clubs to help thrive
  and grow and therefore make square dancing in the Western New York
  area stronger.
  </p>

  <h2 id="caller">4) WNYF Caller Grant Program</h2>
  <p>
  The WNYF Board established 2 caller grants:
  <br><br>
  1. Grant for up to $350 to be used towards the costs of a CallerLab accredited 30+ hour training/school/education and lodging expenses.
  <br><br>
  2. A $50 grant for any type of caller instruction clinic. 
  <br><br>
  The Mike Callahan Caller Grant will fund the accredited 30+ hour calling school grants.  These grants are open to all perspective callers who are currently a member of one of our WNYF clubs. It is recommended any person considering calling school should call a song or two (singer or patter) to see if they really like it before attending a school and applying for grants. <strong>We would encourage perspective callers to apply for both the WNYF sponsored caller grant and Callerlab Caller education grants (if eligible) to defray the costs of training/school/education and lodging expenses as much as possible.</strong>
  <br><br>
  A WNYF grant requirement is that the applicant has a WNYF caller mentoring them and recommending them to attend caller training/school/education. 
  </p>

  <h2 id="insurance">5) WNYF / USDA Insurance Forms</h2>

  <p>The WNYF makes insurance available to member clubs by participating in
  the United Square Dancers of America (USDA) &ldquo;Dancers Insurance
  Program.&rdquo; Every year the WNYF Insurance Coordinator distributes
  insurance enrollment materials to club representatives, collects
  completed forms, submits them to the USDA, then receives and
  distributes the resulting certificates of insurance.
  </p>
  <p>In most cases, this is all that&rsquo;s required for the whole
  season. But if additional forms are needed, they can be downloaded
  from the USDA website using the links below.
  </p>
  <ul>
  <li><b>Click <a href = "http://www.usda.org/insuranc.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a> for the
  USDA Insurance Program Home page</b>, with an overview of the program and
  links to further information, frequently asked questions and forms.

  <li><b>Click <a href =
  "http://www.usda.org/insurance%20forms%20and%20info.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a> to
  go straight to the USDA forms page</b>. Club reps who download and
  complete the form(s) should print, fill out and mail the completed
  form(s) to the WNYF Insurance Coordinator, to be forwarded to the
  proper USDA contact.
  </ul>
  <p>Following is a list of the most common forms you may need from the
  USDA site. You can download these forms and PRINT them, then fill
  them out and mail them to the WNYF insurance coordinator.
  </p>
  <ul>
  <li><b>&ldquo;Accident Report Form&rdquo;</b> (and related information sheet:
  &ldquo;Club Accident Procedures&rdquo;)&nbsp;&mdash;
  All clubs should have a copy of these handy in case of an accident.

  <li><b>&ldquo;Additional Dancer Enrollment Form&rdquo;</b>&nbsp;&mdash; to add
  dancers who were not on your original annual club roster.

  <li><b>&ldquo;Club Class Form&rdquo;</b>&nbsp;&mdash; to add class members who
  were not on your original annual class roster.

  <li><b>&ldquo;Request for Certificate&rdquo;</b>&nbsp;&mdash; to add a new venue
  or other special event not covered by your original submission.
  </ul>
  <p>The same USDA forms page also has various information sheets and
  resources that you can download:
  <ul>
  <li><b>Club Accident Procedures</b>

  <li><b>When How &amp; Where to file a Claim</b>

  <li>Summary of Coverage (called &ldquo;Part 1 and 2 Information&rdquo;)

  <li>Further explanation of coverage and limitations (called
  &ldquo;Insurance Program Additional Information Sheet&rdquo;)

  <li>Group travel coverage and Explanation of &ldquo;Additional
  Insured&rdquo; (called &ldquo;Insurance Program Information&rdquo;)

  <li><b>Dancers Code of Ethics and Conduct</b>
  </ul>

  <h2 id="ecma">6) ECMA &ldquo;Dancer Down&rdquo; Formation And Guidelines For
  MEDICAL EMERGENCY During a Dance</h2>

  <p>Click <a href = "ECMA.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> to
  download a useful sheet that&rsquo;s related to dancer health and
  safety. It explains the ECMA &ldquo;dancer down&rdquo; formation,
  which is the universally recommended procedure to follow when a dancer
  goes down during a tip. (ECMA stands for &ldquo;Emergency Call for
  Medical Aid.&rdquo;)
  </p>

  <h2 id="covid">7) Positive Covid Test Notification Procedure for WNYF Clubs</h2>

  <p>
  With COVID cases on a seasonal rise, it&rsquo;s important to inform
  dancers of potential exposures. When a dancer tests positive and/or
  comes down with Covid following attendance at a WNTF event, it is the
  host club&rsquo;s duty to inform other dancers of potential exposure.
  Please click <a href="CovidProtocol.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for the
  &ldquo;Positive COVID Test Notification Procedure&rdquo; that the
  WNYF adopted at its November 2023 meeting. To reduce the odds of
  viral spreading, it&rsquo;s also important to take extra care to have
  enough hand sanitizer dispensers &ldquo;on hand&rdquo; at your
  dances.
  </p>

  <h2 id="etiquette">8) Square Dance Etiquette</h2>

  <p>
  Square dancing is wonderful activity that is essentially a team sport.  It's critical to the fun, and success of dancing that everyone treats others in a respectful manor.  Here are several documents and flyers to help remind dancers and educate new dancers about square dancing etiquette.
  </p>

  <a href = "https://www.squaredancingrochester.org/EtiquetteArticle-2026-01-20.pdf" target="_blank">Download etiquette article</a>
  &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
  <a href = "https://www.squaredancingrochester.org/EtiquetteDoc-2025-04-03.pdf" target="_blank">Download etiquette document</a>
  &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
  <a href = "https://www.squaredancingrochester.org/EtiquetteFlyer-2025-04-03.pdf" target="_blank">Download etiquette flyer</a>       


page: wnyfindex
part: meetings
content:
  <p> Click <a href="flyers/Federation-2025-06-18.pdf" target="_blank"> Meeting Summary</a> for a PDF summary of the meetings listed above.
  <p>Minutes of the WNYF are <a href="WNYFdocs/index.html">here</a>, you will need a password.</p>
  <p>Historical minutes of the RAF are not yet available.</p>


page: home
part: reference
content:
  <div>
  <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/315003042261167/" target="_blank"><img src="jpg/Facebook_Logo_Primary.jpg"></a>    Visit our Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/315003042261167/" target="_blank">Square Dancing Rochester</a>    page where you will find photos and news about current activities.<br>   
  Other useful external websites:<br>
     &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&bull;
       <a href="http://www.you2candance.com/" target="_blank">You2CanDance</a> Videos introducing recreational dance<br>
     &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&bull;
       <a href="https://livelivelysquaredance.com/" target="_blank">Square Dancing Benefits &amp; More</a> Square Dancing is a national community<br>
     &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&bull;
       <a href="http://videosquaredancelessons.com/lessons" target="_blank">SaddleBrooke Video Lessons</a> Videos of dancers demonstrating square dance calls<br>
     &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&bull;
       <a href="http://www.tamtwirlers.org/taminations/index.html" target="_blank">Taminations</a> Computer animations of square dance calls<br>
  </div>


page: contact
part: text
content:
  <div class="center">
     <p>
       To get involved in, or for information on square dancing check our
        <a href="newdancer.html">Information</a> page or go to one of
        the clubs in your area on <a href="clubs.html">Our Clubs</a> page.
     </p>   
     <p>
       If you&rsquo;re still not sure whom to ask you can send an email to
      </p>
     <p>
        <a href="mailto: info@squaredancingrochester.org">info@squaredancingrochester.org</a>
     </p>
   </div>


page: newdancer
part: bodyv2
content:
  <p>Welcome to square dancing &mdash; a casual, non-competitive social activity that <a href="articles/articles-2023-09.html#484">helps you stay healthy</a> and connected. This web site helps Rochester area &ldquo;round and square&rdquo; dancers keep up to date on dance schedules and news from dance clubs in Western New York. In our area there are numerous active clubs dancing in two overlapping formats. One of these is &ldquo;western-style&rdquo; square dancing (THE American Folk Dance) and the other is &ldquo;cued&rdquo; ballroom dancing (known as &ldquo;round dancing&rdquo; because the dancers progress around a circle). (For video demonstrations, take a look at <a href="http://www.you2candance.com/" target="_blank">You2CanDance</a> link.)</p>
  <h3>What We Do</h3>  
  <p>This type of dancing is a low-key social activity that involves a healthy amount of exercise for body and mind and gets us out among friends on a regular basis. Some clubs dance weekly, while others dance every other week or monthly. Dance fees are modest - generally around $7 per person - and venues are mostly schools and church fellowship halls. Although this type of dancing is done in couples, there are clubs that are geared for singles and many &ldquo;couples&rsquo; clubs&rdquo; also accommodate dancers who do not have partners.</p>  
  <h3>Music &amp; Clothing</h3>  
  <p>Square dancing is often associated with country music and western clothing, but special clothing is not required at most dances, and you would be amazed at the variety of musical styles that some of our local callers use - from &ldquo;Phantom of the Opera&rdquo; to &ldquo;Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer&rdquo; and everything in between!</p>  
  <h3>Instruction</h3>  
  <p>All of our square dance callers and round dance cuers teach classes that can take you from novice to expert. However, it is not necessary to become an expert to enjoy this healthy and universal social activity. New classes generally form in early Fall and there is a good chance that one of them is near you. From &ldquo;day one&rdquo; you are dancing, and the more you dance the more familiar and comfortable you become with the various steps.</p>  
  <h3>Come Dance With Us!</h3>  
  <p>Clubs offering beginner classes usually start the dance season with a September "Open House" event, to introduce newcomers to square dancing. An open house is a dance party where anybody can participate because no prior knowledge is assumed. These are a great way to get a taste of what square dancing is like without making a commitment. Below is a current list of open houses we know about.</p>  


page: club
part: body
content:
  <div class="center">
  <p>Click each club name to find its description, contact information and recent news.</p>
  </div>


page: publicationstaff
part: process
content:
  <h3>Editorial Process</h3> 
  <p>
  Our webmaster puts together and maintains the entire website from content submitted via email by club reporters and others. 
  <br> <br> 
  All submissions are by email to: 
  <a href="mailto:WNYFsubmissions@squaredancingrochester.org">WNYFsubmissions@squaredancingrochester.org</a>.
  Formats, deadlines and other details are all spelled out in the 
  <a href="ePromenaderSubmissionGuidelines.pdf">Submission Guidelines</a> document.
  <br> <br> 
  Section editors monitor the Submissions inbox, reviewing their respective content, making any necessary format adjustments and forwarding it to the webmaster.
  <br> <br> 
  Articles for the &ldquo;News & Photos&rdquo; section are submitted on a quarterly deadline. News & Photos articles are proofread before final posting by a group of volunteers.
  </p> <p><br></p> 


page: publicationstaff
part: listings
content:
  <h3>Special Event Listings</h3>
  <p>
  All WNYF-member clubs may advertise their dance flyers for free. There is a $5 charge for listing a special dance by a WNYF-affiliated club.
  <br><br>
  Items sponsored by non-WNYF groups are $10 each for each three-month posting period. Each paid ad includes a free listing in the Calendar of Special Events where it will remain until the event occurs.
  <br><br>
  For details about ads and flyers submissions, please refer to the Ads &amp; Flyers section of our &ldquo;Submission Guidelines&rdquo; document.
  <br><br>
  All payments should be made by check payable to <b>WNYF</b> and sent to the <br>
  <br>
  <b>WNYF Treasurers:<br>
  Rick &amp; Donna LaDonna, 67 Grandview Drive, Fairport, NY 14450<br>
  <br>
  Remember to note the name(s) of event(s) covered by the check. </b>.
  </p>
  <p><br></p>


page: insurance
part: body
content:
  <h2>Dancer Insurance Requirements from the WNYF Insurance Coordinator</h2>
  Insurance must be provided each year for square dancers, protecting the dancers and the places where they dance. All WNYF Clubs are required to insure their club members.
  <br><br>
  The annual insurance period runs from January 1st to December 31st.
  <br><br>
  The insurance process to be followed by with each WNYF club:
    <ol start="1">
      <li><b>Submit a paper printed list of club members to the Insurance Coordinator each year by November 1st.</b>  Once all the lists are collected, a roster for each club will be created online, indicating members&rsquo; names and which club is covering their insurance. This will be sent to each club contact person, and a copy of the list should be kept for reference as needed during the year.</li>
      <br>    
      <li>Each WNYF Club needs to provide their club&rsquo;s insurance contact person name, email, and phone number with their list of members.</li>
      <br>
      <li>Each club being insured by USDA is assigned a number to be used for all communication. Since many clubs have similar names, this makes the club reference easily identified. The Insurance Coordinator keeps track of each WNYF club number, but each WNYF club contact person should also keep a copy of this number for reference. If you are unsure of this number, it will appear next to your club's name when the rosters are emailed in November.</li>
      <br>    
      <li>Each WNYF club needs to provide list of names and addresses of the places where their dances will be held so a Certificate of Insurance can be issued for each location. Most dancing locations will require a current Certificate of Insurance to be on file for the club.  If additional dancing sites are added during the year, contact WNYF Insurance Coordinator to obtain additional Certificates of Insurance for the added sites.</li>
      <br>
      <li>The WNYF Insurance Coordinator contacts each club&rsquo;s insurance contact with the amount each club owes for insurance.  <b>Each club is to issue a check made out to &ldquo;Western N Y Federation&rdquo;, and mail it to our WNYF Insurance Coordinator by November 15th.</b></li>
      <br>
      All the club&rsquo;s insurance checks are given to the WNYF Treasurer along with a summary sheet prepared by the WNYF Insurance Coordinator.  One check is submitted to USDA by the WNYF Treasurer for all WNYF clubs being insured.
      <br><br>
      <li>Each Club will receive their Certificate of Insurance for their dance locations in December for following calendar year.</li>
      <br>
      <li>Once any class member graduates and joins a WNYF club, the club they join needs to contact the WNYF Insurance Coordinator with a list of the new member names, and a corresponding payment for the new member&rsquo;s insurance coverage for the rest of that year.</li>
    </ol>

  <b>Insuring dancers belonging to more than one club:</b>
  <br><br>
  Since many of our dancers belong to more than one club, the WNYF Insurance Coordinator needs to create the list of dancers belonging to more than one club, and determine how to distribute the insurance costs fairly among the clubs for these dancers.  
  <br><br>
  <b>NOTE:</b>  Each dancer needs to be paid for by only one WNYF club.
  <br><br>
  <b>Insuring Class Members</b>
  <br><br>
  <b>Class members are insured without cost for 9 months provided the WNYF clubs offering lessons follow these procedures:</b>
  <ol>
    <li>Clubs offering classes need to submit <b>2 paper printed copies of their list of class members to the Insurance Coordinator by October 15th.</b>  The club needs to indicate class start date, and proposed graduation date. 
    <br><br>
    Class members are not insured until the national coordinator receives their list of names.
    <br><br>
    <li>If there are any new class members added after October 15th, contact Insurance Coordinator with their name.</li>
    <br>
    <li>Once a class member has graduated and becomes a club member; the club needs to submit the dancers name, and a payment for the dancer insurance coverage for the remainder of the year.</li>
  </ol>    
  <br>
  <b>Please direct any questions pertaining to insurance to our WNYF Insurance Coordinator:</b>
  <br><br>
  Carol Ann Stahl<br>
  Phone Number:  585-533-9241<br>
  Email:  stahlsinrush@rochester.rr.com<br>
  Mailing Address:350 Fishell Road, Rush N. Y. 14543<br>
  <br>
  Addition insurance information including the filling accident reports and additional insurance forms are available on the WNYF <a href="formsanddocuments.html">Forms and Documents Page</a>
  <br><br>
  Updated 9/30/2025


# faq

rank: a
question: Who can access the online Promenader? How much does it cost? How does one subscribe?
answer:
  The online Promenader is freely accessible to anyone via the RAF web
  site at squaredancingrochester.org. To subscribe, follow the
  directions given below:
  <ul>
  <li> Via email: Send an email message to promenader@rochester.rr.com
  using &ldquo;SUBSCRIBE&rdquo; as the subject of your email. In the body of your
  message, please let us know your full name and club
  affiliation(s). There is no charge for an online subscription.
  <li> In person: Come to an RAF meeting or to the Promenader Dance held
  on the last Saturday of September every year.
  <li> By phone or paper mail, especially for those who have questions
  or need hard copy:
  <ul>
  <li> Call or text Peter Emmel at 585-732-1004
  <li> Write to Peter at 24 High Hill Drive, Pittsford, NY 14534
  <li> Ask someone to contact Peter by email: pemmel@frontiernet.net.
  </ul>
  </ul>


rank: b
question:
  Since there is no charge for access, why should I bother to
  &ldquo;subscribe&rdquo;? And what is the benefit if I do?

answer:
  Even though anyone can access the site at any time, it&rsquo;s helpful to
  have an email address list of active readers for at least two
  reasons. (We will not use subscriber email addresses for any purpose
  other than publication announcements related to this web site.)
  <ul>
  <li> To alert subscribers when content is updated: Most of us don&rsquo;t
  constantly monitor web sites for new content. We would like to be
  proactive and send you a reminder each time a new &ldquo;issue&rdquo; is
  published.
  <li> To keep an awareness of our readership: To better serve dancers
  like you it will be helpful to know who you are and what clubs you
  dance with.
  </ul>


rank: c
question: What about people who don&lsquo;t have a computer or a printer?
answer:
  NOBODY who needs a hard copy version of ePromenader content will be
  left behind. Those who need hard copy pages should contact Peter
  Emmel. Please see above (or click <a href="emmelcontact.html">HERE</a>) for his contact
  information. He has offered to arrange hard copy delivery for those
  who need it.


rank: d
question:
  If I want to print hard copy <i>ePromenader</i> pages for myself or someone
  else, are there any special steps I should take?

answer:
  Printing any page on the RAF web site, including the <i>ePromenader</i> is
  very straightforward from any device that has a &ldquo;print&rdquo; command.
  You simply &ldquo;click the Print button&rdquo;
  in your browser, just as
  you would for any other web page or document.


  However, when printing the &ldquo;Photos & Features&rdquo; or the &ldquo;Ad &amp; Flyer Thumbnails,&rdquo;
  you can save a LOT of paper and ink by adjusting the &ldquo;scale&rdquo; in your browser setup.
  If you would rather not bother with changing browser settings, you can click <a href="printpdfs.html">HERE</a> for links to downloadable
  PDF files that we have pre-scaled to minimize paper and ink.

  (Note: The links might not be posted until a few days after the
  official publication date of each Promenader issue. If you don&rsquo;t
  see them, please check back in a few days.)

  If you prefer to make the print scaling adjustments yourself, click <a href="printing.html">HERE</a> for recommended
  settings in specific browsers.

  Also, please note that ALL other sections, as well as individual ads and
  flyers, will print just fine without special settings.


rank: e
question:
  What can club leaders do to help preserve the flow of information to
  their members that formerly came directly to their home via the
  printed Promenader?

answer:
  As leader of your club, you can help in several ways:
  <ul>
  <li> You can explain to your members clearly and accurately what this
  change means for them (for example by sharing this FAQ) and then refer
  any difficult follow-up questions or additional ideas to the
  Promenader via email (promenader@rochester.rr.com). There are still
  details being worked out, but this FAQ should cover most questions.
  <li> You can help us identify and connect with anyone in your club who
  needs hard-copy pages for whatever reason. Peter is prepared to
  provide these if need be, at least for a while, until it is determined
  how many there really are and establish a more efficient
  system. Anyone needing hardcopy should contact Peter. Click <a href="emmelcontact.html">HERE</a> for
  his contact information.
  <li> Or perhaps you could arrange with someone in your club to print
  selected sections for your &ldquo;hard-copy members,&rdquo; thereby shortening the
  time it might take for them to get their copy. If you need
  recommendations for printing the &ldquo;Ads &amp; Flyers&rdquo; Thumbnail Array or the
  &ldquo;Photos &amp; Features&rdquo; section, please click <a href="#Q4">HERE (A4)</a>.
  <li> Most importantly, you can encourage your members to use the RAF
  web site as their primary resource for dancing news and schedules. It
  will carry the most complete and up-to-date information and will be
  accessible around-the-clock from anywhere in the world.
  <li> You can also ensure that your club reporter(s) send us accurate
  and complete news and schedule information before the deadline for
  each issue. That way the dancing community will be sure to see it when
  they browse the issue on the publication date.
  </ul>


rank: f
question:
  Is the ePromenader compatible with all Internet browsers and devices -
  desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones?

answer:
  Hopefully yes. In building the online version we have made choices
  that should make it readable on all of the common platforms. Also,
  each section is printable from most platforms.


rank: g
question: Why did the Promenader have to convert to an electronic format?
answer:
  Without converting to an electronic format after 52 years of
  continuous hard-copy publication, there would have been NO Promenader
  at all after September 1st, 2014. In two years of searching when
  long-time volunteer editors Betty and Andy Ludwick announced their
  firm intention to retire, no volunteer stepped forward to succeed them
  and carry on the publication in its printed form. For more detail on
  the transition to electronic form, please click <a
  href="articles/editor-2014-12.html">HERE</a> to read the
  Ludwick&rsquo;s message from the first electronic issue. Hardcopy
  issues all the way back to the beginning have been scanned and are
  available in pdf format via the green &ldquo;History&rdquo; button in
  the Federation section of our website. Click <a
  href="history/history.html">HERE</a> to read back issues from October,
  1962 through September, 2014.


rank: h
question:
  Why go to the trouble of bringing elements of the Promenader look and
  feel to the RAF web site?

answer:
  It is hard to think of a better legacy for Betty and Andy after their
  16+ years of effort than to carry the look and feel that they have
  created on paper into an accessible electronic form that can live on
  after they retire.


rank: i
question: In what ways will the Promenader format be preserved?
answer:
  The ePromenader includes all the traditional Promenader sections, with
  a look and feel as close as Betty and Sidney could get it to the
  printed version that we have enjoyed for so many years. Since the RAF
  site has been based in large part on Promenader content (primarily
  schedules and flyers) there was already a substantial amount of
  overlap. One goal of the online transition is to gather all the
  information that has traditionally been published in the Promenader
  make it available to readers with a recognizable &ldquo;Promenader style&rdquo; on
  the web.


rank: j
question:
  What about flyers and other ads that were published in the Promenader,
  at considerable cost to advertisers?

answer:
  Event flyers and notices from RAF-member clubs will be included free
  of charge, but&hellip;
  <ul>
  <li> Advertising rates for non-RAF-member organizations are given on
    the Publication &amp; Staff page (click <a
    href="publicationstaff.html">CLICK HERE</a>) and in the Submission
    Guidelines document available through a link on the same page.
  <li> Long-term advertising arrangements will be addressed on an
    individual basis by the editors.
  <li> There will still be a $5 charge for listings in the
    &ldquo;Special Events&rdquo; section for RAF-member organizations.
    For the complete run-down, please click the &ldquo;Publication and
    Staff&rdquo; button on the Promenader page. Our advertising and
    listing rates will be reviewed for appropriateness as the on-going
    costs in the new format become clearer.
  </ul>


rank: k
question:
  The Promenader Benefit Dance is still on the RAF calendar, but with an
  electronic format eliminating all your printing and mailing costs why
  do you still need to raise money?

answer:
  The online format does avoid the primary costs of the printed version,
  namely commercial printing and USPS mailing, but this is largely
  balanced by eliminating charges to subscribers and RAF-member
  organizations. However, there still are on-going expenses.
  <ul>
  <li> With zero subscription income and zero local club flyer/ad
  income, the tradition of an annual Promenader fund-raiser dance will
  be continued, at least until we determine how well the remaining
  revenue from outside advertising and Special Event listings covers the
  on-going expenses.
  <li> The cost of an electronic publication is not zero. For one thing,
  the greatly increased content and the increased reliance on access to
  the RAF web site may force an upgrade from the current low-cost
  &ldquo;not-for-profit&rdquo; hosting situation. Similarly for the Promenader email
  address, which has a 100 MB threshold for extra charges and currently
  resides in an un-reimbursed personal account.
  <li> Lastly, what better way to acknowledge the efforts of the many
  volunteers who produce the Promenader and maintain the RAF web site
  than to get together for a dance in their honor each year!
  </ul>


rank: l
question:
  Who are the Promenader volunteers and what do they do to create the
  publication?

answer:
  Promenader production steps have been arranged over the years to make
  best use of limited time on the part of many volunteers. One thing
  that distinguished the printed Promenader - and hopefully will also
  distinguish the ePromenader - from other publications is its accuracy
  and reliability. We plan to maintain this standard through a continued
  team effort to produce an online resource that readers can rely on for
  information about dancing in our area.

  In terms of production mechanics the new format will flow more
  directly from the various club reporters and section editors. This is
  because there will be no more need for page layout and composition,
  making the editorial job far more &ldquo;do-able&rdquo; than it was for the
  commercially printed version. This was a major goal of the ePromenader
  transition. But the work of reporting and organizing Promenader
  content has not changed and the staff of volunteers is still in place
  as before.

  Volunteers:
  <br>Dick Halstead (Roving Reporter and Login Editor)
  <br>Bonnie Allen (Schedule Section Editor)
  <br>Sharon Meyer (Class/Club Dance Schedule Editor)
  <br>Club News Editor is an open position.
  <br>Proofreaders are Cindy Adams, Jim Gotta, Mike Herne, Sharon Meyer, Susan Thomas, Carl Webster, and Eileen Webster.

  For a walk-through of the ePromenader production process, interested
  readers may click <a href="process.html">HERE</a>.


rank: m
question:
  With an online format, why stick to a 3-month publication cycle? Why
  not go back to 2 months? In fact, why not eliminate publication dates
  entirely and simply post updates as they are submitted by clubs?

answer:
  There are several reasons to maintain a periodic publication
  cycle. Whether it should be two months or three months is a question
  of available volunteer time, on the one hand, and club planning
  horizons, on the other hand. We plan to review this question as the
  online format becomes more settled.

  The main reasons for &ldquo;periodical&rdquo; instead of
  &ldquo;continuous&rdquo; publication are as follows:
  <ul>
  <li> Allows volunteer staff to focus attention around deadlines, and
  live their normal lives in between.
  <li> Makes it easier to produce an accurate publication, reviewed by
  multiple proofreaders.
  <li> Gives clubs and readers a defined cycle of planning and updating
  to rely on.
  <li> A continuous &ldquo;rolling&rdquo; publication cycle would be
  hard to manage and require continuous attention.
  <li> However, some pages (e.g. the Federation
  &ldquo;Announcements&rdquo;) are intended for continuous update.
  </ul>


rank: n
question:
  What about corrections and updates after the publication date? Will we
  have to wait 3 months for corrections and updates?

answer:
  Some sections of the ePromenader, such as the dance schedules, the
  listings of callers &amp; cuers, the club contacts, as well as the various
  organization rosters, can all be updated whenever changes
  dictate. That&rsquo;s because these are internally structured in database
  form. Database entries can be readily updated by alerting the web
  administrator, and the results can be verified almost immediately
  online by the originator. This is an inherent feature of the current
  RAF&rsquo;s database-driven web site.


rank: o
question:
  The ePromenader launch has involved an entirely new look for the
  Federation web site. How does the ePromenader relate to the RAF?

answer:
  The Promenader has always been a publication of the RAF. The
  ePromenader is the latest step in the evolution of communications
  among clubs in the area covered by the RAF. In terms of
  administration, the transition to online format has coincided with a
  change in how the publication is administered. A newly formed team of
  three people intimately involved in ePromenader affairs, dubbed the
  Promenader Operating Committee, will oversee ePromenader activities
  and report to the RAF executive committee. These three people are the
  Interim Online Editor (Peter Emmel), the Web Administrator (Sidney
  Marshall) and the Communication Liaison (Terry Pratt, acting, until
  this new position is filled).

  As you can see, the ePromenader and the RAF web site are envisioned as
  key elements in fulfilling the RAF&rsquo;s mission of promoting
  communication and cooperation among area dance clubs and dancers.


rank: p
question:
  Are there plans for further developing the Federation side of this
  site?

answer:
  Yes. The changes introduced today are only the beginning. Some of the
  Federation buttons go to blank pages now, but content will be filled
  in as time, ideas and volunteers permit. Contact us by email at
  promenader@rochester.rr.com with suggestions and feedback, or to
  volunteer your time to help s make it happen.


rank: q
question:
  Will there be more &ldquo;introduction to dancing&rdquo; content to attract
  prospective new dancers?

answer:
  Yes. A significant role of the new RAF position of Communications
  Liaison is to shape the RAF outreach to prospective new dancers and to
  the general public. This is a Federation position, and therefore not
  directly part of the ePromenader, but as a publication by and for
  dancers, we have a strong interest in coordinating our messaging about
  the benefits of this wonderful activity to prospective new dancers.


rank: r
question:
  I heard it was a hassle to make the transition to an online
  format. Why couldn&rsquo;t you just use one of the many &ldquo;website builder&rdquo;
  software tools to put the Promenader up on the web? After all, over
  the past several years you have already been preparing it in
  electronic form for proofreading and commercial printing.

answer:
  A complete answer to this is beyond what most people would care to
  read. Below is a summary of benefits from the approach we chose, but
  those who want to know more may click <a href="rationale.html">HERE</a> for further
  details. Combining the Promenader with the RAF web site has many
  benefits, including the following:
  <ul>
  <li> Avoids duplicated efforts, such as entering schedule data from
  the Promenader into the RAF database.
  <li> Boosts usage of the RAF web site, making it a more effective
  communication platform for the dancing community.
  <li> Since dance schedules and most other items are stored in a
  database, each updated item (date, caller, venue, etc.) only needs to
  be entered once for it to be displayed correctly in the many different
  pages where that item occurs.
  <li> The process of creating the new format engaged Betty &amp; Andy in
  designing not only an online look for the Promenader but also the
  beginnings of a new look for the Federation side of the site.
  <li> Most formatting features on the new site are controlled by &ldquo;style
  sheets&rdquo; that need only be altered once to take effect in every page
  that uses that style.
  <li> The main benefit from the ePromenader point of view is that
  production efforts for each issue can be concentrated on the content
  and not on the layout or page composition. That is because page
  layouts are built into templates that accept plain text.
  </ul>


rank: s
question: How is the website maintained?
answer:
  The website is maintained with a set of tools written specifically for the WNYF website. Volunteers are always welcome. There is more information at this <a href="website.html">link</a>.


# federationmeetings

date: 2015-09-16
venue: 69
room: Rooms 9/11
time: 7:30
refreshments: Exec Board
minutes:
  <p>Welcome/Call to Order @ 7:32 PM
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Warren Olson, Jim Gotta, Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green, Terry
  &amp; Joe Pratt, John Benesch, Carol Ann Stahl, Jane Avery, Ed Briggs,
  Cynthia Whited, Warren Patterson, Mary Ann lane, Stu &amp; Jane Jones,
  Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholdt, Dick &amp; Irma Halstead
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved with correction
  [&lsquo;Agenda&rsquo; should read &lsquo;Minutes&rsquo;]
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance: $6432.89
  </p>

  <p>Committee Reports:
  </p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama: 2016 Schedule provided with these minutes
  </p>

  <p>Insurance: New rate [$4.75/member] with a $45 min. per Club
  </p>

  <p>Website Changes: Switch to &lsquo;Blue Host&rsquo;. Many problems
  resolved with new service. Committed for 3 years @ $136/yr. Unlimited
  storage and e-mail accounts capacity are a new benefit. Any
  &lsquo;late&rsquo; flyers for events should be sent to Sid
  Marshall. Promenader account balance: $4,915.46; Promenader Dance
  scheduled for Sept. 26. NO clothing sale will be offered.
  </p>

  <p>Promotion: Up to $60 available from the Federation for each club for
  this purpose. Re-imbursement made by the treasurer upon receiving
  receipt from member club.
  </p>

  <p>Current Business:
  </p>

  <p>&lsquo;New&rsquo; Dance Recruitment Fund: A grant, up to $125, is
  available from the Federation to each member club for expenses
  incurred in &lsquo;New&rsquo; dance recruitment and dancer retention
  events. Funding can be obtained via form completion by the clubs.
  </p>

  <p>&lsquo;Cabin Party&rsquo; alternative: Tentative &lsquo;catered&rsquo;
  gathering proposed for Nov. 13, 2016. Focus on networking between
  member club officers and members for Square Dancing advancement.
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting: Tuesday, October 13, 2015 [Rev. schedule included]
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 8:55
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>


date: 2015-10-13
venue: 69
room: Rooms 9/11
time: 7:30
refreshments: Belles 'N' Beaus, Champ Whirl
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order @ 7: 40
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Jim Gotta, Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green, John Benesch, Carol
  Ann Stahl, Diane Camp, Ed Briggs, Mary Ann lane, Stu &amp; Jane Jones,
  Art Diefenbach, Ken Georger, Barbara Green, Russ &amp; Ruth
  Uhrenholdt,
  </p>

  <p>September 16, 2015 Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance: $6336.09. [Report provided]; to
  undertake separation of &lsquo;Promotions&rsquo; funding on future
  reports
  </p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS
  </p>

  <p>D. O. R.: See DOR Meeting Minute of 10-13-15 for latest status
  </p>

  <p>INSURANCE: Only four [4] clubs have submitted reports; Action item for
  Club reps. [Required by 10-17-15.]
  </p>

  <p>USDA: NO report
  </p>

  <p>Electronic PROMENADER: NO update
  </p>

  <p>PROMOTIONS: Receptive to ideas to boost dance attendance during
  &lsquo;slower&rsquo; months
  </p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS
  </p>

  <p>MEMBER CLUB &lsquo;PRESIDENTS&rsquo; MEETING: Under consideration;
  timing: TBD
  </p>

  <p>PROMOTION/DANCE RETENTION FUNDING: Member clubs are eligible for both
  RAF funded programs [up to $60 for &lsquo;Promotion&rsquo; &amp; up to
  $125 for &lsquo;Retention&rsquo;]
  </p>

  <p>CABIN PARTY ALTERNATIVE: 2016 THANKSGIVING DANCE [finalize by January;
  to take place on 1st or 2nd weekend in November]
  </p>

  <p>2016 HEALTH FAIR: Jim to investigate a demo by RAF Club members
  </p>

  <p>LOCK CITY CURLY-Q&rsquo;S: Club has closed operations
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 8:30
  </p>

  <p>NEXT MEETING: Monday, November 16, 2015 @ 7:30.
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted; John Benesch, secretary
  </p>


date: 2015-11-16
venue: 69
room: Rooms 9/11
time: 7:30
refreshments: Cayuga, Dalton
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order @ 7:30 PM </p>

  <p>Attendees: Jim Gotta, Warren Olson, Barbara Green, Joe &amp; Terry
  Pratt, Sharon Meyer, Mary Ann Lane, Cynthia Whited, Warren Patterson,
  Ed Briggs, Jane Avery, Peter Emmel, Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholdt and
  John Benesch </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved with correction [B. Green listed
  twice] </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance: $6247.65; Club reminder: $10
  annual dues </p>

  <h6>Committee Reports </h6>

  <p>D. O. R. &mdash; May 7, 2016 @ Perinton Rec.; A2 &amp; Line Dancing
  will be offered; D. O. R. packets for clubs will be available @ the
  Feb. 2016 meeting.  </p>

  <p>U. S. D. A. &mdash; n/a </p>

  <p>Promenader &mdash; Winter issue in progress; Bank balance: $4660.26
  </p>

  <p>CCR: &lsquo;Beginner&rsquo;s Ball&rsquo; &mdash; 4/23/16;
  &lsquo;Summer Sizzler&rsquo; &mdash; 8/13/16 </p>

  <p>Promotions: Need volunteers; suggested that member Clubs announce
  this need at upcoming events </p>

  <h6>Current Business </h6>

  <p>1. Finalize the wording to clarify the requirements for Clubs to
  acquire RAF funding for specific promotional undertakings [to appear
  in Dec. Promenader website].  </p>

  <p>2. Pursue additional options for &lsquo;Cabin Party&rsquo;
  replacement dance; name? date? [Sept. 24?] site? Volunteer caller?
  </p>

  <p>3. Table at &lsquo;Nationals&rsquo; [June 2016 in Iowa]: Needs work
  - physical preparation and manning @ venue </p>

  <p>4. &lsquo;Permanent&rsquo; E-mail addresses for RAF officers to
  simplify continuity: </p>

  <ul>
    <li>raf_pres@squaredancingrochester.org
    <li>raf_vp@squaredancingrochester.org
  </ul>

  <p>5. Arrange for 2016-2017 RAF Meeting site; Mary Ann [April 2016]
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 8:50 PM </p>

  <p>Next meeting: Thursday, January 14, 2016 @ 7:30.  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch, Secretary </p>


date: 2016-01-14
venue: 69
room: Rooms 9/11
time: 7:30
refreshments: Copy Cats
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order @ 7:30 PM</p>

  <p>Attendees: Jim Gotta, Warren Olson, Barbara Green, Joe &amp; Terry
  Pratt, Sharon Meyer, Mary Ann Lane, Ed Briggs, Peter Emmel, Donna
  McCagg and John Benesch</p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved as written</p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance: $5847.65</p>

  <h6>Committee Reports</h6>

  <p>D. O. R. &mdash; May 7, 2016 @ Perinton Rec.; Venue adjustment due to
  site conflict; D. O. R. packets for clubs will be available @ the
  Feb. 2016 meeting.</p>

  <p>U. S. D. A. &mdash; n/a Promenader &mdash; Winter issue in progress;
  Bank balance: $4775.26</p>

  <p>CCR: &lsquo;Beginner&rsquo;s Ball&rsquo; &mdash; 4/23/16;
  &lsquo;Summer Sizzler&rsquo; &mdash; 8/13/16</p>

  <p>Promotions: Need volunteers; suggested that member Clubs announce this
  need at upcoming events. Website contains forms for Club promotion
  re-imbursements.</p>

  <h6>Current Business</h6>

  <p>RAF &lsquo;Cabin Party&rsquo; Dance: Date: 9/24/16. Rename &amp;
  select site [Barbara, Sharon &amp; Warren]; work on details
  [caterer]. Arrange for callers/cuers [Jim].</p>

  <p>Norma Daphne award: Nominations are due by the end of the month [Forms
  in Promenader &lsquo;rewards&rsquo; page].</p>

  <p>Nominating Committee: Suggestions to be requested form member Club
  presidents [Peter E. to provide listing]</p>

  <p>Suggestion: Re-emphasize &lsquo;Banner Stealing&rsquo; [check website
  for rules]</p>

  <p>Next meeting: Monday, February 14, 2016 @ 7:30</p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 8:45.</p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch</p>


date: 2016-02-15
venue: 69
room: Rooms 9/11
time: 7:30
refreshments: Grand Squares
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order @ 7:40 PM</p>

  <p>Attendees: Jim Gotta, Warren Olson, Barbara Green, Joe &amp; Terry Pratt, Sharon Meyer, Peter Emmel, Carol Ann Stahl and John Benesch</p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved with revision [site for Fall Friendship Ball has been selected]</p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance: $5747.65 [Report provided]</p>

  <h6>Committee Reports</h6>

  <p>D. O. R. &mdash; May 7, 2016 @ Perinton Rec.; Venue adjustments made due to site conflict; D. O. R. packets for clubs have been distributed</p>

  <p>U. S. D. A. &mdash; n/a</p>

  <p>Insurance: One accident being processed</p>

  <p>Promenader &mdash; Spring issue in progress; No financial report provided</p>

  <p>CCR: &lsquo;Beginner&rsquo;s Ball&rsquo; &mdash; 4/23/16; &lsquo;Summer Sizzler&rsquo; &mdash; 8/13/16</p>

  <p>Promotions: Need volunteers; suggested that member Clubs announce this need at upcoming events. Website contains forms for Club promotion re-imbursements.</p>

  <h6>Current Business:</h6>

  <p>RAF &lsquo;Cabin Party&rsquo; Dance: Date: 9/24/16. New Name: FALL FRIENDSHIP BALL. Date: 9/24/16; 
  Venue: American Legion Post 256, 454 North Main St., Canandaigua, NY 14424; 
  Schedule: Dancing 2:00-5:30 [Round and Square  {alternating Mainstream &amp; Plus}]; Dinner @ 6:00 [$12 per person buffet];
  50/50 Raffle &amp; &lsquo;Donation&rsquo; [&lsquo;Dancer Retention&rsquo;] opportunities will be offered.  
  Jim G. to arrange for Callers/Cuers. </p>

  <p>Norma Daphne award: Nominations are due by the end of the month [Forms in RAF &lsquo;awards&rsquo; page].</p>

  <p>Nominating Committee: Members: Terry P., Barbara G &amp; SharonM.  Slate: President-Warren O.; VP-Jim G.; Treasurer-Mary Ann L.; Scy.: TBD</p>

  <p>Future RAF Meeting Sites: TBD</p>

  <p>Next meeting: Tuesday, March 14, 2016 @ 7:30 [to address Insurance Form review &mdash; consider including member club Treasurer contact information]. Refreshments: Village Squares</p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 9:05.</p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch</p>


date: 2016-03-15
venue: 69
room: Rooms 9/11
time: 7:30
refreshments: Village Squares
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order at 7:30 PM</p>

  <p>Attendees: Warren Olson, Sharon Meyer, Carol Ann Stahl, Kaitlyn
  McJilton, Jane &amp; Stu Jones, Peter Emmel, Joe &amp; Terry Pratt, Ed
  Briggs, Mary Ann Lane and Ruth &amp; Rus Uhrenholdt</p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Terry made a motion to accept, seconded by
  Ed. Approved.</p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance on hand $5,737.85. Carol Ann made
  motion to accept, Terry seconded. Approved.</p>

  <p>Committee Reports: DOR-Schedule has 1-1/2 hour round dance party,
  1-1/2 hour A2 and 1/2 hour of line dancing Need number of graduates
  sent to Jim Gotta by next meeting Unsold ribbons need to be returned
  by next meeting or sent to Mary Ann Lane</p>

  <p>Insurance: Waiting to hear whether one person is completing his
  accident form</p>

  <p>USDA: N/A</p>

  <p>Promenader: Balance last month $4,675.26, several $5 ads came in plus
  $30 outside ad. Balance on hand $4,745.26</p>

  <p>CCR: Voice coach came and critiqued each caller. Beginner&rsquo;s
  Ball coming April 23, 2016. Flyer in Promenader.</p>

  <p>Promotions: Warren is going to research having an intern.</p>

  <h6>Current Business</h6>

  <ul>
    <li>Fall Friendship Ball, American Legion Post 256, 454 North Main
    St., Canandaigua. Dance will be from 2-5:15 with Ron Brown, Gary
    Bubel and Jerry Carmen calling Mainstream &amp; Plus and Alice Bubel
    and Eileen Webster cueing. Social time from 5:15 to 6:00 while hall
    is set up for the dinner at 6 pm.  Cost will be partially subsidized
    by the Federation. Dance will be free and dinner will be a buffet
    and cost $12 per person.  There will also be a 50/50 raffle.
    <li>Nominating committee: still working on the Secretary position
    <li>Norma Daphne leadership award is all set
    <li>New venue for meetings next year: They will be held at Bill
    Gray&rsquo;s, 1225 Jefferson Rd., Rochester. Schedule is attached.
    There are 7 meetings total.
    <li>President&rsquo;s meeting tentatively scheduled for May 15
  </ul>

  <p>Good of the Order: Peter mentioned couple of ads in the Promenader.
  One is with Tim Crawford in Canada and the other is the Pennsylvania
  PSRDF.org ad.</p>

  <p>Ruth mentioned a birthday celebration for Leo Gaesser
  who will be 100 years old. This will be at Silver Squares on April
  4th.</p>

  <p>Thank you to Village Squares for refreshments. Next meeting is April
  13 and Cloverleaf Squares will be furnishing refreshments.</p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at 8:30 pm. Motion made by Terry, seconded by
  Peter. Approved.</p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: Sharon Meyer, Acting Secretary</p>


date: 2016-04-13
venue: 69
room: Rooms 9/11
time: 7:30
refreshments: Cloverleafs
minutes:
  <p>Attending: Joe &amp; Terry Pratt, Warren Olson, Jim Gotta, Sharon
  Meyer, Barbara Green, Carol Ann Stahl, Ed Briggs, Cynthia Whited,
  Warren Patterson, Kaitlyn McJilton, Jane &amp; Stu Jones, Russ &amp;
  Ruth Uhrenholdt and Peter Emmel</p>

  <p>Meeting opened at 7:45 pm.</p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Terry made a motion to accept and Ed
  seconded.  Approved.</p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance same as last month $5,737.85. Carol
  Ann made motion to approve, seconded by Barb. Approved. Warren turned
  in a receipt last month but Mary Ann did not find it. She will check
  again.</p>

  <p>Committee Reports:</p>

  <p>DOR Committee Report: Jim</p>

  <p>Ron is having surgery and hopes to be able to call but Mike Herne will
  be on standby. Committee is working diligently to get the packets for
  the graduates ready and making sure all the jobs are completed.</p>

  <p>Insurance: Sharon, Carol Ann</p>

  <p>A reminder will be going out after graduation to send in the list of
  graduates to be covered by insurance with a check to USDA as they are
  only covered for a total of 9 months (Sept&ndash;May).</p>

  <p>USDA: No report</p>

  <p>Promenader: Peter</p>

  <p>No change in balance from last month. Working on content for next
  issue. Warren would like to see some DOR content in next issue (Warren
  or Jim will do a write-up). Need pictures during event &mdash; Peter
  will take some but need someone to take them during Daphne Norma
  presentation. Peter requests anyone to send in articles.</p>

  <p>CCR: Chuck/Jim</p>

  <p>Beginner&rsquo;s Ball coming up on April 23rd. New caller from Buffalo
  will be there.</p>

  <p>National Callers Convention &mdash; Mike Callahan and Jim
  attended. Jim reviewed two activites going on. More to be discussed at
  the President&rsquo;s meeting on dancer retention, new website. Peter
  will put a link to it in the Promenader. The article to be discussed
  is &ldquo;Sustainable Square Dancing.&rdquo;</p>

  <p>Promotions: Need person/persons to help out on this position. Peter is
  willing to work with anyone to put information on the website.</p>

  <p>Current Business:</p>

  <p>Fall Friendship Ball &mdash; Warren prepared a flyer. Signup and payment will
  be starting soon since some clubs don&rsquo;t dance in the summer.
  Tickets are being made and will be sold at DOR also. It is being held
  at the American Legion Post 25, 454 N. Main St., Canandaigua on
  9/24/16 from 2&ndash;5:15 for dancing both Mainstream &amp;
  Plus. Buffet dinner at 6, cost $12 per person (partially subsidized
  additionally by the Federation), dancing will be free. Ron Brown, Gary
  Bubel and Jerry Carmen are calling and Alice Bubel and Eileen Webster
  cueing. Peter will be the contact person.</p>

  <p>DOR. &mdash; Clubs need to be at their assigned posts
  promptly. Village Squares noticed that teams on different times so
  can&rsquo;t go to dinner together. Ok if switch with another club, but
  let the Federation know.</p>

  <p>Daphne Norma Leadership Award &mdash; the person who bought CS
  Engraving does not think they have the template for the award
  pin. Chip will call them directly to tell them where to find it. If
  they can do it, Peter suggest that we purchase 2 each for the next
  5&ndash;10 years.</p>

  <p>Meetings &mdash; New place for next year (Bill Gray&rsquo;s, 1225
  Jefferson Rd., Rochester). Revised schedule sent with the agenda for
  this month but another change may be made.</p>

  <p>President&rsquo;s Meeting &mdash; May 15th at Bill Grays, 1225
  Jefferson Rd., Rochester at 2 pm. Discussion on the new Sustainable
  Square Dancing is one topic.</p>

  <p>Election of Officers: President Warren Olson, Vice President Jim
  Gotta, Past President Terry Pratt, Treasurer Mary Ann Lane, Secretary
  &mdash; Need a volunteer (no experience necessary). Ed made a motion
  that the Secretary cast one ballot for all nominees and Barb
  seconded.Sharon as Acting Secretary cast one ballot for the entire
  slate. Approved.</p>

  <p>Good of the Order: The Tri Club only had 64 attendees this which is 22
  less than last year. The three clubs will be discussing some new ideas
  for next year.</p>

  <p>Thank you to Cloverleafs for refreshments. The next meeting will be
  Thursday, May 19, 2016. Refreshments will be provided by STW and
  Silver Squares. Thank you to everyone who came and your participation
  in the Rochester Area Federation. We can&rsquo;t do this without YOU!</p>

  <p>Motion to adjourn was made by Barb and seconded by Terry. Adjourned at
  8:35 pm.</p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted by: Sharon Meyer, Acting Secretary</p>


date: 2016-05-19
venue: 69
room: Rooms 9/11
time: 7:30
refreshments: Southern Tier, Silver Squares
minutes:
  <p>Meeting opened at 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>Attending: Warren Olson, Jim Gotta, Mary Ann Lane, Sharon Meyer, Joe
  &amp; Terry Pratt, Carol Ann Stahl, Kaitlyn McJilton, Peter Emmel,
  Jane &amp; Stu Jones, Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholt</p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Terry made a motion to accept, Carol Ann
  seconded. Approved.</p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance on hand same as last month
  $5,737.85. Mary Ann made a suggestion to combine the DOR and RAF
  checkbooks into one account and Terry made that a motion with Carol
  Ann seconding. All in favor. Separate records will still be kept for
  DOR income and expenses.</p>

  <p>Committee Reports:</p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama: There were 243 paid attendees, 1 more than last
  year. Next year will be at the same location. Working on lining up
  callers and cuers for next year. Only 20 surveys were completed and
  reviewed by the committee. Need names of graduates from Champagne
  Whirl-A-Ways.</p>

  <p>Insurance: Sharon has received 4 from clubs with graduates. She sent
  out a reminder to the clubs.</p>

  <p>CCR: Beginner&rsquo;s Ball in April had 5 squares. Summer Sizzler on
  Aug. 13th will be held at the Henrietta Fire Hall.</p>

  <p>Promenader/Web Site: balance on hand of $4,805.26. Next issue coming
  out June 1st.</p>

  <p>Nominating Committee: Secretary position still open. Sharon had an
  inquiry from Roger Van Patten and Terry will follow up with him.</p>

  <p>USDA: Sally mentioned that the voting will be on Wed. at the
  convention in Iowa.</p>

  <p>Current Business:</p>

  <p>Fall Friendship Ball. Flyer and signup sheets have been handed
  out. They need to be returned to Peter Emmel with the money by
  Sept. 10th. Checks should be payable to the Rochester Area Federation.</p>

  <p>State Fair&nbsp;&mdash; will not be dancing there this year or in the
  future.</p>

  <p>Meeting schedules&nbsp;&mdash; Please note change of venue. Only 7
  meetings for 2016&ndash;17. Enclose copies with minutes.</p>

  <p>Fundraiser for ALS with Shirts &rsquo;N&rsquo; Skirts on June 4th in
  Fulton. See flyer on website.</p>

  <p>Officers for 2016&ndash;17: President Warren Olson, Vice President Jim
  Gotta, Treasurer Mary Ann Lane, Secretary&nbsp;&mdash; Open, Past
  President Terry Pratt</p>

  <p>Banner Stealing. From discussion at the President&rsquo;s meeting, it
  was suggested that since there are several small clubs, that if a
  square can&rsquo;t come to retrieve that they get credit if 1 couple
  comes, the next time another credit if another couple comes until it
  totals 4 couples. If 2 couples come, ask 2 couples from the club being
  visited to fill in their square. Any other suggestions are welcome.</p>

  <p>President&rsquo;s Meeting. Mike Callahan and Jim Gotta reviewed items
  from Callerlab including the new 12 week mainstream recommendation
  that starts every 12 weeks. Also mentioned that 2 clubs mainly dance
  mainstream now so that should be advertised so new dancers know they
  can attend these clubs. Under consideration is having all mainstream
  during the summer so new dancers can feel comfortable before learning
  plus.</p>

  <p>Barn Dance at Fish&rsquo;s on Friday, August 19th.</p>

  <p>Thank you to Silver Squares for tonight&rsquo;s refreshments. Next
  meeting will be Sept. 28, 2016 at Bill Gray&rsquo;s, 1225 Jefferson
  Road, Rochester, NY at 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>Motion to adjourn at 8:45 p.m. made by Peter and seconded by
  Terry. Approved.</p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: Sharon Meyer, Acting Secretary</p>


date: 2015-05-14
venue: 69
refreshments: Southern Tier, Silver Squares
minutes:
  <p>Welcome/Call To Order @ 7:35 PM </p>

  <p>Attendees: Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren Olson, Sharon &amp; Chuck
  Meyer, Barbara Green, Jim Gotta, Sally Baechle, Russ &amp; Ruth
  Uhrenholdt, Donna Mc Cagg, Peter Emmel, and John Benesch </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: John Benesch - Approved with
  modification: All nominations were accepted.  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Mary Ann&rsquo;s report read by Terry
  Pratt - Balance: $6509.89 </p>

  <p>Committee Reports: </p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama: Warren - Dance results: See 5-14-15 D. O. R. Meeting
  Minutes for details. Survey responses -33; Club reps. to request club
  members to mail additional comments to J. Gotta.  </p>

  <p>Insurance: Sharon/Carol Ann (Insurance for Graduates now due) </p>

  <p>CCR: Chuck - Summer Sizzler on August 22 @ Henrietta Fire Hall </p>

  <p>Promenader/Web Site: Peter/Sidney - June 1 Issue in Production;
  </p>

  <p>Current Business: </p>

  <p>1. State Fair Square Dancing. Date &amp; Time [Last Tuesday in
  August; See promenader for information].  </p>

  <p>2. Our 2015/2016 RAF Meeting Schedule is available </p>

  <p>3. Passing the Torch. Welcome to our new President &amp; Vice
  President (Warren Olson and Jim Gotta).  </p>

  <p>4. A donation of $50 was approved in memory of Bob Stevens [to
  Unity Health Foundation] </p>

  <p>Thank you to Silver Squares and Southern Tier Wheelers for
  tonight&rsquo;s refreshments. And I very big thank you to everyone for
  all of your support of the Federation and for being a part of the
  organization that works so hard to keep square and round dancing
  active and growing in the Rochester area! We couldn&rsquo;t do it
  without YOU !! Terry Pratt </p>

  <p>Next meeting: Wednesday September 16,
  2015. Tent. Rms. 9/11. Federation officers will provide refreshments
  for this meeting.  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at: 8:45 PM </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch </p>


date: 2015-04-15
venue: 69
refreshments: Village Squares
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order at 7:30 p.m.
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Joe Pratt, Sharon Meyer, Warren Olson, Barbara Green, Jim
  Gotta, Ed Briggs, Mary Ann Lane, Irma &amp; Dick Halstead, Carol Ann
  Stahl, Stu &amp; Jane Jones, Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholdt, Warren
  Patterson Cynthia Whited and John Benesch
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved w/o change
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Current Balance: $6509.89; report provided
  </p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:
  </p>

  <p>DANCE-O-RAMA: May 2, 2015; 2:00 PM to 9:45 PM @ Perinton Rec. &amp;
  Parks Dept. See DOR Meeting Minutes for detailed information
  </p>

  <p>Promenader: Financial controls in place; User feedback
  incorporated. June/July/August issue submission deadline is May 1.
  </p>

  <p>CCR: August 8, 2015: Summer Sizzler scheduled
  </p>

  <p>USDA: New Square Dance logo developed as part of &ldquo;Re-Imaging
  Square Dancing&rdquo;. We have permission to copy &amp; use but cannot
  change proportion.
  </p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:
  </p>

  <p>PROMOTION Fall 2015: The Federation will individual clubs with up to
  $60 for advertising expenses. Clubs must submit paid receipts to
  Federation treasurers.
  </p>

  <p>CONSTITUTION: Adopted as of 2/9/15 with minor correction: Name
  revision to: &ldquo;&hellip; Square Dance Clubs, Inc.&rdquo; [NOT
  &ldquo;Club&rdquo;]
  </p>

  <p>OFFICER NOMINATION FOR 2015/2016: Warren Olson [Pres.], Jim Gotta
  [VP], Mary Ann lane [Treasurer] &amp; John Benesch [Secretary]. Terry
  Pratt will serve as Past-President.
  </p>

  <p>PROMOTION/COMMUNICATIONS LIAISON: No one has stepped forward to accept
  this challenge. A change in job description may be in order.
  </p>

  <p>FEDERATION CABIN PARTY; Poorly attended. Feedback from member clubs
  [on timing &amp; agenda] is sought to make this gathering of club
  presidents and representatives a worthwhile event. The Federation
  representatives for the member clubs are encouraged to communicate
  issues that arise at the meetings back to their own Board sessions.
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 8:25 PM
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting: Thursday May 14, 2015 in RMS. 9/11. Refreshments: STW
  &amp; Silver Squares
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>


date: 2015-03-10
venue: 69
refreshments: Cloverleafs
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order at 7:30 p.m.
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Terry Pratt, Sharon &amp; Chuck Meyer, Warren Olson,
  Mary Ann Lane, Barb Green, Sybil &amp; Ed Briggs, Russ &amp; Ruth
  Uhrenholdt, Warren Patterson, Cynthia Whited, Peter Emmel and Carol
  Ann Stahl
  </p>

  <p>Introductions
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Warren made motion, Ed seconded, Approved
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance on hand 2/16/15 was $6,643.69,
  income of $10, Expense of $50, leaving a balance of $6,603.69.  Barb
  made motion, Warren seconded, Approved.
  </p>

  <p>Committee Reports:
  </p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama: Terry, Warren, Gil Porter and Jerry Carmen met with
  representative at Perinton Recreation to check out the sound in the
  gym and finalize details.  It was decided to not use the gym because
  of the high ceiling and they checked out other rooms on the main floor
  and chose to use them instead.  Now everything will be on one floor.
  </p>

  <ul>
  <li>Club Challenge design was chosen
  <li>Reps to send # of class graduates to Warren so packets can be
  prepared. Names will be put on at DOR.
  </ul>

  <p>Insurance: Nothing new to report
  </p>

  <p>Promenader: Peter sent notice to 190 people to notify Promenader
  readiness.  He did not receive responses from everyone.  Still needs
  some work to find out why some did not receive the notice.  It was
  much smoother this time since the content editors did their part.
  Some address corrections also need to be made.
  </p>
  <ul>
  <li>Peter checked with FreeNet, our service provider, and we have
  unlimited storage, unlimited email a/c&rsquo;s
  <li>Mail chimp could be used for the email notification service.  It
  is free for up to 2000 names, people can unsubscribe.  He will check
  on cost.
  <li>Ken received a check from Red Bates for his ad.  Winterfest ad
  &mdash; someone will be sending a check.
  <li>A new bank account was opened for the Promenader funds.  Ken and
  Warren are signers.  Ken will receive the statement online and save a
  service charge.  Current balance in a/c is $4,050.45.
  <li>Peter will put a link on the Federation website linking it to the
  Facebook page.  Sharon has been posting items on the Facebook page
  periodically.
  <li>There needs to be determination as to who is an affiliated club or
  a non-affiliated club.
  <li>Convention advertisers sometimes give a Press Pass to the
  Promenader.
  </ul>

  <p>Promotions: Someone needed who can check out community bulletin
  boards and other avenues for free publicity for advertising square
  dancing.  The promotion last year that any club who had an ad
  promoting square dancing or classes would receive up to $60 to
  reimburse them for their ad whether in the paper or on the radio will
  be discussed to see if we want to continue it next year.
  </p>

  <p>USDA: No report
  </p>

  <p>CCR: Beginner&rsquo;s Ball is Saturday, March 14 at the Chili
  Baptist Church from 7&ndash;10.  Summer Sizzler will be August 8th at
  the Henrietta Fire Hall.  Bob Ellis, former caller from Rochester,
  passed away.
  </p>

  <p>Communications Liaison: Someone needed to work with Promotions
  </p>

  <p>Nomination Committee: Vice President is still open for a volunteer
  </p>

  <p>Thank you to Cloverleaf Squares for refreshments tonight.
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at 8:30.  Motion made by Peter, seconded by Carol
  Ann.  Approved.
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting will be Wednesday, April 15, 2015 in rooms 9/11.
  Refreshments to be provided by Village Squares.
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: Sharon Meyer
  </p>


date: 2015-02-16
venue: 69
refreshments: Grand Squares
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order @7:30.
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Ken Georger, Warren Olson, Carol Ann
  Stahl, Ed &amp; Sybil Briggs, Ruth &amp; Russ Uhrenholdt, Sharon
  Meyer, Sid Marshall, Mary Ann Lane
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report:  Corrections
  <br>1. Add Day of Dance approved paying $50 to caller
  <br>2. Showcase of Ideas should be Barb instead of Sharon
  <br>3. Motion to approve with corrections made by Carol Ann, 2nd by Ed.  Approved
  <br>4. CCR DANCE is March 14, not March 4
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Balance on hand $6,643.69. Donations
  received for Bob Platt.  Report provided.  Motion to approve Warren,
  2nd by Ed. Approved.
  </p>

  <p>Promenader: Sid: $5 ad Special Event.  Clubs wanting the Special Event
  listing should send the check to Ken with a cc to Sid saying what the
  listing is and that they sent their check so both have a record.  For
  other outside ads, Ken will cc Sid to let him know what was paid.
  </p>

  <p>Sid asked for an explanation of what a class/club dance is.  It is a
  dance that is solely at the classes&rsquo; level for the entire
  evening. However, this is each club&rsquo;s decision to make.
  </p>

  <p>Sid will accept flyers and dance schedules anytime.  Please make sure
  they have all the necessary information: club, location, date, time,
  etc.  as some have been received without this.
  </p>

  <p>Promotions: If clubs are wanting help to promote square dancing, we
  need to have volunteers to be on a Promotions Committee.  Please ask
  your members to encourage them to participate.
  </p>

  <h5>Committee Reports:</h5>
  <h6>DOR</h6>

  <p>Change in the schedule: Dance will end at 9:45 in order to allow time
  to clean up and be out by 10.
  </p>

  <p>Club Challenge: Changed to allow each member to sign in for EACH club
  they belong to so each club can count them as a member toward the
  percentage.
  </p>
              
  <p>Club banners: you will need a stand to hang your banner on as they
  cannot be hung on the wall
  </p>
              
  <p>50/50 tickets will be sold until 8:30 and one ticket drawn by 9:00.
  </p>
              
  <p>Basket raffle tickets will be drawn by 9 and posted.
  </p>
              
  <h6>Insurance</h6>

  <p>All certificates have been received and distributed
  </p>

  <h6>USDA</h6>

  <p>We know that insurance is covered by USDA, but what else do they do.
  Are there any other benefits?  Can a report be given by one of the
  officers that receive the USDA magazine?  The DOR ad was sent in for
  the next issue.
  </p>

  <h6>CCR</h6>

  <p>Beginner&rsquo;s Ball is March 14, 2015 at the Chili Baptist Church.
  </p>

  <h6>Current Business</h6>

  <p>Financial Audit completed.  Both DOR and Federation were excellent.
  The Promenader had several issues.  There should be only one signer
  (Ken) with a backup of an officer.  This will be Warren Olson. No
  checks should be written to themselves; a receipt for every expense,
  there should be an email for each ad and a receipt given; each year
  use a new check register.  These were the suggestions made by the
  auditors and now put into effect.
  </p>

  <h6>Communications Liasion</h6>

  <p>Another opportunity for someone.  Facebook page maintainance:
  Currently Sharon Meyer has been posting pictures and reminders along
  with Carl Webster.  Is there anyone else interested in helping?
  </p>

  <h6>Nominating Committee</h6>

  <p>Seeking a Vice President
  </p>

  <h6>Day of Dance</h6>

  <p>Saturday, Feb. 21 at Eastview Mall, Center Court from 3:30-4:00.
  Please be there by 3.  We will have some flyers with all the clubs
  listed to hand out.
  </p>

  <br><br>

  <p>Daphne Norma award-forms available online.  Need to be sent to Dick
  &amp; Irma Halstead by the end of Feb.
  </p>

  <p>Cabin Party-April 12 at Buckland Lodge from 11-3.  Meat &amp; water or
  coffee provided; bring a dish to pass &amp; your own table service.
  Eat at 12:15.
  </p>

  <p>Ken Georger mentioned that the last 2 dances held at Washington Irving
  were not charged by Doreen for setting up.  It was decided to pay her
  $10/hr anyway and refunds for overpayments to Country Twirlers were
  sent to the Promenader and Cloverleafs for $73.40 each.
  </p>

  <p>Thanks to Grand Squares for the refreshments tonight.
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at 8:30.  Motion made by Ken, 2nd by Carol Ann.
  Approved.
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2015 with refreshments
  from Cloverleaf Squares.
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: Sharon Meyer
  </p>


date: 2015-01-15
venue: 69
refreshments: Copy Cats
minutes:
  <p>Meeting called to order @ 7:37
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Ed &amp; Sybil Briggs, Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholdt, Carol
  Ann Stahl, Ken Saffer, Jill Zimmermann, Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren
  Olson, Mary Ann Lane, Chuck &amp; Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green, Stu
  &amp; Jane Jones, Karen Bigenwald, Peter Emmel and John Benesch
  </p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Approved 
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Approved. Balance $5843.19. Report provided. 
  </p>

  <p>Promenader: Peter E: E-mail listing @ 200; total &lsquo;copying&rsquo;
  pages: 71; 12 hard copies made for distribution to clubs; new ideas
  welcomed. Feedback on website from member clubs has been positive.
  </p>

  <p>Promotion: Looking for participants
  </p>

  <h5>Committee Reports</h5>

  <h6>D.O.R. Committee Report</h6>

  <p>Warren Olson: See D.O.R. Meeting Minutes for January 15, 2015.
  </p>

  <h6>Insurance</h6>

  <p>Sharon M. / Carol Ann S. - Responses received from all clubs.
  </p>

  <h6>USDA</h6>

  <p>No report. Provide DOR 57 flyer for next issue; Cost: $25.
  </p>

  <h6>CCR</h6>

  <p>Chuck Meyer: &lsquo;Beginners&rsquo; Ball&rsquo; - 3/4/15;
  &lsquo;Summer Sizzler&rsquo; - 8/8/15.
  </p>

  <h6>Current Business</h6>

  <p>Communications Liaison position: Still seeking person/people 
  <br>Financial Audits: Being done for DOR, RAF and Promendader accounts. [To be done annually.]
  <br>Nominating committee - [Terry/Warren/Sharon] to report in March.
  <br>&lsquo;Day of Dance&rsquo; - RAF invited to participate: Feb. 21 [3:30-4:00] @ Eastview.
  <br>&lsquo;Showcase of Ideas&rsquo; - Sharon to reserve a display table; June 23-27.
  </p>

  <p>Thanks to the Copy Cats for tonight&rsquo;s refreshments. 
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting will be held on Monday, February 16, 2015
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 8:45  Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>

  <h3>Dance-O-Rama Meeting Minutes &mdash; January 15, 2015</h3>

  <p>Meeting called to order @ 6:48
  </p>

  <p>Attendees: Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren Olson, Mary Ann Lane, Sharon
  Meyer, Barbara Green and John Benesch
  </p>

  <p>Minutes from November meeting: Approved 
  </p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Mary Ann Lane - Balance: $2302.22. Report
  provided.
  </p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama 57: Name: Rochester&rsquo;s Dance Festival. Location:
  Perinton Rec. &amp; Parks Dept., Turk Hill Road, Perinton. Date: May
  2, 2015. Ribbon colors: Lavender/purple with black printing; sample
  provided; 304 pcs. have been ordered. Dangles: Sample provided; will
  include 2 holes with rings; cost: $1.35 each plus a set-up charge;
  will sell for $2 [1] or $3 [2]; Mary Ann to order 50. There will be
  one 50/50 drawing for the dance. Basket raffle: no
  change. Responsibility matrix completed.
  </p>

  <p>The size of the dance floor to be adjusted by placement of chairs to
  outline the optimum area.
  </p>

  <p>Dining options at local restaurants [maps to be available]. $50 prize
  for the club with highest participation rate at the event [based on
  ribbons distributed].
  </p>

  <p>Flyers: Copies [300] have been printed [including map on the back].
  </p>

  <p>Callers: Dance schedule completed [ending @ 9:45]. Recommendation: Mix
  experienced dancers with new class graduates for first dance at the
  ceremony.
  </p>

  <p>Assembly of DOR packets: Date: January 24 [3 o&rsquo;clock], 2015 at
  the Meyer residence. Packets to be ready for pick-up at the February,
  2015 DOR Committee meeting. Those not picked up will be mailed to the
  RAF member clubs. Flyers to be mailed to geographically distant Square
  Dance clubs.
  </p>

  <p>Next meeting: Monday, February 16, 2015 [@6:30]. 
  </p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned @ 7:27
  </p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted: John Benesch
  </p>


date: 2014-11-10
venue: 69
refreshments: Exec Board
minutes:
  Meeting called to order @ 7:31
  <br><br>
  Attendees: Ed &amp; Sybil Briggs, Russ &amp; Ruth Uhrenholdt, Carol Ann Stahl, Cynthia Whited, Warren Patterson, Ken Saffer, Jill Zimmermann, Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren Olson, Dick &amp; Irma Halstead, Mary Ann Lane, Chuck &amp; Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green and John Benesch
  <br><br>
  Secretary's Report: Approved with the following correction: Chuck &amp; Sharon Meyer were also in attendance.
  <br><br>
  Treasurer's Report: Mary Ann Lane: Balance $5922.99. Report provided. Approved!
  <br><br>
  Committee Reports:
  <br><br>
  D.O.R. Committee Report: Warren O.: See D.O.R. Meeting Minutes for the Nov. 10 meeting.
  <br><br>
  Insurance: Sharon M. / Carol Ann S. - Responses received from all clubs.
  <br><br>
  USDA: No report.
  <br><br>
  Promenader: Peter Emmel - This status was provided subsequent to our meeting:
  <br><br>
  All,
  <br><br>
  I'm sorry I was not able to make it to Monday night's RAF meeting.  No doubt you heard from Terry and Betty about how Promenader operations would be linked to the RAF and managed via a 3-person committee.  If Betty was there you may also have heard about the status of the first on-line issue, so maybe the following is redundant.
  <br><br>
  Thanks to the efforts of Sid and Betty and the experienced Promenader staff of section editors (Dick Halstead, Bonnie Allen &amp; Sharon Meyer - who organize submissions from Club Reporters), content for the first on-line Winter Promenader issue is all "in" and the Editorial/Web team is hard at work getting it organized into the new format.  We hope to have it ready for the team of proofreaders by the end of this week.
  <br><br>
  So far we have received about 200 email subscription requests and heard from a couple of club presidents who plan to print copies of at least some sectionsfor their flyer table - such as Club News, Feature Articles and the Special Events List.  Also nine people without access to computers have contacted me for paper copies, though I suspect there will be a few more after December 1st.  Hopefully most who need hard-copy will find ways to get it through friends or club leaders.
  <br><br>
  One important thought to keep in mind - and communicate to readers in your club - is that the new format will NOT be perfect and that we welcome constructive feedback from readers.  Our top priorities are to make the content complete and accurate and as accessible as we can.  But in order to get it on-line in a recognizable "Promenader" style we have had to make numerous choices and compromises.  With patience - and feedback - the format can evolve.  Comments should be sent to promenader@rochester.rr.com, with the word "FEEDBACK" in the subject line so we'll be sure not to miss it.
  <br><br>
  CCR: Chuck M. - Workshop with Tim Mariner completed last weekend.
  <br><br>
  Promotions: We are again in need of people for our Promotions Committee.
  <br><br>
  Current Business:
  <br><br>
  Still seeking person/people for the Communications Liaison position.
  Job description:<br>
  * Attend Promenader Committee and Core Group meetings<br>
  * Coordinate & facilitate the exchange of informationbetween Promenader groups and the Federation.<br>
  * Work with &amp; guide the Promotions committee.
  <br><br>
  Constitution Review Committee: (4-6 people best) to review the current Constitution and make recommendations. Terry P. /Warren O./Sharon M. +?.<br>
  RAF Club representatives are encouraged to provide input.
  <br><br>

  Thanks to the Executive Board for tonight's refreshments. 
  <br><br>
  Next meeting will be held on Thursday January 15, 2015. Refreshments will be provided by the Copy Cats.
  <br><br>
  Thank you for your participation in the Rochester Area Federation. We can't do this without YOU ! Have a wonderful holiday season!  Terry Pratt
  <br><br>
  Meeting adjourned @ 7:57
  <br><br>
  Respectfully submitted: John Benesch

  <h3>Dance-O-Rama Meeting Minutes - November 10, 2014</h3>
  <p>
  Meeting called to order @ 6:33
  <br><br>
  Attendees: Terry &amp; Joe Pratt, Warren Olson, Dick &amp; Irma Halstead, Mary Ann Lane, Chuck &amp; Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green and John Benesch
  <br><br>
  Minutes from October meeting: Approved with the following change: Chuck &amp; Sharon &lsquo;Meyer&rsquo; - name spelling correction
  Treasurer's Report: Mary Ann Lane - Balance: $2480.22. Report provided.
  <br><br>
  Dance-O-Rama 57: Name: Rochester's Dance Festival. Location: Perinton Rec. &amp; Parks Dept., Turk Hill Road, Perinton. Date: May 2, 2015. Colors: Lavender/purple with black printing. There will be one 50/50 drawing for the dance. Basket raffle: no change. Dining at local restaurants [maps to be available].
  <br><br>
  Dangles: Mary Ann is checking on cost &amp; format. Qty. to purchase: 50
  <br><br>
  Flyers: Warren O. to create a strawman [copy attached to mailing]. Copies to be printed by January, 2015. Qty.: 300.
  <br><br>
  Assembly of DOR packets: Date: January 24, 2015 at the Meyer residence. 
  Packets to be ready for pick-up at the February, 2015 DOR Committee meeting. Those not picked up will be mailed to the RAF member clubs. Flyers to be mailed to distant Square Dance clubs.
  <br><br>
  Transferring of funds from DOR acct. to RAF acct.: Merging of the accounts is under consideration. Further discussion in January.
  <br><br>
  Checklist of Responsibilities by clubs at the event: To be reviewed in January
  <br><br>
  Dance Schedule at DOR 57: Warren O. to develop format [w/Mike Callahan]
  <br><br>
  Next meeting: Thursday January 15, 2015. 
  <br><br>
  Meeting adjourned @ 7:14
  <br><br>
  Enjoy your holiday season! Thank you for your work on this committee.
  <br><br>
  Respectfully submitted: John Benesch


date: 2016-09-28
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>Welcome/Call To Order 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p><b>Introductions</b></p>

  <p><b>Secretary&rsquo;s Report</b> &mdash; Sharon Meyer, Approval</p>

  <p><b>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report</b> &mdash; Mary Ann Lane, Approval</p>

  <h3>Committee Reports</h3>
  <ul>
    <li><b>Dance-O-Rama</b> &mdash; Jim Gotta Contracts in place for
    Callers and Cuers.</li>

    <li><b>Insurance</b> &mdash; Now $4.70 per person per year.</li>

    <li><b>USDA</b> &mdash; Sally Baechel &mdash; No one attended the
    National Convention.  Ruth and Russ Uhrenholdt were awarded the
    Circle Of Service Award.</li>

    <li><b>Website Changes</b> &mdash; Corrections were made by Sidney
    Marshall. Any changes can be made immediately.</li>

    <li><b>CCR</b> &mdash; A donation of $100 was made in memory of Tim
    Marnner. The ALS Walk brought in over $4000. Jerry Carmen update
    &mdash; at St. Ann&rsquo;s for rehabilitation, doing well and in
    good spirits.</li>
  </ul>

  <h3>Current Business</h3>
  <ul>
    <li>Belles and Beaus took advantage of the New Dancer Recruitment
    Fund. Cloverleafs had 42 people attend their Open House &mdash; of
    which 17 signed up. They are on the new 12 week program, Club 50.
    Not all callers are on board with it but will see how the class
    progresses.</li>

    <li><b>Banner Stealing</b> &mdash; Peter Emmel provided the updated
    rules. Hoping Banner Stealing will get more people dancing.</li>

    <li><b>Fall Friendship Ball</b> &mdash; Well attended. Encouraged
    new dancers to come and welcomed them in squares. Unfortunately
    50/50 was forgotten as were hand sanitizers. There were hearing
    problems in the back of hall. Need to reposition speakers. Food
    served was rated excellent. The Canandaigua location was well
    received. Suggested next time that the level of dance be announced
    so more can join squares.  Was noisy for the Round Dancers trying to
    hear cues. Some thought the size and shape of hall was not
    adequate. 9 clubs participated. Suggested that we take reservations
    earlier, maybe sell tickets at DOR, and possibly have ribbons
    made. Financially, there was a loss of $928.44, as anticipated. Date
    is set for Sept. 23, 2017.</li>
  </ul>

  <h3>GOOD OF THE ORDER</h3>

  <p>Next meeting scheduled for Thursday, Nov 10, 2016. At Bill Grays
  Restaurant, 1225 Jefferson Rd, Henrietta.</p>

  <p>Thank you for participating with this organization!</p>

  <p>Warren Olson and the Federation Board</p>

  <p>Motion to adjourn: 8:45 p.m.</p>

  <p>Respectively Submitted,</p>

  <p>Doreen Olson</p>


date: 2016-11-10
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>CALLED TO ORDER : 7:31pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDANCE : Warren and Doreen Olson ,Jim Gotta, Sharon Meyer, Barbara
  Green, Joe and Terry Pratt, Mary Ann Lane, Jane and Stu Jones, Peter
  Emmel, Jim Dowd, Carol Ann Stahl, Ed Briggs, Amy and Kris Aeckerle,
  Ruth and Russ Uhrenholdt.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Doreen. Corrections made. Updated everyone&rsquo;s email
  and street addresses. Motion to accept by Terry Pratt and Peter Emmel
  seconded. All in favor.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Mary Ann. Balance at hand as of Nov 10th is
  $9605.86. Motion to accept by Carol Ann Stahl and Terry Platt
  seconded. All in favor.</p>

  <p>DOR: Jim. Ribbons and Dangles are being ordered. Everything
  progressing on Schedule.</p>

  <p>INSURANCE: Carol Ann. Discussed the sharing of costs among other clubs
  if members belong to multiple clubs. Waiting on the
  certificates. Coverage is from Jan 1st to Jan 1st. A form must be
  filled out and submitted for an insurance certificate if a dance is
  held anywhere else besides regular place of dance. There is a link on
  our website to download the form.</p>

  <p>USDA: Sally not present.</p>

  <p>WEBSITE CHANGES: Warren thinks Sid posted a link to USDA under
  classified section but couldn&rsquo;t find it. Peter will check. Peter
  mentioned that Mike Callahan&rsquo;s site moved under Promenader since the
  fee covers multiple sites. Cloverleaf web master will contact Sidney
  to see about potentially moving that site under the Federation site as
  well.</p>

  <p>PROMENADER: Financial Report given by Peter. Current Balance is
  $5045.68. Because of some bank discrepancies, there is $55.42 more
  deposited into the account by Citizens Bank. Peter will include Club
  Lists for the Banner Stealing. A letter was read by Warren sent to us
  from Dick Halstead. Dick and Irma have informed us, that due to Irma&rsquo;s
  health, they will be stepping down from Roving Reporter and
  Historian. The position is now open and the search is on to replace
  them. Anyone who takes any pictures, or finds any obituaries in the
  paper, please let Peter know. Also there will be an update made to the
  Circle of Service Page.</p>

  <p>CCR: The Meeting hasn&rsquo;t been held yet, its not until Nov 13th. Will
  report at next meeting.</p>

  <p>PROMOTIONS: Amy and Kris Ackerle updated their research for Jackets
  with Club names and Logos on them. They made a presentation to the
  Federation to pay for the initial startup fee for the
  printer. Originally it was going to be offered to just Copy Cats, but
  interest has spread to other clubs as well. The jackets cost $45 with
  an extra $10 for club logo on front and $30 more for embroidered
  emblem on back. So, since this is advertising, they are asking that
  RAF pay the $150 startup fee. The company&rsquo;s name is Uniform Express,
  there will be no minimums or shipping fees. Orders will be taken only
  twice a year and Amy has agreed to oversee this. Motion to accept by
  Peter, Barb seconded. All in Favor.</p>

  <p>Sharon presented a suggestion made by Eileen Webster. A Jack Platus
  from Ohio made signs to be placed in peoples front yard with local
  Square Dancing information on them. A phone number was included so
  personal contact could be made and address any questions. Sharon will
  get some pricing and further discussions needed at next meeting.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS: Review of Audit and Report: An Audit was made by
  Lucy Petrzykowski. The books of DOR, Promenader and RAF were found to
  be in good order and nothing inappropriate.</p>

  <p>Update on Classes: Henry not present to report on Cloverleaf 50/50
  Classes. Jim Gotta said that there are 3 to 6 calls taught a night,
  but Mike Callahan seems to think that the class is running
  behind. Reimbursements of the $60 will be given out to clubs once a
  year. Village Squares are continuing their workshops. Copy Cats have
  19 in the class and Dalton Gang have a couple of people. There will be
  the Formal Graduations of all clubs in May including the graduates of
  Cloverleafs Dec class.</p>

  <p>Status of Club Contacts: Mary Ann. All updated.</p>

  <p>Thanksgiving Contradance Weekend: Emails were sent to all clubs from
  Bob Fabinski describing their Contrsdance Weekend. The Ball is Friday
  and Saturday after Thanksgiving, inviting Square Dancers in particular
  to Saturday afternoon from Noon to 5pm, it includes a buffet lunch and
  costs $20 at the door. This may be a good opportunity for the class
  members and new graduates to get introduced to Contradance.</p>

  <p>Jim Dowd from the Dalton Gang brought it to our attention that one of
  their dances, that was cleared on the Dance Schedule, was compromised
  by another dance on the same Friday night. Unintentionally, a Special
  MS Dance was a spur of the moment addition to Bubels routine Friday
  dances which took attendance away from them. Dalton Gang not only had
  a poor turnout but they lost money that evening. Jim was encouraged to
  fill out a Grant Application Form to submit to the Federation for some
  reimbursement to the club. In the future it is necessary to double
  check Dance Schedules so double booking will be avoided.</p>

  <p>The Bower/Shoemake Dance in early June: Discussion postponed till next
  meeting. More time needed to discuss possibilities.</p>

  <p>Norma Daphne Award : Carol Ann reminded that nominations are due by
  the end of January.</p>

  <p>GOOD of the ORDER:</p>

  <p>Next Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday January 10, 2017&nbsp;&mdash; Bill Gray&rsquo;s
  1225 Jefferson Rd, 7:30pm</p>

  <p>Thank you for participating with this organization!!</p>

  <p>Warren Olson and the Federation Board</p>

  <p>Motion to Adjourn: 9:00pm</p>

  <p>Respectfully submitted,</p>

  <p>Doreen Olson</p>


date: 2017-01-10
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>Welcome/Meeting Called to Order 7:32pm</p>

  <p>Attendees: Warren and Doreen Olson, Jim Gotta, Terry and Joe Pratt,
  Sharon Meyer, Henry Capron, Kaitlyn McJilton, Carol Ann Stahl, Peter
  Emmel, Ed Briggs, Mary Jane Kosel.</p>

  <p>Introductions: Mary Jane Kosel (the new Cloverleafs Fed Rep), Jodi
  Klupacs and Sue Eddy , friends of Henry Capron.</p>

  <p>Secretary&rsquo;s Report: Doreen Olson. Corrections made. Motion for
  Approval by Ed, Second by Peter, All Approved.</p>

  <p>Treasurer&rsquo;s Report: Mary Ann Lane not present. Warren estimated
  $9600. (Treasurers Report submitted after the meeting, due to winter
  storm).</p>

  <h3>Committee Reports:</h3>

  <p>DOR: Jim Gotta. Will Herzog was obtained for the Line Dance Caller;
  Ribbons have arrived; and Packets will be assembled and mailed out to
  area clubs.</p>

  <p>Insurance: Carol Ann Stahl. Every club has paid. Peter Emmel informed
  us that there is now a place on the website where you can download
  forms.</p>

  <p>USDA: Sally Baechel not present.</p>

  <p>Website Changes: Peter Emmel. Financial Report for Promenader was
  given; there is a total of $5,045.68. Since Dick Halstead has retired,
  we are missing out on pictures and comments submitted. Asking that
  anyone having taken pictures or want to write articles, please submit.</p>

  <p>CCR: The Spring/Fall Dance will be Sat, Mar 25, 2017 in Chili starting
  at 7:00pm.</p>

  <h3>Current Business:</h3>

  <p>Update on Classes: Question of whether Gil Porter was calling for a
  class at Perinton Rec. Henry reported on Cloverleafs last class: Of
  the 30+ people who showed up at Open House, 13 took classes and 6
  graduated. The new Open House will be Jan 22, 2017 from 5 to 7pm. The
  new graduates are being called &ldquo;Budding Clovers&rdquo; and the
  downfall seems that these new grads are breaking down squares in the
  club. They are being encouraged to attend the new class and become
  Angels. Henry says that they are going thru the names and numbers of
  the people that signed up at last Open House to invite them back, and
  have taken out an ad in the newspaper for the next Open House. Trying
  to encourage new class members to interact with other clubs
  classes. Copy Cats have 15 students.</p>

  <p>Bower/Shoemake Dance Thursday June 8, 2017: The venue has been
  selected and will be at The Church of the Assumption Fairport (Barb
  Green&rsquo;s church) for $180.00. It has a large gym with adjacent
  kitchen. Mark Thone will be paid $100 to be the cuer. Peter will check
  with Village Squares board members to see if they can sponsor this
  dance for insurance purposes.</p>

  <p>The callers will take care of all their own expenses, but want to
  charge $10 a person. The Federation is proposing to presell tickets to
  local clubs. These &ldquo;Coupons&rdquo; will be sold for $7:00 to
  club members ($3.00 subsidized by Federation) and $3.00 to recent
  grads ($7.00 subsidized by Federation). They will be separate coupons
  on different color paper. Terry motion, Peter seconded, all approved.</p>

  <p>Norma Daphne Award: Carol Ann has forms. Reminder all nominations are
  due end of Jan.</p>

  <p>Fall Ball Sept 23, 2017: Warren and Sharon will check out the American
  Legion hall in Shortsville for $200. Will, also, check Barb
  Green&rsquo;s church in Fairport before final decision. Jim suggested
  Gil Porter and Mike Callahan as callers with Dave Eno as back
  up. Possibly Rich Rosenfeld if willing to do for nothing; Lisa
  Treichler and Mark Thone for cuers. A caterer still needs to be
  found. Warren proposed that all pay the full price for the meal since
  admission to dance is free. Should start selling tickets at
  DOR. Suggestion of ribbons to promote this dance; will think about
  this.</p>

  <p>Yard Signs: Sharon shared information she obtained. Henry suggested
  buying many signs and putting additional info on. Need to get ASAP so
  can start advertising square dancing. The goal would be for every club
  member to post a sign in their yard.</p>

  <p>Election Nomination Committee: Elections are to be held at the April
  2017 Meeting. Slate to be presented at the March Meeting. Nominations
  from the Floor are to be accepted at March and April Meetings. Peter
  and Terry have volunteered for the search.</p>

  <p>Next Meeting is scheduled for Monday February 20, 2017 at Bill Grays
  on Jefferson Rd. at 7:30pm.</p>

  <p>Thank you for participating with this organization!</p>

  <p>Warren Olson and the Federation Board.</p>

  <p>Motion to adjourn by Peter, Terry seconded. All approved.</p>

  <p>Respectfully Submitted by Doreen Olson</p>


date: 2017-02-20
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>Welcome/Called to Order 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Warren and Doreen Olson, Sharon and Chuck Meyer, Mary Ann
  Lane, Jim Gotta,Ed Briggs, Henry Capron, Sue Eddy, Mary Jane Kosel,
  Stu and Jane Jones, Carol Ann Stahl, Kaitlyn McJilton, Peter Emmel.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Doreen Olson. The Minutes were read,
  corrections were made. Motion was made by Carol Ann, and seconded by
  Mary Ann. All were in favor.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Mary Ann Lane. Balance on hand as of
  Feb. 20, 2017 is $8469.89. The funds from DOR and RAF were merged. The
  RAF Dancer Recruitment and Retention Fund Balance was summarized. The
  fund balance is now $478.00.</p>

  <h3>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</h3>

  <p>Dance O Rama: Jim Gotta. Investigated bringing in dinner again. Voted
  on Otto Tomato as the caterer. The cost per ticket will be $15.00 each
  to eat on site, and must be paid in advance. The sale of tickets will
  be made at individual clubs. There must be a minimum of 50 people and
  maximum of 128. Perinton Recreation will set up and take down tables
  and chairs for us at no additional expense. Dancers will be escorted
  out of the main hall while room is being set up. All dancers who will
  be staying for dinner must present their ticket upon re-entering
  hall. Open Mic will be re-located to the plus hall this year. Jim will
  be making up new flyers with the menu and cost, and the tickets. There
  will still be the option to eat off site.</p>

  <p>INSURANCE: No updates.</p>

  <p>USDA: Sally Baechel not present.</p>

  <p>WEBSITE CHANGES: Peter Emmel had no changes. The link to the USDA page
  is available. Getting ready for the March 1st publication. They are
  very light on articles since Dick Halstead retired. All are encouraged
  to submit any news. All clubs news has been submitted.  The
  Bower/Shoemake Dance will be listed as an event, Peter will take care
  of it.</p>

  <p>CCR: Jim said The Spring Thaw Dance will be March 25th, 2017, and will
  be held at the Baptist Church in Chili from 7 to 10 p.m. Jim will be
  making up the flyers.</p>

  <p>PROMOTIONS: Nothing new.</p>

  <h3>CURRENT BUSINESS:</h3>

  <p>BOWER/SHOEMAKE DANCE: Will be held on Thursday, June 8, 2017, at the
  Church of the Assumption in Fairport (Barb Green&rsquo;s church). The
  cost is $180.00 for the large gym and adjacent kitchen. The cuer will
  be Mark Thone. The callers want to charge $10.00 per person. The
  Federation will pre-sell tickets for $7 to local club members and $3
  to recent graduates. The Federation will fund the difference. Warren
  will make up the discount vouchers , one for members and one for
  recent graduates (any graduate from the last two years of
  classes). Club involvement from Village Squares and Copy Cats. All
  will be encouraged to bring refreshments.</p>

  <p>NORMA DAPHNE AWARD: A new engraving plate is needed. There is only
  room for one more entry. Carol Ann Stahl will purchase a new plate for
  $28.00 and the Federation will reimburse her . The old plate will be
  handed down along with the new one so as to keep them together.</p>

  <p>FALL BALL: Will be held September 23, 2017, at the American Legion in
  Shortsville. The callers will be Mike Callahan, Gil Porter, and Jim
  Gotta. Mark Thone and Chuck Meyer will be cuers. The same caterer will
  be used as last year and the cost will be $20.00 each for dinner. Free
  entry for all club members and tickets needed for dinner. Fall Ball
  ribbons available for everyone. Warren will make new flyers
  advertising Dinner and Dance for $20.00. Peter will take care of
  collecting the dinner tickets at the door, and the selling of the
  50/50 raffle tickets. Will start the distribution of ribbons at DOR to
  everyone, and selling dinner tickets at the table where the dangles
  are sold. Peter will also keep track of the master list at DOR.</p>

  <p>MIKE SIKORSKY DANCE: Will be Friday August 25th 2017,at the Henrietta
  Fire Hall, 7&ndash;10 p.m. Gary Bubel gave up his weekly slot at the
  fire hall, and the cost of the hall will be $65.00. Mike Sikorsky will
  get paid $300.00. Alice Bubel will be cuing . Sharon will make up the
  contract for Alice, and Alice will be paid $70.00 for the evening. The
  cost of the dance will be $10.00 each. Cloverleafs volunteered to man
  the table and take care of the insurance. Warren will re-format the
  flyer.</p>

  <p>YARD SIGN PROJECT: 250 signs will be ordered. They will be two sided
  and one color at $2.19 each. The Federation will buy all of them and
  then sell them to clubs at a discounted rate( $1.00 each was
  suggested). Motion to accept by Peter, and seconded by Henry. All in
  favor.</p>

  <p>ELECT NOMINATION COMMITTEE: The slate will be presented at the March
  meeting . Nominations from the floor to be accepted at the March and
  April meetings. The election will be held at the April 2017
  meeting. Jim Gotta has already accepted the President&rsquo;s
  position, Carl Webster has accepted the Secretary&rsquo;s position,
  and Warren Olson and Stu Jones have expressed interest in the
  Treasurer&rsquo;s position. The Vice President&rsquo;s position is
  still open.</p>

  <p>Next meeting is scheduled for Thursday March 30, 2017 at Bill
  Gray&rsquo;s, 1225 Jefferson Rd, 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>Thank you for participating with this organization!</p>

  <p>Warren Olson and the Federation Board.</p>

  <p>Motion to adjourn by Henry, seconded by Carol Ann. All in favor.</p>


date: 2017-03-30
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>Welcome/Called to Order 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Jim Gotta, Mary Ann Lane, Sharon and Chuck Meyer, Terry
  and Joe Pratt, Warren and Doreen Olson, Mary Jane Kosel, Sue Eddy,
  Kaitlyn McJilton, Henry Capron, Jane and Stu Jones, Peter Emmel, Carol
  Ann Stahl.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Doreen Olson. The Minutes were
  read. Motion to accept by Ed, Carol Ann seconded, all in favor.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Mary Ann Lane. Balance on hand as of
  March 30, 2017 is $8249.18. Motion to accept by Terry, seconded by
  Carol Ann, all in favor.</p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</p>

  <p>DOR: Jim Gotta wants the count of dinner tickets from all clubs. He
  needs to know weekly the count of dinner tickets and ribbons passed
  out. Next meeting is the deadline. Jim also needs all the names of the
  recent graduates, so packets can be provided. The main hall will be
  cleared at 5:30 so set up for dinner can take place. Perinton
  Recreation will be setting up and taking down of tables. Dinner will
  be catered by Otto Tomato&rsquo;s. Open Mic will be in the plus dance
  hall. Graduates will be assembling at 6:45 for the Grand March
  followed by a mixer dance, and awards. We will be selling ice cream in
  the refreshment area following ceremonies until gone. Jim wants all
  clubs encouraged to bring their banner to hang.</p>

  <p>INSURANCE: Carol Ann reports no new requests.</p>

  <p>USDA: Sally Baechel not present.</p>

  <p>WEBSITE CHANGES: Peter Emmel reports no issues or expenses. One
  event&nbsp;&mdash; Carl Webster has moved the Cloverleafs website to
  the RAF account which is free. As of yesterday it was up and
  running. Peter still requesting articles and pictures to be
  submitted. Cut off date is May 1st.</p>

  <p>CCR: Jim reported on the Spring/Fall Dance. They started with four
  squares and ended with four squares. All stayed until the
  end. Unfortunately there were very few class members there. Betsy and
  Roy Gotta will be calling and cueing at Copy Cats April 22nd, and also
  is scheduled in August at Cloverleafs. Cloverleafs will be offering
  round dance lessons. The first two lessons will be given by Mark Thone
  in May, and Alice will be teaching June through August.</p>

  <p>PROMOTIONS: Henry will report at the next meeting on the new class
  for Cloverleafs.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>1) Bower/Shoemake Dance will be Thursday, June 8, 2017 at the
  Church of the Assumption in Fairport. The cost of the large gym w/
  adjacent kitchen is $180.00. The cuer will be Mark Thone. Callers want
  $10 a person. The Federation will presell tickets at a reduced price
  with discount vouchers. The cost for any club member will be $7 (with
  a $3 coupon) and for any recent graduates within the last two years
  will be $3 ( with a $7 coupon). Club involvement will be from the
  Cloverleafs and the Copy Cats. Tickets will also be sold at the
  door. Warren put the ad in the Coordinator.</p>

  <p>2) Fall Ball will be Sept. 23, 2017, at the Shortsville American
  Legion. The dance will be from 2:00 to 5:15 with dinner at 6:00. The
  callers are Callahan, Porter and Gotta. The cuers are Thone and
  Meyer. The cost of the dinner is $20 per person. The same caterer as
  last year will be used. Ribbons are available at all clubs. The sale
  of dinner tickets will start at DOR at the same table as the Dangles,
  and Peter Emmel has volunteered to man the sales.</p>

  <p>3) Mike Sikorsky Dance will be Friday August 25, 2017 at the
  Henrietta Firehall from 7:00 to 10:00pm. The cuer will be Alice Bubel
  and the cost will be $10.00 per person. Cloverleafs have volunteered
  to man the tables and take care of insurance. Warren has updated the
  flyer changing it to mainstream and plus calls. The contracts with the
  caller and cuer are in place.</p>

  <p>4) Yard Sign Project&nbsp;&mdash; Warren informed us that what we
  thought was going to be the cost is really doubled. There were hidden
  fees and charges. We are still interested in the 18x24 in. size. Terry
  will contact the Champagne Whirl-A-Ways and ask about a similar
  project they had.</p>

  <p>5) Nomination Committee is represented by Peter Emmel and Warren
  Olson. Elections are to be held at the April 2017 Meeting. The slate
  was presented at the March Meeting. Nominations from the floor are to
  be accepted at March and April Meetings. The President&rsquo;s
  position has been accepted by Jim Gotta; theTreasurer&rsquo;s position
  has been accepted by Stu Jones; and the Secretary&rsquo;s position has
  been accepted by Carl Webster. The Vice President&rsquo;s position has
  not yet been filled. The Federation is asking all clubs to help in the
  search for the Vice President&rsquo;s slot. Suggested the possibility
  of Co-Vice Presidents sharing the duties.</p>

  <p>Next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday April 18, 2017&nbsp;&mdash;-
  Bill Gray&rsquo;S 1225 Jefferson Rd. at 7:30</p>

  <p>Thank you for participating with this organization&nbsp;&mdash;
  Warren Olson and federation board</p>

  <p>Motion to adjourn by Terry, Ed seconded, and all accepted.</p>


date: 2017-04-18
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>Meeting Called To Order 7:28 p.m.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Warren and Doreen Olson, Jim Gotta, Joe and Terry Pratt,
  Sharon and Chuck Meyer, Henry Capron, Mary Ann Lane, Sue Eddy, Kaitlyn
  McJilton, Jane and Stu Jones, Carol Ann Stahl, Ed Briggs, Mary Jane
  Kosel.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Doreen Olson made corrections to last meeting
  minutes. Motion to accept by Ed, seconded by Terry, and all in favor.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Mary Ann Lane reported the receipts for DOR
  tickets and dinner tickets. The total was $1683.00. Disbursements for
  Dangles was $108.00. The Balance on Hand as of April 18, 2017 is
  $9824.18.</p>

  <h3>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</h3>

  <p>1. DOR: Jim Gotta. Jim needs the total number of graduates and their
  names so he can put together packets. The total count for dancers at
  DOR is 192, and the count for dinners sold is 75. The final count for
  dinners is next week. There will be no sales at the door. The dinner
  tickets will be collected at the dinner hall. There will be the sale
  of ice cream available after dinner. The start of the sales for Fall
  Ball will be at DOR, and can be purchased at the Dangles table. The
  dance is free to all, and the dinner is $20 per person. Jim wants to
  remind all clubs to please bring YOUR BANNER!!!!!</p>

  <p>2. INSURANCE: Carol Ann reports that insurance is $4.70 each. She needs
  the list of names of all new graduates and a check, so she can send it
  in.</p>

  <p>3. USDA: Sally Baechel not present.</p>

  <p>4. PROMENADER: Peter Emmel not present but Ed Briggs brought the
  financial report. The balance as of April 18, 2017 is $5130.68.</p>

  <p>5. CCR: Jim reported that Betsy and Roy Gotta will be here this
  weekend, calling A2 at Cloverleafs Saturday afternoon, and calling and
  cueing at Copy Cats in the evening.</p>

  <h3>CURRENT BUSINESS:</h3>

  <p>1. Detail of List of Responsibilities at DOR. There is a schedule of
  commitments. People were informed that if they were unable to keep
  their time slot, they were responsible to fill it or switch.</p>

  <p>2. Norma Daphne Award: Carol Ann reports that it is all set.</p>

  <p>3. Election of officers: Holding the vote for the slate: President-
  Jim Gotta, Vice President- Henry Capron, Treasurer-Stu Jones,
  Secretary- Carl Webster. At this time the nominations are
  closed. Motion to accept being closed by Ed, seconded by Mary Jane,
  and all in favor. The Nominating Committee instructed the Secretary to
  cast a single ballot for the slate. All in favor, and motion is
  carried.</p>

  <p>4. Yard Sign Update: Warren found another company on the internet that
  sell signs. The total for 200 signs is $627.60, and there may be a 40%
  off that is applicable. The cost per sign is $3.14. The cost of each
  sign to club members will be $1.50 and the Federation will pay for the
  remainder. The size will be 18"x24". The Federation will take the
  money from the Recruitment Fund. Motion to accept by Carol Ann,
  seconded by Henry, and all in favor. Warren will order them tomorrow.</p>

  <p>5. Tentative Schedule: Warren has next years schedule posted. The
  meetings are a little farther spaced out, and the first two are
  already booked at the Bill Grays on Jefferson Rd.</p>

  <p>6. A Presidents Meeting was suggested. It was thought to be a good
  idea. Warren will pick a few dates in June so the presidents can vote
  on one.</p>

  <h3>OTHER:</h3>

  <p>Warren suggested emphasis on Fall Ball not only at DOR, but at
  the Bower/Shoemake Dance and the Sikorsky Dance also. We need as much
  publicity as possible.</p>

  <p>At the next meeting, the passing of the batons will take place.</p>

  <p>We need ideas for next year&rsquo;s 60th DOR.</p>

  <p>NEXT MEETING IS MAY 15, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;&mdash; BILL GRAYS, JEFFERSON RD.</p>

  <p>THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING WITH THIS ORGANIZATION&nbsp;&mdash; WARREN OLSON AND
  THE FEDERATION BOARD.</p>

  <p>MEETING ADjOURNED: Motioned by Ed and seconded by Carol Ann, all in
  favor.</p>


date: 2017-05-15
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <h3>(As Amended 19 September 2017)</h3>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER 7:30pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Warren and Doreen Olson, Jim Gotta, Henry Capron, Joe and
  Terry Pratt, Mary Ann Lane, Sharon and Chuck Meyer, Stu and Jane
  Jones, Peter Emmel, Carl and Eileen Webster, Russ and Ruth Uhrenholdt,
  Sally Baechele, Mary Jane Kosel, Kaitlyn McJilton, Carol Ann Stahl.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Doreen Olson. No corrections needed. Motion
  to accept by Sharon, seconded by Peter, and all in favor.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Mary Ann Lane. Total for receipts is
  $2,891.00. Total for Disbursements is $3,409.57. Total Balance on Hand
  is $9,305.61. Motion to accept by Peter, seconded by Terry, and all in
  favor. ( Balances will be subject to change after Jim reviews subject
  matters).</p>

  <h3>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</h3>

  <p>1) DOR&nbsp;&mdash; Jim reported dance results. We were down about 2
  squares, with 230 dancers in attendance. About 70 dinner tickets were
  sold. Twenty two people filled out the survey, with the general
  consensus being positive. General dinner comments were good. Some had
  a problem with location, but we strongly felt that Perinton Rec was a
  suitable place. Some negative comments on the sound. May have to
  utilize the downstairs hall for the plus dance. Its hard to please
  everyone.  Looking for Diamond Jubilee suggestions for the 60th next
  year.</p>

  <p>2) CCR&nbsp;&mdash; It was a good session with Betsy and Roy
  Gotta. Summer Sizzler will be Aug 12, 2017 at the Henrietta fire hall
  7pm.</p>

  <p>3) USDA&nbsp;&mdash; Sally reported the possibility of the clubs
  having tax exempt status. Many pros and cons whether it would benefit
  our federation. Questionable how much sales tax savings there would
  be, may not be worth it to apply.</p>

  <p>4) Promenader/web site&nbsp;&mdash; Peter reported $90 for listing
  fees. The balance total is $5,220.68. New articles were submitted
  along with 3 obituaries. Peter took a picture of the Board members,
  old and new.</p>

  <h3>CURRENT BUSINESS:</h3>

  <p>1) Trail thru to June Jamboree is June 8, 2017 at the Church of
  Assumption, 20 East Ave, Fairport, NY. Callers are Ken Bower and Gary
  Shoemake, and cuer is Mark Thone. It will be Mainstream and Plus. Time
  is 7pm early rounds, and 7:30 to 9:45pm Squares and Rounds. $10 per
  person with discounts at the door for club members and graduates.</p>

  <p>2) Mike Sikorsky Dance will be Mainstream and announced Plus
  dancing. It is Aug 25, 2017 at Henrietta Fire Hall, 3129 East
  Henrietta Rd, with Mike Sikorsky calling and Alice Bubel cueing. Time
  is 7:00 Early Rounds, and 7:30 to 9:45 Squares and Rounds. Cost is $10
  per person.</p>

  <p>3) Fall Friendship Ball is Saturday Sept 23, 2017, at American Legion
  Post 34, 1513 Palmyra Rd, Shortsville, NY 14548. Dance is from 2:00 to
  5:15pm. No charge for the dance, but the buffet dinner that is served
  immediately after is $20 per person ( reservations are
  required). Please sign up with Peter Emmel&nbsp;&mdash; see flyer for
  details. Encourage all Graduates to go!!!!!</p>

  <p>4) The RAF Meeting Schedule is out, please pick one up.</p>

  <p>5) Yard signs are in and available. They are $1.50 each, please see
  Warren Olson.</p>

  <p>6) Please support the ALS Fundraiser Dance with Shirts &amp; Skirts in
  memory of Elaine Eno. It is June 17, 2017, and this year they will be
  honoring Jerry Carmen.</p>

  <p>7) President&rsquo;s Meeting is Tues May 23, 2017 at 7:00pm at Bill
  Grays, Jefferson Rd, Henrietta.</p>

  <p>8) Passing the Torch&nbsp;&mdash; Welcome Jim Gotta the new Pesident,
  Henry Capron the new Vice President, Carl Webster the new Secretary,
  and Stu Jones the new Treasurer.</p>

  <p>9) Bill and Pat Mosher from Southern Tier Wheelers announced their
  dance June 17, 2017, inviting all new Graduates to join them. Flyers
  posted in the Promenader.</p>

  <p>10) There was a suggestion to have 4 double sided new signs made up
  for DOR similar to the Yard Signs. Will discuss further at next
  meeting. Also look into magnetic signs for cars as a way of
  advertising.</p>

  <p>11) The Federation Board wants to give Sid Marshall a special thanks
  for overseeing the Open Mic Hour.</p>

  <p>THANK YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THE ROCHESTER AREA FEDERATION. WE
  CAN&rsquo;T DO IT WITHOUT YOU!!!</p>

  <p>NEXT MEETING IS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2017 at BILL GRAYS. 1225
  JEFFERSON RD, HENRIETTA, 7:30.</p>

  <p>MOTION TO ADJOURN made by Terry , seconded by Sally, and all in favor.</p>


date: 2017-09-19
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER 7:28pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Henry Capron, Sue Eddy, Peter Emmel, Jim Gotta, Jane and
  Stu Jones, Mary Jane Kosel, Kaitlyn McJilton, Sidney Marshall, Sharon
  Meyer, Bill and Pat Mosher, Warren Olson, Carol Ann Stahl, Carl and
  Eileen Webster</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Carl Webster made corrections to last
  meeting minutes. Motion to accept by Carol Ann Stahl, seconded by
  Peter Emmel, and all in favor.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Stu Jones reported a beginning balance of
  $9,305.61 as of May 15, 2017. The balance on hand as of September 19,
  2017 is $9,147.87. His report is addended. Peter Emmel asked if Stu
  Jones would like a blank dues form loaded onto the RAF web site. Stu
  Jones agreed. He also presented a Treasurer&rsquo;s Summary Report
  (also addended). The report is meant as an overview of a year&rsquo;s
  period. It includes major dance summaries and a Dancer Recruitment/
  Retention Fund summary.</p>
  </ol>

  <h3>Committee Reports: </h3>
  <ol>
    <li> <p><u><b>D</b></u><u><b>ance-O-Rama</b></u>&nbsp;&mdash; Jim
    Gotta. The Dance-O-Rama will continue to be on the first Saturday in
    May. The next dance will be the federation&rsquo;s
    60<sup>th</sup>. Perinton Community Center is reserved for next
    year. Callers Keith Harter, Mike Callahan, Dave Eno, and Gary Bubel;
    and cuers Jeanne Harter and Mary Hinkle are under contract. Will
    continue with the dinner. The dance showed a small positive income.
    Jim reported that it was recommended to change the advance-purchase
    ticket price to $10 and at-the-door price to $12. There were no
    objections at the meeting. Southern Tier Wheelers expressed concern
    about logistics of obtaining advance-purchase tickets because their
    dancing schedule is outside the purchase deadline. The board felt
    that it would not be a problem coordinating ticket sales to the
    club. It was recommended to include something about advance-purchase
    tickets in the January packet mailing for outlying clubs (such as
    FLAC members) to be able to participate in early purchases.</p>
    </li>
  <li><p><u><b>Insurance</b></u>&nbsp;&mdash; Carol Ann Stahl reported
    that insurance was approved for the same $4.70 rate. She requested
    information for the insurance period from January 1<sup>st</sup> to
    December 31<sup>st</sup> 2018. She would like the current name and
    address of each president and treasurer as well as club and class
    members (Class members are not charged until they become members of
    the club). She will send forms to each president requesting member
    names. She requested from the presidents to return three copies to
    her (2 copies will go to the national organization). Forms are
    online at <a
    href="formsanddocuments.html">http://squaredancingrochester.org/formsanddocuments.html</a>.
    Peter Emmel will get more information to improve wording on the web
    to help club officers understand insurance reporting needs.</p>
    </li>
  <li><p><u><b>Caller&rsquo;s Cooperative of Rochester
    (CCR)</b></u>&nbsp;&mdash; Clubs and dancing schedules are being
    covered since the loss of Jerry Carmen and Mike Herne.</p>
    </li>
  <li><p><u><b>USDA</b></u>&nbsp;&mdash; Sally Baechel not present.</p>
    </li>
  <li><u><b>Promenader</b></u>&nbsp;&mdash; Peter Emmel reported that
    the Fall 2017 issue is posted and hard copies will be provided
    shortly. About ten people requested hard copies. Promenader had an
    income of $120.00 from two ads and special event listings. There was
    a $171.87 expense for the renewal of the web posting through the
    summer of 2019 and domain name through July of 2018. Web hosting
    costs $12.99 a month while the domain name is $15.99 a year. The
    current bank balance is $5,168.81. Sidney Marshall reported
    federation minutes are posted on the federation web; agendas are
    not. Send club flyers directly to him rather than through the
    Promenadar. He also reported that federation server site also hosts
    other web sites such as Mike Callahan&rsquo;s personal site and
    Cloverleaf Squares at cost. He offered room on the server for other
    club sites with the understanding the other clubs pay for their own
    domain name. The federation currently is hosting two of their ten
    allotted sub-domains. Clubs will be requested for reimbursement of
    domain name charges, charged to the federation.</p>
    </li>
  <li><p><u><b>Summer Dance Review</b></u>&nbsp;&mdash; Members felt
    that the Bower/Shoemake (118 dancers) and Mike Sikorsky (59 plus
    dancer) dances went well and it would be nice to have them again. It
    was suggested that Barb Green contact Bower/Shoemake to see if they
    are available. Mike Sikorsky is available Friday, August 24, 2018
    and the board recommended having another dance next year. Gary Bubel
    will be contacted regarding a conflict with his club&rsquo;s Friday
    dance.</p>
    </li>
  <li><p><u><b>Open Houses</b></u>&nbsp;&mdash; Cloverleaf Squares
    reported that nineteen people showed up for their first open house
    and nineteen at the second (ten returning from the previous open
    house). Henry Capron described the club&rsquo;s financial offer to
    prospective students. Copy Cats open house is taking place
    concurrent with this meeting. Village Squares is not having an open
    house.</p>
    </li>
  <li><p><u><b>Fall Friendship Ball</b></u>&nbsp;&mdash; 34 paid for
    dinner with 9 free-of-charge for callers, cuers and partners
    (representing a little over half from last year; last year&rsquo;s
    price was subsidized). This dance is further away but closer to the
    Thruway exit (exit 43). The hall is larger, better acoustics, and
    with snacks outside the dance hall. Sharon Meyer suggested that
    people find places to dance. Most places are expensive and people
    have complained about various facilities. There was some
    coordination discussion for the dance coming up the following
    weekend.</p>
    </li>
  </ol>
  <h3>New Business:</h3>
  <ol>
    <li><p>Callers (or lack thereof)&nbsp;&mdash; Discussion focused on a) encouraging new
    callers and b) funding for caller training.
    </p>
    <ol type="a">
      <li><p>The federation would like to find and encourage people who
      potentially would like to call. Amateur caller night is one way to
      attract new callers. The board encouraged the continuation of this
      activity, including, perhaps, a CCR sponsored amateur night. Also,
      CCR members are available to create mentor relationships with
      interested people. Clubs have had guest tips for new callers.</p>
      </li>
      <li><p>&ldquo;Callerlab&rdquo; and Single Square Dancers USA have
        funds to sponsor caller training.</p>
      </li>
    </ol>
  </ol>
  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED at 9:00 pm Motioned by Warren Olson and seconded
  by Peter Emmel, all in favor.</p>

  <p>NEXT MEETING: 7:30 pm, October 30, 2017 at Bill Gray&rsquo;s, 1225
  Jefferson Rd.</p>


date: 2017-10-30
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>Meeting Called To Order 7:28pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Henry Capron, Sue Eddy, Peter Emmel, Jim Gotta, Stu Jones,
  Jane Jones, Mary Jane Kosel, Kaitlyn McJilton, Sharon Meyer, Warren
  Olson, Doreen Olson, Carol Ann Stahl, Joe Pratt, Terry Pratt, Rick
  LaDonna, Donna LaDonna, Carl Webster, and Eileen Webster</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: Jim Gotta asked for recommendations of changes to the
  meeting agenda. No recommendations were forwarded.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Terry Pratt motioned to approve the minutes
  from the 19 September 2017 board meeting. Sharon Meyer seconded the
  motion. The minutes were approved without modification.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Stu Jones reported balance as of September
  19th of $9,147.87. Today the balance is $9,033.10. Receipts include
  club dues. Ten out of eighteen clubs are listed as paid on the
  report. Southern Tier Wheelers submitted their dues at the
  meeting. Stu will contact the other clubs for overdue dues. The
  treasurer&rsquo;s report and treasurer&rsquo;s summary report are
  addended to the minutes.</p>

  <p>Committee Reports:</p>

  <ol>
  <li>Dance-O-Rama&nbsp;&mdash; We will stick with Otto Tomotto and the same menu item
  (&ldquo;The MaMa&rdquo;). We will go with a black ribbon with silver or gold
  lettering with perhaps the lettering &ldquo;60th&rdquo; inside a diamond
  shape. The packets with dinner tickets, dance tickets, and ribbons are
  scheduled to go out to clubs in January. Terry Pratt will be looking
  into re-skining some of our advertising signs to replace our wooden
  direction signs for the dance. Rick LaDonna expressed interest in
  re-skinning some Copy Cat signs to replace old sandwich boards. Tickets
  for the dance will be $10.00 for advance sales and $12.00 at the door;
  the dinner will be $15.00. Clubs were requested to send the list of
  ticket sales in case of forgotten ribbons. Ribbons will not be
  numbered. Donna LaDonna volunteered to help Barb Green with the
  baskets.</li>

  <li>Insurance&nbsp;&mdash; Carol Ann Stahl reported that the Cayuga Cutups payment is
  still outstanding. Once all the payments are in Carol Ann will make
  adjustments for people in multiple clubs. She also requested any club
  contact changes. Peter and Carol looked at the Promenader text
  concerning obtaining insurance forms and they have no suggested
  changes. The USDA web site has information on how to complete the
  insurance forms. Rick LaDonna lauded Carol Ann on her help in
  completing their forms.</li>

  <li>Caller&rsquo;s Cooperative of Rochester (CCR)&nbsp;&mdash; Nothing new&nbsp;&mdash;
  monitoring new dancer classes.</li>

  <li>Promenader&nbsp;&mdash; Peter Emmel reported income from four listings is $20.00
  and the current balance is $5,188.81. He reported that the deadline
  for the winter issue is &ldquo;the day after tomorrow.&rdquo; The winter issue
  will come out on the first of December. He said that club news cannot
  include pictures; pictures would have to be added as separate
  articles. Text and pictures for an article should be sent
  separately. Embedded pictures within text will not render properly on
  some displays. The Promenader staff will process text and images
  separately for readability.</li>
  </ol>

  <p>Current Business:</p>

  <ol>
  <li>Fall Friendship Ball&nbsp;&mdash; Peter Emmel reported</li>

  <ol type="a">
  <li>Financial Summary for 2nd Annual Fall Friendship Ball 9/23/2017 is
  addended.</li>

  <li>Attendence.</li>

  <ol>
  <li>56 dancers attended. Last year there were over eigthy dancers. The
  hall could have taken two or three more squares.</li>

  <li>Only one recent graduate attended.</li>

  <li>Only one couple attended from the Finger Lakes area (there was a dance
  in Penn Yan at the same time).</li>
  </ol>

  <li>Survey Results. (Addended). Peter reported that generally the venue
  was fine but the distance, for most dancers, was too far.</li>

  <li>Location, Dinner and Date. Resolved to keep the dance at the American
  Legion in Shortsville on September 29, 2018. Keep the caterer the same
  but request some non-meat dishes.</li>

  <li>Cost. The subsidized cost for the dance was a little less than
  $300. The hall rental was the primary cost for the dance. The dinner
  revenue and cost was even.</li>

  <li>Action Items.</li>

  <ol>
  <li>Peter volunteered to contact club presidents about attendence
  reactions from their members.</li>

  <li>Peter will contact Lise Rosenfield about potential date conflicts with
  Finger Lakes dances.</li>
  </ol>

  <li>Caller / Cuer. Caller suggestions: Bill Ryan, Richard Rosenfield, Dave
  Eno, and as backup, Ron Brown. Cuer suggestions: Eileen Webster, Lisa
  Treichler, and as backup, Alice Bubel.</li>
  </ol>

  <li>Summer 2018 Dances&nbsp;&mdash; RAF and Cloverleaf Squares has Mike Sikorsky
  coming in August. Johnny Preston will be returning to the area. There
  is no information about a potential Bower/Shoemake trail in/out
  dance. There was talk of a possible &ldquo;fun dance&rdquo; with Gil Porter and
  perhaps Dave Eno.</li>

  <li>Callers&nbsp;&mdash; lack thereof&nbsp;&mdash; Village Squares will not have an amateur
  night in 2018. The Cloverleaf Squares board will be considering an
  amateur night. There is also an &ldquo;Open Mike&rdquo; period during each DOR
  dance.</li>
  </ol>

  <p>New Business:</p>

  <ol>
  <li>New Dancer Recruitment / Ad Reimbursement Funds&nbsp;&mdash;</li>

  <ol type="a">
  <li>One fund is for reimbursement for advertising and the other is a grant
  program for a planned event (one event per year&nbsp;&mdash; open house or
  national caller dance).</li>

  <li>We have $140.00 of allocated funds but with $250.00 current
  requests. The Basket Raffle is the primary source for the funds. It
  was resolved to move $1,000 from the Promenader account into the
  advertising/retention/recruitment fund (Warren motioned, Terry
  seconded). Peter will ask Promenader Business Manager, Ken Georger, to
  write a check made out to the RAF to replenish the funds. At this time
  it was recommended that future needs of the fund be replenished as
  needed.</li>

  <li>There was discussion about merging the Promenader funds into the
  general RAF accounts. Peter will discuss a potential merger of funds
  with Ken Georger.</li>

  <li>Belles &rsquo;N&rsquo; Beaus joined the Greece Chamber of Commerce as a way of
  networking.</li>
  </ol>

  <li>Information Security&nbsp;&mdash; Stu Jones received a personal email purportedly
  from Jim Gotta as RAF president requesting about $1,500. It was
  discovered to be false. There was no evidence of hacking of the web
  site. Even so, names and responsibilities are plainly available on the
  federation site. It was assumed that the email was &ldquo;spoofed&rdquo; or
  externally generated. Other clubs reported that similar emails have
  occurred.</li>

  <ol type="a">
  <li>Jim asked the board if more security should be added to the site or
  not. General consensus was to make no changes to information on the
  site but to take extra caution when dispersing funds such as using
  additional authentication. If was felt the information was helpful for
  dancers.</li>

  <li>Jim asked if minutes continue to be posted online. The consensus was
  to continue with the postings. Financial Statements are not to be
  included with the minutes online.</li>

  <li>Peter will talk to Sidney Marshall about the potential of password
  protection of RAF minutes online</li>

  <li>Passwords were changed as a precaution.</li>
  </ol>
  </ol>

  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED at 9:00 pm Motioned by Rick LaDonna and seconded by
  Terry Pratt, all in favor.</p>

  <p>NEXT MEETING: 7:30 pm, Thursday January 11, 2018 at Bill Gray&rsquo;s,
  1225 Jefferson Rd.</p>

  <p>n.b.&nbsp;&mdash; Addenda not attached online</p>


date: 2018-01-11
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER 7:20pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Henry Capron, Sue Eddy, Jim Gotta, Stu Jones, Jane Jones,
  Mary Jane Kosel, Kaitlyn Shirley (McJilton), Sharon Meyer, Chuck
  Meyer, Warren Olson, Doreen Olson, Joe Pratt, Terry Pratt, Carl
  Webster, and Eileen Webster</p>

  <p>ABSENT: Peter Emmel, Carol Ann Stahl and some club representatives</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: Jim Gotta asked for recommendations of changes to the
  meeting agenda. No recommendations were forwarded (although, some came
  out at the end of the meeting).</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Terry Pratt motioned to approve the minutes
  from the 30 October 2017 board meeting. Warren Olson seconded the
  motion. The minutes were approved without modification.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Stu Jones reported we had receipts totaling
  $1,080, of which $1,000 was a transfer from the Promenader
  account. The other receipts are from club dues (all clubs
  paid). Disbursements were $643.72. The balance on hand is
  $9,469.38. The Dancer/Promotion/Recruitment/ Retention fund balance as
  of October 30 2017 was $140.97. The current balance is $830.97 (this
  includes a transfer from the Promenader account). The RAF
  Treasurer&rsquo;s Summary report as of this date shows an overall gain
  since September 1, 2017 of $331.51. The treasurer&rsquo;s and
  treasurer&rsquo;s summary reports are addended to the minutes.</p>

  <p>Committee Reports:</p>

  <ol>
  <li><p>Dance-O-Rama&nbsp;&mdash; Packets for mailing were completed at the
  last DOR meeting. Dinner tickets, the Club Challenge flyer and the
  letter still needed to be inserted. Jim will take some packets
  directly to clubs he visits and will mail the rest of them by the end
  of the month. Jim requested of the club representatives that the clubs
  read the materials and respond with sign-up sheets, volunteer
  information, et cetera. This will help having a smoothly run dance.</p></li>

  <li><p>Insurance&nbsp;&mdash; Sharon indicated Carol Ann Stahl sent paperwork
  out to all the clubs. Kaitlyn said that her club had not received it
  as of their last meeting. Henry mentioned that they received theirs
  last December. She was assured that the club is still covered.</p></li>

  <li><p>CCR&nbsp;&mdash; The last (fifth) Saturday in March is booked for the
  Spring CCR dance. It was mentioned that this is Easter weekend.</p></li>

  <li><p>Promenader&nbsp;&mdash; No update.</p></li>
  </ol>

  <p>Current Business:</p>

  <ol>
  <li><p>Fall Friendship Ball&nbsp;&mdash;

  <ol type="a"><li><p>Last Saturday in September (29th) is booked at the Henrietta Fire
  hall.</p></li>

  <li><p>Henry expressed concern about the worth of having ribbons, he said
  that no one picked one up from his club. It was decided to no longer
  have ribbons for the dance.</p></li>

  <li><p>Same caterer is booked, however, the charge will only be $15 for the
  same menu.</p></li>

  <li><p>Sharon Meyer mentioned about having a silent auction to raise money
  for the Dancer Retention Fund. Her recommendation was that people
  donate a service or item that can be auctioned. She would like a list
  ahead of time to publish ahead so folks can bring money if they would
  be interested in a service or an item. Terry Pratt said she will help
  Sharon with the auction. Jim Gotta asked the clubs talk to their
  respective boards about the auction and to look for members or
  businesses to contribute items or services. Those items or services
  can be listed on 3x5 cards (with a minimum bid). It would not be a
  raffle but bids placed on the items. A list of items should be
  submitted from the club members at least a month ahead of time. Terry
  Pratt suggested that it be announced at DOR while Warren Olsen
  suggested that dinner tickets also be sold at the DOR. Sharon Meyer
  suggested having a flyer made up for the auction. Warren offered to
  create a flyer with the auction on one side and dinner ticket sales on
  the other side.</p></li>

  <li><p>Jim Gotta said that he still needs to verify with the callers and
  cuers. He will ask for volunteer callers and cuers but offer them
  complimentary dinners for them and their guest (same as last year).</p></li>

  <li><p>We will have a 50/50 drawing.</p></li>
  </ol>

  <li><p>Summer 2018 dances&nbsp;&mdash; No update. The August 24th Sikorsky
  dance is a Federation dance this year, Cloverleaf Squares will be
  helping to host, but they will not be responsible financially. No
  tickets will be pre-sold. Admission will be at the door.</p></li>

  <li><p>Callers (or lack thereof)&nbsp;&mdash; Cloverleaf Squares will be
  hosting a caller&rsquo;s amateur night on April 22nd at the Chili
  Baptist Church. Flyers were handed out.</p></li>

  <li><p>Web hosting request&nbsp;&mdash; Single Square Dancers (SSDUSA) asked
  about the possibility of RAF hosting their web pages. We currently
  have up to ten domains with our service. Currently we have only three,
  namely, the Federation, a caller, and Cloverleaf Squares. We have
  plenty of space available. RAF clubs may have free access except for
  the domain name itself. Since we have unused resources Jim Gotta
  proposed to allow access but have them contribute $75.00 per annum to
  help offset our costs. Eileen Webster made the motion to approve the
  proposal, Warren Olson seconded the motion. There was no opposition.</p></li>

  <li><p>New graduate free dance card&nbsp;&mdash; Some clubs feel that when
  new graduates use the card for free admission to their club that they
  loose revenue. Jim asked about the history of the card and Terry
  explained that it was way to advertise the various clubs to the new
  dancers. Charlene first printed them up about seven years ago. Each
  club&rsquo;s name is printed on the card and will be crossed off when
  presented to the club when the new dancer arrived for the first
  time. After discussion, board will give clubs the option to opt
  out. Jim asked the representatives to ask their clubs if they wish to
  opt out.</p></li>

  <li><p>Facebook Pages&nbsp;&mdash; Jim reported that a Facebook page had been
  created but not every one had the administrative password and it was
  an individual type page and not a group and it made it harder for
  people to post on it. Later Jim set up a group page that anyone could
  then post. Carl had printed out that the old page had a couple hundred
  hits as opposed to the new page with a few hits. He said that it makes
  no sense having two pages. Carl said that the old page is not an
  &ldquo;individual page&rdquo; but rather a &ldquo;Facebook
  Pages&rdquo; type and as such, it does have to have administrators and
  editors assigned to it. People cannot post to the front page but they
  can make comments. Carl reported that he, Sharon Meyer, and Peter
  Emmel have administrative rights to the old Facebook page. Sharon
  reported that she finds the new pages easier to work with. Carl said
  that the old page can have club editors who can post. He said the new
  page (as a group page) is more for discussion and sharing. The old
  one&rsquo;s is designed as a &ldquo;push&rdquo; communication, to
  broadcast information. He went on to say that with an editor-lead
  Facebook page then picture and copy guidelines could be
  recommended. This type of page can be used to augment the
  Promenader. Warren Olson asked if a new position was being suggested
  but Carl said that he thought it ought to come under the guise of the
  Promenader committee. As a publication, Carl said that many people who
  have moved or stopped dancing have been staying in touch with the
  community with the old page. Sharon said that she has posted
  obituaries on the old page. Jim said that we have an open position for
  a marketing person that has not been filled in the last three
  years. He said that if we had such a person then this would be just
  the role for him/her. He said that the alternative without such a
  person would be an open environment where anyone can post. Warren
  asked why there would be a problem with having both pages. Jim said
  that it would split the audience. Henry expressed a concern about the
  open group concept where someone could post
  &ldquo;out-of-control&rdquo; posts. Jim said he could control who is a
  member of the group. Terry expressed that she thought that open
  environment would be nice for people to have easier access to. She
  said that people may not want to go through the process of becoming an
  administrator or editor that may prevent them from posting. The board
  elected to keep the new, group Facebook. Stu said that we ought to
  &ldquo;report back, how good is it, how bad is it&rdquo; after some
  period of time. Warren asked if it can be put the old page into
  &ldquo;limbo&rdquo; for now and go for a year and see if it
  works. Carl will announce that the old Facebook Pages will cease and
  he will hibernate it. Jim will have Sid point to the group Facebook
  Page from the RAF website.</p></li>
  </ol>

  <p>New Business:</p>

  <ol>
  <li><p>Tri-Club dance&nbsp;&mdash; Mary Jane Kosel asked whose turn is it to
  host the Tri-Club dance (Village Squares, Copy Cats, or Cloverleaf
  Squares). Henry Capron will ask Peter Emmel.</p></li>

  <li><p>Ad in Greece paper&nbsp;&mdash; Sharon asked about a square dance
  advertisement in a Greece paper about lessons. Warren found that the
  number to call was a Copy Cats line. Kaitlyn will let Copy Cats know.</p></li>

  <li><p>Greece Open House&nbsp;&mdash; The town of Greece is holding an open
  house at the end of January at the Greece Community Center. They are
  interested in seeing if there is interest in square dancing in the
  town.</p></li>

  <li><p>Comprehensive Email List for Presidents&nbsp;&mdash; Copy Cats
  requested a master list of all dancers for all club presidents so
  clubs could send out emails to dancers in case of inclement
  weather. There were concerns with privacy and getting everyone&rsquo;s
  email. The board recommended that people check with the RAF or club
  website or call club contacts. Warren Olson would like to see a
  &ldquo;MailChimp&rdquo; available in the Federation if contact would
  be needed.</p></li>
  </ol>

  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED at 8:35 pm Motioned by Terry Pratt and seconded by
  Eileen Webster, all in favor.NEXT MEETING: 7:30 pm, Monday February 26, 2018 at Bill Gray&rsquo;s,
  1225 Jefferson Rd.</p>

  <p>n.b.&nbsp;&mdash; Addenda not attached online</p>


date: 2018-02-26
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER 7:30pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Henry Capron, Sue Eddy, Jim Gotta, Mary Jane Kosel,
  Kaitlyn Shirley, Sharon Meyer, Warren Olson, Peter Emmel, Doreen
  Olson, Carl Webster, and Eileen Webster</p>

  <p>ABSENT: Terry Pratt, Stu Jones, Carol Ann Stahl and some club
  representatives</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: Jim Gotta asked for recommendations of changes to
  the meeting agenda. No recommendations were forwarded.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Warren Olson motioned to approve the
  minutes from the 11 January 2018 board meeting. Henry Capron,
  seconded the motion. The minutes were approved without
  modification.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Stu Jones was absent but sent an email
  to the board with comments and report attachments. In his email,
  dated Sunday, February 25, 2018, he stated:</p>
  <ol>
      <li>&ldquo;We received a check from Susan Lee of SSDUSA for
          $75.00 as payment for their website on our portal.&rdquo;
      <li>&ldquo;I sent a check for $25.00 to The Coordinator on
          14Jan2018. It has not yet been cashed and I have no word that
          they received it.&rdquo;
  </ol>
  <p>Jim handed out copies of the reports to some attendees and briefly
  reviewed their contents. The treasurer&rsquo;s and treasurer&rsquo;s
  summary reports are addended to the minutes (they will not be posted
  online with the text of these minutes).</p>

  <p>Committee Reports: </p>

  <ol>
      <li/>
  <p>Dance-O-Rama&nbsp;&mdash;
      </p>
      <ol type="a">
          <li/>
  <p>Jim Gotta reported that preparations are going well. Planning will continue
          and the next project will be putting together the packets for the
          new graduates. Jim asked the clubs to continue to sell dinner
          tickets and to report back to him the count sold so the dinner will
          not be oversold. The deadline for a final count is due prior to
          this board&rsquo;s April meeting. However periodic reports will
          help to monitor the sales. The committee needs a list of graduates
          no later than the end of March so the grad packets can be prepared.
           Please indicate if dancers are graduating as couples so one packet
          can be prepared for both.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>Jim went on to ask the clubs if they want to be excluded from the &ldquo;free
          dance card.&rdquo; All clubs will be listed on the card unless he hears otherwise.
          </p>
      </ol>
      <li/>
  <p>Insurance&nbsp;&mdash; Sharon reported that Carol Ann said that any correspondence to USDA
      concerning specific clubs should include the club&rsquo;s number as
      assigned by USDA. The numbers can be found on the club certificates
      provided by USDA. She reported that USDA will be holding their
      annual meeting in Kansas City, Missouri during the National Square
      Dance Convention on Wednesday, June 27th.
      </p>
      <li/>
  <p>CCR&nbsp;&mdash;
      The Spring CCR dance will be held on March 31st at the 1st Baptist
      Church of Chili, 3182 Chili Ave., Chili. Flyers can be found on the
      our web site or ask Jim Gotta for copies.
      </p>
      <li/>
  <p>Promenader.&nbsp;&mdash;
          </p>
      <ol type="a">
          <li/>
  <p>The Promenader sent a check for $1,000 to the federation and received
          $85 for listing fees, bringing the current balance to $4,253.81.
          </p>
          <li/>
  <p>The March 1st issue is currently being proofed.
          </p>
          <li/>
  <p>Peter Emmel said that since email addresses for federation officers are on the
          federation web site, everyone should be cautious of bogus emails.
          Unscrupulous agents can find our listed email accounts even if
          &ldquo;hidden.&rdquo; Do not open emails with strange subject lines
          or unusual domains.</p>
      </ol>
  </ol>

  <p>Current Business:
  </p>

  <ol>
      <li/>
  <p>Web hosting request&nbsp;&mdash; The Single Square Dancers (SSDUSA) website has been
      successfully ported to the federation server and they have sent a
      check to us for $75. Sidney Marshall will know when the fee should
      be applied to SSDUSA next year.</p>
      <li/>
  <p>Belles &rsquo;N&rsquo; Beaus Flooding&nbsp;&mdash; Jim Gotta reported that Ronni Camiolo said
      that the Belles &rsquo;N&rsquo; Beaus dance venue has experienced flooding and
      currently cannot be used. Two dances have been canceled thus far.
      He reported that their dance season is expected to be extended.</p>
      <li/>
  <p>Fall
      Friendship Ball&nbsp;&mdash;
      </p>
      <ol>
          <li/>
  <p>All callers and cuers have been confirmed.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>Stu Jones will be handling reservations and payment for the dinner.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>Warren Olson passed around the flyer to have reviewed. Warren will print out a
          couple hundred of the finalized flyers for the clubs.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>Two silent auction forms were passed around. Sharon Meyer will be
          coordinating the auction and donations. The auction forms will be
          used to create a selling list for buyers.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>Peter Emmel asked for volunteers to assist in getting snacks. Sharon
          recommended to have &ldquo;bring a snack to pass&rdquo; on the
          flyer. Peter stated that there was a higher percentage of people
          coming to the dance but not going to the dinner afterwards.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>There will be a table at DOR to promote the Fall Friendship Ball. There will
          also be a Promenader table at DOR.</p>
      </ol>
      <li/>
  <p>Summer 2018 dances&nbsp;&mdash; No update.
      </p>
      <li/>
  <p>Callers (or lack thereof)&nbsp;&mdash; No one has signed up as of this meeting.
      Callers are willing to help anyone interested in trying. Callerlab
      has links to square dance music that people can purchase.
      </p>
      <li/>
  <p>Daphne-Norma Leadership Award&nbsp;&mdash; The award selection committee needs to meet.</p>
      <li/>
  <p>Nominating Committee for the Federation&nbsp;&mdash; Nomination are needed for next
      year&rsquo;s board. Although it was mentioned that the election
      occurs during the May meeting, the Constitution states that the
      election is during the April meeting. Peter Emmel and Eileen Webster
      volunteered to be on the nominating committee. Individuals will be
      sought for the following positions: President, Vice-President,
      Secretary, Treasurer, and Communications Liaison. Officer terms will
      begin July 1st.</p>
      <li/>
  <p>Email blast tool / coordinator&nbsp;&mdash; This is would be a way to communicate to
      dancers about such things as announcing canceled dances or marketing
      federation-wide dances. Currently, Facebook and web pages are used
      for announcements. Some clubs use email for their own members or
      &ldquo;friends.&rdquo; There was discussion about which email
      account to use such as the Promenader Roadrunner, RAF Bluehost
      account or MailChimp; about building and maintaining an address book
      for the mailings; about permissions of addressees; and about the
      coordinator. Peter had looked at an email account on Bluehost but
      uses rochester.rr.com for Promenader emails. Carl Webster
      volunteered to review the MailChimp application.</p>
      <li/>
  <p>Greece Open House&nbsp;&mdash; Town of Greece had five squares in their open house.
      Half the dancers were new. They expect to have other open houses in April, May, and June on Thursdays.</p>
      <p></p>
  </ol>
  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED at 8:43 pm. The next meeting will be at 7:30 pm, Thursday April 19, 2018 at Bill Gray&rsquo;s, 1225 Jefferson Rd.</p>


date: 2018-04-19
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER  7:30pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES:
   Henry Capron, Sue Eddy, Jim Gotta, Stu Jones, Mary Jane Kosel, Kaitlyn Shirley, Sharon Meyer, Warren Olson, Peter Emmel,
   Donna LaDonna, Rick LaDonna, Doreen Olson, Carol Ann Stahl, Carl Webster, and Eileen Webster </p>

  <p>GUESTS: Jane Jones, and Chuck Meyer</p>

  <p>ABSENT: Terry Pratt and some club representatives</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: Jim Gotta asked for recommendations of changes to the meeting
  agenda.  Carl Webster wanted to report email and club information
  changes.  Peter Emmel would like a discussion concerning the upcoming
  &ldquo;Open Square Dancing&rdquo; event in Greece.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT:   Warren Olson motioned to approve the minutes from the 26 February 2018 board meeting. Peter Emmel seconded the motion.  
  </p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT:   Stu Jones handed out the Treasurer&rsquo;s and Treasurer&rsquo;s Summary Reports (addended). He reported a
   balance on hand of $10,362.11.  There was no change to the Dancer Promotion/Recruitment/Retention Fund.  </p>

  <p>Committee Reports: </p>

  <ol>
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>Insurance</b></u>
      &ndash; 
      </p>
      <ol type="a">
          <li/>
  <p>    Copy Cats request for another place to dance has been submitted and returned.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Carol Ann Stahl reminded the board to use the USDA number when
          corresponding with the organization. Donna LaDonna recommended that
          the USDA number be placed with the club name since there is no
          entry block for the number. </p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Carol Ann also said that when filling out USDA forms, place the
          Federation name under the label &ldquo;Association&rdquo; and not under &ldquo;Federation.&rdquo;  
          </p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          USDA requested that any requests to them have the same address used for
          the rest of the year even if it may have changed due to a club officer change.  
          </p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Certificates are only for the place and not for the dance; there is no need for
          a new certificate if adding a new dance date to a place already insured.</p>
      </ol>
      <li/>
  <p><u><b>Dance-O-Rama</b></u>
      &ndash; 
      </p>
      <ol type="a">
          <li/>
  <p>Jim
          Gotta reported that Shirts 'N' Skirts have not turned in monies for
          the DOR.  Copy Cats submitted theirs at this meeting.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>Last year we had 70 for dinners; it is estimated about 65 for this year.
           We had about 200 dancers pre-sold and about 30 sold at the door. 
          Jim estimated about there will be about 180 dancers this year.  
          </p>
          <li/>
  <p>We have about 30 graduates reported so far this year (Not all clubs
          reported new dancers).  Packets will be given to the club officers
          on the day of the dance.  
          </p>
      </ol>
      <li/>
  <p><u><b>CCR</b></u> &ndash; There were four squares at the Spring CCR dance.  The Summer
      Sizzler is coming up at the end of July.  Dates and hall are to be
      determined.</p>
      <li/>
  <p><u><b>Promenader</b></u> &ndash; </p>
      <ol type="a">
          <li/>
  <p>The current balance is $4,318.81.  
          </p>
          <li/>
  <p>June 1<sup>st</sup> issue for the Promenader is May 1<sup>st</sup>.
          Peter asked for article contributions.</p>
      </ol>
  </ol>
  <p>Current Business: </p>
  <p></p>
  <ol>
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>Callers (or lack thereof)</b></u>  &ndash;  Henry Capron reported that five
      amateur callers and one amateur cuer are lined up.  Henry has selected four judges from the dance community.</p>
      <li/>
  <p><u><b>Fall Friendship Ball</b></u>&ndash; 
      </p>
      <ol type="a">
          <li/>
  <p>
          Peter will have a promotion desk at DOR. Dinner orders will be taken</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Callers and venue have been arranged.</p>
          <li/>
  <p>Henry Capron asked about joining the &ldquo;Tri Club&rdquo; dance with the Ball.
           It was suggested that this be an off-line discussion.</p>
      </ol>
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>Summer2018 dances </b></u> &ndash; </p>
      <ol type="a">
          <li/>
  <p>
          Shoemake&amp; Bower &ndash; June</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Mike Sikorsky &ndash; July</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Ron Reardon &ndash; July</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Copy Cats Summer dance &ndash; August</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Johnny Preston</p>
      </ol>
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>Email blast tool / coordinator</b></u> &ndash; Carl Webster reviewed the
      MailChimp application. It is a template driven application.  Mail
      lists can be built with .CSV files.  The mail list will block out
      email&rsquo;s that failed to deliver and cannot be deleted.  Jim
      tabled the discussion  until another meeting.  
      </p>
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>Daphne-Norma Leadership Award</b></u>  &ndash; Peter reported &ldquo;we&rsquo;re all set.&rdquo;</p>
  </ol>

  <p>
  New Business: 
  </p>

  <ol start="6">
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>Club Contacts</b></u> &ndash; Carl Webster reported several club officer
      or contact changes.  Penn Yan Friendship Squares changes their
      president(s) every four months.  Seneca Silhouettes is in &ldquo;hibernation.&rdquo;  A good contact for Waterwheel Squares is
      Scott Mansfield.</p>
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>Greece Open House</b></u> &ndash; They will open houses on the last
      Thursday of April, May, and June.  Jim has flyers for the
      Promenader. Peter will write an article.</p>
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>President Meetings</b></u> &ndash; There was discussion about continuing these
      &ldquo;Cabin Parties.&rdquo; There was support to continue and there
      were suggestions to include a simple program.  Peter suggested that
      informal discussions could be included such as the creation of a
      mainstream club. Jim said that he would correspond later about the matter.</p>
      <li/>
  <p>
      <u><b>Nominating Committee for the Federation</b></u> &ndash; The nominating
      committee submitted a Slate of nominees for RAF offices (Addended). 
      The following individuals were voted to be board members beginning
      July 1<sup>st</sup>.</p>
      <ol type="a">
          <li/>
  <p>
          President: (repeating) Jim Gotta (Copy Cats &amp; Cloverleafs)</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Vice    President: Jeff &amp; Debbie Blood (Copy Cats)</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Treasurer: (repeating) Stu Jones (Belles &amp; Beaus)</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Secretary: Gary Granath (Copy Cats &amp; Village Squares)</p>
          <li/>
  <p>
          Communications Liaison: Eileen Webster (Cloverleafs &amp; Southern Tier Wheelers)</p>
      </ol>
  </ol>

  <p>MEETING
  ADJOURNED at 8:40 pm.  The next meeting will be at 7:30 pm, Monday May 14, 2018 at Bill Gray&rsquo;s, 1225 Jefferson Rd.</p>

  <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="color:red">n.b. &ndash;  Addenda not attached online </span></p>


date: 2018-05-14
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: (DOR 6:30) 7:30
minutes:
  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER  7:30pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Debbie Blood, Jeff Blood, Henry Capron, Sue Eddy, Peter Emmel, Jim Gotta,
  Gary Granath, Stu Jones, Mary Jane Kosel, Donna LaDonna, Rick LaDonna, Sharon Meyer, Warren Olson, Terry Pratt, Kaitlyn Shirley, Carol Ann Stahl, Carl
  Webster, and Eileen Webster</p>
  <p></p>
  <p>GUESTS: Lorraine Granath, Jane Jones, Doreen Olson, and Joe Pratt</p>
  <p></p>
  <p>ABSENT: Some club representatives</p>
  <p></p>
  <p>Welcome: Jim Gotta welcomed new board members Debbie and Jeff Blood, next year&rsquo;s vice presidents; Gary Granath as our new
  secretary; and Eileen Webster as our communications liaison. </p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: Jim Gotta asked for recommendations for changes to the meeting agenda.  There were no suggested items.  </p>
  <p></p>
  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT:   Dates of some Summer dances were amended: Johnny Preston (August 14) and Mike Sikorsky (August 24).
  Eileen Webster motioned to approve the minutes of the 19 April 2018 board meeting as amended. Sharon Meyer seconded the motion.  </p>
  <p></p>
  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Stu Jones handed out the Treasurer&rsquo;s and Treasurer&rsquo;s Summary Reports (addended). He reported a balance on hand of $11,341.06.  The Dancer Promotion/Recruitment/Retention Fund had increased from the DOR Basket raffle with the ending balance or $1,648.97.  DOR income was $1,523.27.</p>
  <p></p>
  <p>Committee Reports:  </p>
  <p></p>
  <ol>
   <li/>
  <p><b><u>Dance-O-Rama</u></b> &ndash; </p>
   <ol type="a">
    <li/>
  <p>DOR income was about $100 more than last year.  We had approximately the same number of dancers; 241 v. 243 from last year.  We had 69 paid diners with a total of 75 diners last year.  This year it was 87
    paid diners with a total of 93 diners.  (Non paid diners were callers/ cuers).  50/50 and basket sales were down, while ribbon sales increased and dinner costs
    were lower.  We had roughly 200 pre-sales.</p>
    <li/>
  <p>We received 27 Surveys. There were concerns with the tightness of plus dancing. While there were comments about sound quality, the overall sense was that
    it was less of an issue than last year. There were more first-time respondents and they were generally positive. There were a few comments about the concurrent quilt show at the
    venue.  There was concern about how ticket raffles were drawn.  Callers and cuers received mixed reviews.  The venue reaction was mostly positive.</p>
    <li/>
  <p> Having a list of ribbon recipients is helpful at the admission desk.  This helps when dancers arrive without their ribbons.</p>
    <li/>
  <p> 2019 Work.  Jim will book Perinton for next year.  In the meantime, other venues will be researched (the Perinton booking can be canceled). 
   We most likely will have dinner again and we will search for other dinner providers as a matter of course. The ribbon and dinner prices are expected to remain the same.</p>
   </ol>
   <li/>
  <p>
   <b><u>Insurance</u></b> &ndash; Carol Ann Stahl reported that she received the list of graduates and checks from Copy Cats, Cloverleafs, and Silver Squares.  
   She has not heard from Batavia Silver Stars, Belles 'N' Beaus, Shirts 'N' Skirts, Cayuga Cut-Ups, and Waterwheel Squares. Carol Ann Stahl reminded the board to use the USDA number when
   corresponding with the organization. </p>
  </ol>
  <p>

  </p>
  <ol start="3">
   <li/>
  <p>
   <b><u>Caller&rsquo;s Cooperative of Rochester</u></b> (CCR) &ndash; Summer Sizzler will be held on July 28<sup>th</sup> at the Henrietta fire hall. Although
   not a CCR dance, the ALS Benefit Dance will be held on June 2<sup>nd</sup>.</p> <p>
   </p>
   <li/>
  <p> <b><u>Promenader</u></b> &ndash; The final season report will not be available until after the June 1<sup>st</sup> issue comes out. The current bank balance is
   $4,338.81.  There is a link to the DOR questionnaire.  Peter Emmel announced the link by posting a Facebook entry, listing it on the Promenader itself and emailing 300 people on the Promenader email
   list.  Peter requested of Jim Gotta a summary of the DOR and the DOR survey.  Peter requested photographs for Promenader obituaries. </p>
  </ol>
  <p>

  </p>
  <ol start="5">
   <li/>
  <p> <b><u>Promenader Non RAF Affiliated Pricing</u></b> &ndash;  Peter Emmel motioned that the price structure for Non RAF
   affiliated organizations be reduced to keep some geographically distant groups advertising with the online publication. He motioned that a new cost for an event be changed from ten dollars per issue
   to ten dollars per event. Carol Ann Stahl seconded the motion and it was approved by the committee.  This will start in the next season (beginning with the September issue).</p>
  </ol>
  <p></p>
  <p>Current Business: </p>
  <p></p>
  <ol>
   <li/>
  <p><b><u>Amateur Night Summary</u></b> &ndash; There were five amateur callers and one cuer.  The winner, Evan DeSmitt, was a recent Cloverleaf Square class graduate.  There were five squares
   for the event and it was a very &ldquo;dance-able&rdquo; night.  The Cloverleaf Facebook article received numerous &ldquo;Likes&rdquo;. 
   </p>
  </ol>
  <p></p>
  <ol start="2">
   <li/>
  <p><b><u>Fall Friendship Ball</u></b> &ndash; There were no sign-ups during DOR. Every club received a packet with flyers, an informational sheet,
   and silent auction forms to be used for their announcements.  Sharon Meyer suggested donating handmade goods, merchant donated items, and personal services.</p>
   <p></p>
   <li/>
  <p><b><u>Summer 2018 dances</u></b> &ndash; There was discussion concerning possible date conflicts.</p>
   <p></p>
   <li/>
  <p><b><u>Email blast tool / coordinator</u></b> &ndash; The board is contemplating having a tool to communicate sudden dance cancellations, facilitate
   Promenader announcements, or send messages to club presidents.  The primary application being looked at is &ldquo;MailChimp.&rdquo;</p>
   <p></p>
   <li/>
  <p><b><u>2018-19 Meeting Schedule</u></b> &ndash; Jim passed out a proposed meeting schedule for next year (addended).  Six dates were chosen for board
   meetings. Days alternated to avoid numerous conflicts with club dance nights.</p>
   <li/>
  <p> <b><u>President&rsquo;s Meeting</u></b> &ndash; Jim Gotta asked for potential meeting dates.  He said that the current topics under consideration are a) mainstream dance club, 
   b) ways to promote square dancing, and c) What can RAF do to better support clubs? The meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, June 5<sup>th</sup>.</p>
   <p></p>
   <li/>
  <p><b><u>Marketing Committee</u></b> &ndash; Eileen Webster stated that she would like to gather a team of square dance enthusiasts.  She emphasized that
   communication not only be with outside the square dance community but also within the community itself.  She said that RAF meetings
   are a great way of passing out flyers to other clubs and letting them know what is happening in the community.  She also talked about
   dancing in public; not just a demo, but a dance that other people would observe.  She gave as an example the Fun Bunch dancing in the
   Fingerlakes Mall in Auburn where casual shoppers stop by and observe.  The dances at the Greece Community Center are a great
   idea. She reached out to the group to share ideas and thoughts to help promote square dancing.  She intends to create a manual or
   notebook to pass along.  
   </p>
  </ol>
  <p></p>
  <p></p>


  <p>Jim Gotta reiterated his thanks to the leaving board officers and also to the new officers.</p>
  <p></p>
  <p></p>
  <p></p>
  <p></p>
  <p></p>
  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED at 8:44 pm.  The next meeting will be at 7:30 pm, Wednesday September 19, 2018 at Bill Gray&rsquo;s, 1225 Jefferson Rd.</p>


  <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="color:red">n.b. &ndash;  Addenda not attached online </span></p>


date: 2018-09-19
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 7:30
minutes:
  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 7:32 p.m.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Eileen Webster, Kaitlyn Shirley, Jane Jones, Carol Ann
  Stahl, Ed Briggs, Sue Eddy, Peter Emmel, Debbie Blood, Jeff Blood,
  Warren Olson, Doreen Olson, Stu Jones, Jim Gotta, Sharon Meyer, Gary
  Granath, Lorraine Granath.</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW&nbsp;&mdash; Jim: No agenda changes.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Minutes for May meeting were
  accepted.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT&nbsp;&mdash; Stu, Treasurer&rsquo;s
  Summary Report: Sikorsky Dancce: 56 dancers last year, 71 dancers this
  year, resulted in $119 increase over last year. The Fall Ball was not
  included in this report. Report has end date of August 25th, 2018. We
  had a net gain of almost $2,600.00. This figure incorporates a
  $1,000.00 transfer from the Promenader. Club dues are due, 10/19/18,
  $10.00 per club. Notification went to each Club President. The form is
  posted on the website.</p>

  <h3>COMMITTEE REPORTS</h3>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama&nbsp;&mdash; Debbie and Jeff Blood: Location: Perinton
  Rec Cennter. Callers/cuers lined up. Club packets to go to club
  Presidents in January. Researching caterers. Presently researching
  other possible facility for upcoming years. Looking for at least two
  new DOR committee members to be point persons for Hospitality and
  organizing Basket raffles. These are ideally three-year terms.</p>

  <p>Insurance&nbsp;&mdash; Carol Ann Stahl: Insurance cost same this
  year, $4.70 per person. Forms are accessible on Federation
  website. Carol Ann will write instructions for Peter to post on web
  page. Carol Ann needs three copies of each form. You keep one copy for
  the club file. Fill out a form for each place you
  dance. &ldquo;Additionally Insured&rdquo;: if you are dancing at a
  school, they want the school district. If you dance in a Catholic
  Church, they need the Diocese. Sign at the bottom. If someone in your
  club is paid for by another club, list separately. These people are
  not included in your roster. They are included in your total
  membership. Do NOT use the number from last year. Each club will be
  assigned a new number. Need forms by November 1st. Carol Ann will be
  away from Sept. 26th to October 6th. Any questions during that time,
  contact Sharon Meyer. On top of form, where it says name of
  association/name of federation, Rochester Area Federation Round and
  Square Dancers goes in the Association box. We are not a Federation,
  we are an Association. Clubs with a class: Fill out class member
  form. Give names of class members. No cost until they graduate. The
  check does not need to accompany the paperwork.</p>

  <p>CCR&nbsp;&mdash; Jim: No updates..</p>

  <p>Promenader/Web Site&nbsp;&mdash; Peter: No expenses. The fall issue
  went up on the 1st of September. Do not have income report. Received
  email from the Dalton Gang regarding a conflict on the same night as
  their East Meets West Dance. Peter checked. This was a regularly
  scheduled CC club dance. Federation dance should never interfere with
  a club dance. Peter to get back to them. A question was raised
  regarding fee for fliers. Peter: $10.00 per quarter. Check goes to Ken
  Georger.</p>

  <p>Marketing&nbsp;&mdash; Eileen: For several years groups in Ohio
  have been doing a Relay For Life Square Dance. All money goes to the
  American Cancer Society. I have names of contacts and will research
  this. Possibly do in August when actively recruiting for
  classes. Additional goals: improve communication between clubs,
  encourage people to visit clubs other than their own. Also, a
  committee is forming to bring more people into square dancing. Looking
  for volunteers to join and/or offer suggestions. Debbie will seek
  permission to copy the article on square dancing in the 55+
  magazine.</p>

  <p>Federation Sponsored demos&nbsp;&mdash; The Women&rsquo;s Wellness
  Fair, 10/13/18, at the Mall at Greece RRidge. Entrance #9. Information
  table from 10:00-1:00. Demo at noon. Need volunteers to hand out
  fliers and RAF brochures and to assist people who visit our
  Information table, especially from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. Grant
  request is in to the Federation to sponsor the demo and pay for the
  caller, Ron Brown. This will introduce square dancing to another
  market for people who would like to exercise but do not want to attend
  a gym. To participate in the Wellness Fair, participant needs to
  provide a free service or information for the attendees. Debbie has
  checked on this requirement. We have clearance as we are offering a
  free demo open to the public. Waiting to hear if area callers will
  accept new members into their existing classes should people be
  interested in dancing after seeing our demo.</p>

  <p>Demos sponsored by RAF&nbsp;&mdash; Jim: In the absence of having
  any kind of marketing buddget, we are working under the dancer
  recruitment fund. As I read it, we are allowed one submittal per year
  per club member.</p>

  <p>&ldquo;Non-Plus Club&rdquo;&nbsp;&mdash; Jim: No
  conclusions. Formed committee in May of 20018, consisting of Eileen,
  Henry, Carl W. and Jim G.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS</p>

  <p>Summer dance review:</p>

  <p>Sikorsky dance: Very well attended. Eileen made motion to ask
  Sikorsky to return. Sharon seconded the motion. Sharon to contact Mike
  to see if he is available. Will set up for a Friday night in August,
  if he is available. The date will be according to Mike&rsquo;s
  schedule and availability of the hall. Tabled: What club will run this
  dance? And, is profit shared with club that runs the dance.</p>

  <p>Bower-Shoemake dance&nbsp;&mdash; Six squares at this Thursday
  night dance. Hall was small, bbut a very nice facility. No motion made
  for Bower-Shoemake dance next year.</p>

  <p>Open Houses&nbsp;&mdash; Copy Cats had over 36 potential new
  dancers. Cloverleaf Squares had 14 one week and 13 one week. Silver
  Squares 23. Belles and Beaus 12. Belles and Beaus will be offering
  classes this year. Jim: &ldquo;What got them in?&rdquo; Copy Cats
  asked how people heard about open house. Most responded radio ads and
  ads in the Post Papers (especially Canandaigua). Cloverleaf Squares:
  one came due to radio interview, one because of the demo at the
  Y. Others were invited or had danced previously. Silver Squares guests
  had been to a dance held in the spring, yard signs, the Post, and
  fliers. Would be good to include a space on future sign-in sheets
  identifying how attendees heard about the open house.</p>

  <p>Fall Friendship Ball&nbsp;&mdash; Need to get checks to Stu Jones
  for those attendinng dinner, due 9/20/18. A head count of attendees
  needed by 9/22/18. Currently at 20 tickets sold. The dinner does not
  include dessert. Encourage people to bring snacks/dessert. Set up:
  chairs will be in place. Tables needed for caller/cuer. Tables needed
  for auction items. Debbie and Jeff to bring ice. Peter to bring
  tablecloths and totes from Village Squares, includes condiments and
  water jug. Peter to bring tickets for 50/50. Set up at 1:00 p.m. Dance
  begins at 2:00 p.m. Question regarding donated $25.00 gift
  cards. Members agreed to start bidding at $15.00.</p>

  <p>Fall Ball/DOR: Question was raised regarding meals for callers,
  cuers, and their spouses for the Fall Ball and DOR. Jim: &ldquo;Re
  DOR, callers and cuers are paid, their own dinner is included. Re the
  Fall Ball, the callers and cuers are donating their time; we pay for
  their dinner as well as dinner for their significant other as
  compensation for their time.</p>

  <p>NEW BUSINESS</p>

  <p>Callers&nbsp;&mdash; Spring VS amateur night. Thhere will be an
  amateur night in the spring. The date has not yet been set. Need to
  draw up a flyer.</p>

  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED AT 9:00 PM.</p>

  <p>Next meeting:</p>

  <p>Thursday, November 1, 2018, 7:30 pm, Bill Gray&rsquo;s, 1225
  Jefferson Rd.</p>

  <h3>DOR MINUTES, MEETING 9/19/18</h3>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Debbie Blood, Jeff Blood, Jim Gotta, Warren Olson,
  Barbara Green, Sharon Meyer, Stu Jones, Doreen Olson, Gary Granath,
  Lorraine Granath</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No new items were suggested.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: The minutes of May of 2018 were
  accepted.</p>

  <p><b>ACTION ITEMS:</b></p>

  <p>Status of Callers and Cuers: Sharon has given Debbie the contracts
  for callers and cuers.</p>

  <p>Caterers: Several advertised Dinner caterers were compared. The
  best values were Otto Tomotto&rsquo;s and Wilshire. We have used Otto
  Tomotto&rsquo;s for two years. They are reasonably priced and
  reasonable quality; but, committee agrees due for a change. Keep Otto
  Tomotto&rsquo;s as a fallback.</p>

  <p>Otto Tomotto&rsquo;s&nbsp;&mdash; $9.75/person. Their bill
  included: delivery, catering, set up, full serve, paper plates,
  utensils and tax.</p>

  <p>Wilshire is $7.99. If you go to $10.99 you get three meats (baked
  chicken, pulled pork or beef, Italian sausage. Food items very similar
  to Otto Tomotto&rsquo;s.</p>

  <p>Sully&rsquo;s is $10.99. 2 meats, 3 sides.</p>

  <p>Debbie will check Wilshire and Sully&rsquo;s regarding what the
  price includes. Does it include: delivery, catering, set up, full
  serve, plates, utensils, and tax. And, is there is a vegetarian side
  in addition to a salad. Typically, we sell dinner tickets for
  $15.00. Looking for caterer in that price range. Look for good
  reputation and price.</p>

  <p>Solidify the caterer next meeting, November 1st. Contract in
  January, 2019.</p>

  <p>Dance Schedule:</p>

  <p>Generally keep as is. Few complaints. Same schedule for the past
  two years. The mainstream hall is used by new square dance graduates
  who have not learned round dancing. For more experienced dancers who
  wish to dance mainstream and rounds, we have offered 2x1 in the
  mainstream hall from 2:00-3:30 PM. There is a round dance party
  scheduled from 3:30-5:00.</p>

  <p>A few years ago we added the third hall. When we did that, we added
  a time for round dance, a time for A2, and a time for line dance. Two
  years ago we had a DBD session that was not well received. We could do
  more DBD, more round dances or add line dancing. The group agreed the
  schedule seems fair for everyone as is.</p>

  <p>Jim Gotta will contact Will Herzog, line dance caller, to see if he
  is available.</p>

  <p>Jim will send a draft of the schedule to all callers and
  cuers. They may have suggestions and tweaks, in which case changes may
  be made.</p>

  <p>A draft of the schedule goes out to all Club Presidents in the Club
  packets, for their information. It is the responsibility of DOR
  committee to approve and finalize. This is not finalized until the
  week of the DOR.</p>

  <p>Day of DOR, dance schedules are posted on the walls of the Rec
  Center.</p>

  <p>Ribbon Design and Dangles:</p>

  <p>Members chose to go back to the standard design. We alternate,
  between purple with white letters and lavender with white
  letters. This year, 2019, return to purple ribbon with white text.</p>

  <p>Dangles and ribbons are ordered from the same place at the same
  time. It was decided to use lilac design used in 2015/16 for 2019
  dangles.</p>

  <p>Warren will purchase DOR ribbons and dangles October/early November
  to be ready for January packets.</p>

  <p>Review DOR checklist, updates, addition, corrections, comments,
  etc.</p>

  <p>Facility&nbsp;&mdash; Other locations.</p>

  <p>Deb and Jeff checked out the Penfield Rec Center. Not available the
  first weekend in May due to annual theatre production. Size was
  adequate.</p>

  <p>Greece Central Schools ruled out. Very strict. Several items we
  mentioned, were not acceptable there.</p>

  <p>Greece Town Hall. The staff members are not sure they could handle
  the event. They will have a meeting this week and get back to Deb.</p>

  <p>Sweden Walker Road Community Center, located in Brockport. The
  person to contact is on vacation until next week. They have a gym and
  two large rooms. They have a cafeteria and a kitchen. All one
  floor. We would have the entire building. The distance from Rochester
  might be a deterrent. One issue is there are no restaurants
  nearby. Perhaps more people would stay in to have dinner. Need a
  caller&rsquo;s perspective for acoustics, etc.</p>

  <p>Suggestion was made to check out Brockport State College.</p>

  <p>The Spiegel Community Center in Pittsford, Lincoln Ave, is a
  possibility. &ldquo;Half-court&rdquo; size gym. Three wooden-floor
  dance rooms available. Building recently renovated. Three stories,
  with elevator.</p>

  <p>Spencerport Schools, used in past for DOR, do not have air
  conditioning. Determined not to be considered for DOR.</p>

  <p>Deb and Jeff to check Sweden Walker Rd. Community Center, and meet
  Jim Gotta at the Spiegel Community Center for a walk through.</p>

  <p>Fliers/Documents: President&rsquo;s letter. Jim writes letter,
  emails it out, gathers comments. Warren prints the letter. Plan to use
  1/8/19 meeting to assemble packets. The packets go to Presidents of
  all clubs by mid-January. The club packets contain: a draft of the
  dance schedule, ribbons to sell, tickets to sell, volunteer
  schedules. Plan to use 1/8/19 meeting to assemble packets.</p>

  <p>Jim G and Warren have electronically saved items from last year:
  dance fliers, dinner fliers, dinner tickets, volunteer schedule,
  sign-in sheets, survey, and half-page schedules. Warren provides the
  printing. Jim provides room set-up instructions to Perinton Rec, i.e.,
  where we want tables, chairs, etc.</p>

  <p>Volunteer Schedule: Last year we examined how many volunteers we
  really needed. The number of volunteers was reduced as a result. We
  assign tasks to clubs. Deb, Jeff, and Jim organize club
  assignments. Clubs are responsible to fill assignments.</p>

  <p>ADDITIONAL ITEMS:</p>

  <p>Single Dancers at DOR: Question was raised regarding a Solo
  ribbon.</p>

  <p>Decision was made to print labels and have them available at the
  sign-in table. The person at the desk will ask the individual if
  he/she would like a solo label. Individuals can take one if they
  wish.</p>

  <p>Deb and Jeff will test labels to see if they stick to the
  ribbons.</p>

  <p>Dancers emergency medical info availability. It is the
  responsibility of each individual to carry medical ID, especially if
  any medical issues. Perinton Ambulance is aware of the dance,
  approx. number of dancers, and rooms occupied.</p>

  <p>DOR volunteers. Notify clubs of need for new DOR volunteers to be
  point persons for the basket raffle and hospitality. [Deb, Jeff &amp;
  Jim will follow-up.] Barb Green and Terry Pratt have been very
  instrumental in organizing the basket raffle and the snack room. Barb
  has agreed to stay one more year to train the new people.</p>

  <p>[Post-meeting note: Jane Jones volunteered to be point person for
  Basket Raffle]</p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m., 9/19/2018.</p>

  <p>Next Meeting: Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, 6:30 p.m., Bill Gray&rsquo;s, 1225
  Jefferson Rd.</p>


date: 2018-11-01
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 7:30
minutes:
  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 7:35 AM</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Kaitlyn Shirley, Carol Ann Stahl, Jim Dowd, Sharon and
  Chuck Meyer, Dick and Irma Halstead, Deb and Jeff Blood, Peter Emmel,
  Gary and Lorraine Granath.</p>

  <p>ABSENT: Jim Gotta, Warren Olson, Stu Jones, Eileen Webster</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No suggestions were made to change the agenda.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Minutes of the September, 2018, meeting was
  accepted as corrected.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Stu was not present, but sent the board an
  email and copies of the Treasurer&rsquo;s Report for September 19,
  2018&nbsp;&ndash; November 1, 2018. Total Receipts: $1, 035.00.  Total
  Disbursements: $1,201.58 Balance on Hand Nov. 1, 2018: $11,794.48.</p>

  <p>RAF Club Membership Status: 13 clubs have renewed their membership in
  the Federation as of this report. Two new clubs have also joined: The
  Fun Bunch from Auburn, with 15 members, President Joseph Manning; and,
  Pairs n&rsquo; Squares of Phoenix, NY, 25 members, President Kathleen
  Harter. Still waiting to hear from Batavia Silver Stars, Penn Yan
  Friendship Squares, Cayuga Cut-Ups, Shirts %amp; Skirts and Village
  Squares.</p>

  <p>Dancer Recruitment/Retention/Advertising checks will be sent to Copy
  Cats and Jeff Blood (for the Wellness Fair demo in Greece Town Mall).</p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</p>

  <p>Dance-O-Rama: (Jeff/Debbie Blood) The caterer will be Wilshire. Line
  Dance Caller: Will Herzog is unavailable per email to Deb and Jeff
  from Jim Gotta. Jim has reached out to Terri Irvine. Deb and Jeff
  continue to look for venues for future DORs. Deb sent email to all
  club Presidents indicating we are in need of three additional DOR
  members: two to head Hospitality/Refreshment and one to assist Jane
  Jones with the basket raffle.</p>

  <p>Insurance: (Carol Ann) No info from: Batavia Silver Stars, Cayuga Cut
  Ups, or Village Squares. <u>Deb Blood offered to help reach out to
  Batavia Silver Stars.</u> (Mike Callahan has the insurance for
  Shamrock Squares. Shamrock Squares is not a member of the Federation.)
  Once all paper work is received and the members can be cross
  referenced, money will be owed to Copy Cats. We are well on our way to
  completion. Certificates should be received by mid December.</p>

  <p>CCR: (Chuck) Spring Thaw, Callers Co-Op Dance, will be March 23, 2019,
  First Baptist Church in Chili.</p>

  <p>Promenader/Web Site: (Peter) Financial Report: Bank Balance today is
  $4,358.86. No income/expense log; all income is from listings,
  approximately $25.00&ndash;$30.00. Will have year-end financial report
  that will summarize all income/expenses for the year. Only expense was
  a $1000.00 check to Federation. Next issue 12/1/18. Any pictures,
  obits, etc. notify Peter.  Pictures of October demo at Greece Town
  Mall: question if received by Peter. <u>Peter and Deb will check to be
  sure pictures were sent and received.</u></p>

  <p>Marketing: (Eileen) Eileen not present at tonight&rsquo;s meeting.</p>

  <p>Debbie: Permission to use/copy 55+ article: Deb contacted editor; we
  have written permission to copy and distribute article. Deb to send a
  copy of the 55+ article to Jamond Billyard, President of the Dalton
  Gang.</p>

  <p>&ldquo;Non-Plus&rdquo; Club: No activity.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>Fall Friendship Ball results: (Stu not present, but per email received
  from Stu) $664.00 income from FFB.</p>

  <p>Sikorsky Dance, 2019. (Sharon M) Contracted for Friday, 8/23/2019,
  Henrietta Fire Hall.  Alice Bubel cueing. Cloverleaf Squares
  hosting. <u>Discussion and vote were to take place at tonight&rsquo;s
  meeting (11/1/18) regarding sharing the profit on this dance (and the
  Sikorsky Dance of 2018) with the hosting club. Tabled at the September
  meeting for discussion and vote to occur at November mtg.</u> Due to
  low attendance at tonight&rsquo;s meeting, we <span
  style="color:red">tabled again</span> for discussion and vote to take
  place at the January, 2019, meeting. <u>Deb and Jeff to notify Jim
  Gotta to add discussion and vote of Sikorsky Dances to his January
  agenda.</u></p>

  <p>NEW BUSINESS: Peter: Jamond Billyard notified me ahead of time that
  Jim Dowd would be here tonight to talk about scheduling conflicts. It
  is an issue that all clubs have, but the Dalton Gang seems affected
  more often.</p>

  <p>Jim Dowd: A couple years ago the Dalton Gang scheduled an East/West
  Dance. &ldquo;A week and a half before our dance, the MS dance was set
  up.&rdquo; The Promenader had our dance listed as it was sent in to
  the Promenader in early spring. The scheduled dance had live music,
  $430.00 for caller and band. Believes if a club has a dance scheduled,
  and it is listed in the Promenader, which it was, this dance should
  have the support of Federation. This year conflict with Watkin&rsquo;s
  Glen Dance, admittedly due to failure to check for conflicts. Dalton
  Gang voted and decided not to have any further live band dances. We
  are a small club, and we cannot afford to lose money on these dances.</p>

  <p>Peter: The idea of an East/West Dance with live music is a good
  one. Peter suggested the dance come a little farther North. Jim
  D. said they would then have to rent a hall. Peter suggested possibly
  team up with another club or two. The more clubs involved, awareness
  of conflicts is better. Also, the more clubs, the more attendees.</p>

  <p>Peter: The Promenader is the place for scheduling. We can only publish
  what people tell us.  The Promenader is on a three-month schedule. The
  MS Dance was probably scheduled long before it went public. There are
  things scheduled that are not visible. Example: Tri-Club 2020 is
  contracted, but not visibly on the schedule.</p>

  <p>Deb: Can the date of a dance be reserved on the calendar with details
  to follow? Perhaps send the date to all club Presidents.</p>

  <p><u>Peter and Sidney will work to find a solution to this problem.</u></p>

  <p>The Calendar of Special Events was mentioned by Peter. Closest thing
  we have to a master schedule. This is located just below the header on
  the cover page. There is a charge of $5.00 to place an event on this
  page. This is how we finance our web fees.</p>

  <p>Dalton Gang: Annual pancake dance. Meet at Maple Tree Inn at 5:00 PM,
  March 26, 2019 to eat. Then move to Dalton School for the dance. Jim
  gave Peter $5.00. Peter said he would send an email to Sidney prior to
  end of tonight&rsquo;s meeting to put the Annual Pancake dance on the
  Calendar of Special Events!</p>

  <p>Deb suggested we promote awareness of the Calendar of Special Events.</p>

  <p>Deb suggested to Jim Dowd to look at location: a better turnout can be
  achieved by location.</p>

  <p>Jim Dowd also asked how to build up club/class membership. Many
  suggestions were made: radio, lawn signs, Post papers, Penney Saver,
  hold an open house, invite friends. The Federation will reimburse some
  of the cost to clubs for advertising.</p>

  <p>Jeff and Deb gave Jim their email address and will share ideas such as
  grants from Federation, demos, and the Presidents&rsquo; meeting in
  the spring.</p>

  <p><u>Visitors</u>: Dick and Irma Halstead from Shamrock Squares. Dick
  has been the Historian, previously known as the &ldquo;Roving
  Reporter&rdquo;, for the Promenader. They have resigned from this
  position due to dynamics of their own lives. Peter has agreed to
  accept and go through the hard copies of the history of the square
  dance community from Dick and Irma. Dick previously turned over his
  tremendous hard-copy archive of Promenader issues to Peter, which has
  since been scanned onto the website. Thanks to Dick and Irma, the full
  history of the Promenader can now be found on line. Peter has agreed
  to accept the historian position moving forward.  The Board thanked
  Dick and Irma for their hard work and dedication and wished them well.
  We look forward to seeing them in the spring.</p>

  <p>Meeting adjourned at: 8:48 PM.</p>

  <p>Next meeting: January 8, 2019 at Bill Grays, 1225 Jefferson Rd.</p>

  <h3>DOR MINUTES FOR MEETING OF 11/1/2018</h3>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 6:36 PM</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Debbie Blood, Jeff Blood, Gary Granath, Lorraine Granath,
  Chuck Meyer, Sharon Meyer, Barbara Green.</p>

  <p>ABSENT: Jim Gotta, Warren Olson, Stu Jones.</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No new items were suggested.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: The minutes of September 19, 2018, were
  accepted as corrected.</p>

  <p>ACTION ITEMS:</p>

  <p>Status of Callers and Cuers: Line Dance Caller: Will Herzog is
  unavailable per Jim Gotta.  Jim has reached out to Terri Irvine. Jim
  to pursue locking in a line dance caller.</p>

  <p>Caterers: Deb and Jeff have researched caterers for the 2019
  DOR. Considered: meal comparison, delivery fee, paper products,
  professionalism (phone).</p>

  <p>Otto Tomotto was not considered; however, used as a frame of
  reference. They raised their prices since last year. What we got last
  year for $9.75 is now $12.50 a dinner. Paper supplies no fee last
  year, now $1.00 per person. They now charge a delivery fee. Resulting
  per dinner cost is $14.88.</p>

  <p>Giuseppe&rsquo;s: $12.02 per dinner. Giuseppe&rsquo;s charges a
  delivery fee of 5% which is about $50.00. The others charge a lower
  delivery fee, but to make it more comparable I added the optional tip
  of $20.00 to the others. Giuseppe&rsquo;s has a driver and an
  assistant to bring supplies in. Giuseppe&rsquo;s was used for the Fall
  Friendship Ball, and did a very nice job. Giuseppe&rsquo;s has a
  mediocre reputation on their food, greasy/fatty. Also, could not make
  any substitutions.</p>

  <p>Sully&rsquo;s: $12.93. Sully&rsquo;s was difficult to work with over
  the phone. Hard to reach. Did not return calls.</p>

  <p>Wilshire: $11.43, $12.51 (for similar meal to Sully&rsquo;s), and a
  less expensive meal at $9.27.  The mix of foods makes the difference
  in price. Wilshire has optional dessert. We do not need dessert as
  attendees bring desserts and snacks. Cloverleaf Squares has used
  Wilshire and recommend them. Wilshire had the highest level of service
  over the phone. Easy to work with.  Wilshire recommended we get on
  their list so they could service us next year.</p>

  <p>After group discussion, motion was made in favor of Wilshire by
  Lorraine Granath. Barb Green seconded the motion. Deb will contact
  Wilshire and get on their list. Will give count of 90 people. No money
  has to change hands at this point. Last year total cost of meal $15.00
  (meal, paper products, delivery). Expect to be under or same cost this
  year.</p>

  <p>Ribbon Design: Warren brought a sample ribbon to a recent dance. Lilac
  with black writing. Everyone that saw the ribbon liked it. Majority of
  DOR members were present. DEB AND JEFF: Verify design, and has order
  been placed? Verify next meeting.</p>

  <p>Dangle Design: Verification of design and has order been placed?
  Verify next meeting.</p>

  <p>Review DOR checklist, updates, additions, corrections, comments: There
  is some confusion as to items on the checklist and who is responsible
  for what items. Deb to Check with Jim and Warren to see if they agree
  with task assignments, who is doing what.</p>

  <p>Deb to All: If your name is listed on the DOR checklist for items you
  no longer plan to do, please let Deb know.</p>

  <p>Barb brought the banner to the DOR meeting. Deb was to take banner
  from the meeting.</p>

  <p>Basket Raffle/and 50/50: Jim Gotta has 50/50 tickets. Barb Green has
  the basket raffle tickets.</p>

  <p>Ticket colors: Different color tickets are used for the basket raffle
  and 50/50. Also, do not limit yourself to one color for either the
  50/50 or the basket raffle. Example green and/or blue for 50/50. Red
  and/or orange for basket raffle. When need to replenish, a certain
  color may not be available.</p>

  <p>Barb: Basket raffle tickets and 50/50 tickets to be the same
  denominations. Barb proposed: offer 3 tickets for $2.00, 12 tickets
  for $5.00 and 30 tickets for $10.00. Barb made up signs reflecting
  above prices/number of tickets. Tabled proposal until next meeting.</p>

  <p>Barb requested signs be made up with arrows directing people to the
  location of the baskets and the basket raffle ticket sales. All agreed
  basket raffle ticket sales should remain in the snack room. Basket
  raffle drawing is usually around 9:00 p.m. All agreed the basket
  raffle drawing will be done in the mainstream dance hall.</p>

  <p>Open DOR Committee Positions:</p>

  <p>Refreshments/Hospitality: Deb sent an email to all presidents two
  weeks ago indicating we are looking for two people to act as point
  people for hospitality. Hospitality includes maintaining inventory of
  supplies and set up/clean up.</p>

  <p>Basket Raffle: Included in email to presidents was notification: We
  need one person to assist Jane Jones with the Basket Raffle.</p>

  <p>Single Dancer Ribbons: Deb and Jeff tried random stickers on last
  year&rsquo;s ribbon, and there was no trouble getting them to
  stick. Brought a ribbon with sample stickers stuck on it.  Want
  visibility of the sticker. The DOR group chose the bar-shaped sticker
  with SOLO printed on it. When we see the color of the new ribbons,
  then choose a color for the SOLO stickers that will contrast the
  ribbon.</p>

  <p>Other Items:</p>

  <p>Deb noticed in the checklist file, there is a hotel listing. Question:
  Do we need to update this list? Do we advertise outside the Rochester
  area? Sharon: We sent info to a couple clubs in Pennsylvania last
  year.</p>

  <p>Deb and Jeff continue to look at other venues for DOR. Ruled out
  everything but Sweden Walker Rd (rec center) and the Rochester Museum
  and Science Center. Deb and Jeff will follow up with the Science
  Center. Jim, Warren, Jeff and Deb will visit the Sweden Walker Rd rec
  center.</p>

  <p>Assembling packets. DEB AND JEFF to check with Jim and
  Warren&nbsp;&mdash; is material ready for packets? If so, assemble at
  January 8, 2019, meeting. Second option: Deb and Jeff have offered
  their home for assembling packets. Sharon has list of current Club
  Presidents&rsquo; addresses; will provide to Deb and Jeff. Need an
  envelope with address label for each Club President PRIOR to packet
  assembly.</p>

  <p>Adjourned: 7:27 PM</p>

  <p>Next meeting: 6:30 PM, Tuesday, 1/8/2019. Bill Grays, Henrietta.</p>


date: 2019-01-08
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 7:30
minutes:
  <p>WELCOME/CALL TO ORDER/AGENDA REVIEW:</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Kris Aeckerle, Amy Aeckerle, Jeff Blood, Peter Emmel,
  Jim Gotta, Gary Granath, Lorraine Granath, Stuart Jones, Jane Jones,
  Sharon Meyer, Warren Olson, Doreen Olson, Sue Sepkowski, Kaitlyn
  Shirley, Carol Ann Stahl, and Debbie Blood present on speaker
  phone.</p>

  <p>AGENDA: No changes.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Accepted as modified. (Clarification by
  Stu&nbsp;&mdash; Shamrock Squares is member of Federation, but their
  insurance is not handled by Carol Ann.)</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT/Stu Jones: Received email from Stu: All
  who received the Treasurer&rsquo;s Report (two separate pages) at the
  January 8 mtg, please note that the RAF balance of 11,846.98 is for
  January 8, NOT February 8. The balance for the <i>Dancer
  Promotion/Recruitment/Retention Fund: is $1719.47 as of
  1/8/19</i>.</p>

  <p>It was noted that income from the Fall Ball Silent Auction was:
  $440.50.</p>

  <p>Cayuga Cut Ups advertising grant went out.</p>

  <p>Not much activity since last report. All clubs have paid dues.</p>

  <p>DOR finances to be covered at a later date.</p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</p>

  <p>DOR/Debbie and Jeff Blood: On track with DOR 2019. Continue to
  investigate new sites for 2020 DOR. Narrowed to two: 1.) Most Holy
  Trinity Church, Webster, awaiting information regarding parking. 2.)
  Sweden Community Center. Perinton Recreation Center continues to be a
  possibility. Final decision re 2020 site to be made by May of
  2019. <u><i>Jim Gotta made deposit for 2019 DOR, will send to Stu
  J. for reimbursement.</i></u> DOR packets assembled this evening,
  1/8/19, and will be delivered this week. Kaitlyn asked, does RAF
  number the DOR ribbons?  Jim G. Answer: In the past ribbons were
  numbered.  Last year and this year they were not. Clubs to keep lists
  of those purchasing ribbons and dinners. Turn these lists in. The
  lists will be at the front table. If someone loses their
  ticket/ribbon, the lists are checked to verify that a ticket/ribbon
  was purchased.  Insurance/Carol Ann Stahl: New electronic delivery
  system came out in beginning of November. Carol had everything done
  and sent it in. Nothing needs to be done until the classes
  graduate. Auburn Fun Bunch has paid insurance.</p>

  <p>CCR: Jim/Chuck: Caller lab updates dance programs every few
  years. A fair amount of changes done in Fall of 2018. (Examples: Calls
  moved from Basic 2 into Basic 1. Calls were moved from Basic to
  Mainstream. A plus call was placed into Mainstream.)  Keeping callers
  in sync. Changes should not affect our class/club dances. Spring Thaw
  Dance, March 23, 2019, in Chili, fund raiser for callers. Class
  friendly.</p>

  <p>Promenader/Web Site: Peter/Sidney: Previous balance,
  $4358.86. Deposits of $70.00.  New balance $4,428.86. <b><u>Two new
  clubs: Auburn Fun Bunch and Phoenix Pairs N Squares need to be added
  to Promenader</u></b>. <u><i>Stu J. to send a contact list to
  officers. Peter Emmel will send Promenader guidelines to the new
  clubs.</i></u> Photos and news of interest for March 1st issue must be
  received by Feb 1st.</p>

  <p>Marketing: Eileen Webster has resigned from the Marketing
  Committee. Debbie and Jeff Blood to contact Eileen to get any info
  Eileen has re this committee. Deb and Jeff have volunteered to cover
  until the end of this season. Elections coming up in April.</p>

  <p>Non-Plus Club/Jim Gotta: No activity.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>Village Squares Amateur Night, May 15th, 7&ndash;10 PM. Format same
  as previous yrs.  Village Squares and Cloverleaf Squares alternate
  holding this event. This year at Village Squares, flier in the
  Promenader. Local area callers/cuers dwindling. Encouraging interest
  in calling. Ron Brown, Eileen Webster, Gordon White, got their start
  at an Amateur Night.</p>

  <p>Sikorsky Dance: This is a Federation dance under direction of
  Sharon Meyer. Cloverleaf Squares mans this event and has proposed
  Cloverleaf Sqs be given a share of the profit.  We netted $324.00 last
  year (2018) after expenses. <i>Jim Gotta made motion <u>1/3 of profit
  to go to Cloverleaf Squares beginning with the Sikorsky Dance of
  8/23/19 and going forward.</u> No profit, no money. Warren Olson
  seconded motion.</i> No one opposed.  <u><i>Warren will prepare a
  flier and send to Jim for approval.</i></u> Date: Friday, 8/23/2019,
  Hen.  Fire Hall. Price to attend: same as last year.</p>

  <p>NEW BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>1.) Fall Ball (Peter and Sharon): Question whether to hold in fall
  of 2019. If so, where.  Henrietta Fire Hall not available
  9/28/19. Flaherty&rsquo;s in Macedon has a wooden dance floor and
  would have a buffet. Sharon has not yet seen facility. Would like a
  caller to check the facility. The First Baptist Church in Penfield
  (schedule is on line) was suggested by Donna LaDonna. Peter suggested
  we revisit the purpose of this dance. Its origin was to bring back the
  spring graduates. Since its origin, we have had 0&ndash;3 new
  graduates/year. It is not meeting its primary purpose. Fall Ball is a
  free dance, with catered dinner, and volunteer callers. Only
  compensation to callers/cuers is free dinner.  Date is set so does not
  interfere with special dances and open houses. Two options: (1) Drop
  it. (2) Try one more year and advertise opportunity for recent
  graduates.</p>

  <p>Informal vote was to move forward with Fall Ball, 2019,
  highlight/encourage recent graduates to keep dancing and a welcome
  back to new dance season. Date is fourth Saturday in September
  (9/28/19). Aim for free dance, but do not exclude admission fee.
  Dinner optional. Seek to minimize cost. Callers donate time.</p>

  <p>Committee: Jim Gotta, Peter E., Warren O.</p>

  <p><span class="red"><u><i>Warren&nbsp;&mdash;
  flier</i></u></span></p>

  <p><u><i><span class="red">Jim G to check availability and can we eat at
  Pittsford Senior Center</span>&nbsp;&mdash; if dance is free, we can
  have the hall for free.</i></u></p>

  <p>Penfield Baptist Church has a chicken BBQ that day in the New
  Fellowship Hall, 2&ndash;6 PM or until sold
  out. <u><i><span class="red">Gary G. to f/u on Penfield Baptist Church,
  possibility of attending BBQ and dancing in the hall
  afterward.</span></i></u> Respond quickly to Jim G and committee.</p>

  <p><u><i><span class="red">Amy A. volunteered to distribute fliers at
  Bubel&rsquo;s in the summer.</span></i></u></p>

  <p>2.) Yard signs: <u><i><span class="red">All clubs please notify
  Federation if you need more yard signs.</span></i></u></p>

  <p>3.) Nominating committee: Federation by-laws state we need to have
  elections at the April meeting. Nominating Committee needs to be in
  place 90 days prior to elections.  Nominating Committee chats with
  folks to see who can fill in positions on the RAF Board for
  2019&ndash;2020. Ballots put forth at Feb mtg. Final ballots at the
  April meeting for voting. There can always be nominations from the
  floor at the April meeting.  You do not have to be on the nominating
  committee ballot to get elected. By-laws state all officers:
  President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Communications
  Liaison are one-year terms. Extending beyond two years necessitates a
  special vote. Nominating Committee: Peter Emmel, Warren Olson, and
  possibly Eileen Webster.</p>

  <p>ADJOURNED: 8:50 PM</p>

  <p>Next Meeting: 2/25/19</p>

  <p>7:30 PM, Bill Grays, 1225 Jefferson Rd., Henrietta</p>

  <h3>DOR MINUTES FOR MEETING OF 1/8/2019</h3>

  <p>Submitted by Gary and Lorraine Granath</p>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 6:50 pm. Stuffed DOR club packets
  6:30&ndash;6:50 pm. <span class="red"><i>FOR FUTURE: Future DOR
  Package contents: Warren suggested when bundling ribbons, bundle
  minimum of six ribbons (not five) as we usually sell to
  couples.</i></span></p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Kris Aeckerle, Amy Aeckerle, Jeff Blood, Jim Gotta,
  Gary Granath, Lorraine Granath, Stu Jones, Jane Jones, Sharon Meyer,
  Warren Olson, Doreen Olson, Mary Jo Webster. Debbie Blood present on
  speaker phone.</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No new items were suggested.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Minutes of November, 2018, were
  accepted.</p>

  <h3>ACTION ITEMS:</h3>

  <p>Welcomed New Committee Members: <u>Mary Jo
  Webster</u>&nbsp;&mdash; responsible for refreshments and ice cream
  sundaes. <u>Amy and Kris Aeckerle</u>&mdash;&mdash; to assist Jane
  Jones with Basket Raffle. Dee Gustke offered to assist Mary Jo with
  refreshments at DOR.</p>

  <p>Status of Callers and Cuers: Complete. Line Dance Caller: Terry
  Irvine, booked.</p>

  <p>Dinner Caterer: Wilshire contracted.</p>

  <p>Dance Schedule: Same as 2018.</p>

  <p>Ribbon Design: Complete, and in club packets.</p>

  <p>SOLO Stickers for Ribbons: Complete.</p>

  <p>Barb Green, last meeting, proposed a change in pricing of
  (<i><u>both</u></i>) the basket raffle tickets <u><i>and the 50/50
  Tickets</i></u>. <b>Proposal:</b> 3 tickets for $2, 12 tickets for
  $5, 30 tickets for $10. (Currently 1 for $1, 3 for $2, and 15 for
  $5.) Proposal was tabled at the November meeting. After discussion:
  the proposed pricing of <u>basket raffle tickets</u> was approved
  <u>with the addition of option to purchase 1 ticket for $1</u>. No
  one opposed. Warren made a motion for the acceptance of the following
  new pricing of basket raffle tickets. Gary G seconded the motion:
  Approved pricing of basket raffle tickets:</p>

  <p>1 for $1.00</p>

  <p>3 for $2.00</p>

  <p>12 for $5.00</p>

  <p>30 for $10.00</p>

  <p><span class="red"><i><u>Deb and Jeff to add to agenda for February
  meeting</u>: Price of 50/50 tickets.</i></span> <i>Do we want the
  price of the 50/50 tickets to be the same denominations as the basket
  raffle tickets? Regarding the 50/50 tickets, it was mentioned people
  purchase 50/50 tickets throughout the evening to vary the
  ticket-number sequence. These people may appreciate the pricing of
  50/50 tickets remaining the same as prior year.</i></p>

  <p>Inventory of DOR Supplies: Donna and Rick LaDonna obtained DOR
  totes from Barb Green, and presented them to Debbie and Jeff.
  <u>Debbie and Jeff to create list of items we need to purchase for
  2019 DOR and will bring list to the February 25<sup>th</sup> DOR
  meeting.</u> Jim Gotta has almost a full roll of blue tickets. Jim
  G.&nbsp;&mdash; &ldquo;We need two distinct colors of tickets&rdquo;,
  one color for basket raffle and another for 50/50, so no chance of
  mix-up of tickets. <u><i>Next meeting: who will purchase
  items.</i></u></p>

  <p>Potential Sites for 2020 DOR:</p>

  <p>Of interest&nbsp;&mdash; <u>Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church,
  Ridge Rd, Webster, NY.</u> Awaiting response regarding parking for
  DOR and 5:00 p.m. Mass.</p>

  <p><u>Sweden Community Center</u>: would have to rent 200 chairs at
  $1&ndash;$2 per chair and location not favorable.</p>

  <p><u>The Perinton Rec Center</u> not ruled out. If a site is not
  preferred over Perinton Rec, will continue with Perinton Rec
  Center.</p>

  <p>Fall Ball: Response from Jim G.&nbsp;&mdash; The Fall Ball is
  free. It would be good to have a table set up at DOR for fliers
  and/or a poster to advertise the Fall Ball. (No dinner sales for Fall
  Ball at DOR.)</p>

  <p>Advertising&nbsp;&mdash; dance flyer emailed to out of town
  caller&nbsp;&mdash; complete.</p>

  <p>Program: <u>Hosts</u>&nbsp;&mdash; Debbie and Jeff Blood. <u>Grand
  Marshall</u>&nbsp;&mdash; Warren Olson. <u>Warren to organize the
  graduates in the room next door, explain to them what is going to
  happen. Hosts give the &ldquo;ready&rdquo; and Warren will send in
  the graduates. Gary Granath has volunteered to assist Warren.</u></p>

  <p>Dinner: ? process: Jim response&nbsp;&mdash; Everyone vacates the
  room. The town sets up tables for seating (8 people per table) and 2
  tables for food. About 90 people attend dinner. Volunteers from
  dancers set up chairs. Someone stands at door&nbsp;&mdash; No one
  enters without dinner ticket. Need container to hold tickets being
  handed in. Refreshment committee places tablecloths on all
  tables&nbsp;&mdash; town requirement. The caterer this year is only
  going to deliver the food. <span class="red"><i>Deb will call
  Wilshire to verify delivery of food to tables or doorway. Hot pads?
  Utensils?</i></span></p>

  <p>Ice Cream Sundaes&nbsp;&mdash; <u>do we want them</u>?
  Optional&nbsp;&mdash; not on the flier. <span class="red"><i>Gary G
  to check size of freezer, if one is available. Question space for
  several gallons of ice cream? <u>Tabled decision for next
  meeting.</u></i></span></p>

  <p>Graduation Packets&nbsp;&mdash; Time frame of putting these
  together? President (Jim Gotta) puts together for DOR. Jim Gotta
  prepares a packet for each club President/or club officer present at
  the dance who then distributes to the graduates either that day or at
  their next dance. In March, send email to each club president asking
  for name of all graduates and if couples. If couples, combine two in
  one envelope. If single, each gets single envelope. Contents: welcome
  letter, a club 25 booklet, a free dance card, and information
  regarding the Promenader.</p>

  <p><span class="red"><u>Stu has list, addresses and contact info for
  all clubs. Will provide to officers. To include Auburn Fun Bunch and
  Phoenix Pairs N Squares.</u></span></p>

  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED: 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>NEXT MEETING: 2/25/2019, Monday, 6:30 pm. Bill Grays, 1225
  Jefferson Rd. RAF to follow at</p>

  <p>7:30 p.m.</p>


date: 2019-02-25
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 7:30
minutes:
  <p>WELCOME/CALL TO ORDER: Meeting began at 7:30 PM.</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No new topics to add to the agenda. <u>Copy Cats would like 10 additional
  yard signs if they become available</u>.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Jeff and Debbie Blood, Jim Gotta, Gary and Lorraine Granath, Sharon Meyer, Kris
  and Amy Aeckerle, Sue Eddy, Peter Emmel, Kaitlyn Shirley, Sue Sepkowski, Eileen Webster</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Minutes from 1/8/19 were accepted. Debbie made motion to accept;
  Peter seconded; no opposed.</p>

  <p>QUORUM: RAF has two additional clubs, bringing total to 19 clubs. Great news. However, we
  now have more clubs outside Monroe County than we have inside Monroe County. We need
  1/3 of the clubs represented in order to have a quorum. We now need 7 clubs represented in
  order to hold a legal vote. <u>Sharon Meyer is now a representative of Cloverleaf Squares.
  Champagne Whirl-A-Ways&rsquo; representative is now Jim Gotta.</u> We need conversations with
  other clubs, such as Shamrock Squares and caller clubs, to identify a representative to increase
  participation.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT/Stu Jones: Stu was not present. Treasurer Report was emailed. Jim G.
  gave Treasurer Report. Balance on hand January 8, 2019, was $11,846.98. Disbursements:
  $222.84, majority was for rental deposit/DOR hall. BOH on February 25, 2019, is $11,624.14.
  February 25, 2019 BOH Dancer Promotion/Recruitment/Retention Fund: $1,719.47.</p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</p>

  <p><u>DOR</u>/Debbie and Jeff Blood: On schedule.</p>

  <p>Club packets went out in January.</p>

  <p>Graduation packets will be assembled in April. Packets will be distributed to club Presidents at
  DOR. Presidents will distribute to grads. Packets include: Welcome Letter, Club 25 book,
  Promenader Info, and a free dance card. Amy mentioned not enough information/explanation
  is given to new graduates as to what is in the packet. <span style="color:red">Presidents or Class Leaders please go
  over the contents with your class members. See below.</span></p>

  <p><u>Club 25 Book</u>: Graduates submit the book to the caller and/or cuer at any club visited. The
  caller/cuer signs the book. When the graduate has 25 caller/cuer signatures, the graduate
  turns in their completed Club 25 book to one of their local club officers, who in turn brings it to
  an RAF meeting where it is given to the RAF President. The RAF President has the dangles.</p>

  <p><u>Free Dance Card</u>: Given to all graduates to encourage them to visit other clubs. Rochester
  Area Federation Clubs are listed on this card. A graduate can visit any clubs listed on this card
  for a one-time free dance at that club. The club treasurer will cross off their club name when
  the card is submitted for the free dance. <span style="color:red"><u>We request any club that chooses to be
  taken off the free dance card, to notify Jeff and Debbie Blood, Vice
  Presidents of the Rochester Area Federation.</u></span> <u>dfbjvbhome@aol.com</u> OR Jim Gotta
  at <u>gotta@rochester.rr.com</u>.</p>

  <p><u>Letter to Club Presidents</u> <span style="color:red">should state any club desiring to be removed from the free dance
  card needs to notify Jeff and Debbie Blood:</span> dfbjvbhome@aol.com. OR: Jim Gotta</p>

  <p><u>Inventory</u> of supplies taken and list of items to purchase made.</p>

  <p>We have been looking at alternative locations to hold 2020 DOR. Three potential locations:
  (1.) Keep Perinton Recreation Center; (2.) Sweden Walker Road Rec Center in Brockport.
  Entire facility would be available to us with large plus hall and large mainstream hall; (3.) Most
  Holy Trinity Church in Webster. Excellent location. More spacious than Perinton Rec. We have
  <span style="color:red">a grid of pros and cons for each location which will be presented at the May RAF</span> meeting. If
  anyone has suggestions for any other location, notify Debbie and Jeff Blood.</p>

  <p><span style="color:red">Agenda for the May RAF meeting to go out 2 wks early. Make Presidents aware of DOR
  committee looking for a new site for future DOR. Include grid for three viable DOR locations.
  Agenda to highlight the review of potential new locations for DOR 2020 and that the vote will
  be taken at the RAF meeting that evening (May 14, 2019).</span></p>

  <p>DOR had a change in calling staff. Flier updated on Promenader and mailed new flier to club
  Presidents.</p>

  <p><u>Email going out to announce the RAF April meeting and the RAF May meeting</u>. We will have
  RAF discussions at both April (nominations officers) and May meetings (future site for DOR).
  At the May DOR meeting, DOR committee will decide where we want the 2020 DOR to be held.
  DOR committee will take their proposal to the May RAF meeting, the following hour, for their
  thoughts.</p>

  <p><u>Insurance</u>/Sharon Meyer: Carol Ann sent Sharon an email that is going into the Promenader.
  USDA has their new online registration up and running. When a new club member joins your
  club later in the year (graduates) send Carol Ann a check made out to USDA for $4.70 and a
  copy of their names. Carol Ann will enter the information to the club roster and forward the
  check to the National contact person. You can access the roster, but Carol Ann is the only one
  that can make changes. If you add a new site, let Carol Ann know and she will send it in. Any
  site you have listed previously is covered for the entire year. No need to re-issue.</p>

  <p><u>CCR</u>: Jim/Chuck: Many callers down south, so no meeting. Spring Thaw Dance March 23.
  Flier in Promenader. Class friendly. <span style="color:red"><u>PRESIDENTS NOTIFY CLASS MEMBERS.</u></span></p>

  <p><u>Promenader/Web Site</u>: Peter/Sidney: No activity since last report. Balance is still $4428.36.
  We have two new clubs. Phoenix Pairs N Squares (in Phoenix, NY) and Auburn Fun Bunch.
  Trying to get them fully listed in the Promenader with officers, contacts and schedules.</p>

  <p><u>NOTE TO ALL</u>: Please send photos of your events to Peter. To transfer pictures to Peter for the
  Promenader: Email, Text. Can send prints. Peter is able to scan and enter pictures into
  Promenader. Send a short caption with the picture.</p>

  <p><u>Promotions Committee</u>: Debbie and Jeff Blood: We have a Promotions committee established.
  Our first meeting was last week. Members include: Amy and Kris Aeckerle, Lori and Dave
  Collins, Tracey and Jim Lasch, Jeff and Debbie Blood. Karen Olmsted and Steve Barkley will join
  us when they return home. (Following the RAF meeting, Eileen Webster joined the Promotions
  Committee.) Great meeting. Walked away with action items. <u>Find out if we have a budget.
  What is the process to access the budget?</u> We provided members with a notebook of the
  Caller Lab Marketing Manual on the Promenader. An excellent resource. Over 91 pages on
  marketing and square dancing. Next meeting will <u>prioritize what items we want to work on</u>.
  Looking into how to create a <u>square-dancing blog</u>. Find out how to use the Square Dance
  Rochester <u>Facebook page</u> as means of communication: <u>who has authority over it, who can join
  it.</u> Discussed opportunities <u>for class members to participate with club members during the year
  and not wait until graduation</u>, and the <U>relationship between experienced club members and
  class members is critical</u>. <u>Promote open houses</u> throughout the year to raise awareness of
  square dancing and catch people after the September classes to encourage them to join
  classes the following year. Will check into <u>promoting square dancing to youth</u>. School events
  go over really well; try tapping into this. <u>Contact former class graduates and club members</u> to
  see why they left. How can we <u>foster their return</u>? There will be a <u>separate committee
  focused on solo dancers</u>. Two volunteers have offered to work on that committee. <u>Deb and
  Jeff looking for more volunteers for the Solo Committee</u>. Sue Sepkowski mentioned a flier she
  read: no partner needed and that was what drew her into square dancing. Sue offered to
  help. Jim Gotta suggested Solo Committee <u>visit Cloverleaf Squares (a singles club) and speak
  with members</u>. Sue mentioned when you are new to square dancing, you are unaware of what
  club is a singles club. <span style="color:red">Peter volunteered to look into</span> getting a response from <u>each club
  President giving a description of their club for the Promenader</u>.</p>

  <p>Eileen W. offered: Singles Square Dancers USA has existed for 49 years and has been doing a
  national convention for 49 years. Originated as singles convention, now couples and singles
  welcome.</p>

  <p><span style="color:red">Jim Gotta will provide Promotions Committee</span> with additional information from Caller Lab.
  Re: Facebook page, must be a member, just go to Facebook group and ask to join. Re: budget.
  There is no budget. We discuss here and vote. The only thing RAF has done in place of a
  budget is put together the Dancer Promotion/Recruitment/Retention Fund. People can tap
  into this fund. If in the future, a budget is put into place, the
  Dancer/Promotion/Recruitment/Retention Fund would be replaced by a budget.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:</p>

  <p><u>Fall Ball</u>: September 28th. <u>Gary booked Penfield Baptist Church. Call to clarify hours needed:
  1:00 PM to 7:00 PM.</u> Still looking to have it as an afternoon dance followed by a pot luck
  dinner. Tentative: Set-up: 1:00 PM. Dance 2-5 PM. Pot luck after dancing. Calling staff
  volunteering their time. $25.00 gift card as a thank you to the callers. Three callers and two
  cuers: Gary and Alice Bubel, Mike Callahan, Ron Brown, Mark Thone. Two goals for dance:
  bring people back to dancing after spring graduation and to bring people in from a wider area.
  Cost: $5.00 per person, $3.00 if you bring a dish to pass, free if you bring a 2019 graduate. All
  graduates get in for free. RAF to order pizza, when we see how many attendees. <span style="color:red">Attendees
  are asked to bring a dish to pass. <u>CLUB PRESIDENTS: PLEASE ALERT YOUR CLASS
  MEMBERS NOW AND OFTEN, THIS DANCE IS FOR THEM. NEW GRADS ENTER FOR
  FREE. THEY WILL GET A WARM WELCOME!!!</u><span style="color:red"> Supply list, cost of paper
  products/supplies tabled until date closer to dance. (Cost of hall and pizza: RAF.)</p>

  <p><u>Sikorsky Dance</u>: August 23, 2019. No new info to report. Warren has flier ready.</p>

  <p><u>Lack of Callers</u>: Two opportunities. Open mic opportunities at DOR and Amateur Night.</p>

  <p><u>Nominating Committee:</u></p>

  <p><span style="color:red"><u>CLUB PRESIDENTS AND CLUB REPRESENTATIVES!!! WE NEED A QUORUM
  AT THE APRIL 4, 2019 7:30 PM MEETING TO VOTE FOR RAF OFFICERS.
  PLEASE PLAN ON ATTENDING. We need 7 clubs represented.</u></span></p>

  <p><u>We can accept nominations from the floor</u>. We then take the final recommendations from the
  Nominating Committee and vote.</p>

  <p><span style="color:red">TENTATIVE SLATE OF NOMINEES FOR RAF OFFICERS FOR 2019-2020:</span></p>

  <p>President:</p>

  <p>Jeff and Debbie Blood</p>

  <p><u>VP: Openly Recruiting for VP. (VP IS ALSO DOR chair.)</u></p>

  <p>Treasurer: Rick and Donna LaDonna</p>

  <p>Secretary: Gary and Lorraine Granath</p>

  <p>Promotions Chair: Kris and Amy Aeckerle.</p>

  <p><span style="color:red">Possibility for VP/PRESIDENT positions:</span></p>

  <p>President: Jim Gotta to remain.</p>

  <p>VP: Jeff and Debbie Blood to remain.</p>

  <p>It would be great if we could find another couple to become more involved in RAF with the
  possibility of taking the VP position in the future.</p>

  <p>NEW BUSINESS:</p>

  <p><u>Bylaws:</u></p>

  <p>The bylaws should be reviewed/updated every three years.</p>

  <p>One suggestion as an update to bylaws: Peter Emmel/Debbie and Jeff Blood recommend
  update to Communications Liaison role/definition. This role has changed significantly since its
  inception. Example: No longer need to be on the Promenader Committee. We can now rewrite
  role to make it more adaptable to the personalities of the chair. <u>Peter offered to rewrite this
  role.</u></p>

  <p>Jeff Blood suggested a change in the need for a quorum. Is a quorum necessary? In the
  absence of a quorum, attendees/board vote.</p>

  <p>Deb B. suggested: Because clubs are much more scattered now. Use of electronic meetings for
  those who cannot travel to the Federation Board site. Eileen mentioned: Telephone
  conference. Jim added: We would establish an account, everyone would call to a single
  number, the company would connect everyone together. Do not need a smart phone
  application. There are some free services available for non-profits. Set up a time and everyone
  calls the number you are assigned. For our meeting, we would need a good speaker phone.</p>

  <p><u>Updates/proposals for bylaws:</u></p>

  <p>Do not want to rush bylaws updates.</p>

  <p><span style="color:red">MEMBERS OF THE BOARD: Go through the bylaws.</span> <u>For next meeting (April 4, 2019): Come in
  with ideas and proposals for bylaws. If you have a suggestion to bylaws, come in with a
  solution with proposed wording. Then Jim G. can prepare a draft.</u> Will allow time for members
  to reflect on proposals and vote at a later date.</p>

  <p>ADJOURNED: 9:00 PM.</p>

  <h3>DOR MINUTES: Meeting Monday, Feb. 25, 2019</h3>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 6:32 PM.</p>

  <p>ATTENDANCE: Aeckerle, Amy; Aeckerle, Kris; Blood, Deb; Blood, Jeff;
  Eddy, Sue; Gotta, Jim; Granath, Gary; Granath, Lorraine; Meyer,
  Sharon; Webster, Mary Jo</p>

  <p>ABSENT: Stu Jones, Jane Jones. Jane had surgery and is
  recuperating.</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No new items were suggested.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Minutes of January 8, 2019: Mary Jo
  motioned to accept minutes. Gary 2nd motion. No one opposed.</p>

  <p>Specific Action Items</p>

  <p>1. <u>Review DOR Checklist</u> updates-additions, corrections,
  comments etc.  Page 1: Locations for DOR 2020. Three viable locations
  for DOR 2020: Perinton Rec Center, Sweden Community Center in
  Brockport, and The Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Webster. The
  Quality Inn, Chili Ave, has carpeted floors, no longer a viable
  option. Page 2 is up to date. These are last-minute items. Emailed out
  of town caller, complete. Page 3: Sent out club packets in January,
  complete. Dinner tickets for callers go to the DOR, appears open, but
  is a last-minute item. <span style="color:red">In March, Jeff and Deb
  will contact Club Presidents to get lists of graduates. In April: Jim,
  Warren, Peter, Deb, and Jeff will put graduation packets together. Amy
  A. offered to assist. Jim needs a heavy-duty stapler. Stapler needs to
  have a long neck.</span> Jim sent Deb/Jeff a sample of the DOR
  ceremony from a prior DOR to be used as a guide going forward. Page 4:
  We have all positions assigned. Grand March: Warren Olson. Gary
  offered to help. <span style="color:red">Deb will add Gary&rsquo;s
  name to Grand March.</span></p>

  <p>2. <u>Basket Raffle tickets and 50/50 tickets</u> to be same
  price. Approved as below:<br> 1 for $1<br> 3 for $2<br> 12 for $5<br>
  30 for $10</p>

  <p>3. <u>DOR supplies inventory in totes</u>, (listing attached). Many
  rectangular tablecloths. We do <u>not</u> place tablecloths on the
  registration tables. In snack room is a U-shaped configuration of
  tables. These get rectangular tablecloths. Round tablecloths used for
  dinner. Rectangular tablecloths for (dinner) serving tables. Three
  purple tablecloths to place under the baskets donated for the basket
  raffle.</p>

  <p>4. <u>Program</u>: Jim/Debbie/Jeff</p>

  <p>5. <u>Dinner</u>: Review caterer and DOR committee
  responsibilities. End dancing at 5:00 p.m. Need to set up hall for
  dinner. Caterer&nbsp;&mdash; <span style="color:red">Deb to change
  caterer delivery from 5:00 p.m. to 5:15 or 5:30 p.m.</span> Deb
  checked with Wilshire: as long as the serving tables are set up and
  ready with tablecloths, they will bring everything in to the
  tables. <span style="color:red">We supply utensils.</span> Wilshire
  sets up 98% of the buffet. <span style="color:red">We supply bowls for
  sauces/gravies.</span> Wilshire will pour sauces/gravies into the
  available bowls. We are responsible for removing rolls from bags and
  placing them onto the dinner tables or serving tables. In past years
  DOR has done both, set rolls on individual tables OR simply place the
  rolls on the serving table. <span style="color:red">We supply either
  bread baskets or large tray(s) for rolls.</span> Lines for buffet go
  on either side of the serving tables. There is a ledge coming from the
  kitchen, caterer can set things on that ledge.</p>

  <p>6. <u>Ice cream</u>: All present agreed not to serve ice cream. We
  can revisit this next year. For future reference: Gary checked
  availability of a freezer. Tiny refrigerator/freezer in the small room
  off the snack room. This was full. There is a full-size
  refrigerator/freezer in room next to round dance hall. This was
  empty.</p>

  <p>7. <u>Letter to Presidents</u>: <span style="color:red">March
  letter to Presidents asking for list of graduates. Request Presidents
  to identify solo dancers and dancers that are couples.</span>
  <u>Letter to Club Presidents</u> should state <span
  style="color:red">any club desiring to be removed from the free dance
  card needs to notify Jeff and Debbie Blood <u>dfbjvbhome@aol.com</u>
  or Jim Gotta <u>gotta@rochester.rr.com.</u></span></p>

  <p>8. <u>Email going out to announce the RAF April meeting (RAF
  officer nominations for 2019&ndash;2020) and the RAF May meeting
  (regarding new site for 2020 DOR.</u> We will have RAF discussions at
  both April and May meetings. <span style="color:red">Within the
  agendas and emails going out, inform Presidents what is coming
  up. Make Presidents aware of DOR committee looking for a new site for
  future DOR. Notify Presidents of importance of May RAF meeting for a
  vote regarding new site.</span></p>

  <p>At the May DOR meeting, DOR committee will decide where we want the
  2020 DOR to be held. DOR committee will present their proposal to the
  May RAF meeting, the following hour, for their thoughts.</p>

  <p>9. <u>Graduation Packets</u>: Packets will be distributed to club
  Presidents at DOR. Packets include: Welcome Letter, Club 25 book,
  Promenader Info, and a free dance card. Considering placing a Fall
  Ball notification card in the club packet. Amy mentioned there is not
  enough explanation given to new graduates regarding the contents of
  the packet.</p>

  <p>Club 25: Graduates submit the book to the caller/cuer at any club
  visited. The caller/cuer sign(s) the book. When the graduate has 25
  caller/cuer signatures, he/she gives the Club 25 book to his/her club
  President who takes the book to RAF. The President of RAF provides a
  dangle for the graduate.</p>

  <p><u>Free Dance Card</u>: Given to all graduates to encourage them to
  visit other clubs. Clubs listed on the free dance card are members of
  the Rochester Area Federation. A graduate can visit any/all of the
  clubs listed for a one-time free dance. The club treasurer will cross
  off their club name when the card is submitted for the free
  dance. <span style="color:red">Any club desiring to be removed from
  the free dance card needs to notify Jeff and Debbie Blood
  <u>dfbjvbhome@aol.com</u> or Jim Gotta
  <u>gotta@rochester.rr.com</u>. Need to contact the two new clubs (The
  Fun Bunch and Phoenix Pairs N Squares) regarding the free dance
  card.</p>

  <p>Notification to club presidents of the potential sites, details,
  pros &amp; cons of each location and 5/14/19 vote.</span></p>

  <p>Location/pending issue:</p>

  <p>a. Sweden Community Center would need chair rental and
  delivery&nbsp;&mdash; additional $1&ndash;$2/chair Brockport NY would
  need 200+ chairs. We would be the only event. No need to share
  facility.</p>

  <p>b. The Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Webster, NY. This is a
  bigger facility than Perinton Rec. Kitchen/refreshment
  room&nbsp;&mdash; tables already set up. Cost of rental is
  approximately 1/3 the cost of the Perinton Rec. There are several
  local restaurants near the church. Warren has contacted Golden Boy
  Restaurant. They could serve 100 dinners. <span style="color:red">DOR
  would shut down from 4:30 to 6:30 pm.</span> This would solve any
  parking issue. Previously questioned sufficient parking for 5:00 pm
  Mass and DOR during dinner hour. Mary Jo asked about this location: Is
  it that much nicer than Perinton Rec to make the change?  Jeff
  believes it would be a big step up. The facility is larger. The plus
  room would be larger. There is room for us to expand.</p>

  <p>c. Perinton Recreation Center.</p>

  <p>d. Quality Inn carpeted, no dance floor, 2019 Chili Ave &amp;
  390N. No longer considered viable option.</p>

  <p>Many other sites were visited and found not feasible.</p>

  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED: 7:15 pm.</p>


date: 2019-04-04
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 7:30
minutes:
  <hr>

  <p>WELCOME/Call to Order: 7:34 p.m.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Amy Aeckerle, Kris Aeckerle, Jan Bencic, Debbie Blood, Jeff
  Blood, Ed Briggs, Jim Dowd, Sue Eddy, Peter Emmel, Jim Gotta, Gary
  Granath, Lorraine Granath, Jane Jones, Stu Jones, Donna LaDonna, Rick
  LaDonna, Sidney Marshall, Sharon Meyer, Chuck Meyer, Carol Ann Stahl,
  George Stahl</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: Jim. Testing a telecommunication free app.</p>

  <p>QUORUM: Eight clubs represented. We have a quorum.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: No changes/updates to previous
  minutes. Peter made motion to accept previous month&rsquo;s
  minutes. Carol Ann seconded motion. Opposed: No one. Minutes from
  February 25, 2019 meeting were approved/accepted.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Stu Jones. Since prior meeting, received
  money from sale of DOR ribbons and dinner tickets from four clubs:
  Silver Squares, Fun Bunch, Shirts n Skirts, and Belles n Beaus.</p>

  <p>Took in all money from Promenader account&nbsp;&mdash; transferred to
  the Federation treasury. It will be listed separately. Under the
  overall amount of money in the treasury, there are two subcategories:
  1.) The Promenader Fund. 2.) The Dancer
  Promotion/Recruitment/Retention Fund. For now, we will keep these
  categories separate.</p>

  <p>Total receipts were $5,228.86. Of that the Promenader Account brought
  in $4,433.86.</p>

  <p>The only disbursement was to L. Granath for the Federation Fall Ball
  hall rental, $125.00.</p>

  <p>In summary, BOH in February, 2019: $11, 624.15. Present BOH:
  $16.728.00.</p>

  <p>The second subcategory Dancer Promotion/Recruitment/Retention Fund has
  not changed since last December, 2018. Balance $1,719.47. Typically,
  the only money that goes into this fund is from the Basket
  Raffle. Occasional deposits such as Silent Auction, Promenader
  Account.</p>

  <p>(Cloverleaf Squares&nbsp;&mdash; $ is in the mail.) Received money
  from sale of DOR ribbons/dinner tickets from: Copy Cats and Penn Yan
  Friendship Squares both delivered by Donna LaDonna, Dalton Gang, Grand
  Squares, Shamrocks Squares, Village Squares. These are not reflected
  in the current Treasurer&rsquo;s report.</p>

  <p>Stu to send Reminders to: Batavia Silver Stars, Cayuga Cut-Ups,
  Champagne WAW, Pairs &rsquo;n&rsquo; Squares, Waterwheels.</p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</p>

  <p>DANCE-O-RAMA: Debbie / Jeff Blood. Went through the checklist tonight
  at DOR meeting.  Finalizing what is needed to be done on the day of
  DOR. Graduation packets target complete date 4/15/19. We are on track.</p>

  <p>INSURANCE: Carol Ann/Sharon. **** E-mail received from Carol Ann
  regarding insuring dancers under 18. After our RAF meeting Carol Ann
  checked with the national director, and she said there is no longer an
  age stipulation. If young dancers become club members, they can be
  insured.</p>

  <p>For clubs with class graduates that join their club, we need $4.70 for
  insurance for each graduate. Send a check to Carol Ann, made out to
  USDA along with one list of names of the graduates. Carol Ann can
  enter info on the Website. We no longer need three copies. These
  should be in by June, 2019.</p>

  <p>Carol Ann entered all club members that were paid for by a club, but
  are also members of other clubs. They have an asterisk in the club
  that paid for them. Carol Ann emailed this to representatives of the
  clubs.</p>

  <p>CCR: Jim/Chuck. Spring Thaw March 23&nbsp;&mdash; Jim G. thanked
  dancers that came out for the spring dance and those who promoted
  it. We had six squares, many new graduates. Very successful dance.</p>

  <p>PROMENADER/WEB SITE: Peter.&nbsp;&mdash; Ken Georger, Promenader
  Business Manager, is retiring.  Ken G. will provide final transaction
  spreadsheet, which includes all transactions for the past year. The
  balance is now 0.00 because we transferred all funds to the
  Federation.</p>

  <p>Sidney&nbsp;&mdash; The Promenader has a new feature, &ldquo;BREAKING
  NEWS&rdquo;. Example: if you need to cancel a dance due to weather,
  send Sidney an email. He will post Breaking News on the website. Send
  new flyers directly to Sidney. Send as PDF. Pictures for articles,
  send original picture photo to Sidney.</p>

  <p>PROMOTIONS COMMITTEE: Debbie/Jeff.&nbsp;&mdash;The Promotions
  Committee started in February.  Presently two priorities are: 1) help
  graduates transition into clubs and 2) retain dancers. We put together
  a guide for new graduates to assist locating dance club information on
  the Federation Website. The Guide discusses Facebook
  account. Promotions Committee plans to use Square dancing Rochester
  Facebook page as a way to communicate with our members.  Recent grads
  shared with Club Presidents their ideas about what they found helpful
  when graduating and what was lacking that would have been
  helpful. Creating square dance club business cards. Looking for
  template for all clubs to use to advertise, just put in club name and
  location. Looking for increased dancing in the summer. Looking into
  family fun nights.</p>

  <p>There will be a separate committee to attend to the needs of SOLO
  dancers. Number of SOLO graduates is increasing creating challenges
  for clubs, club boards, and dancers. Seeking representation from
  experienced club board members and callers. We lose not only single
  new dancers but experienced dancers who have become SOLO due to
  illness or loss of their partner.</p>

  <p>Promotions Committee will begin posting their Minutes on the RAF
  Website. They would appreciate feedback. Next mtg of the Promotions
  Committee is June 13 th. Committee names and email addresses are on
  the Promenader. Will create a budget for next year.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>1. Fall Ball&nbsp;&mdash; Jim G. September 28th. Afternoon dance
  followed by pot luck, at First Baptist Church in Penfield. Callers and
  cuers secured. Cost: $5 for member to dance, $3 if member brings a
  dish to pass, and free if member brings a graduate. Free dance for all
  graduates.  Sidney will reserve date on Website. Flyer to follow.</p>

  <p>2. Open mic opportunities. Two coming up: DOR dinner hour and Village
  Squares Amateur night, May 15th, 7&ndash;10 pm. To encourage new
  callers.</p>

  <p>3. Nominating Committee&nbsp;&mdash; Peter Emmel, Eileen Webster,
  Warren Olson.</p>

  <p>Proposed slate of officers for 2019&ndash;2020: (Five elected
  offices.)  Accepting additional nominations from the floor.</p>

  <p>President&nbsp;&mdash; continuing Jim Gotta</p>

  <p>Vice Presidents&nbsp;&mdash; continuing Debbie Blood and Jeff Blood</p>

  <p>Secretaries&nbsp;&mdash; continuing Gary Granath and Lorraine Granath</p>

  <p>Treasurers&nbsp;&mdash; Stu Jones retiring in June of 2019. Rick and
  Donna LaDonna candidates.</p>

  <p>Communications Liaisons&nbsp;&mdash; Amy and Kris Aeckerle
  candidates. Currently Jeff and Debbie Blood hold the Communications
  Liaison position in addition to RAF VP position. In June, Amy and Kris
  will take over the Communications Liaison position and oversee the
  newly formed Promotions Committee. Jeff and Debbie will remain active
  members of the Promotions Committee after Amy and Kris take over.</p>

  <p>Jim Gotta: Are there any other nominations from the floor? Or
  volunteers. None.</p>

  <p>Jim G. Bylaws state terms are limited to two years unless voted on
  otherwise. The current nominating committee&rsquo;s proposal would
  require a term extension of the President. Asking for a general vote
  that it is okay to extend beyond a two-year term limit.</p>

  <p>Peter: I move that the term limit be extended for the Presidency
  beyond the two-year limit.  Warren Olson seconded. All in favor:
  unanimous. Any opposed: none.</p>

  <p>Jim Gotta: Hearing no other nominations, you have the proposed
  candidates put forth by the Nominating Committee. Jim Gotta,
  President; Jeff and Debbie Blood, Vice Presidents; Gary and Lorraine
  Granath, Secretaries; Rick and Donna LaDonna, Treasurers; Kris and Amy
  Aeckerle, Promotions Committee. All in favor: all. Opposed: no one
  opposed.</p>

  <p>Jim: Congratulated all. Thank you to the Nominating Committee.</p>

  <p>Peter mentioned continuity is very important, and he thanked all those
  who are willing to continue in their office for a second term.</p>

  <p>NEW BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>Bylaws changes:</p>

  <p>Jim and Peter: Revamp/restate the Communications Liaison title/job
  responsibilities to be more reflective of the promotional and member
  retention responsibilities. This position will continue to oversee t
  he newly formed Promotions Committee. New officers will help to
  redefine the terms. Peter working on a draft for this Committee.</p>

  <p>Peter would like to reword the Mission Statement/Purpose(s) of the
  Federation.</p>

  <p>Sharon mentioned the discussion at the last meeting regarding quorum
  as potential topic to be discussed. Peter: Quorum as mentioned in the
  bylaws requires representation of 1/3 of the number of clubs. Question
  was to either keep the quorum as is or do away with it. Preference is
  to keep it as is. To do away with quorum does not seem appropriate.</p>

  <p>Peter: Bylaws refer to Promenader Committee, which does not really
  exist.</p>

  <p>Jim: Will take suggestions regarding bylaws again next month. After
  that, end discussion and work on these topics. Early next season
  generate a draft.</p>

  <p>Conference Call System: Jim G. has researched. Signed up for
  $ldquo;Free Conference Call,&rdquo; account for not-for-profits, free,
  no limit on callers, no limit on minutes.</p>

  <p>Remote clubs can participate without driving to meeting place. Ran
  test tonight.  Need to talk with those who participated in meeting
  from outside regarding quality of call. Look into microphone. A mute
  button on the phones of those who call in would be
  beneficial. Planning to use next meeting. Information/instructions
  will be included in the agenda: phone # to call, access code.</p>

  <p>Dalton Picnic Dance, Jim Dowd: June 1st, at the Dalton School. Flyer
  will be sent to Sidney for Promenader. Sharon mentioned this is the
  same date as the Elaine Eno Dance with Shirts &rsquo;N&rsquo; Skirts.</p>

  <p>RAF and DOR meetings: Jeff and Debbie put together a draft for future
  RAF AND DOR meetings. Jim added an October meeting, and moved the
  September mtg back a week. Check both and let Jim know which you
  prefer. Jim will then book Bill Grays.</p>

  <p>Summer Dances:</p>

  <p>Ron Reardon&nbsp;&mdash; Donna LaDonna stated Ron is not available
  this summer, but is available in summer of 2020 for Rochester area
  dance.</p>

  <p>Copy Cats: Also Copy Cats has a summer dance on July 20th, graduate
  friendly, to be held at Holy Trinity Church in Webster. Flyers to be
  sent to Website.</p>

  <p>Cloverleaf Squares added a summer dance 7/27/2019.</p>

  <p>Trails End to June Jamboree, at the Canandaigua Yacht Club. See
  flyer. Thursday, June 6th, 2019.</p>

  <p>ADJOURNED: 8:50 p.m.</p>

  <p>Next Meeting May 14, 2019, 7:30 pm</p>

  <p>Bill Grays, 1225 Jefferson Rd., Henrietta</p>

  <h3>MINUTES FOR DOR MEETING OF APRIL 4, 2019</h3>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 pm</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Kris Aeckerle, Amy Aeckerle, Deb Blood, Jeff Blood, Jim
  Gotta, Gary Granath, Lorraine Granath, Stu Jones, Jane Jones, Sharon
  Meyer, Chuck Meyer, Warren Olson</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No changes.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&lsquo;S REPORT: Minutes of February 25, 2019 were
  accepted.</p>

  <p>CHECKLIST (dated Thursday, April 4, 2019)</p>

  <p><b>Page 1 of checklist is complete.</b></p>

  <p><b>Page 2 of checklist</b></p>

  <p>FLIERS/DOCUMENTS:</p>

  <p>Sign-In Sheets: Sign in and write name of club/s. No club challenge
  this year&nbsp;&mdash; <b><i>Warren to edit previous years&lsquo;
  sign-in sheets.</i></b></p>

  <p>Dancer Survey: <b><i>Front page</i></b> of survey&nbsp;&mdash; no
  changes. <b><i>Suggestion from Jim G.: on front page&nbsp;&mdash;
  which room did you primarily dance in&nbsp;&mdash; may want to remove
  &ldquo;A&rdquo;, &ldquo;B&rdquo; and &ldquo;C&rdquo; and just refer to
  Mainstream Hall, Plus Hall, Aerobics Hall.</i></b> Page 2, re
  Parking. Trying to get estimate of how many parking spaces we need. It
  was noted that the online survey was not used last year. <b><i><u>Deb
  to post the survey on Facebook.</u></i></b> Warren suggested we place
  survey online again this year.</p>

  <p>Half Page Schedules with map on the back. <b><i>Jim Gotta to
  complete.</i></b> Warren to print.</p>

  <p>&ldquo;Arrow&rdquo; on stairs. Jim Gotta and Warren Olson. Perinton
  Rec does not allow placing anything on the walls. Can place on the
  glass on the doors.</p>

  <p>Room Set-Up Drawings. <b><i>Jim Gotta to provide to Perinton
  Rec.</i></b> Needed for every room we use that requires action by
  Perinton Rec. Examples: Stadium seating in main hall, seating in
  upstairs Hall B, Cafeteria seating and tables in snack room. We do not
  pay for the basket raffle room&nbsp;&mdask; take as is. Rooms are
  &ldquo;ours&rdquo; at 12:30 pm. &ldquo;Walk through&rdquo; at
  12:30&ndash;12:45 pm.</p>

  <p>Check In&nbsp;&mdash; same as 2018. No tablecloths.</p>

  <p>Basket Raffle&nbsp;&mdash; baskets in same room as 2018. We have
  correct forms. Log in ticket sales by person&lsquo;s name.</p>

  <p>Club Banners&nbsp;&mdash; no formal place for these. Can place in
  main hall.</p>

  <p>ADVERTISING&nbsp;&mdash; DANCE FLYER&nbsp;&mdash; complete.</p>

  <p>RIBBONS&nbsp;&mdash; complete.</p>

  <p><b>Page 3 of checklist</b></p>

  <p>DINNER TICKETS&nbsp;&mdash; for callers&nbsp;&mdash; <b><i>Jim
  Gotta will distribute to callers at dance.</i></b></p>

  <p>ITEMS TO ORDER AHEAD OF TIME</p>

  <p>Tablecloths&nbsp;&mdash; Deb and Mary Jo.</p>

  <p>GRADUATION PACKETS&nbsp;&mdash; <b><i><u>Need to be ready by
  DOR. Target date have completed:</u></i></b> April 15th.  Debbie,
  Jeff, Amy, Laurie.</p>

  <p>Welcome Letter&nbsp;&mdash; Jim G and Deb B. (<b><i>One
  letter</i></b> in each envelope.)</p>

  <p><b><i><u>Assemble Silver 25 Caller Booklets.</u></i></b> Each
  graduate gets a Caller Booklet. (Two booklets go into a couples&lsquo;
  envelope, one booklet into an envelope for an individual dancer.) We
  need 65 booklets. <b><i>Debbie, Jeff, Amy, Laurie.</i></b></p>

  <p>Promenader Card&nbsp;&mdash; Peter E. <b><i>Work with Peter,
  Promenader Card.</i></b></p>

  <p>Dance Cards&nbsp;&mdash; <b><i>Jim update, Warren print. Add new
  clubs. Add expiration date.</i></b></p>

  <p>Buy envelopes and address (<b><i>Jim has labels</i></b>) for
  graduates&nbsp;&mdash; one envelope per couple, one envelope per
  single.</p>

  <p>Envelopes for Presidents.</p>

  <p>Welcome to RAF website: add Facebook to 1st page, eliminate some of
  white space on 1st pg.</p>

  <p>Distribute packets to Club Presidents at DOR. Jim G, Deb and
  Jeff</p>

  <p><b>Page 4 of checklist</b></p>

  <p>RESPONSIBILITIES ASSIGNED AHEAD OF TIME</p>

  <p>Facility walk through&nbsp;&mdash; Jim Gotta/Deb/Jeff</p>

  <p>Insurance: When we do the walk through, we fill out the USDA dancer
  insurance form of our inspection of the facility to note any issues
  prior to the dance. This for OUR insurance.  Nothing to do with
  Perinton Rec. (Perinton Rec does not ask for our insurance coverage.)
  This form should be filled out for any special dance.</p>

  <p><i><u>Jim to send Deb pdf forms for room set up. Jim and Deb to do
  the walk through.</u></i></p>

  <p><i><u>Should have accident forms available in case of
  accidents.</u></i> We should have these available at all RAF
  dances. Forms are on RAF website.</p>

  <p>Registration Tables&nbsp;&mdash; committee to set up.</p>

  <p>Hand out Checks&nbsp;&mdash; S. Jones.</p>

  <p>Hot and Cold Water&nbsp;&mdash; Water will be located on a table
  outside the main hall and one in the snack room. Perinton Rec has a
  water cooler available downstairs&nbsp;&mdash; we need to place a
  stack of cups at each location and markers at all three
  locations. <u>Need ice</u> for water coolers. <i><u>Water coolers and
  ice to be provided by: Lorraine and Gary/Copy Cats (1) and
  Henry/Cloverleaf Squares (1). Coffee pots provided by Lorraine and
  Gary/Copy Cats (1) and Henry/Cloverleaf Squares (1). Need markers for
  each water cooler and each coffee pot&nbsp;&mdash; to initial
  cups. Jim to remind Henry to bring water cooler, ice and coffee
  pot.</u></i> Committee members refill water coolers and coffee
  pots. Gary and Lorraine&nbsp;&mdash; cup holder near water cooler.</p>

  <p><u>Hand Sanitizers&nbsp;&mdash; <b><i>need to purchase 5
  additional.</i></b></u> (Total of 7.)</p>

  <p>DINNER</p>

  <p><b><i><u>Need hot pads or towels for under hot
  dishes.</u></i></b></p>

  <p>Amy to collect dinner tickets. <b><i><u>Need bucket for
  tickets.</u></i></b></p>

  <p>PROGRAM</p>

  <p>Mixer Dance&nbsp;&mdash; Jim Gotta will call. Class members,
  angels, and others. Dancers will occasionally be asked to promenade to
  other squares&nbsp;&mdash; meeting and dancing with many dancers.</p>

  <p>Logs for basket raffle. We have correct logs. Place buyer&lsquo;s
  name and ticket number.</p>

  <p><b>Page 5 of checklist</b></p>

  <p>ITEMS NEEDED DAY OF DANCE</p>

  <p>Outdoor Signs&nbsp;&mdash; We have 10. Gary and Lorraine will place
  at various locations. Outside the building leading to entrances. One
  at the entrance leading to parking. On roads/intersections leading to
  the Perinton Rec. <u>Gary and Lorraine to get the signs from Jim
  G.</u></p>

  <p>Cash Boxes&nbsp;&mdash; need five. Sharon to bring one. Stu to
  bring three. Jeff to bring one. Secure funds during dinner.</p>

  <p><i><u>END OF DANCE&nbsp;&mdash; WE NEED AT LEAST TWO PEOPLE TO
  COUNT THE MONEY PRIOR TO LEAVING THE SITE.</u></i> Stu/RLaDonna.</p>

  <p>Stu has a list of all dancers who bought ribbons prior to the
  dance. <i><u>Stu requests a list of names for those purchasing tickets
  at the door. (To be separate from attendance sign-in.)</u></i> (This
  gives us an additional count of ribbons sold and verification of cash
  and a count of attendees.)</p>

  <p>11x17 print of dinner locations, map&nbsp;&mdash; Warren.</p>

  <p>Poster for Fall Ball&nbsp;&mdash; Warren</p>

  <p>Federation Banner&nbsp;&mdash; main hall. <b><i>Debbie and Jeff
  provide two tripods.</i></b></p>

  <p>Need a table for fliers in the main hall. Fall Ball fliers
  here.</p>

  <p>50/50 mixing container&nbsp;&mdash; (The container preferably
  should not have a club name on it.) <b><i>Jim to bring pretzel
  container to try it. Deb will bring container.</i></b></p>

  <p>Round dinner tables seat 8 people.</p>

  <p>Program&nbsp;&mdash; Jeff, Debbie, Jim G.</p>

  <p>Jet will be out of town. <b><i>Need photographer. Deb/Jeff to check
  with Peter.</i></b></p>

  <p><b><i>Sidney&nbsp;&mdash; calling during dinner hour.</i></b>
  Amateur callers. Open mic. Dance. <b><i>Need caller to replace Sidney
  to allow him time to eat.</i></b></p>

  <p>Promotions Committee put together an RAF website guide to help
  graduates use the website with instructions on how to join Square
  Dancing Rochester Facebook page.</p>

  <p>POTENTIAL SITES FOR 2020 DOR. <b><u>VOTE May 14, 2019 at RAF
  meeting.</u></b> Three viable locations:</p>

  <p>1. Sweden Community Center, Brockport, NY</p>

  <p>2. Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church&nbsp;&mdash; Previous issues
  regarding insurance have been solved.</p>

  <p>3. Perinton Recreation Hall.</p>

  <p><b><i>Notify club presidents of pros and cons of each
  location.</i></b></p>

  <p>We are reaching out to the RIT Campus.</p>

  <p>We have checked out 15 sites that we cannot use.</p>

  <p>GRADUATION</p>

  <p>List of grads has been sent to Peter for Promenader and
  Sharon/Carol for insurance.</p>

  <p>There are 65 graduates. Solo dancers comprise 54% of total number
  of graduates. Trying to create a SOLO Committee to look at the influx
  of SOLO dancers in recent years.</p>

  <p>Adjourned: 7:26 pm.</p>

  <p>Next meeting: May 14, 2019, 6:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>Bill Grays, 1225 Jefferson Rd.</p>


date: 2019-05-14
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 7:30
minutes:
  <hr>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 7:45 pm.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Amy Aeckerle, Kris Aeckerle, Jan Bencic, Debbie Blood, Jeff
  Blood, Sue Eddy, Peter Emmel, Jim Gotta, Lorraine Granath, Gary
  Granath, Jane Jones, Stu Jones, Donna LaDonna, Sharon Meyer, Warren
  Olson, Kaitlyn Shirley, Chuck Meyer (late arrival), Carol Ann Stahl</p>

  <p>CALL-IN ATTENDEES: Paula Schumacher (Shirts &rsquo;N&rsquo; Skirts) and Bill Ryan
  (Batavia Silver Stars).</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No changes made to the agenda.</p>

  <p>QUORUM: Gary and Lorraine&nbsp;&mdash; Yes, we have a quorum.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Motion to accept April 04, 2019, minutes: Warren
  1st; Stu 2nd. No one opposed.</p>

  <p>TREASURER&rsquo;S REPORT: Stu: Balance on Hand April 04, 2019: $16,728.00 in
  RAF account.  Today, May 14, 2019, BOH after DOR:
  $17,920.53. Receipts: dinner tickets, ribbons, and
  dangles. Disbursements primarily for DOR: callers, cuers, line dance
  caller, Wilshire Catering, Perinton Rec., paper goods, ribbons,
  dangles, mailings.</p>

  <p>Promenader Fund: $4,433.86. Unchanged from April, 2019.</p>

  <p>Dancer Recruitment/Retention Fund: May 14, 2018, BAL: $1,648.97. May
  4, 2019, BAL: $2,496.47.</p>

  <p>Overall net gain for the year 5/12/2018&ndash;5/14/2019&nbsp;&mdash; $6,579.47.</p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</p>

  <p>DOR: Debbie and Jeff Blood: Feedback very positive. Survey Results:
  31. 87.1% of those responding dance mainstream/plus. Venue rating
  (Perinton Rec.): 87.1% favorable. DOR rating: 87.1%
  favorable. Suggestion what to change for next near: location was
  mentioned by 8 (25.8%) people. (Prefer only DOR participants use the
  facility.) Dinner: 78.6% favorable.  74.2% want dinner to continue to
  be offered at future DORs. To continue dinner availability at DOR was
  responded to by those who had dinner and those who did not.</p>

  <p>Jan Bencic (Batavia Silver Stars) remarked that their club members do
  not attend DOR because it is too far away.</p>

  <p>Starting to look at callers and cuers for next year.</p>

  <p>Donna LaDonna suggested each club make a list of their volunteers, so
  we can track them down if they do not take their shift. Deb responded
  we are aware of the problem and thank all who filled in or took double
  shifts. This should be improved next year. <u>We are adding a
  volunteer coordinator for 2020.</u></p>

  <p>Seeking suggestions from the entire Square Dance Community for
  alternate venues for future DORs. <u>Deb will post request on
  Promenader.</u></p>

  <p>Deb and Jeff have looked at a minimum of 20 alternate sites for
  DOR. None of which are feasible. Sites researched, but found
  unfeasible:</p>

  <p>Town of Greece Senior Center<br>
  Greece Central Schools<br>
  Pittsford Rec Center<br>
  Henrietta Rec Center<br>
  RMSC<br>
  RIT Inn Conference Center<br>
  MCC<br>
  River&rsquo;s Edge Party House<br>
  Charter School/Greece Odyssey<br>
  YMCA<br>
  Good Shepherd&nbsp;&mdash; Henrietta<br>
  Archangel&nbsp;&mdash; Henrietta<br>
  St. Jude&nbsp;&mdash; Spencerport<br>
  Father&rsquo;s House&nbsp;&mdash; Paul Rd.<br>
  Gates Chili High School<br>
  Quality Inn&nbsp;&mdash; Gates&nbsp;&mdash; near airport<br>
  RIT Campus<br>
  Presbyterian Church in Fairport, near Wegmans.</p>

  <p>INSURANCE: Carol Ann: Nine clubs have graduates. Four have sent their
  list and checks. I emailed the other clubs. I will enter what I have
  tomorrow. If they do not want a delay in their insurance, they should
  get their information to me. Clubs still missing lists and checks at
  the time of this meeting: Belles and Beaus (one graduate), club
  waiting to hear if she is going to join the club; Batavia Silver Stars
  are aware (one graduate); Waterwheels responded to my email and will
  send a check this week; Cayuga Cut Ups; and Shirts &rsquo;N&rsquo; Skirts.</p>

  <p>Once entered to roster, I print the roster highlighting new grads. I
  send that to the insurance chairman with the checks. The insurance
  chairman emails me, and I email the clubs.</p>

  <p>Jim reminder to Paula Schumacher (Shirts &rsquo;N&rsquo; Skirts) on speaker phone.</p>

  <p>CCR: Nothing to report. No date yet for Summer Sizzler.</p>

  <p>PROMENADER: Peter Emmel: Preparing June issue. <u>Deb and Jeff to
  enter DOR article</u> this week. Working with two new clubs (Pairs &rsquo;N&rsquo;
  Squares and The Fun Bunch) to get them into the cycle. To
  Donna/Treasurer: There will be checks coming in for the $5.00 listing
  fees.</p>

  <p>Jan Bencic (Batavia Silver Stars): Not all members of Silver Stars
  have a computer and many are not computer literate. Peter mentioned
  the Promenader is formatted for those who wish to copy portions to
  have available at their club dances. <u>Peter Emmel to speak with
  Jan.</u></p>

  <p>MARKETING COMMITTEE: Starting in June, 2019, Amy and Kris will take
  the lead of the Promotions Committee. Jeff and Deb will remain on the
  committee.</p>

  <p>We are looking into having business cards created, similar to the lawn
  signs, to help clubs promote recruitment in the Fall. Working on a
  template for a common flyer that all clubs can use to promote
  classes. We will submit a summer budget.</p>

  <p>We have been using Facebook the last few months. There are at least 50
  hits on each item posted. Membership is not high yet, but growing.</p>

  <p>Our next meeting is Thursday, June 13th.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>FALL BALL: Gary: need to discuss incidentals: Who is going to take
  care of opening/locking up the church. Need paper products. Need
  tables set up for buffet. Take down tables after buffet.  Clean
  up. Peter suggested: We should make an event planning sheet/guideline
  that has blanks for who is in charge of &ldquo;what&rdquo;. September 11, is our
  next and last meeting prior to the dance.  Phil/Mary and Peggy/Dave
  have keys.</p>

  <p><u>Gary G. to call Phil/ Mary and Peggy and Dave Stockmeister to see
  if they are attending the Fall Ball.</u> Need keys to open and lock
  up.</p>

  <p><u>Jim G to make a list of what needs to be done.</u> Sharon
  suggested: send list to all clubs for volunteers.</p>

  <p>OPEN MIC: May 15th, 4&ndash;5 amateur callers scheduled.</p>

  <p>RAF MEETINGS FOR NEXT NEAR: Booked at Bill Grays for rest of
  2019. Bill Grays will get 2020 calendar from Corporate in January. Jim
  gave Bill Grays a copy of the full schedule and talked with the
  manager. Manager will schedule when 2020 calendar comes in.</p>

  <p>PRESIDENTS&rsquo; MEETING: This is not an RAF meeting. This is a meeting for
  the Presidents by the Presidents. <u>Jim would be happy to
  facilitate.</u> Will schedule. Preferably after June 17th. Peter
  suggested we invite callers to the Presidents&rsquo; meeting.</p>

  <p>BYLAW SUGGESTIONS: To close list of topics tonight. Topics suggested
  so far: Primary is to change title and redefine Communication Liaison
  Officer. Eliminate terminology Promenader Committee, which no longer
  exists. Update Mission Statement. Discuss the present scheduling
  restriction of DOR. No new topics suggested. Topics are now closed.</p>

  <p>In the Fall:</p>

  <p>Communication Liaison Officer. Amy, Kris, Deb, and Jeff&nbsp;&mdash; propose both
  title and description for the Bylaws.</p>

  <p>Eliminate terminology Promenader Committee: We have people working on
  this.</p>

  <p>Mission Statement: Peter will draft proposal for new mission
  statement.</p>

  <p>Board to consider the present scheduling restriction of DOR to the
  first Saturday in May. The possibility of two to three weekends to
  choose from would be helpful. Venues not always available 1st weekend
  in May. Deb and Jeff looking at last Saturday in April. It could be
  difficult to schedule DOR earlier than first weekend in May due to
  club classes. Easter week could be a conflict in April. Month of May
  conflicts: second weekend is Mothers&rsquo; Day, fourth weekend is Memorial
  Day weekend. Other conflicts in May: First Communion, college
  graduation, Tri-Club Dance, snowbirds. Jim: we may be able to expand
  scheduling DOR to the 1st or 3rd weekend in May. Peter: We try to
  schedule the Tri-Club Dance after the snowbirds return, but not too
  close to DOR. The earlier you schedule DOR, the more you restrict
  Tri-Club. Tri-Club 2020 is already set. Jim: DOR date restriction
  tonight is general discussion. <u>Board to consider over
  summer. Decision needs to last 3&ndash;5 years. Would we be willing to open
  the scheduling of DOR to more than the 1st weekend in May, and what
  additional weekends? How would you word new bylaw?</u></p>

  <p>CONFERENCE CALL SYSTEM: Last month Jim signed up for a conference call
  system as we now have more clubs outside Monroe County than inside. A
  couple volunteers called in last month to listen in. Concern is the
  equipment in the meeting room. Background noise, ability for caller to
  hear those in meeting room and for us to hear caller. Other issues:
  callers cannot see handouts, not familiar with voices. Conference call
  etiquette would need to be learned. One person talks at a time. A
  speaker phone is okay, not optimal. Devices researched by Jim utilize
  a cell phone. The conference call service we have is free. Caller uses
  a toll number, enters an access code and is connected to the
  conference call. No land line in meeting room, need device that
  connects to a cell phone. Need a volunteered cell phone, which would
  use their minutes if they are a minute plan. Uses Blue Tooth
  connection to the phone, use cell phone to dial in. It provides an
  external speaker and microphone.</p>

  <p>Bill Ryan: &ldquo;The improvement over last month&rsquo;s trial is substantial.&rdquo;
  Believes comments about conference call etiquette will help
  immensely. &ldquo;I have no problems with what you have now.  Coming in
  perfectly clear.&rdquo;</p>

  <p>Jim: The speaker in our room does not allow us to hear the caller as
  well as we would like.</p>

  <p>Deb: May need to check out other equipment. May not have a dedicated
  phone each meeting.</p>

  <p>Jim: Will hold off on new equipment for now. If anyone knows of other
  equipment, cell phone compatible, notify Jim. <u>Jim will work with
  those who have done conference calls and come up with a page of
  conference call etiquette.</u></p>

  <p>MARKETING BUDGET: We have a proposed summer budget. These are
  estimates. Propose two summer dances, one in July and one in August,
  to encourage new graduates to continue to dance. Working with Gary
  Bubel for Friday nights. Hoping for free admission. Jan Bencic asked
  please <u>avoid Monday, August 19th, (Batavia Silver Stars) Federation
  already has a free dance scheduled.</u> Putting together business
  cards mirroring lawn signs. Working on recruitment flyer
  template. Clubs can use template or use their own. Presbyterian Church
  again invited us to be part of Family Fun Night. We had six squares
  last year. This is their 10th anniversary, and they will be giving it
  more publicity than last year. Warren mentioned he saw business cards
  at DOR. He liked them as they had space to write phone number(s),
  allowing person to follow up with you. Jim asked, is there a motion on
  the floor to allow Marketing Committee to spend up to $575.00 over the
  summer prior to meeting in September. Carol Ann made motion to accept
  $575.00 proposed budget. Peter seconded. Warren: Where will money come
  from? Deb: Promotion/Recruitment/Retention fund. Discussion
  followed. Summer proposed budget approved by all. No one
  against. Motion carried.</p>

  <p>Deb: Federation, Promotions Committee and callers need to work
  together to keep dancing alive in Rochester.</p>

  <p>Jan Bencic: Batavia Silver Stars offering free admission to anyone
  dancing at their club for the first time.</p>

  <p>Congratulations to Kaitlyn Shirley, Copy Cats Rep, who is expecting a
  baby in August of 2019!!!</p>

  <p>THANK YOU TO STU AND JANE JONES FOR THEIR EXCELLENT SERVICE AS
  TREASURER OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS!!!</p>

  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED: 9:00 PM.</p>

  <p>Next Meeting: Wednesday, September 11, 2019</p>

  <p>At: Bill Grays, 1225 Jefferson Road.</p>

  <h3>MINUTES FOR DOR MEETING OF MAY 14, 2019</h3>

  <p>Submitted by Gary and Lorraine Granath</p>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 pm.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Kris Aeckerle, Amy Aeckerle, Debbie Blood, Jeff Blood, Jim Gotta, Gary Granath,
  Lorraine Granath, Stu Jones, Jane Jones, Sharon Meyer, Warren Olson, Mary Jo Webster.</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No new items suggested.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: Motion to accept minutes of April 4th
  DOR meeting was made by Kris</p>

  <p>Aeckerle. Jeff Blood seconded.</p>

  <p>FINANCIAL REPORT: Attendance at 2019 DOR: 255. (210 purchased ribbons prior to dance.
  45 walk-ins). Income: $5,227.50. Expenses: $3,535.46. Net Gain: $1,692.04. Numbers
  comparable to the last two years.</p>

  <p>Raffle ticket sales:<br>
  Net gain 2019: $1692.04<br>
  Net gain 2018: $1523.27<br>
  Net gain 2017: $1424.68</p>

  <p>Stu suggested in future list by club all who prepaid. Day of dance, these people could simply
  initial beside their name. Would alleviate congestion at the sign-in table. Leave blank lines for
  those paying at the door. Suggestion was well received. A big thank you was given to Stu for
  his suggestions, keeping us well informed, and up to date. He has done a fantastic job as RAF
  Treasurer.</p>

  <p>DANCE SURVEY: Total responses: 31. Of those who responded: 19.4% were attending for
  the first time. 74.2% Annual attendees. Rating of DOR: 87.1% High quality/Good. Preferred
  level of dance: 87.1% Mainstream/Plus. Rating of venue (Perinton Rec Center): 87.1%</p>

  <p>Favorable (between good and excellent). Changes for next year: 25.8% said location. (Clubs
  were notified that Perinton Rec is the only viable option available for 2020. Researched 20
  alternative locations. Continuing to look.) Dancers who had buffet: 45.2%. Of those who had
  dinner: 78.6% rated meal Excellent-to-Good. Do you want to see dinner offered at future
  DOR? 74.2% answered Yes. (Response included both those who ate and those who did not.)</p>

  <p>Parking: 64.5% had 1-2 people per car.</p>

  <p>Line Dancing: Well attended. Several positive comments: Terri did a great job. Perhaps
  change time slot and hall location in the future.</p>

  <p>Thank you to: Jane, Amy, Kris, and Stu, who offered to cover the basket raffle again next year.</p>

  <p>GREETERS: Several greeters covered two shifts. Many volunteer greeters did not appear to
  take their shift. 2020 DOR: add a volunteer coordinator. People began arriving at 1:30 p.m.
  Need greeters for early arrivals.</p>

  <p>LAYOUT REGISTRATION AREA: Stu and Warren&nbsp;&mdash; 1st table should be registration, 2nd table
  Ribbon sales. Stu mentioned people came in door near the baskets and never signed in.</p>

  <p>Greeter at front door needs to emphasize to dancers of the need to sign in.</p>

  <p>SIGNAGE: Two dancer-emergency signs were posted in each room. In case of emergency/need
  for help, dancers to stand with hands raised to signal caller. Many at the DOR meeting never
  saw the signs.</p>

  <p>Outdoor signs were great.</p>

  <p>BASKET RAFFLE: Questioned why basket raffle tickets were not sold near the registration
  table, keeping $ in same area. Need the work-space provided in the snack room, putting #&rsquo;s on
  tickets takes space and time. Feedback from prior years: the basket raffle tickets sell better
  when located near the baskets. Need to request the sellers of the tickets to PRINT names
  LEGIBLY. Notify Club Presidents: baskets should be available at DOR early. The system and
  location worked well.</p>

  <p>RAFFLE TICKETS: Will revisit pricing of tickets in the fall. Intentional bending or altering tickets
  will disqualify tickets.</p>

  <p>SNACK/REFRESHMENT ROOM: Great set-up. Water cooler placement excellent, just inside the
  door to the snack room. Easy access.</p>

  <p>DINNER: Verify details of dinner with Perinton Rec in 2020: at walk-through stress set-up at 5
  pm. Set up 2 serving lines, 2 tables each in 2020, quicker. Can collect dinner tickets and let
  dancers enter and sit at tables. Food delivery no later than 5:15 pm&nbsp;&mdash; to eat at 5:30 pm. Have
  a contact # to check status of delivery. Suggestion: Display a sign at registration/raffle/dangle
  table: closed during dinner hour. Need to address how to serve the salad in future: a separate
  table, salad on each table, serve in prepared individual bowls? Ran out of forks in 2019.</p>

  <p>Dancers ate salad, then returned for meal and took 2nd
  fork.</p>

  <p>ICE CREAM SUNDAES: No comments/complaints; not missed.</p>

  <p>PROGRAM: 2020 include line dance caller in list of callers/cuers thanked at end of evening and
  include on flyer. Review activities scheduled during dinner hour&nbsp;&mdash; raffle sales, greeters, open
  mic, line dancing, etc. Perhaps schedule line dancing at a time other than dinner hour.</p>

  <p>Suggestion: Next year include in the printed schedule that the tables will be shut down during
  dinner.</p>

  <p>AWARDS PROGRAM: Suggestion: create a poster describing awards and providing
  names/dates of previous winners. Possibly place poster in the main dance hall. Poster to
  describe: United Square Dancers of America&nbsp;&mdash; Circle of Service Award; and Rochester Area
  Federation&nbsp;&mdash; Daphne-Norma Leadership Award.</p>

  <p>Shorten awards program (discuss next season how to do this): possibly have previous winners
  parade in as a group similar to the new graduates. Or, possibly have previous winners come
  forward and stand.</p>

  <p>SUPPLIES: New markers annually. Tops not being replaced and markers dry out.</p>

  <p>OTHER: Recent graduates watching advanced dancers were told to leave. Spectators are
  welcome. Graduates enjoy seeing different levels of dancing! Those attending Perinton Rec,
  who do not presently square dance at any level, may be potential square dance class
  members!</p>

  <p>DOR PRINTING NEEDS: Need a plan for printing needs. Warren may not be able to do this in
  the future. Warren to advise.</p>

  <p>RIBBON &amp; DINNER TICKET SALES: Stu: A form would be helpful to be filled out by clubs
  returning ribbons, dinner tickets, and money. Form to include due date, where to send, etc.
  (This would eliminate post-it notes, written lists in all sizes, etc.)</p>

  <p>Line dance caller should receive free admission and dinner, same as other callers/cuers.</p>

  <p>GRADUATE PACKETS FOR DOR: Some details were missing regarding the Fall Ball. This held up
  printing of flyers and assembly of packets. Packets were given to clubs that did not have
  classes, informing them about Fall Ball, dance card, and RAF website guide. All club Presidents
  were given a packet at DOR. One club packet was mailed.</p>

  <p>LOCATION FOR FLYERS: Main dance hall preferred place. Entrance/registration area too busy.</p>

  <p>FREE SQUARE DANCE CLOTHES: This was well received. Carol Ann taking remaining clothing
  to Henrietta High School drama club. Committee to review if we will do again next year. Too
  congested? In future, label racks&nbsp;&mdash; all items on these racks are free. End of evening&nbsp;&mdash; Deb
  removed and packed up all clothing remaining on the free racks, checking for items that were
  reported missing.</p>

  <p>PERINTON REC CENTER, VIABLE SITE: General consensus of committee members: Perinton
  Rec is #1 site for 2020. Meets all our requirements and very personable staff. Deb added:
  There are considerable advantages to staying with Perinton Rec.
  Aerobic Hall (Plus Hall): temperature and sound both improved from last year. Extra speakers
  and fans. (Dancer questioned why the gym is not used at Perinton Rec. Acoustics in gym is
  extremely poor.)</p>

  <p>Quilters: Scheduled for a.m., 2020, in the gym, same day as DOR, 2020. We never use the gym.</p>

  <p>Perinton Rec is open to approaching quilters regarding alternate date. Board agreed no need.
  Perhaps side entrance for dancers; front entrance for quilters.</p>

  <p>Jim Gotta contacted Perinton Rec regarding 2020. Will hold the price for us at the 2017 rate.</p>

  <p>Jim reserved Perinton for 2020, with understanding board to discuss and decide. Committee
  agreed to stay with Perinton Rec.</p>

  <p>Jeff concerned about 2021. Deb okay with booking Perinton Rec in the Spring of 2020 for DOR
  2021.</p>

  <p>CALLERS, CUERS, ROUND DANCE CALLER:</p>

  <p>Jim, Deb, Jeff to discuss tentative cuers for 2020: Eileen Webster, Lisa Treichler, Jeanne Harter,
  and Mary Hinkle.</p>

  <p>Tentative line Dance Caller for 2020: Terri Irvine or Will Herzog.</p>

  <p>Callers for 2020: Intent is to rotate callers, support local callers, bring in one outside caller.</p>

  <p>New graduates like familiarity, callers they have danced with prior. Experienced dancers enjoy
  new-to-them callers. Tentative callers (need four) suggested by the Board: Gary Bubel, Jim
  Gotta, Betsy and Roy Gotta, Keith Harter, Gill Porter, Richard Rosenfield, Bill Ryan, Ron
  Sweitzer, and Ray Tompkins.</p>

  <p>LOCATION FOR FUTURE DOR: No alternative viable sites thus far.
  Sites researched, but found unfeasible.</p>

  <p>Town of Greece Senior Center<br>
  Greece Central Schools<br>
  Pittsford Rec Center<br>
  Henrietta Rec Center<br>
  RMSC<br>
  RIT Inn Conference Center<br>
  MCC<br>
  River&rsquo;s Edge Party House<br>
  Charter School/Greece Odyssey<br>
  YMCA<br>
  Good Shepherd&nbsp;&mdash; Henrietta<br>
  Archangel&nbsp;&mdash; Henrietta<br>
  St. Jude&nbsp;&mdash; Spencerport<br>
  Father&rsquo;s House&nbsp;&mdash; Paul Rd.<br>
  Gates Chili High School<br>
  Quality Inn&nbsp;&mdash; Gates&nbsp;&mdash; near airport<br>
  RIT Campus<br>
  Presbyterian Church in Fairport, near Wegmans.</p>

  <p>SUGGESTION FOR ALTERNATIVE SITE:</p>

  <p>Sharon Meyer suggested we look at The Early Childhood Center in Victor, off High Street.
  Large gym and cafeteria area available. Question if there is a third room available for dancing.
  Estimates we could get 25 squares in their gym. The Center can be rented out.</p>

  <p>Mary Jo suggested: Place article in Promenader.</p>

  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED: 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>NEXT MEETING: 9/11/2019, 6:30 pm. Bill Grays, 1225 Jefferson Rd.</p>

  <p>RAF to follow at 7:30 p.m.</p>


date: 2019-02-21
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 6:00
minutes:
  <h3>Promotions Committee Minutes</h3>

  <p>Thursday 2/21/19<br>
  6:00 pm<br>
  Bills Grays, Henrietta</p>

  <p>Attended:<br>
  Amy &amp; Kris Aeckerle<br>
  Debbie &amp; Jeff Blood<br>
  Laurie &amp; Dave Collins<br>
  Tracey &amp; Jim Lasch</p>

  <p>Reviewed agenda and purpose of Promotions Committee</p>

  <p><b>Determined the committee to focus on solo dancers will be separate
  from Promotions Committee</b></p>

  <p>Debbie to check into budget process for Promotions Committee, how to
  create and obtain approval for budget.</p>

  <p>CallerLab Square Dance Marketing Manual (91 pages) was printed and
  provided to committee members.</p>

  <p>The Square Dance Recruitment &amp; Retainment Manual handed out
  includes about 20 articles on promoting and recruiting square dancers,
  success stories, etc. Jeff and Debbie quickly highlighted a few items
  in manual they thought were beneficial. Specifically Section 18
  Recommendations for getting started promoting square dancing (page
  83). Committee members are going to review manual for ideas to discuss
  at our next meeting.</p>

  <p>Copy Cats weekly newsletter by Donna LaDonna&nbsp;&mdash; very helpful tool to
  remind dancers of weekly dancing and social events. Committee will
  check if Donna would prepare for a wider distribution in future.</p>

  <p>Committee to check into how to create a Square Dancing Blog</p>

  <p>Promenader: committee will check how to provide pointers on navigation
  to new dancers.</p>

  <p>Laurie to outline some learning&rsquo;s she had navigating the Promenader as
  a recent graduate.</p>

  <p>Committee plans to share with upcoming graduates and club presidents.</p>

  <p>Square Dance Rochester Facebook Page&nbsp;&mdash; Debbie showed to committee</p>

  <p>Debbie to find out who controls the page and how to get access to it.</p>

  <p>The committee likes that it will be another good communication tool to
  use since it pushes notifications to users.</p>

  <p>Also discussed was how to provide additional opportunities to class
  members to participate with club members.</p>

  <p>The important role of experienced dancers encouraging the class
  members to attend class/club dances and <b>club social events. Ask Class
  Coordinators to actively share various club events with all class
  members.</b></p>

  <p>Promote Open Houses to extend dancers ability to join square dancing
  beyond Sept lessons.</p>

  <p>Try to set up regular open house format dances in the late Fall and
  during Jan&ndash;June time frame to promote square dancing. This would
  attract potential dancers after Fall classes are past point of
  accepting new people. Also this would be a way to provide potential
  dancers a way to try dancing until classes start up again in
  Fall. These open houses would also provide more opportunities for
  class members to dance outside of the class lessons.</p>

  <p>Few suggestions discussed:
  <ul>
  <li> look into creating an open house hour of dancing open to new
  dancers before square dance classes or if individual clubs would be
  interested in holding open houses on a monthly basis (late Fall and
  Jan&ndash;June).
  <li>The Pittsford Recreation Center is rent free provided no money is
  exchanged&nbsp;&mdash; dances would need to be free, no raffles, look
  into a budget for the Federation to pay for Open House caller. In
  general Friday nights are available and do not conflict with club
  dances
  <li>Create generic Open House flyers for clubs sponsoring these dances
  <li>Use community boards to promote
  </ul></p>

  <p>Discussed the plan to encourage dancers to attend existing programs
  for beginner dancers such as Friday afternoons Happy Squares, <b>beginner
  classes offered through Town of Greece, etc to help promote dancing
  throughout the entire year.</b></p>

  <p>Looking into promoting square dancing to youth.</p>

  <p>Checking PTA, charter school contacts and home school organizations
  for potential interest.</p>

  <p>Contact former club &amp; class graduates to see if interested in
  coming back to dancing. If interest, plan special refresher lessons or Saturday workshops.</p>

  <p>Next meeting Thursday 3/14/19 at 6:30pm Bill Grays, Jefferson Rd,
  Henrietta</p>

  <p>Specific Action items:<br></p>

  <p>Review the Square Dance Recruitment &amp; Retainment Manual for ideas<br>
  Look into creating a budget for Promotions Committee (Debbie)<br>
  Outline navigation of Promenader for new graduates (Laurie)<br>
  Facebook: Square Dancing Rochester&nbsp;&mdash; managing access (Debbie)<br>
  Figure out how to create Square Dancing Blog (Debbie)</p>


date: 2019-03-14
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 6:30
minutes:
  <h3>Promotions Committee Minutes</h3>

  <p>Thursday 3/14/2019<br>
  6:30pm<br>
  Bill Grays, Henrietta</p>

  <p>Attended:<br>
  Amy &amp; Kris Aeckerle<br>
  Debbie &amp; Jeff Blood<br>
  Laurie &amp; Dave Collins<br>
  Tracey &amp; Jim Lasch</p>

  <p>Minutes from 2/21/19 meeting were approved.</p>

  <p>Follow up on items discussed at Feb 2019 meeting:</p>

  <p><u>Reviewed discussion on Facebook page Square Dancing Rochester and
  creating a square dance blog from February meeting.</u></p>

  <p>The Facebook page will give us the flexibility we need. Able to post
  messages, jpeg files (photos, flyers,etc) and create events.</p>

  <p>Committee will be promoting dancers from all clubs with Facebook
  accounts request access.</p>

  <p>Debbie planning to follow up with Donna LaDonna about including her
  Copy Cats weekly listing of events on this page.</p>

  <p>We realize the key to our success will be utilizing effective
  communications.</p>

  <p><u>The RAF Website Navigation Guide</u> was also sent to club presidents with
  an e-mail asking for their 2019 list of graduates.</p>

  <p>Committee reviewed hard copy again at meeting and made the following
  suggestions:
  <ul>
  <li>Include listing of clubs, dance locations and include key to symbols for the various dancing levels
  <li>Include Square Dance Websites&nbsp;&mdash; online square dance lessons, Where&rsquo;s the Dance?
  </ul></p>

  <p>The RAF Website Navigation Guide will be revised for the above
  suggestions and distributed to committee members for final review. Any
  comments or suggestions should be given to Jeff by 4/1/2019. Warren
  already reviewed a draft of the RAF Website Navigation Guide and
  believes he can provide printed copies for distribution at DOR.</p>

  <p><u>Ideas for new graduates</u></p>

  <p>With the e-mail sent to Club Presidents asking for a listing of 2019
  graduates, a page of ideas from recent graduates and committee was
  included. At this March meeting another list of items was
  generated. Committee members to review both lists for comments
  suggestions and to provide feedback by April 1st.</p>

  <p><u>Recruitment &amp; Retainment Suggestions from the committee members</u></p>

  <p>The &ldquo;Square Dance Recruitment &amp; Retainment Manual&rdquo; contains over
  200 pages of printed materials from the CallerLab website.</p>

  <p>Each committee member was asked to review the manual and provide 2
  ideas they felt the committee should focus on and discuss at the March
  meeting.</p>

  <p>The following ideas were discussed:
  <ul>
  <li>Assign angels to specific class members. More than one angel to
  each new dancer. They would be mentors, not only assist with learning
  the calls but be there for questions and help encourage new dancer to
  attend club/ class activities.
  <li>Have dances where members kids, grandchildren under 17 can dance for free.
  <li>Make the membership &ldquo;rebate&rdquo; program more public.
  Some clubs offer dancers a referral bonus/rebate on their dues if
  they assist in getting someone to start classes, complete classes and
  join the club.
  <li>Some articles in the manual referred to a prepaid discount if
  class or dancers paid for entire season. After some discussion,
  committee felt this might create an accounting challenge for the
  treasurers to track.
  <li>First Open House&nbsp;&mdash; promote party atmosphere versus lesson.
  <li>Starting in January most of the class members are &ldquo;sold on
  square dancing&rdquo; They have been taking lessons since Sept. It
  would be a good time to start letting them know the next steps and
  what to expect after the lessons are done. The class should be
  informed of the following:
  <ul>
  <li>Encourage attending Club/Class activities
  <li>Mention they can attend other clubs classes for extra practice
  <li>Graduation&nbsp;&mdash; advise which Clubs they are eligible to join and when the
  clubs dance
  <li>DOR&nbsp;&mdash; Rochester&rsquo;s largest Dancing event&nbsp;&mdash; annually 1st weekend in May
  <li>Available Summer classes
  <li>Fall Classes Promotion&nbsp;&mdash; start up&nbsp;&mdash; late summer through Sept.
  <li>Club Dances if on separate day then class night
  <li>Dress code&nbsp;&mdash; tradition dress if dancing to National Callers. Dancers
  tend to dress up for holidays otherwise casual dress and western wear is optional.
  </ul>
  </ul></p>

  <p>It was suggested we provide new graduates with a card or something
  with information on classes at other clubs, open house dates in August &amp; Sept, etc.</p>

  <p><u>It was determined we need to discuss with callers the feasibility of
  the following suggestions:</u>
  <ul>
  <li>mainstream &amp; plus clubs&nbsp;&mdash; at club dances announce alternating mainstream tip, plus tip, round dance
  <li>Try the class dancing 2x a week Sept to Dec and new class in Jan to April versus current 1x week Sept to April
  <li>Anticipate we may need two callers for 2 classes a week.
  <li>options to try additional open houses throughout the year&nbsp;&mdash; variouformats that were discussed
  <ul>
  <li>partnering with organizations&nbsp;&mdash; schools, churches, scouts, etc.
  <li>monthly community open house dances&nbsp;&mdash; basic level
  <li>one hour basic level open houses before club dances
  <li>Family Fun night include dancers family members under 17 for free (also above)
  </ul>
  </ul></p>

  <p><u>Recruitment promotions the committee wants to try or continue:</u></p>

  <p><ul>
  <li>bumper stickers, window decals
  <li>create generic square dancing flyer template that clubs can customize
  with their club &amp; location&nbsp;&mdash; for use all year long (Amy to set up template and Jeff to look for photos)
  <li>order business cards for dancers to give out with RAF website, Rochester Square Dancing Facebook page, etc.
  <li>request dancers to wear their club square dance polo shirts when
  attending demos, social events to promote square dancing
  <li>lawn signs
  <li>square dancing articles in local publications
  <li><b>committee consistently expressed this is one of the most effective
  recruitment tactics:</b>
  one on one personal promotion by current square dancers
  </ul></p>

  <p>Advertising Return on Investment (ROI)&nbsp;&mdash; from various Caller Lab
  articles in the manual:<br>
  press releases 40%<br>
  word of mouth 33%<br>
  flyers posted in community 23%</p>

  <p><u>The suggestion of promoting a Relay for Life Square Dance in a public
  place was also discussed.</u> The committee discussed the two public demos
  RAF sponsored last year, one at the church festival and the other at
  Joe Robach&rsquo;s Health Fair in Greece Ridge Mall. At both events there
  were square dancing posters along with a table set up promoting square
  dancing and RAF clubs with brochures, flyers, business cards,
  etc. Several hundred documents were distributed at the events. Even
  though each demo was very well attended by square dancers and the
  public, we do not feel we gained any new dancers as a result.</p>

  <p>The committee determined our current focus is actively trying to
  retain the 2019 class members and current dancers. In the Fall the
  committee plans to focus our support to the clubs with their class
  recruitment.</p>

  <p><u>Other Misc items:</u></p>

  <p>Committee members indicated they want to make more of an effort to go
  to other clubs to dance.</p>

  <p>Suggested whenever someone is thinking of attending another Club&rsquo;s
  dance, check with other dancers about going too.</p>

  <p>Several committee members already planning to attend Cayuga Cut Ups
  May Steak Dinner &amp; Dance in May.</p>

  <p>In April the DOR 2019 graduation packets will be assembled.</p>

  <p>Amy &amp; Laurie offered to help the DOR committee put packets
  together.</p>

  <p><b>Next meeting set for Thurs 6/13/2019 at 6:30 pm at Bill Grays,
  Henrietta</b></p>

  <p><u>Action Items</u></p>

  <p>By Monday April 1st</p>

  <p>Committee members to review the &ldquo;Final&rdquo; RAF Website Navigation Guide
  so it is ready for Warren to print for DOR</p>

  <p>Committee members to review 2 pages of new graduate ideas</p>

  <p>Create flyer to promote Facebook page Square Dancing Rochester&nbsp;&mdash; need
  to be finalized and printed for distribution at DOR</p>

  <p>By next meeting Thursday 6/13/2019</p>

  <p>Amy to work on flyer template, Jeff on photos for flyer</p>

  <p>Debbie to catch up with Donna LaDonna on weekly activities being on
  Facebook.</p>

  <p>Debbie to ask LaDonna&rsquo;s for Copy Cats class lists for 2015 to 2019
  years&nbsp;&mdash; to obtain dancer mix, retention stats, etc.</p>

  <p>Jeff and Debbie will try to discuss some of the ideas affecting
  callers with Ron before our 6/13/2019 meeting to see how to proceed.</p>

  <p>Meeting ended at 8:00pm</p>


date: 2019-09-11
venue: 79
room: Bill Grays
time: 7:30
minutes:
  <hr>

  <p>Submitted by Gary and Lorraine Granath</p>

  <p>WELCOME/Call to Order: 7:38 p.m.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Kris and Amy Aeckerle, Sue Eddy, Carol Ann Stahl, Donna
  LaDonna, Rick LaDonna, Jane Jones, Stu Jones, Jan Bencic, Sharon
  Meyer, Debbie Blood, Jeff Blood, Jim Gotta, Gary Granath, Lorraine
  Granath</p>

  <p>CONFERENCE CALL ATTENDEES: No one called in.</p>

  <p>GUEST: Don Felice.</p>

  <p>QUORUM: We have a quorum.</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No changes/additions.</p>

  <p>COMMITTEE REPORTS:</p>

  <p>SECRETARIES&rsquo; REPORT: No corrections or edits for Minutes from
  May, 2019. Motion to accept the minutes: Debbie accepted minutes and
  Carol Ann seconded.</p>

  <p>TREASURERS&rsquo; REPORT: / Donna and Rick LaDonna (per updated report
  via email after the 9/11/19 RAF meeting.)</p>

  <p>Bank Statement Ending Balance June 30, 2019: $17,920.53.</p>

  <p>Total Funds Available September 11, 2019: $17,599.07.</p>

  <p>DANCE-O-RAMA 2020/Debbie /Jeff Blood: Callers: Contracts have been
  signed for all the callers for DOR.  We finalized the schedule for
  dancing. The dance will be held in Perinton. The dinner menu is being
  researched. We hope to have advertising done by October: fliers,
  Facebook, Promenader. We are on target.</p>

  <p>INSURANCE/ Carol Ann / Sharon: Because of her many commitments, Sharon
  has requested to be removed from position of second person for
  insurance. Carol Ann is looking for a replacement, preferably someone
  familiar with the insurance procedures. Rick LaDonna volunteered for
  the position.</p>

  <p>We have a new chairperson for the region. I am currently waiting for
  the present rate, which may or may not change from last year. When I
  receive the current rate, I will print up directions and have Peter
  put them online.</p>

  <p>Please send one copy of your completed forms to Carol Ann by October
  15th. Use your club roster. Cross out names of those who are no longer
  members. Add names of new members. Please send Carol Ann a list of
  class members. No charge for class members, but need names.</p>

  <p>CCR: Jim / Chuck: CCR has had one meeting this year. Jim was not able
  to attend. Chuck is not in attendance tonight. No input tonight.</p>

  <p>PROMENADER/WEB SITE: Peter / Sidney not in attendance tonight. Jim:
  September Promenader went out.</p>

  <p>PROMOTIONS COMMITTEE/ Kris and Amy: We have had two very successful,
  well attended, dances this summer (7&ndash;8 squares each). Received
  positive feedback. Primary focus was to keep our new grads
  dancing. Many clubs were represented. There are no dances scheduled
  for this fall by the Promotions Committee. After our meeting, Amy
  emailed statistics to RAF board regarding number of 2019 graduates in
  attendance at the two free, summer, Federation dances. Attendance for
  the July dance was 72 dancers, 3 being recent graduates. Attendance at
  the August dance was 63 dancers, 7 being recent graduates.</p>

  <p>Plan to meet with class coordinators/club presidents about connecting
  a mentor(s) with each new class member.  Printed cards to be given out
  to anyone interested in square dancing. Cards were distributed to club
  Presidents at the Presidents&rsquo; meeting. Federation website and
  Facebook are listed on the cards.</p>

  <p>Jan Bencic mentioned that the free dances were both on the second
  Friday of the month. Members of Batavia Silver Stars attend a Grange
  meeting the second Friday of the month. Amy/Kris: In the future
  Promotions Committee will stagger dance days (example: not always a
  Friday) and week # (not always week #1, 2, 3, or 4) in each month.</p>

  <p>Copy Cats implemented and paid for radio advertising on Legends,
  102.7. Amy Aeckerle was interviewed by the station.  Focus on Copy
  Cats; but Amy mentioned there are other clubs in the area, gave the
  federation website and mentioned Facebook. Well received. Includes
  30-second ads and 15-second ads and interviews.</p>

  <p>CURRENT BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>Fall Ball: September 28, 2019. Reviewed checklist of items needed and
  volunteers needed. Serving water, coffee, and tea. Using the checked
  tablecloths in totes.</p>

  <p>Gary G bringing ice for water cooler.</p>

  <p>Gary G to bring two power strips for crockpots.</p>

  <p>Gary G bringing key and will open and help set up.</p>

  <p>Donna and Rick (Treasurers) arriving early and assisting with clean up
  at end of evening. Retrieve totes at end of dance.</p>

  <p>Jim G. to provide written surveys: Location, dance level, catered
  dinner versus pot luck, dinner versus just snacks for grazing during
  the dance, dancer comments/suggestions for future.</p>

  <p>Deb&nbsp;&mdash; provide small pencils for survey.</p>

  <p>Deb&nbsp;&mdash; provide box for surveys.</p>

  <p>50/50 tickets and &ldquo;bucket&rdquo; are in the RAF totes. (Gary
  bringing totes).</p>

  <p>RAF banner is in totes. Will use CC&rsquo;s banner stand.</p>

  <p>Need volunteers to help with manning registration, admission process,
  50/50.</p>

  <p>Federation to order Pizza one hour into dance if needed.</p>

  <p>Deb: 50/50 raffle tickets are now 1 ticket for $1.00, 3 tickets for
  $2.00, 12 tickets for $5.00, and 30 tickets for $10.00. No need to
  change anything.</p>

  <p>The venue rental includes use of the kitchen. Ovens and refrigerator
  available.</p>

  <p>Donna and Rick prepared sign-in sheet which lists: name, club, general
  admission $5.00 per person, $3.00 with dish to pass, 2019 grads free,
  and if dancer brings a 2019 graduate the dancer gets in for free. (All
  2019 grads have free admission.) (One dish per couple is acceptable.)</p>

  <p>Setup for dance/Jim: callers will share same equipment. Two tables:
  One for callers, one for cuer.</p>

  <p>Dance Level: Mostly mainstream (called to the floor) with at least one
  (announced) plus level tip.</p>

  <p>There will not be a silent auction at the 2019 Fall Ball.</p>

  <p>BY-LAWS UPDATES: Discussion tabled.</p>

  <p>Jim: Promenader Committee. People working on this. Possibly change
  title to Promenader Team.</p>

  <p>Board to read Peter&rsquo;s proposed revisions. Partial list:</p>

  <p>Add title Promotions Committee Chairperson to officers of the
  Federation. Retire title of Communications Liaison.</p>

  <p>Amy and Kris check Peter&rsquo;s proposed revisions regarding
  Promotions Committee Chairperson and the Promotions Committee titles
  and responsibilities. Amy and Kris are welcome to offer an alternative
  proposal.</p>

  <p>Deb/Jeff: Change wording on DOR date restrictions. Deb: Preferably the
  DOR should be held the first Saturday in May to replace present
  wording stating DOR has to be the first Saturday in May. Deb will
  email Jim and Peter with proposal.  Difficulties arose with
  alternative locations due to being locked into the first weekend in
  May. It closed us out of potential venues.</p>

  <p>NEW BUSINESS:</p>

  <p>MEETING TIMES/ Jim: A suggestion was made at the Presidents&rsquo;
  Meeting to change the start-time for RAF meetings to begin at 6:30
  p.m., allowing more people to attend. As DOR does not need to meet in
  October, 2019, propose RAF meeting for October, 2019, begin at 6:30
  p.m. This may be made a permanent switch to 6:30 p.m. if accepted and
  beneficial.</p>

  <p>(There will not be a DOR meeting in October of 2019.)</p>

  <p>DEMONSTRATIONS: One objective of our organization is community
  support/involvement. Demos have been cancelled due to lack of
  dancers. A demo, scheduled for September 18, 2019, at Creekview
  Nursing Home, 525 Beahan Rd, Rochester, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at this
  time does not have a full square. Two clubs, the closest to the
  requested demo, were focused. One couple from each club signed up.</p>

  <p>A demo is scheduled for October 6, 2019, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., at
  Rotary Sunshine Campus, 809 Five Points Rd, Rush, NY, 14543. Contact
  Carol Ann Stahl if you have questions and to
  volunteer. stahlsinrush@rochester.rr.com.  Demo at Wickham Farms, 1315
  Sweets Corner Rd., Penfield, Fall Festival, September 29, 2019, 1:00
  p.m. Donna LaDonna checking into information for this. Mike Callahan,
  caller.</p>

  <p>Jim: In past to present, demos have been focused through a particular
  club. With the square dance population going down, perhaps we need to
  open this up. Possibly a location on the website with info regarding
  demos in need of dancers and/or a list of volunteers who enjoy
  participating in demos and willing to be notified of upcoming
  demos. Deb suggested Facebook.</p>

  <p>Jim Suggestion: Promotion Committee take responsibility for requests
  for demos that have a potential for new dancers.</p>

  <p>SIKORSKY DANCE: Do we want to schedule Mike Sikorsky for this dance
  season? Majority in agreement to schedule again. Sharon to contact
  Mike Sikorsky, ask what dates he is available, and if he is doing his
  East Coast run again.</p>

  <p>GRANTS: Copy Cats request received. Jim to check forms. Approved or
  not, Copy Cats will be informed.</p>

  <p>ADJOURNED: 9:00 p.m.</p>

  <p>TABLED</p>

  <p>NEW BUSINESS: FUN DANCE 1X/MONTH&nbsp;&mdash; ROTATE THROUGH CLUBS?</p>

  <p>WINTER PRESIDENTS&rsquo; MEETING?</p>

  <p>PLEASE NOTE TIME CHANGE FOR NEXT RAF MEETING.</p>

  <p>Next RAF meeting: 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 15, 2019, at Bill Grays,
  1225 Jefferson Rd., Henrietta</p>

  <h3>MINUTES FOR DOR MEETING OF 9/11/2019</h3>

  <p>Submitted by Gary and Lorraine Granath</p>

  <p>MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>ATTENDEES: Kris Aeckerle, Amy Aeckerle, Donna LaDonna, Rick LaDonna,
  Jeff Blood, Debbie Blood, Jim Gotta, Gary Granath, Lorraine Granath,
  Stu Jones, Jane Jones, Sharon Meyer.</p>

  <p>ABSENT: Warren Olson.</p>

  <p>SECRETARY&rsquo;S REPORT: No changes suggested. May, 2019, Minutes
  accepted.</p>

  <p>AGENDA REVIEW: No new items were suggested.</p>

  <p>CHECKLIST: Added a column for target due date when the task should be
  completed.</p>

  <p>STATUS OF CALLERS AND CUERS: Contracts for all callers are
  complete. The regional caller will be: Jonathon Weiner.</p>

  <p>CATERER: Last year researched several caterers. We used Wilshire in
  2019. Comments received on survey were 78.6% favorable. Shall we go
  with Wilshire or research other caterers? Wilshire tends to be less
  expensive than others. Wilshire provides paper products, and they
  deliver. Price for 2020 may increase from $15.00 per meal to $16.00
  per meal. The chicken was very dry last year. To do chicken French or
  chicken parm, it would add $3.00 to the meal. The eggplant parm was
  completely gone before all the people reached the serving
  table. Research done last year showed all caterers&rsquo; prices went
  up $1.00&ndash;$2.00 per meal for catered dinner. Only one person said
  they did not like the food. Looking for suggestions. Do we want to
  stay with Wilshire? Comments on the 2019 survey mentioned prefer not
  to have Italian food.</p>

  <p>Donna L.: Copy Cats club has used Flaherty&rsquo;s. They are a little
  more expensive, and they do not deliver. Flaherty&rsquo;s does not
  include paper products. Mr. Dominic&rsquo;s is mostly Italian food,
  but less expensive than Flaherty&rsquo;s. Italian food is generally
  less expensive, but hoping for diversity.</p>

  <p>Jim: Dinners sold have gone from: 69 in 2017, 87 in 2018, and 98 in
  2019.</p>

  <p>Jim: No need to investigate others, but get price lists for Otto
  Tomotto&rsquo;s and Wilshire.</p>

  <p>Compare the two.</p>

  <p>Last year for similar products: Wilshire was $11.43. Otto
  Tomatto&rsquo;s was $15.10 for similar meal.</p>

  <p>Wilshire is the only one providing free paper products. Everyone else
  is charging for these items (on paper). Jim: Otto&rsquo;s never
  charged us for paper products even though it was in the written quote.</p>

  <p>Deb: Will check out Otto Tomotto&rsquo;s and compare with Wilshire for
  2020. Already checked Wilshire. If ordering chicken French, the cost
  will be $14.00 per dinner without delivery and tax. With delivery and
  tax, it would be up to $16.00 per dinner (cost includes paper
  products).</p>

  <p>Email follow up and responses from board members were in favor of Otto
  Tomotto&rsquo;s.</p>

  <p>DANCE SCHEDULE:</p>

  <p>At May&rsquo;s meeting we discussed placing the line dancing at a
  different time so it does not coincide with dinner hour allowing more
  people to attend. Dance schedule will not be the same as it has been
  in the past.</p>

  <p>Jim: Draft for dance schedule has line dancing scheduled for 5:00
  p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (while volunteers set up for dinner). Line dancing
  added 7:30 p.m.&ndash;8:15 p.m., in between squares (in place of round
  dancing). Only dedicated line dancing on schedule for 2020 is 5:00 to
  5:30 pm. We do not know population for line dancing. At 8:15 p.m. to
  9:15 p.m., return to 2 x 1 in mainstream hall.</p>

  <p>Deb/Jeff: Sidney is not supporting open mic during dinner hour. Only
  one caller participated.</p>

  <p>Jim G: Suggests we still have open mic, but need more advertising in
  attempt to get more callers. We need something for people to do while
  we set up for dinner. Suggest 2020 reduce open mic time to 30 min,
  5:00&ndash;5:30 p.m. Draft of schedule for DOR has not been reviewed
  with callers. It is offered for the RAF board to accept or deny.</p>

  <p>Deb: No need to make dancers wait in the hall while dinner is being
  set up. Next year we will let them enter the dining area.</p>

  <p>Need to include free dinner for line dance caller.</p>

  <p>Need to post the DOR dance schedule in the Promenader and Facebook
  (once scheduled).</p>

  <p>RIBBON DESIGN:</p>

  <p>2020: ?????</p>

  <p>2019: lilac with black text</p>

  <p>2018: black with silver text</p>

  <p>2017: dark lavender with white text</p>

  <p>2016: purple with white text</p>

  <p>Ribbon design for 2020: White background with dark purple writing was
  suggested. Warren indicated via email those colors would be okay.</p>

  <p>VENUE</p>

  <p>Perinton Rec is reserved for 2020. No increase in price since
  2018. 2020 price is same as 2018. The quilters are at Perinton Rec
  every other year. They will be present at the 2020 DOR date.
  Quilters&rsquo; designated parking will be at rear lot. The Perinton
  Rec Aerobics room at DOR 2019 was much improved over 2018. Additional
  fans and changed speaker locations.</p>

  <p>Venues ruled out:</p>

  <p>Most Holy Trinity as venue for DOR. Copy Cats used Most Holy Trinity
  for Christmas-In-July dance. Acoustics very poor. Could not hear
  caller in the rear of the hall. Echoing. Not viable for DOR.</p>

  <p>Ruled out Sweden Walker Road due to distance. People said they would
  not go to Sweden Walker Road.</p>

  <p>Early Childhood Center in Victor (part of Victor Schools) was
  suggested in May. Deb via email dated 9/13/19: We contacted the Victor
  School District about the potential of using the Early Childhood
  Center for a future DOR. We were told if we charged attendees any fee,
  we could not use the facility. This means no admission dance fee or
  raffles. This location is not feasible for us to use for DOR.</p>

  <p>Geneva was suggested but distance not favorable.</p>

  <p>If anyone has a suggestion for an alternate venue for future DOR,
  please let us know.</p>

  <p>On 9/13/2019, Debbie and Jeff provided committee members and
  Promenader (Peter and Sidney), via email, the DOR facility
  requirements/specifications outlining the space requirements by hall
  and listing additional considerations. Also included a listing of 20+
  alternative DOR sites that had been suggested and reviewed through
  9/13/19.</p>

  <p>FLIERS:</p>

  <p>Dinner flier (separate from Dance flier)&nbsp;&mdash; Research is
  ongoing.</p>

  <p>DOR Dance flier. Warren has received from Deb and Jeff information for
  creating the DOR dance flier.</p>

  <p>ADVERTISING:</p>

  <p>Jim G&nbsp;&mdash; Email dance flier to out of town callers.</p>

  <p>Leon Smith&nbsp;&mdash; &ldquo;Where&rsquo;s the dance&rdquo; web
  site. Jim G. sends to Leon.</p>

  <p>Deb B. and Jim G.&nbsp;&mdash; Promenader web site and Facebook.</p>

  <p>DANGLES:</p>

  <p>Warren&nbsp;&mdash; Design dangles.</p>

  <p>Warren&nbsp;&mdash; Order dangles.</p>

  <p>INSURANCE:</p>

  <p>Jim Gotta/Deb and Jeff Blood&nbsp;&mdash; Fill out by January of 2020.</p>

  <p>BASKET RAFFLE</p>

  <p>Need to have baskets at DOR by 1:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>Possibly have a sign for the basket raffle&nbsp;&mdash; Please do not
  alter tickets OR Please do not bend tickets.</p>

  <p>DAPHNE-NORMA LEADERSHIP AWARDS PROGRAM: Shorten time.</p>

  <p>Suggestions: Have all previous winners come forward at the same time
  or possibly be seated at the front of the hall at the beginning of the
  program. Reserved seating in front?</p>

  <p>Create a display, locate in hall, explaining award and listing past
  recipients. This idea was very well received by the committee.</p>

  <p>The link for the nomination form is on the RAF home page (AWARDS), but
  it is not in the document tab. Deb to ask to have the form added to
  the document tab.</p>

  <p>CIRCLE OF SERVICE AWARD: This award is not always given at the
  DOR. Can be removed from program.</p>

  <p>GREETERS: Seeking a Coordinator to be in charge of Volunteer
  Greeters. At DOR 2019, several greeters never showed for their
  scheduled times. Several Copy Cats volunteers did double
  shifts. Debbie also covered greeter positions due to volunteers not
  showing up. Need club presidents to provide the names of volunteer
  greeters, the time frame for which each greeter is scheduled, and a
  contact number.</p>

  <p>SOLO DANCER: Solo stickers provided at 2019 DOR were not utilized. Deb
  and Jeff brought back leftover light green &ldquo;Ask me to
  Dance&rdquo; solo dance ribbons from the USDA Convention.</p>

  <p>Plan to use them at DOR 2020 by cutting off convention-specific
  info. Solo dancers can easily layer them with our DOR 2020 ribbon for
  identification.</p>

  <p>USED CLOTHING: Idea well received. Did create issues as well as
  opportunities. Carol Ann donated remaining clothing to the Rush
  Henrietta School. If we provide used clothing in the future, we will
  need a volunteer to oversee this. Have clothing rack well labeled, and
  do not place free clothing near coat racks.</p>

  <p>DINNER/HOSPITALITY: For 2020 DOR, would like a volunteer to oversee
  the snack room and have a separate volunteer for the dining
  room/dinner. Mary Jo Webster was head of both snack room and dinner in
  2019.</p>

  <p>We are trying to recruit more volunteers and have them shadow the 2020
  volunteers. They would then feel comfortable taking over for
  2021. Volunteer opportunities need to be talked about more at
  individual clubs.</p>

  <p>POSSIBLE TIME CHANGE FOR DOR MEETING: Possibly switch RAF meetings to
  begin at 6:30 p.m. and end at 8:00 p.m. Switch DOR start time to 8:00
  p.m. and end at 9:00 p.m. Need to discuss at Federation Meeting also.</p>

  <p>Deb question: The October, 2019, meeting was added in anticipation
  that we may have a different DOR site. We are locked into Perinton
  site for DOR 2020. Is there really a need for a DOR meeting in
  October? Will do email regarding dinner menu and working with
  Warren. Do not see a real need for an October meeting for DOR.</p>

  <p>Jim response: We need to keep moving forward on dinner, fliers and
  ribbons. If all is going according to schedule, we do not need a DOR
  meeting in October. Deb to get in touch with Warren.</p>

  <p>Next RAF meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., October 15,
  2019. NO DOR MEETING</p>

  <p>SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 15, 2019. If DOR members need a short meeting at
  the end of the RAF meeting, we can stay for a few minutes.</p>

  <p>Donna: Questioned the process of Registration at DOR. Seemed a little
  confusing at the 2019 DOR. No need for two sign-in locations. In 2020
  we will have the names of dancers who purchased ribbons, by club. It
  might be a good idea to have that printed out. This would just be a
  matter of a checkmark. There would be a separate list of those who
  purchase ribbons at the door.</p>

  <p>Jim: There should be only one sign in. Not sure why there were two
  locations to sign in. All those who paid should be listed. (If a
  person forgets their ribbon, but has paid, check the list and give
  them a ribbon.) Need to add a column to make a checkmark saying gave a
  ribbon.</p>

  <p>MEETING ADJOURNED: 7:30 p.m.</p>

  <p>NO DOR MEETING IN OCTOBER OF 2019.</p>

  <p>NEXT DOR MEETING: November 21, 2019. Time to be determined at the RAF
  October, 2019 meeting.</p>


