Veterans for Peace, Chapter 50 - Meeting 9/13/25 - MINUTES

Location: F&M Park, Traverse City
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 noon

1. Moment of Silence.

     AND a moment (or several) of Celebration! - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TIM KEENAN!

2. Sign in and welcome, introductions

In attendance: Penny, Paul, Lydia, Tim, Dave P., Anne, Dave F., Bob N., Mary P., Dick W., Emily and James Pedro

3. Committee Report 

     A. Treasurer (Denise)

Bob gave Denise’s report 

     B. Public Relations (Mary Povolo)

PR preparing to contact media re: International Day of Peace (IDP)

     C. Scholarships (Bob, Mary P, Tim) Lydia 

4.  Review of recent VFP activities:

    - VFP Picnic (Aug. 14)

Picnic at F&M Park was a success. It was noted however that some folks were not informed.. we shall double check mailing lists next time

    - Hiroshima Candlefloat (Aug. 6) was also an impactful event

    - Naneek showing at Senior Center (date?)

Tim reported on the great turnout and good questions from folks

5. Business:

Peace Monument update. (Tim)

Looking at locations.. Hull Park, Sunset Park, Open Space. It was noted how quiet it is at Hull Park.

Tim has been pricing granite with Brandon of monument co

Tom Moran still on board as principal sculptor. 

Scott Nells still interested in doing the dove sculpture.

Penny suggested contacting local tribe for possible donation

Native language represented/ also Spanish?

Mary P. will contact  TC Sings

Garrison choosing songs

Penny making copies

Compass Montessori contacted by Tim

International Peace Day - VFP Celebration - Monday, 9/22/25 - Update

Bob is hoping to hear about potential peace-pole planting location on Monday

Schedule of events:

8 a.m. Sunrise Ceremony at Clinch Park Beach 

9 a.m. Mayoral Proclamation at TC Governmental Center Peace Pole

10 a.m. (Update): Peace Pole planting will be at Hull Park near Sun sculpture

At City Commission meeting on Sept. 15th will be reading proclamation. Tim will attend to tell folks about events on IDP

Armistice Day - Tuesday, November 11. Plans?

Is it worthwhile putting ad in paper(s)?
Bob will call Northern Express to check on their digital ad details

6. Discussion:  Current events, issues, concerns from members or guests. 

7. Upcoming non-VFP events:

    October 4 - MEJP hosts “Imperialism Forum” at TC Library

    October 18 - Indivisible organizes nationwide “No Kings” rally

    Ongoing Saturdays - Mideast:JustPeace invites all to join: Say No to Israel's Genocide Protest - 11-12:30. Union and Parkway. All are welcome. Bring a sign or use one provided.