Cultural and Education Committee Minutes
July 1, 2008

Co-Chair Kathy Russman called the meeting to order at 3:30 PM.  Members present: Mary Lavin, Beverly Lasher, Dave Russman, Fred Lavin, Laura Toth, Helen Sommerkamp, Betty Riddick, Rick Wingard, Sue Wingard.
 
Minutes:  The June 3rd, 2008 minutes were approved as submitted.
 
Treasurer’s Report: Betty Riddick reported total expenses to date were $313.29, leaving a balance of $1,411.71.
 
Old Business:
Art Committee: Helen Sommerkamp reported on response from the HOA Board concerning the merger of the Art and the C&E committees.  After lengthy discussion the motion to combine the committees with a revised charter and budget to be effective January 2, 2009 was made, seconded and carried.   Betty Riddick will work with the Art Committee leadership to submit a revised budget and charter. 
 
June 8th Program: A great trip: the city of Beaufort, NC a historical and tourist view was attended by approximately 70 residents.  It was well received.  The presenters were pleased with their Honorariums.
 
July 10th Program: George Burns Impersonator – Rick Wingard reported on the positive response to this program.  Reservations were filled within 24 hours of the notice going out.  The Sign-up Sheet was reviewed.  Fred Lavin will do the introductions and announcements.  Al wants to mingle with the audience and asked that they bring cameras to have their pictures taken with him.  Pictures cannot be taken during his performance.  The Bar will be open to the audience as a private party.  There is concern about lighting of the Bay Club.  Committee members will assess the lighting and sound system with Al before the performance.
 
 September 14thProgram: Ara Gregorian from ECU has asked to perform at CL to promote his program at ECU.  He will perform free, but will need a concert piano and fee for his accompanist.  The committee discussed the potential cost of piano rental and accompanist costs.  It was estimated to be about $500.00.  Although the committee is eager to have Gregorian return to CL, our budget will not support that cost.  It was decided to have Fred Lavin and Helen Sommerkamp approach the HOA Board for financial backing for this popular artist.  Sign up sheet was circulated.  Fred Lavin will check on Bay Club availability.
 
September 28th Program:  The Reader’s Theater from ECU Medical and Nursing schools present classical stories and discuss medical decision-making and ethics of health care.
 
October 12th Program: ECU Opera Theater- Fred Lavin reported progress has been made in negotiations with ECU for their preview presentations. He was able to obtain an agreement of $600.00 for 2 performances rather than the original $1000.00.  The first presentation will be HMS Pinafore. The second preview will be scheduled for a spring date.
 
November 9th Cypress Landing Reads: Laura reported she read Tell Me Where It Hurts, which she found hard to engage and doesn’t recommend.  A Good Dog by Jon Katz was reported as a book likely to be viewed as a “downer.”  Kathy Russman shared The Dogs of Bedlam Farms, also by Jon Katz, which presents in a more positive read.   Laura will read this book and report back to the committee.
 
December 14th Holiday Show: Kathy reported that she has continued to call people and ask them to participate.  There is need for additional performers to complete the program.  Kathy is still waiting for confirmation from possible participants.   Committee discussed issues concerning the idea of a Craft Cottage where 10% of the proceeds go to a charity.  This idea needs more clarification before a final decision can be made.   Members were asked to sign a volunteer sheet for locations at the Marina and Golf Club. Separate planning meetings will continue during the summer.
 
New Business
 
2009 Budget. Betty has prepared a budget proposal totaling $1725, that reflects no changes from the current 08 budget.  She will submit a revised budget if there is a merger with the Art Committee.
 
Music Academy of Eastern Carolina-Trio Presentation offer is pending the results of HOA Board support for the Gregorian Program.  Kathy Russman will maintain contact with them about a schedule on our program.
 
Art Council Photography Show:  Helen Sommerkamp brought a request from M.J. Peters request the C&E Committee to provide a monetary award for the show in August.  After discussion the committee declined to establish an award.
 
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:05 P.M.
 
Next Meeting: September 2, 2008 at 3:30 PM.
 
Respectfully submitted
Sue Wingard
Co-Recording Secretary