Yearly Meeting #30 of SAYMA Warren Wilson College Swananoa North Carolina June Sixth Day (Friday), 2000 10:00 AM June Sixth Day (Friday) Morning 1. After a period of silence, Clerk Penelope Wright, read from Psalm 138, a Hymn of Thanksgiving: I thank you Yahweh, with all my heart, for you have listened to the cry I uttered, In the presence of angels I sign to you, I bow down before your holy Temple I praise your name for your faithful love and your constancy; your promises surpass even your fame. You heard me on the day when I called, and you gave new strength to my heart. 2. Introduction of Visitors - Clerk Wright closed the silence with a welcome to all on this beautiful day in such a lovely setting. After a few general announcements from herself and others along with explanations of events to come she again welcomed all to the Yearly Meeting. Clerk Wright then introduced the following visitors and guests:  David and Virginia Wood, members of Dayton (OH) Friends Meeting and FGC visitors. A traveling minute from FGC and letter of introduction from Dayton Meeting were read. Friends approved the SAYMA clerks endorsing the minutes from FGC and Dayton Monthly Meeting.  Ken Miller, Associate Secretary of FGC was introduced and spoke regarding FGC gathering.  Bridget Fitzwater, of Earlham College was introduced by the reading of a letter of introduction from Earlham School of Religion.  Martha Traylor of FCUN was introduced but had not arrived yet.  Courney Siceloff of Atlanta Meeting was introduced as the AFSC designated liaison.  Richard and Mary Barnes of Maury River Monthly Meeting and Director of Development and Fund Raising for Pendle Hill were introduced. Richard will be the plenary speaker for this YM. Richard spoke briefly regarding different programs of Pendle Hill and other programs with which he and Mary are associated.  Frank Cummings interim director of AFSC/SERO introduced himself. 3. Distribution of '99 Proceedings - Clerk Wright discussed the need to simplify the task of recording the attenders. It was further noted that this would be the last year that the proceedings would be approved at a later date since this Yearly Meeting's proceedings will be approved as generated. Friends approved this change in process of the recording of proceedings and minutes as generated. The names of each Monthly Meeting and Worship Group were called asking for members of each group to stand. At that time, the proceeding and minutes of Yearly Meeting #29 were distributed to each group. Persons were asked to review the document which will be discussed later. 4. Formation of the Epistle Committee - Clerk Wright asked for volunteers and the following persons indicated that they would generate an epistle: Mary Ann Downey, (Atlanta), Carol Lamb (Berea) and Kit Potter (Nashville). Friends Approved 5. Nominating Committee Preliminary Report - Connie LaMonte of Nominating committee presented the following persons for positions within SAYMA: Position Person to Hold Position Beginning Date Ending Date Monthly Meeting Clerk Penelope Wright 6/98 6/01 Nashville Assistant Clerk Sharon Annis 6/98 6/01 W. Knoxville Archivist/Historian Bettina Wolff 2000 2002 Swannanoa SAF Editor Rebecca Maher 2000 2002 Celo SAYF Steering Committee Karen Morris (Treasurer) 6/00 6/02 Atlanta Toni Rockwell 6/00 6/02 Columbia Sigurd Christensen 6/00 6/02 W. Knoxville Charles Cliver 6/00 6/02 Birmingham Barbara Esther 6/00 6/02 Asheville AFSC Corp Jonah Mc Donald 6/00 6/02 Memphis FCUN Kim Carlyle 6/00 6/02 Asheville Friends approved. Connie continued by naming the positions which still need to be filled and explaining some of the specific requirements of each position. 6. Treasurer's Year-End Report - Kendal Ivie presented the following report. Treasurer's Report 6/8/2000 SAYMA currently has $17,179 in available funds. SAYMA will end the fiscal year 2000 with approximately $16,500 in available funds plus $4,953 in dedicated funds. See the account balances Report for details. The 2000 SAYMA Yearly Meeting is expected to have income of $19,120 and expenses of $21,482 creating a projected loss for the Yearly Meeting of $2,362. For the fiscal 2000 year to date SAYMA has income of $45,842 and expenses of $44,448 leaving a net increase of $1,394. Details of income and expense to date are included in the FY2001 Proposed Budget. The Treasurer with the approval of the Clerk reserved the Internet domain name SAYMA.ORG Account Balance 6/7/00 ASSETS Cash and Bank Accounts Checking $15,295.00 Savings $1,884.21 TOTAL Cash and Bank Accounts $17,179.41 Other Assets FWCC - 3rd World Del $0.00 FWCC Triennial Fund $1,676.00 Payroll Assets $0.00 Released Friend Fund $1,750.00 Spiritual Development Fund $582.00 YM Scholarship Fund $0.00 Youth Quake $945.00 TOTAL Other Assets $4,953.00 TOTAL ASSETS $22,132.41 LIABILITIES Other Liabilities ($0.03) Payroll Liabilities ($0.03) TOTAL Other Liabilities ($0.03) TOTAL LIABILITIES $22,132.44 OVERALL TOTAL $22,132.44 Friends Approved. Kendall Ivie continued with the following PROPOSAL: Request by Kendall Ivie for Permission to Develop a Web Site for SAYMA SAYMA has already registered the domain SAYMA.ORG. I propose to develop and maintain the SAYMA web site oversight of the design and content by the Clerk's Advisory Committee, I will cover the cost of hosting the Web site with and maintain it at least until the 2002 YM. The Web site will have at a minimum the following features and content: 1. History of SAYMA (based on history by Hibbard Thacther) 2. How to contact SAYMA to include: phone numbers, addresses and email addresses. 3. How to contact monthly meetings and worship groups in SAYMA to include: Internet links if available, phone numbers, addresses email, map to meeting house, and times and date of meeting for worship. 4. Calender of events 5. Link to other Quaker organizations. 6. Email accounts for SAYMA officers, staff and clerks of committees in the format of Treasurer@SAYMA.ORG. These can either be a mail b ox or setup to forward to the appropriate mailbox. 7. Possibility of hosting web sites of Monthly Meetings worship groups and SAYF in the format of www.SAYMA.ORG/SAYF. 8. Downloadable documents in Adobe Portable Document File Format: Faith and Practices, Handbook, YM Registration forms, SAYF retreat forms, Yearly Meeting Minutes, and Representative Meeting Minutes. A concern was raised as to the exclusive use of PDF format since persons without sight can not utilize PDF formats. It was further asked that could not both text files and PDF be utilized. No problems were noted and this will be taken into account in the development of the web site. Concerns and questions of other Friends were heard and addressed. It should be noted that Kendall's offer of financing the web site would be consider a donation to SAYMA. In two years the web site will be evaluated and it will be determined if SAYMA will continue with this endeavor. Two friends have agree to work with the development of the site: Susan Cozzens (Atlanta) and Tom McGuigan (Atlanta). Friends approved with the intent to make the web site accessible to all persons. SAYMA would like to express it deep appreciation for his work in this area. 7. Introduction of Minutes and Concerns - Clerk Penelope Wright indicated that constituents of SAYMA have been busy with many different concerns. These concerns are being presented at this time. Population At Yearly Meeting ,1999, a minute on population was presented and Friends were asked take it back to their monthly meetings and worship groups, labor with it, and suggest improvements as they saw fit. The minute was also distributed by mail and email to each monthly meeting and worship group. While not all meetings and groups responded, a good number gave thoughtful and prayerful consideration to the minute. Some approved it in the original version. Others suggested changes in phrasing or tone. These suggestion were incorporated and the revised minute was presented at representative meeting for further consideration. This minute has been on the agenda at each representative meeting since last Yearly Meeting. Minute on Population from Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting and Association In accordance with Friends testimonies of equality, simplicity, and harmony, we recognize the sacredness of all life, the interconnection of all living things, and the balance required to sustain an acceptable quality of life for all inhabitants of our planet. We are committed to providing all children with a safe, loving, nourishing, and habitable world in which to live. In October 1999, world human population surpassed 6 billion, having doubled since 1960. At the present rate of growth, it is likely to double again within the new century. The effects of this rapid population growth exacerbated by excessive consumerism, threaten all of earth's creatures, placing insupportable demands on her finite resources, creating unmanageable problems of waste disposal, and intensifying environmental degradation. While remaining sensitive to the needs and values of all cultures, we acknowledge our responsibility to become informed about world population growth and the concerns it raises. Through our leadings and sharings, we will seek knowledgeable, loving, and creative ways of working towards effective and realistic solutions. These include providing education on and means of contraception for both sexes, encouragement of adoption as an alternative to having biological children , and open support of those who choose not to procreate. And it is essential that those who have more than they need strive toward a simpler, less wasteful life-sytle. We also recognize that special emphasis must be given to measures to reduce poverty, provide security for people as they age and empower women. Literacy, equal social status, and the general education of women to broaden their life choices are measures that not only improve their lives but help delay childbirth and limit family size. We urge our government to renew contributions to the United Nations Fund for Population Activities, and we urge meetings to study further the problem of rapid population growth and to discern how we are to act on this concern as individuals and as meetings in our own communities, in our country, and in support of countries throughout the world. Lifting Sanctions in Iraq Minute on Economic Sanctions Against Iraq by Nashville MM "Nashville Friends Meeting expresses its deep concern about the effects of economic sanctions on civilians in Iraq. "1) Sanctions against Iraq have caused a great increase in the country's mortality rates, especially among children. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) reports that rates of childhood mortality in Iraq in 1997 were running 90,000 deaths per year in excess of rates of mortality that prevailed in 1989 before the Gulf War. (Situation Analysis of Children and Women in Iraq, p. 42, 1998, UNICEF). The report also states that large percentages of Iraq's living children suffer from acute malnutrition, life threatening diseases, stunting of normal development, and educational and social disruption. The report attributes these increases in mortality and severe health problems to the effects of the economic sanctions enforced by the U.N. Security Council. "Denis Halliday, a veteran of 34 years of service with the United Nations, resigned in protest in October 1998 after thirteen months as the U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator in Iraq. In an interview with The Progressive (February 1999, p. 28). He said that as a result of sanctions '...Thousands are being killed right now, under U.N. auspices. We are killing 6,000 or 7,000 every month.' "These conclusions are consistent with reports of the United Nations humanitarian agencies and observations by numerous non-governmental human rights delegations. One of these consisted of a delegation of six pediatricians and child welfare specialists who visited Iraq in November 1998 on behalf of Americans Friends Service Committee. (Child &Maternal Health & Nutrition in Iraq under the Sanctions, 12/98, AFSC, 1501 Cherry St., Philadelphia 19102) "2) These severe effects on the life, health, and social structure of civilians constitute a violation of the fundamental principles of international law, the peacemaking principles and intent of the United Nations Charter, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. "3) The government of the United States, because of its dominant power and influence in the Security Council, shares with the government of Iraq great responsibility for the political deadlock that has caused these deadly conditions to continue for nine years. We, as citizens of the U.S. bear a grave responsibility for the actions of our government. "4) It is urgent that an alternative solution be found that will end the United Nations economic embargo and allow Iraq to restore its economy and social structure through normal trade and economic activity, with supplementary help from U.N. humanitarian programs and other available resources in the world community. "5) Such a settlement could be tied to a United Nations program that would monitor and limit future accumulation of weapons by Iraq. We also believe that reductions in the weapons arsenals of all governments in the Middle East would reduce tensions in the region. The United States and other countries involved in the arms trade would need to be involved in such reductions. "Nashville Friends Meeting authorizes its Peace and Social Concerns Committee to: "1) Transmit our concern and supporting evidence to our senators, congressional representatives, and president, and urge them to support these recommendations for changes in policy toward Iraq. "2) Authorize the Meeting's representatives to the Nashville Peace and Justice Center to support this issue as a priority concern for action by the Center. "3) Transmit our concerns, along with supporting evidence, to monthly meetings and worship groups with the request that they consider the concern and respond by bringing it to the yearly meeting level, and by contacting Friends Committee on National Legislation, their federal representatives, and the president of the U.S. "4) Transmit our concerns and supporting evidence to SAYMA for consideration of approval of a minute to be shared with wider Quaker organizations and other yearly meetings." Minute on Ending the Economic Sanctions against Iraq from Atlanta (GA) Friends Meeting "Moved by our belief that every human life is sacred, Atlanta Friends Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends calls on elected officials to support the end of economic sanctions imposed by the United Nations and to continue pursuing arms control with Iraq. The economic sanctions began as a temporary measure in August, 1990, after Iraq's military invasion and occupation of Kuwait. The sanctions were to be lifted when Iraq terminated its weapons of mass destruction under international supervision and submitted to ongoing United Nations monitoring. "However, it has been clear for some time that the economic sanctions have not had their intended effect, and have instead created devastating conditions for the Iraqi people. More than one million civilians, mostly children, the sick, and the elderly, have died in the ten years since sanctions were imposed. Broken-down water treatment and sewage systems have led to outbreaks of typhoid, polio, and hepatitis. Hospitals have inadequate disinfectants, medicine, or antibiotics to treat diseases that would be cured routinely under normal circumstances. Agricultural production has collapsed for want of fertilizers and machinery. Atlanta Friends note with compassion the suffering of Iraqi civilians at this painful time. "It is time for a change in policy, to focus more clearly on disarmament. For example, sanctions specifically affecting the leaders of the Iraqi government should continue, including travel bans, freezes on assets, and an embargo on luxury items and military materiel. The international community should maintain and develop devices to control arms manufacture and purchases for Iraq and the region, and exports of military technology and weapons to Iraq should be more tightly controlled. Broad economic sanctions against Iraq, however, have shown themselves to be both immoral and ineffective, and should be stopped." Death Penalty Moratorium Minute on the Death Penalty Asheville (NC) Friends Meeting Approved February 13, 2000 "In keeping with the Religious Society of Friends' traditional opposition to the death penalty, Asheville Friends Meeting endorses the American Bar Association resolution calling for a moratorium on all executions while meaningful steps are taken to "ensure that death penalty cases are administered fairly and impartially" and "to minimize the risk that innocent people may be executed. "We, however, consider this only an interim move toward our vision of and commitment to the total abolition of capital punishment in North America and the United States. "Asheville Friends Meeting recognizes that in making this endorsement it is joining with many other faith communities and civic groups in a nationwide movement. We wish to inform local, state, and national leaders of our action and request that they join with us in calling for Moratorium Now. Minute on the Death Penalty Brevard (NC) Friends Meeting Approved December 12, 1999 "In keeping with the Religious Society of Friends' traditional opposition to the death penalty, Brevard Friends Meeting heartily endorses the American Bar Association resolution calling for a moratorium on all executions until meaningful steps are taken to "ensure that death penalty cases are administered fairly and impartially" and to "minimize the risk that innocent people may be executed. "The Meeting recognizes that in making this endorsement it is joining with many other church and civic groups in a nationwide movement labeled Moratorium Now. "Our Meeting considers this as an interim move toward the total abolition of capital punishment in our beloved state and nation. "We ask that other church groups and our local, county, state and national leaders be informed of our action and requested to join with us in calling for a moratorium now." AFSC/SAYMA Relationship Approved by Chattanooga Friends Meeting at Meeting for Business, 6-6-99 The Meeting asked that the proposed minute be brought to the attention of SAYMA, and of other Monthly Meetings and Worship Groups. In Monthly Meeting for Business on sixth day of sixth month 1999 Chattanooga Friends Meeting approved the following proposal of a Minute for SAYMA: 'Friends have considered Bill Holland's resignation and AFSC's actions that led up to it. We do not know everything about the matter so we seek clarification. We are so serious in our concern that we wish to withhold our $100 annual contribution to AFSC until the matter is clarified. Chattanooga Friends Meeting further proposes that SAYMA consider adopting the following minute: In light of the serious indicators that the American Friends Service Committee has drifted away from Quaker principles in its internal operations, we will withhold financial contributions to AFSC until it has become fully clear to us that AFSC's internal operating processes are compatible with Spirit-led Quaker principles.' " Clerk indicated that several responses have been received but none were in the form of a minute but only responses therefore they have not be included in these proceedings. Formation of a Committee called Ecological Concerns Network At the January SAYMA representatives meeting in Atlanta, several Friends met to discuss a framework for Friends to work together on earth stewardship concerns. What came out of that discussion was "SAYMA Ecological Concerns Network." Since this inception we have defined our work, informed Friends throughout SAYMA of our formation, and invited them to join us. We have met at this gathering and now are requesting committee status; a modest budget of $100 to cover telephone, postage, and photocopying expenses; and appointment of a clerk. Our defining statements are: SAYMA Ecological Concerns Network - MISSION STATEMENT SAYMA Ecological Concerns Network will provide assistance, including spiritual and consultative support, to Friends in Yearly Meeting who are following their leadings to work on ecological concerns. It will also work to raise the level of awareness among SAYMA Friends of ecological concerns. SAYMA Ecological Concerns Network - STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 1. To serve as a source of spiritual and moral support for Friends engaged in actively seeking the healing of the Earth. 2. To enable Friends in small meetings / worships groups (not large enough to support their own committees) to join in efforts and to share with other SAYMA Friends. 3. To serve as the hub of a network to share news of local achievements. Just knowing that other Friends in the region are active on environmental issues will encourage our work. 4. To interact with Wider Quaker Organizations such as Friends Committee on National Legislation, Friends Committee on Unity with Nature, and Quaker Eco-Witness. 5. To provide educational programs, forums, workshops to Monthly Meetings and at Yearly Gathering. 6. To collaborate on Yearly Meeting workshops, presentations, and displays. 7. Provide a resource list of ecologically concerned SAYMA Friends including name, interest areas, affiliations, etc. In the review of the minutes, a request was made for brevity, and it was decided that these minutes be posted for Friends to ponder and reflect prior to discussions later. After a moment of silence the meeting was adjourned for the mid day meal Yearly Meeting #30 of SAYMA Warren Wilson College Swananoa North Carolina June 09, 2000 - Sixth Day (Friday) Afternoon After silence Clerk Penelope Wright read the following: "Life is God's gift to you. The way you live it is your gift to God" Yogi Desai 8. Announcements included an update of William Penn House in Washington DC by Nancy Lee-Riffe. Friends were encouraged to pick up a brochure about the William Penn House which recently has undergone several major changes: A new roof, air conditioning has been added, and new mattresses on all beds. WPH is within waking distances of the Capital, it is a wonderful and inexpensive site for Quaker youth seminars as well as tourists. Kim Carlyle gave the following announcement: QUAKER ECO-WITNESS MISSION STATEMENT: Quaker Eco-Witness will promote US government and corporate policies to help restore and protect Earth's biological integrity. It will work within and through the Religious Society of Friends for policies that enable human communities to relate in mutually enhancing ways to the ecosystems of which they are a part. This witness will seek to be guided by the Spirit and grounded in reverence for Earth's communities of life as God's creation. QUAKER ECO-WITNESS STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: 1) to work within the Society of Friends in the US and with Friends Committee on National Legislation to enable FCNL to include legislative priorities relating to "an earth restored...." 2) to inform Friends about current policy issues from an ecological and faith-based perspective in collaboration with the Quaker Eco-Bulletin Project of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting; 3) to participate as a Friends' entity in advocacy activities relating to ecology and US government and corporate policy originating from or widely supported by the nation's faith community ; 4) to be a voice for Friends concerned about the underlying conflict between our species' ecological realities and our society's commitment to unlimited economic expansion. 9. Finance Committee Report - Kendall Ivie presented the following report. Finance Committee Report - 6/8/00 The proposed budget projects an income of $60,150 and expenses of $67,375 creating a net loss of $7,225. This would leave about $9,000 in available funds at the end of the fiscal year. Major changes in the proposed budget are: 1) The Yearly Meeting will pay for itself. 2) SAYF budget increased by about $1000 to cover cost of training. 3) New line item for training. 4) Restore donation to Rural Southern Voice for Peace. 5) Newsletter assessment is removed and folded into the general assessment. 6) Increased SAYMA personnel budget to cover benefits and SAYF staff person. 7) To cover the increased income the assessment will need to be increased from $40 to $55. 8) In Fiscal Year 2002 the assessment will need to increase to $62 to maintain a reasonable fund reserve. SAYMA FY2001 Proposed Fiscal Year Budget - June 10, 2000 DEAR FRIENDS - THE TABLE THAT HAS THE BUDGET JUST WOULD NOT GO INTO EMAIL. I WILL TRY SEND IT LATER AS AN ATTACHMENT Discussion was held answering questions and concerns regarding the report and the budget report. There will be a meeting regarding the budget this evening along with a discussion of the proposed SAYF staff position. It should be noted that a line item of $100 was added for the William Penn House in Washington DC. 10. Personnel Committee Report - Sharon Annis, clerk of the Personnel Committee presented a verbal report. The main work of the committee is in attempting to bring the employee and volunteers activities within the safe and proper guidelines which are understood and accepted by SAYMA. The committee is working at this time to generate documents and procedures to help SAYMA properly proceed. Three proposals have been generated for approval: 1. Staff supervision - It is recognized that employees need to be supervised by only one person and not by a committee. It is therefore proposed that the current Administrative Assistant be supervised by the Clerk of Yearly Meeting. Friends Approved 2. There is a need to establish a pay scale which contains a base pay based on a specific year. To bring our employee's pay into line based on cost of living increases, it is proposed that the current pay be increased by 10%. Friends Approved 3. The Personnel Committee will consist of: Assistant Clerk, Treasurer, two members at large, Clerk of YM Planning Committee, and supervisors of employees. The Assistant Clerk of SAYMA will act as Clerk of the Personnel Committee. Friends Approved 11. Ad Hoc Committee for SAYF Paid Position Report - Clerk Wright reviewed the historical context of this request. The clerk of this ad hoc committee, Sharon Annis gave an oral report. While a draft job description has been generated, there are several issues which will need to be addressed. The committee does make the following recommendation: 1. A quarter time (0.25) Full Time Equivalent (FTE) employee be hired as an Administrative Assistant to the SAYF program. Friends Approved 2. The generation of the final job description be performed jointly by both Personnel Committee and SAYF Steering Committee. Supervision for this position will be by one of the clerks of the SAYF Steering Committee at the co-clerks discretion. Friends Approved 3. Initial benefits and compensation be equal to compensation level of the SAYMA Administrative Assistant. Friends Approved Discussion was held to clarify the issues of concern. Several issues were raised while not directly related to the issue at hand and were referred to Personnel Committee. A specific concern was raised as to fair wages and benefits of which the Personnel Committee took note and will continue to work in this area 12. Wider Quaker Organizations - Clerk Wright, reviewed the system of rotation of Wider Quaker Organization and explained that this year the featured organization was Friends World Committee for Consultation . Kathy Burke of Atlanta MM presented a report which is attached.(attached). 13. SAYF Steering Committee Report - Margaret Farmer presented a verbal report which included the following items. A request for a minute of deep appreciation of the Oversight Committee was made. Friends approved the clerks to generate this minute. Despite leadership changes, SAYF is still going strong. We operate all year long with only two short breaks. There is a youth activity each month along with committee meetings. There was a range of retreats over the past year wich consisted of 40-50 youth at each retreat. These retreats consisted of: Community building (white water rafting experience), hurricane clean up at Penn Center, Martin Luther King Jr. weekend in Atlanta to include a trip to the MLK center for our diversity retreat, spirituality though movement at the first Berea Retreat. Each retreat is planned by a host community YF's and one or two lead FAPs. Worship or worship sharing is incorporated into the fabric of each retreat at young friends insistence! FAP's are taking more of a back stage role and encourage YF's to lead more. Nurturing Committee has recommended that YFs friends who want to come to SAYF attend at least orientation to Quakerism or attend Quaker meeting/Youth groups a few times before attending a retreat. Purpose is to promote a more spiritual atmosphere at retreats. This is a very active group within our Yearly Meeting. It involves a big workload, especially record- keeping, registration for each single event. In April there was a administrative disaster in that two main persons were out of service and the committee is just now regrouping and making the necessary corrections. There has been a concern from some Friends that maybe SAYF needs to cut back on the amount of activities. Margaret then related several stories of how the SAYF group has directly helped in very specific terms and of how the SAYF program is Peace work - God's Work. The youth have expressed to Margaret that SAYF is a special community to them and in some instances the only community they have which allows them to be in and hear from the Light. 14. SAYF Oversight Committee Report - Dick Houghton gave a verbal report regarding the function and current activities of the committee. Due to the members of the committee being spread out over a large geographical area, the members have not been able to meet quickly enough to timely work with personnel problems. Concern was raised as to the committee identifying a solution to the issue but none has been discovered at this time. One possible solution is for the Nominating Committee to consider attempting to locate Friends in a central area which would serve on this committee. The Nominating Committee will take this under consideration. Appreciation for all the work performed by the Steering Committee was expressed by Friends. 15. Right Sharing of World Resources - RSWR's first year report was given by Judi McGahey of Celo. RSWR's focus will include expanded education to first world friends along with increasing the number of grants given. Judi has been approached by RSWR to serve on the Board of Trustees and will continue to work with and visit within SAYMA. Friends Approved Yearly Meeting #30 of SAYMA Warren Wilson College Swananoa North Carolina June 10, 2000 - Seventh Day (Saturday) Morning After silence and centering, Clerk Penelope read: When one's thoughts are neither frivolous nor flippant, when one's thoughts are neither stiff-necked nor stupid, but rather harmonious, they habitually render physical calm and deep insight. Hildegard of Bingen Clerk Wright welcomed visitors and guests. Announcements were made by several Friends. 16. Approval of '99 Proceedings - Clerk Wright reviewed the changes in approval of Minutes and Proceedings. Friends Approved with no changes. 17. Ministry & Nurture Committee Report - Ernest Lee of West Knoxville presented an oral report of the Ministry and Nurture Committee. The issues discussed have been:  M&N addressed a request from SAYMA that members of M&N serve as greeters for SAYMA'S four Meeting for Business during Yearly Meeting and to sit on the front row to offer prayerful support for our clerks during our Meeting of Business.  A letter of introduction was requested by Clerk Penelope Wright for her in relation to her travel to New England Yearly Meeting.  M&N addressed a request from Frederick Martin of Celo for a letter of introduction to New England YM which is related to his studies and travel while studying at Pendle Hill during 2000-2001.  M&N entertained a request from Kendall Ivie, SAYMA Treasurer, that M&N oversee requests for funds to be drawn from the Spiritual Development Fund and Released Friend Fund of the SAYMA yearly budget. Discussed the guidelines and procedures relevant to requests for these funds and determined to review these guidelines and attempt to assure equity and clearness relate to fund requests.  M&N approved a request from Frederick Martin of Celo for some financial assistance to the help him travel and meet with Friends during studies at Pendle Hill beginning in October. Recommendation to Kendall Ivie and the Finance Committee that $300 be appropriated from the Spiritual Development Fund. M&N will request that Frederick Martin offer a report to M&N by March 2001 related to his travels and financial needs as appropriate.  M&N addressed a minute of concern from Bowling Green Worship Group that SAYMA discuss issues related to Quaker beliefs and practices from a variety of other religious traditions and the acceptance and impact of these beliefs and practices on our Quaker traditions and spiritual foundations. The basic query is essentially, "Can you be a Quaker and practice religious beliefs of another religious belief at the same time?" This concern was penned before the YM theme for this year had been fully developed. M&N is appreciated of the concern and feels that it was timely in respect to our program for this meeting, M&N discussed this concern at some length with Willard Vaughan and Steve Meredith of Bowling Green WG and suggested that the agenda offered at YM 2000 offers opportunities to explore these issues and concerns.  M&N met with Friends from the Cookville WG to assist them in addressing their needs for better interpersonal communication and problem solving within their group. M&N made several suggestions relating to Quaker process and procedures and has offered continuing assistance to Cookville WG if needed.  M&N discussed revisions and editing of Faith and Practice Guidelines related to M&N and anticipate response from the Revision committee. M&N continued to review and edit SAYMA M&N purposed functions and responsibilities of SAYMA representatives. These matters have been placed on our agenda for consideration at future representative meetings.  M&N read a Minute of Support for Kim Carlyle of Asheville Friends Meeting to travel in SAYMA and to other Faith Groups with his concern to raise awareness of the spiritual, moral and religious bases for the protection and restoration of our ecological system. Our committee supports Kim in this work and endorses this minute. Ministry and Nurture recommended and requested that Frederick Martin be granted $300 from the Spiritual Development Funds to continue his studies at Pendle Hill. Ministry and Nurture also requested Frederick Martin to present a report to Ministry and Nurture in March 2001. At that time, there will be a reassessment of needs and requests for funding. Friends approved the recommendation and request. Friends did ask Ministry and Nurture concerning several concerns. Friends were reminded that these concerns be brought to the Monthly Meetings for seasoning and then come to Ministry and Nurture Committee through their representative 18. Call for Faith & Practice Revision - Clerk Wright reviewed the SAYMA Guide to Faith and Practice and read page 30 (1990 as amended 1998): As a way of assuring openings to divine leading and improved ways of doing things, the clerk of SAYMA will enquire each year at the beginning of the first yearly meeting session whether changes have become necessary. Any suggested alterations will then be referred to an examining committee appointed by that yearly meeting for a report to the next yearly meeting. In any event, at the end of nine years after approval of the completed Guide, and at the end of each decade thereafter, yearly meeting shall appoint an examining committee of at least five members; it should have at least two members with previous service on an examining committee. The committee should devote special attention to determining if testimonies and queries are continuing to remind Friends to meet emerging problems that face Society. A concern has been identified in that SAYMA's office has depleted their copies of Faith and Practice. An order will be made to publish a limited number which will include the corrections and additions to the Faith and Practice of 1998. Clerk Wright then called for volunteers to serve on a review committee. The following persons volunteered: Richard Houghhton (Nashville), Steve Meredith (Bowling Green), Janet Minshall (Anneewakee Creek), Dennis Gregg (Crossville) Kathleen Hardie (Nashville); Free Polazzo (Anneewakee Creek) and Penelope Wright (Nashville). Free Polazzo volunteered to be the convener and a clerk will be determined at a later date. Virginia Wood, of Ohio Valley YM spoke saying "God speaks to you thought the words we speak to one another and God speaks most powerfully in the words that are written." She continued to minister about the process at her Yearly Meeting as they to work on their faith and practice. She further encouraged and commended us in this special endeavor. 19. Consideration of Minutes and Concerns - Clerk Wright in beginning this portion of the agenda offered the following query: "In saying what I have in mind, will I clarify the sense of the Meeting?" Population Minute as presented by Asheville MM. Assistant Clerk Sharon Annis read the Minute as presented earlier. A concern was raised the concern of the relationship of population growth and poverty since birth rate of developed countries is lower then that of other counties which are not developed. A concern was also raised about conflict among individuals and nations which is also an issue in population. A continued concern of the difference of those who have and those who do not have was voiced and that the issue is much greater then just something as simple as birth rate and our complicity in this problem. Other concerns were raised and discussed. Some changes were suggested and were inserted into the Minute as presented earlier. It was suggested that queries be generated which would be disseminated among SAYMA. Friends approved the minute as a beginning to the work on this issue by not only SAYMA but each of us. This will be ongoing work with a follow up minute to come to YM next year. Kathy Burke asked for permission to take this minute to the FWCC Triennial. Friends approved and other avenues of distribution of this information. 20. Death Penalty - At Spring Representative Meeting a request was made of monthly meetings to address this issue. At this time, since no formal documents have been generated and no minute has been proposed for YM review, the issue is therefore referred back to MMs for continued seasoning. While the main concern is being referred back to MM, Friends did approve the following statement: SAYMA affirms Friends traditional opposition to capital punishment. As an interim step, we support all calls for a moratorium on capital punishment. SAYMA would encourage Friends who feel led to form an interest group and generate follow up minutes. Friends who are led may carry this statement as they see fit to other organizations and contacts. 21. Friends Committee on Out World Relations (FCOR) - Phil Neal presented an oral review of his attached report on the Friends Committee on Out Worlds Relations. At this time we adjourned for the mid day meal. It was suggested that we reconvene at 6:00 PM to continue the discussion regarding the remaining minutes of concern. Yearly Meeting #30 of SAYMA Warren Wilson College Swananoa North Carolina June 10, 2000 - Seventh Day (Saturday) Afternoon Clerk Wright closed the silence by reading: God is neither Catholic nor Protestant, neither Moslem nor Hindu. God is too great to be imprisoned in a single creed. Author Unknown Several Friends made announcements. 22. Approval of Nominations - Lee Ann Swarm, clerk of Nominating Committee presented the following persons for positions within SAYMA: Position Person to Hold Position Beginning Date Ending Date Monthly Meeting Recording Clerk Carol Lamb 6/01 6/03 Berea Nominating Committee Clerk Lee Ann Swarm 6/01 6/02 W. Knoxville Nominating Committee Member Steve Meredith 2000 2002 Bowling Green Clerk - Planning Committee Mary Ann Downing 2000 2002 Atlanta Adult Program Planning Committee Bob McGahey 2000 2002 Celo Co-Registrar Planning Committee Missy Ivie 2000 2002 W. Knoxville Bookstore- Planning Committee Peter Buck 2000 2002 Asheville Work Shop Coordinator Planning Committee Pam Beziat 2000 2001 Nashville Worship Sharing Planning Committee Tom McGuigan 2000 2002 Atlanta Sara Rose 2000 2002 Royal Site Selection Committee Becky Ingle-Co Clerk Chattanooga Larry Ingle - Co Clerk Chattanooga Hibbard Thatcher Nashville SAYF Oversight Sara Rose Royal AFSC SERO Jeremiah Gold-Hopton Atlanta FWCC Bill Holland Atlanta Quaker House Harry Rogers Columbia Friends approved these persons for positions within SAYMA. Friends approved a Minute of Appreciation of those persons completing their terms of service. (Your welcome!) 23. Approval of Budget - Kendall Ivie presented a revised budget to reflect changes which have been brought to his attention. Please note, the budget presented earlier in the minutes includes these changes. Kendall requested that the monies received for subscription for the SAF newsletter be rolled over into the general funds since no newsletters were issued over the past year. A concern was raised as to whether funds would be available for the newsletter this year. It was stated that funds would be available for this year and the line item in the budget was pointed out for Friends. It should be noted that the assessments now include the subscription to SAF instead of the practice in previous years of two different fees. A concern was raised regarding how each monthly meeting should calculate their assessment in that there has been creative math used in calculating total monies to be sent to SAYMA from each monthly meeting. In an effort to clarify the changes and increase of assessment, the Clerk and Treasurer will send a letter to each monthly meeting and worship groups explaining the changes and increases. Friends Approved It was suggested that the letter include a request that monthly meetings and worship groups submit prior to Fall Representative Meeting the projected funds which will be paid so that the calculations can be made to determine if the budget can be met. Friends Approved. Friends Approved the budget as presented. 24. Site and Date for '01 Yearly Meeting - Hibbard Thatcher reported that the Site Selection Committee recommend that the Yearly Meeting of 2001 be held at Shorter College in Rome Georgia on June 14- 17, 2001. Shorter College's approval of this reservation is pending its acceptance by the new college president, whose selection is in the final process. In the event that the meeting there is not approved it is recommended that SAYMA meet at Warren Wilson College, Swananoa NC on June 7- 10, 2001. Hibbard Thatcher then reviewed information regarding Shorter College. After further discussion and clarification Friends approved the use of Shorter College if available. If not available, Yearly Meeting will be held at Warren Wilson College. Friends Approved. 25. Sites and Dates for '00 '01 Representative Meetings - With the approval of the Yearly Meeting near Chattanooga and Chattanooga being close to Shorter College Chattanooga will reconsider their invitation and possibly extend it for Spring 2001. Nashville, contingent upon the approval of their meeting, offered to host the Fall 2000 Representative Meeting on September 16, 2000. West Knoxville, contingent upon the approval of their meeting, has offered to host the Winter 2000 Representative meeting on December 21, 2000 instead of earlier approved date of January 20, 2001 due to the potential of snow. Chattanooga and Atlanta Monthly Meetings will determine who will host the Spring 2001 Representative Meeting on April 14 or 21, 2001. Saturday June 10, 2000 6:00 PM 26. Continuation of Consideration of Minutes of Concern - Concern for Iraq Nashville Friends began by discussing the history of their minute and conveyed to Friends current activities of the Nashville Friends in regards to this minute. Atlanta Friend discussed their minute in that while they concurred with the Nashville Minute, Atlanta Meeting did have a different set of emphasizes on this issue and therefore generated their own minute but did not request for the minute to be adopted by SAYMA. Atlanta has since their approval of this minute has transmitted the minute to a number of government and Quaker organizations. In discussions regarding the acceptable of the Nashville Minute, it was suggested that SAYMA adopt its own shorter and more concise minute. In further discussion, it was noted that in earlier discussions, the use of economic sanctions against Cuba and possibly other countries as a mechanism for the US government in attempting to bring into compliance other countries. Friends approved the spirit of Nashville's Minute but like to see the minute further seasoned in monthly meetings. Having identified resources with AFSC's Middle East peace Education program, FCNL and other sources such as Nashville Monthly Meeting, monthly meetings are requested to season this information and generate minutes to bring back for review by SAYMA at the next YM. At Yearly Meeting 2001, a special interest group will be formed which would then generate a minute which can then be brought before YM for approval. 27. Ecological Concerns Network Friends approved the creation of the Ecological Concerns Network as outlined in the earlier minutes and budget items. 28. Concern Regards SAYMA's relationship with AFSC Two minutes regarding AFSC have been received: Chattanooga has requested that funding be reduced and Atlanta which asked that the funding from SAYMA to AFSC be increased and full representation to AFSC. Larry Ingle of Chattanooga expressed concern that this issue has been carried over a number of years and generally the item is placed late on the agenda and is then carried over. While small group discussions are welcome and encouraged, it needs to be discussed openly on the floor of Yearly Meeting where decisions are made. Friends approved the holding this issue over to next Yearly Meeting and placing it in a prime position of the agenda. Yearly Meeting #30 of SAYMA Warren Wilson College Swananoa North Carolina Sunday June 11, 2000 9:00 AM 29. Registrar's Report -The following information was presented by Susan Caryle: SAYMA Registration Total Number Registered 252 Number of Young Friends 54 Number of Children 16 Day Visitors 39 Number of Adults 182 It noted that $700 was awarded in scholarships by SAYMA, $750 was donated to Scholarship Fund by individuals, $1,700 in scholarships was contributed by monthly meetings to help people to attend, and $475 were collected in late fees. Appreciation was also expressed to John Verner of Warren Wilson College, Clair Twose, Meg Cooloey, who served as the local coordinators, and Kim Carlye and Carol Ciscel. 30. Wider Quaker Organizations - It was with regret that SAYMA could not find the time on the agenda to honor the persons who serve SAYMA to WQOs by hearing oral reports. Several reports have been generated and received which are attached. Hearing of the Epistles 31. JYM Georgi Schmitt, JYM coordinator began by introducing the children and read the epistle as written by the children: This is the epistle for JYM 2000, at Swananoa, NC. We were sixteen children and several adults working and playing in harmony, joy and spirit, We explored the theme of diversity in the forms of differences and similarities by drawing and coloring our profiles. We played the "Difference Game", listened to African, Japanese, and American stories, we wrapped Bonnie in a sari and she experienced what it might be like to move through like as an Indian women. We worked out the problem of scarcity in boat building by focusing on the concept of sharing in the family. Another focus of the weekend was "What is a Quaker?" Even though we could not come up with a definition we could list some things that we did which shows our Quakerness. "We were really nice to each other....." Conrad Honicker "We took turns in four square....." Thomas Frasier "We made sure everyone felt happy..." Daniel "People felt respected..." Georgi Schmitt "Folks cared about each other...." Bonnie "We were peaceful about he boats.." Ben "Children are sunlight sparking on two dancing legs" Cliff Honicker A parent expressed appreciation to the JYM staff for the excellent work and program provided which was supported by Friends. Georgi concluded by expressing appreciation to all of the persons who provided significant parts of the JYM. SAYF Epistle - Out of the silence, Mary Campion read the following epistle: June 10, 2000 Dear Penny Wright, Clerk of SAYMA and all of SAYMA; This year, as a SAYF community, we have grown spiritually and in numbers. We had seven (7) retreats in various locations, as well as two nurturing committee retreats. All of these retreats have helped us grow as a community. In August the nurturing committee met in Greensboro, NC to discuss sleeping arrangements and trust within the community. These issues were deferred to the next nurturing committee meeting in February for threshing and resolution. Asheville, NC hosted the September retreat with a theme about building communities. We enjoyed an exciting rafting trip with an alternative activity of a relaxing hike. October's retreat at Penn Center, SC coincided with a tropical storm. This lead to an early evacuation on Sunday morning, but not before we participated in a satisfying service project. We helped the center recover from a devastating hurricane, by cleaning the grounds and doing building repairs. The residents of the islands, who are Gulla descendants, provided us dinner. After this we had a talent show. The November retreat was in Chapel Hill, NC and the theme was transitions. We participated in a relaxation exercise, small group worship sharing, and attempted to make drums. On Saturday night, we had an evening worship sharing by fire light. To begin the new year, SAYF gathered in Atlanta, GA on Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday to celebrate diversity and nonviolence. We did many diversity related activities and talked about stereotypes. In the afternoon we held a silent peace walk followed by a worship sharing vigil by Martin Luther King Jr's tomb. The Atlanta Journal and Constitution reported on this event. February brought the successive nurturing committee meeting in Asheville, NC in which we finally resolved the much debated issue of sleeping arrangements. The steering committee and nurturing committee reached consensus about this issue. In March, we attended yet another Asheville retreat. This was a service project retreat in which we helped WNCAP (Western North Carolina AIDS/HIV Project). We hung sheet rock and painted as well as doing extensive landscaping at their center. Berea, Kentucky hosted their first retreat ever in April. The theme was "Worship and Healing Through Movement". SAYFers enjoyed a relaxing weekend of Tai-chi, yoga and massage. At this year's SAYMA, located on Warren Wilson College's campus, we had a retreat with the themes of diversity and relationships. We enjoyed games and activities led by members of the greater SAYMA community. Representatives from WNCAP came to educate us about the prevention of HIV and AIDS. We held a business meeting where we discussed the issue of how to prepare newbies for the spiritual side of SAYF retreats. The issue was passed on to the nurturing committee for further discussion and resolution. Young Friends reminisced experiences with SAYF seniors during a graduation ceremony. This has been a year of transition for our SAYF group. New members have brought in new dynamics to the community. These ideas have supported and challenged SAYF. Thank you for your support. Love always, SAYF Friends approve CAF Epistle - Out of the silence, Jess(ie) Pur vis, GWTN read the following interactive epistle: CAF Epistle - SAYMA 2000 The College Age Friends (CAFs) are looking for original and creative approaches to Epistle writing. We now present this, our first work in that direction. Dear Friends, Meet CAF. See the CAFs gather at SAYMA. The CAF does many different things. See SAYF. See grown-ups. See the CAF between SAYF and grown-ups. See the CAF bridge the gap. "Who is the CAF?" The CAF wants to know. The CAFs talk. The CAFs are very liminal. Look! The CAF wants a relationship with SAYMA. What kind? The CAF doesn't know. SAYMA doesn't know. The CAF ponders this relationship at great length. CAF does many different things. Some CAFs play with babies. Some CAFs go to business meetings. Some The CAFs are FAPITS for SAYF. Some The CAFs worship with grown-ups. Some The CAFs go to workshops. All the CAFs have fun. CAF remembers SAYF. Good times. CAF worships with SAYF about Quakerism. CAF brings SAYMA's queries to SAYF. The CAF and SAYF like queries. The CAF likes SAYF. SAYF likes The CAF. The CAF bridges the gap. Look! The CAF have baseballs. Duck! The CAF sees Jim. Oops! JYM. Duck, Jim, Duck! The CAF plays Quaker ball with JYM. The CAFs like JYM. JYM likes CAF. CAF bridges the gap. The CAFs meet Dan. The CAFs meet JOHN. The sun goes down. It is late. What do the CAFs do? The CAFs have movies. Mmmmm... snacks. Munch, the CAFs munch! The CAFs chew the cud. Old CAFs bond with new CAFs. Fellowship is fun! The old CAFs like the new CAFs. The new CAFs like the old CAFs. The CAFs bridge the gap. The CAFs want many things. At SAYMA, the CAFs are very far from other CAFs. The CAF want to be near other CAFs. Can SAYMA help? The CAFs go to college or work. The CAFs are very busy. The CAFs are disorganized. The CAFs think hard about how to fix this. The CAFs ponder its name. It is unsatisfactory. See The CAFs change to YAFs (Young Adult Friends). YAFs are happy. Peace YAFs (Young Adult Friends :) Friends Approve SAYMA Epistle - Out of the silence, Mary Ann Downing read the following epistle: To Friends everywhere: Friends gathered in the beauty of the mountains of Western North Carolina to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting and Association. We are a geographically scattered group of monthly meetings and worship groups, and our theme called us to acknowledge and explore our spiritual diversity. During our meetings for worship with attention to business, we learned the new discipline (for us) of recording and approving a minute before moving to the next agenda item. This year completes ten years with SAYMA's Guide to Our Faith and Our Practice. In accord with our corporate discipline regarding this guide, we formed a committee to examine it with the possibility of revision. We are mindful of the care Quakers traditionally take with setting down words. In this light we begin, carrying great respect for the spirit and process which originally produced the Guide. We approved a minute on population, acknowledging the minute as a first step in expressing our understanding of this topic. Friends will work over the coming year to express and expand on leadings about the connection between economic systems and population issues. We established a new Ecological Concerns Committee. We united with the spirit of minutes from monthly meetings regarding the death penalty and the ending of sanctions against Iraq. SAYMA at thirty is maturing as an organization. We established a personnel committee as a way to better address our responsibilities for staff and volunteers. We gratefully accepted the offer of a volunteer Friend to create a web site that will make information of many sorts more easily accessible. We agreed to hire a part-time employee to handle administrative tasks for our year round teen program, Southern Appalachian Young Friends (SAYF). Young Friends continue to be a priority for SAYMA. Fifty-four SAYF participants focused on the theme "Relationships and Diversity" in workshops, recreation, and meetings for worship and business. Sixteen Junior Yearly Meeting participants made candles and toy boats, worshiped together, and created an epistle of words and pictures. Eight Young Adult Friends bridged the gap among us and cheered us with their enthusiasm and humor. Richard Barnes from Pendle Hill instructed us in the range of beliefs among Friends which include "orthodox Christianity, universalist Christianity, and unitarian-universalist." He led us through a process of identifying our own beliefs and helped us to discern the unity within our diversity. Friends have a set of unique corporate spiritual practices for discerning divine guidance and Richard Barnes challenged us to use these practices to nurture "a unity of Spirit amid a welcome diversity of beliefs." In worship sharing we used queries including, "Can anyone be a Quaker?" and "Do we stand for anything?" to provide opportunities each morning for us to hear others and to be heard. In workshops we explored our Quaker history, current practice, and social action. We were challenged to listen as though for the first time to a panel of seven SAYMA Friends while they described the unique spiritual journeys that led them to be among us. We heard the many languages of faith, the richness and complexity of individual paths calling each of us to share our testimonies within meetings and to listen more deeply to others. We were blessed with a powerful sense of being gathered in the Spirit and sang our affirmation: "Dear Friends, dear Friends, let us tell you how we feel, you have given us such treasure, we love you so." Friends Approved the epistle. From the silence, Friends expressed how much this yearly meeting had given so much to all of us. From the silence, Friends sang: Dear Friends, Dear Friends, Let us tell you how we feel you have given us such treasures we love you so After further silence, Yearly Meeting came to a close. A brief time was taken prior to Meeting for Worship. ______________________________ ______________________________ Penelope Wright, Clerk Willard Vaughan, Recording Clerk