Minutes of the Nebraska Firearms Owners Association June 2010 Board Meeting
The meeting opened on Thursday June 3rd at 7am.

Topic: 1)  Approve May BoD Meeting Minutes

Dan W. made a motion to approve the May minutes as posted.  Chris Z. seconded the motion and with 8 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 2)  Any old business

Difficulties with logo sizing for baseball caps were discussed.  No motions were made and no action was taken.

Topic: 2a) Leadership Conference

Andy A. presented 3 options for the Leadership Conference.  Andy A. made the following motion: "Hold the Leadership Conference at the Hilton Garden Inn and set a budget of $1700 for this event.  The menus will be decided by the board outside of meeting (I will scan in the menu info and forward it to everyone to look over.).  Any possible overages on costs (hidden costs) can be discussed at later BoD meetings.  We will send out an update to our members to advertise this and we will also share the chance to attend with any gun club or other similar or friendly organization that may wish to attend.  All costs will be born by the NFOA, no cost to attendees."

Scott B. seconded the motion and with 7 Aye votes, the motion passed.
 
Topic: 2b)  Member Banquet
Dan W. reported:

We have several commitments:
Robert H - sound system
We also have the NRA range officers we need to allow the boy scouts to attend.
Mike M and Eagle1 are arranging the flag retirement ceremony.
we have a member scout master and his scouts volunteering to help out as we need them

We still need a caterer, need to develop a program of shooting events, need to plan the format of the members meeting, and need to determine a way to elect officers for the next term. More help is needed in most all aspects of the event.  Rich B. made some suggestions for the shooting events.  No motions were made an no action was taken.

Topic: 2c)  Omaha Action

Andy A. gave updates of James M.'s situation and possible action regarding Omaha's registration policy.  No motions were made and no action was taken.

Topic: 2d)  Lincoln Public Range

Jesse T. reported that there were no new developments. No motions were made and no action was taken.

Topic: 2e)  Education Committee

Andy A. had nothing new to report, but asked that a forum section for discussion of the topic be created.  Dan stated that he would create such a section.

Topic: 2f)  Election of BoD

Andy A. asked for volunteers to work together to write up the procedure for nominating and electing the new BoD in order vote on it next month.  A couple different ideas were discussed.  No motions were made and no action was taken.

Topic: 2g)  Federal tax-exempt status

Andy A. presented a couple different options regarding tax-exempt status designations.  Scott B. made a motion to file for 501C4 status.  Guy H. seconded the motion, it received no votes.  Scott B. amended his motion to: to approve the acquisition of federal tax exempt status without a final decision on the designation, then make that decision with more information from legal counsel. Guy H. seconded and with 8 Aye votes, the motion passed.

 

Topic: 3)  Treasurer's Report

Rich B. reported:

The beginning book cash balance on 05/01/10 was $5,846.50.
We had net deposits totaling $2,214.73.60, of which $45 were general donations/contributions.
Total expenditures were $1,676.99.  Check #1016 for $547.02 was made out to Chris Zeeb for James' M&P40.  Check #1017 for $1,000 was made out to James McCullough as partial remittance for funds collected on his behalf.  Check #1018 for $100 was made out to Chris Zeeb for James' NSP CHP fee.  There was a debit for $29.97 to 1and1.com for web hosting fees.
Check #1018 did not clear the bank.
The ending book cash balance on 05/31/10 was $6,384.24.

Topic: 3a)  Final report - Defender Fund

Rich B. reported:

Total funds collected on behalf of James McCullough totaled $2,169.73.
$1647.02 has already been disbursed.
$1,000 was an advance.  $547.02 was for a pistol.  $100 was for the CHP fee.
The remaining balance in the account is $522.71.
I have cut a check for that amount and it is in the mail to Andy.  Approval for the check was given in the May board meeting.

Topic: 4)  Membership Report

Dan W. reported:

20 new member sign-ups for the month.  Full report should be available next month.

2 Associate Member applications for approval:

Brian W. of Fountain CO and William G. of Winterport ME

Scott B. made a motion to approve both applications.  Guy H. seconded and with 8 Aye votes, the motion passed.

 

Topic: Motion to extend the BoD meeting

Dan W. made the motion at 8:34pm on Monday, June 7th to extend the board meeting to 10pm on Tuesday, June 8th as allowed by the bylaws requiring a 2/3 majority(6 votes) to pass.  Andy A. seconded and with 7 votes, the motion passed.

 

The June NFOA Board of Directors Meeting closed at 10pm on Tuesday, June 8th

Minutes of the Nebraska Firearms Owners Association May 2010 Board Meeting

The meeting opened on Thursday May 6th at 7am.


Topic: 1.) Approve April 2010 Meeting minutes
Dan W. moved to approve the April meeting minutes.  There was no second to the motion , though there were 6 aye votes.

Topic: 2.) Any old business.
Rick M. reminded all directors of our need to come up with a way to elect new directors this fall.  No action was taken.

Topic: 2a.) Leadership Conference
Andy A. reported that the date of July 17th has been set by Alan Gotlieb of CCRKBA, with the fee for the meeting room being the only projected outlay of funds for NFOA.  No action was taken.

Topic: 2b.) Member Banquet
There was discussion about possible involvement by a Boy Scout troupe for a flag ceremony.  No action was taken.

Topic: 2c.) Omaha action
Various ideas on possible action regarding Omaha's registration policy were discussed.  No action was taken.

Topic: 2d.) Lincoln public range
Jesse T. reported that the open house was a success with over 100 attending and only 3 or 4 against, with not much else new to report.  No action was taken.

Topic: 2e.) Education committee
Andy A. reported that the committee formation has begun with Chris Z. representing the board and members David A. and Wesley D. volunteering, and others in the works.  No action was taken.

Topic: 3.) Treasurers report
Rich B. reported:
The beginning book cash balance on 04/01/10 was $5,625.90.
We had net deposits totaling $220.60, all general donations/contributions.
There were no expenses incurred during the month.
The ending book cash balance on 04/30/10 was $5,846.50.

Topic: 4.) Membership report
Randy A. reported:
Membership Numbers April. 2010
State Resident Members    3995
Increase for month of         195
Youth Membership               25
Increase for month of            0
Non -Resident Members        11
Increase for month of            0

Membership Numbers May  2010
State Resident Members    4179
Increase for month of         184
Youth Membership               25
Increase for month of            0
Non -Resident Members        12
Increase for month of            1

Dan W. moved to allow Tom L. of Phoenix, AZ to register as a resident as he is moving to Nebraska at the end of May. Randy A. seconded the motion and with 7 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Rick M. moved to approve Christopher S. of Clarinda, IA as an Associate NFOA member.  Dan W. seconded and with 8 Aye votes, the motion passed.


Topic: 5.) Acceptance of Resignation from the BoD - Jay H.
Andy A. moved to accept the resignation request of Jay H.  Rick M. seconded the motion and with 6 votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 6.) Nominations to the open NFOA BoD seat
Dan W. nominated Guy H. of Alliance NE and gave a list of his qualifications and contributions to helping the NFOA.  No other candidates were nominated.  Scott B. seconded the nomination and with 8 Aye votes, the open seat is filled.

Topic: 7.) Acceptance of offer for Legal Advisor
A separate discussion area was created for Sean C. to discuss what help he can be to us before we decide to have a legal advisor.  Rick M. moved to table any action until next months meeting. Chris Z. seconded and the motion received 3 Aye votes.  No action taken.

Topic: 8.) Filing for federal tax-exempt status
Andy A. presented the differences between certain tax-exempt statuses.  After some discussion, no action was taken.

Topic: 9.) CCW class for Senators/Aides
Chris Z. explained that several Senators and their Aides have expressed interest in a CCW class.  Chris would be willing to donate his time and only ask that NFOA would cover any actual expenses incurred for the class totaling approximately $442.  Andy A. made a motion to approve the NFOA to cover up to $500 for a CCW class for NE Senators/Aides.  There was no second and no votes on the motion.  No action taken.

Topic: 10.) Logo use for patches - Member request
Getting the NFOA logo digitized in the proper size for hats, Scott B. selling NFOA shirts and use of the NFOA logo by others was discussed.  No action was taken.

Topic: 11.) Support for member-involved issue
Andy A. made a motion to approve payment of $500 to James M. from the "Defender" fund set up in his behalf. Chris Z. seconded the motion and it received 7 Aye votes and 2 nay votes. Dan W. moved to reconsider this motion.  This was seconded by Scott B. and passed with 6 Aye votes.  Chris Z. moved to approve payment of $1000 to James M. from the "Defender" fund.  Rick M. seconded the motion and with 5 Aye votes, 3 Nay votes and 1 abstention, the motion passed.

Rich B. made a motion for NFOA to pay Chris Zeeb $647.02 using the funds from the McCullough fund drive.  $547.02 will cover the cost of the S&W M&P 40 purchased from RL Moeller Sporting Arms (I am in possession of the receipt).  $100 will cover the Nebraska State Police CHP fee for James.  Andy A. seconded and with 7 Aye votes, the motion passes.

Scott B. made two motions that were withdrawn before any seconds or votes were made.

Andy A. made the following motion: The NFOA Defender fund ends on the 15th of May, and the Treasurer is to cut a check to James for any remaining balance as soon as he is able to determine funds have cleared, making it as soon as possible.  Any funds that may come in too late to be included with the accounting done to get this check out will be covered in the June BoD meeting (just to cover a very late check). Rick M. seconded and with 8 Aye votes, the motion passed.  Rich B. stated he would notify the board before the final check is issued.

 
The meeting closed on Monday May 10th at 10pm.

Minutes of the Nebraska Firearms Owners Association April 2010 Board Meeting
The meeting opened on Thursday April 8th at 7am.

Topic: 1.) Approve March Meeting minutes
Andy A. made a motion to accept the minutes as posted. Jesse T. seconded, and with 7 aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 2.) Any Old Business?
Dan W. inquired about NFOA stickers. Rick M. asked anyone to contact him if
they needed any stickers.

Topic: 2a.) Leadership Conference
Andy A. reported that he hoped to have some info within the next couple of
weeks on this from the CCRKBA.

Topic: 2b.) Member Banquet
Dan W. reported that we are in need of a new caterer, supplier for a tent, and the Flag Committee has not been in contact. Scott B. stated that he would try to work on these items at the Kearney gun show.

Topic: 2c.) Omaha Action
The resulting consequences of LB817 passing were discussed. Rick M. made the
motion that the NFOA craft an "informative" letter to LPD Chief of Police and OPD
Chief of Police, along with the respective City Councils, with copies sent to local
media, to kindly ask them to cease and desist any and all registration of
concealable firearms possessed by NE concealed handgun permit holders as will
be shortly required by state statute. Dan W. seconded, and with 5 aye votes the
motion passed.

Topic: 3.) Treasurer's Report
Rich B. reported:
The beginning book cash balance on 03/01/10 was $5,495.22.
We had net deposits totaling $222.01, including $40.89 from Cafe Press.
There was one expense of $91.33 to APIS Networks for hosting.
The ending book cash balance on 03/31/10 was $5,625.90.

Topic: 4.) Membership Report
Randy A. reported:
Membership Numbers March 2010
State Resident Members 3800
*Member Entry Duplications -25
Increase for month of 270
Youth Membership 25
Increase for month of 0
Non -Resident Members 11
Increase for month of 0

Membership Numbers April. 2010
State Resident Members 3995
Increase for month of 195
Youth Membership 25
Increase for month of 0
Non -Resident Members 11
Increase for month of 0
Randy A. made the motion to accept Steve B. of Council Bluffs, IA as an Associate Member. Rick M. seconded, and with 5 aye votes the motion passed.

Topic: 5.) Becoming Legislatively proactive
Various ideas were discussed in response to possible introduction of restrictive
legislation next session. Andy A. made a motion to create a standing committee;
this committee would include the NFOA President, one other board member and a
minimum of 2 members at large with no more than 5 members at large serving
at one time, with at least one having firearms instructor experience. This would
be the NFOA Education Committee its purpose is to develop and deliver
educational opportunities, find and apply for funding and grants, develop
partnerships with other organizations that can help make our educational goals
happen. This committee would report to the BOD and all activities would be
approved by the board. It would have a private area on the board that board
members and committee members would be the only ones to have access to to
carry out committee discussions. Scott B. seconded the motion and with 7 aye
votes, the motion passed.
Chris Z. volunteered to be the other board member on the committee.

Topic: 6.) Banner Exchange Request
A banner exchange request was received from the M14 Rifle Association at
http://www.m14ra.org/ . After some discussion regarding local versus out-of-state banners and concerns with clutter on the forum, Dan W. made the motion to decline the request. Andy A. seconded and with 7 aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 7.) Possibly holding an in-person BoD Meeting.
Those who responded liked the idea, with a place and date being discussed. No
motion was made and no action taken at this time.

Minutes of the Nebraska Firearms Owners Association March 2010 Board Meeting
The meeting opened on Thursday March 4th at 7am.

Topic: 1.) Approve Feb. Meeting minutes
Dan W. made the motion to accept the minutes. Although there was no second, all board
members voted Aye, with Jesse T. pointing out one typo that was then corrected.

Topic: 2.) Any Old Business
Randy A. stated that he had sent an email asking our three out of state prospective
associate members from last month their interest in NFOA. Range planning procedures
and designs were also discussed.

Topic: 2a.) Leadership conference
Andy A. reported on his work in organizing a leadership conference in association with
CCRKBA/SAF.

Topic: 2b.) Member banquet
Volunteers to plan a flag retirement ceremony along with catering and tent issues were
discussed.

Topic: 3.) Treasurer's Report
Rich B. reported:
The beginning book cash balance on 02/01/10 was $5,155.93.
We had net deposits totaling $724.48, including $615 in raffle income from Big Bucks.
Check # 1012 was paid to Andy Allen for reimbursement of chair and equipment rental for
Big Bucks in the amount of $124.12.
Check # 1013 was VOID.
Check # 1014 was paid to Professional Label Company for stickers n the amount of
$160.71.
Check # 1015 was paid to Rick Mangold for reimbursement of various postage and
marketing expenses in the amount of $100.36.
Check # 1009 from December payable to the Secretary of State cleared.
The ending book cash balance on 02/28/10 was $5,495.22.
NFOA tax filing requirements and status were also discussed.

Topic: 4.) Membership Report
Randy A. reported:
Membership Numbers Feb. 2010
State Resident Members 3555
Increase for month of 510
Youth Membership 25
Increase for month of 13
Non -Resident Members 11
Increase for month of 1
Membership Numbers March 2010
State Resident Members 3800
*See Below -25
Increase for month of 270
Youth Membership 25
Increase for month of 0
Non -Resident Members 11
Increase for month of 0
*Subtract 25 resident members for duplicate member applications, entry duplication.

Topic 5.) BOD terms - How to address upcoming end of first term
Rich B. described some issues with software and other details that would need to be
addressed for the next Treasurer. Rick M. stated his idea for the voting process. Andy A.
asked for volunteers for a committee to put together a draft action plan. There was no
response.

Topic 6.) Discuss action on City of Omaha/LB 430 preemption
Chris Z. made to motion for the NFOA to support, and for an initial approval of up to
$2000 for expenses related to, an effort addressing the Omaha handgun registration
requirement. Rick M. seconded, and with 7 Aye votes the motion passed.

The March 2010 NFOA Board Meeting was adjourned on Monday March 8th at
10pm.

Minutes of the Nebraska Firearms Owners Association February 2010 Board Meeting

The meeting opened on Thursday Feb. 4th at 7am.

Topic: 1.) Approve Jan Meeting minutes
Dan W. made the motion to modify agenda item #7. Rich B. seconded the motion and with 6 Aye votes, the motion passed. Andy A. made the motion to accept the minutes as modified. Jesse T. seconded the motion, and with 7 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 2.) Any Old Business
Rick M. asked to be reimbursed for a printing expense of $26.75. Andy noted that the fliers printed were initially printed for the Big Bucks Show and moved to increase the amount for printing/pens/office materials for Big Bucks to $26.75 (additional $16.75 beyond previously approved) to reimburse. Dan W. seconded the motion, and with 7 Aye votes, the motion passed. Chris Z. noted that the trademark application is in process.

Topic: 2a.) Report of Symposium Results
It was noted that although the turn out was not as good as wanted, it was a good event. Many good contacts were made, including a representative of Professional Label Co. of Omaha. The feed back from the organizers has been great, they loved our involvement and say that those who came to our break out room felt we had good information and presented it well. New Members signed up: 43, and Donations received: $220.00.

Topic: 2b.) Report of Big Bucks Raffle results
Andy A. reported:
We sold 123 Raffle tickets for $615.00 and had a $2.00 donation.
Other Big Bucks Info:
Cost of Booth: $200.00
Cost of Tables: $124.12
Banner: $24.73
Printing/Pens: $26.75
We signed up 345 new members and had a good time visiting with Senator Fulton
on Sunday.

Topic: 2c.) Member Banquet - update, items for assistance, activities ideas.
Items discussed were potential events for the shooting portion of the day, fundraising ideas, possible corporate sponsorship, speakers for the Banquet, and the need to create a way to elect new NFOA board members at the meeting. No motions made or action taken.

Topic: 2d.) CCRKBA Leadership Conference
Andy A. noted that progress is being made in getting this organized.

Topic: 3.) Treasurers Report
Rich B. reported:
The beginning book cash balance on 01/01/10 was $4,970.47
We had net deposits totaling $1,304.19
Check # 1011 was paid to the Secretary of State for Chris Zeeb's lobbyist fee of $15.00.
Chris' debit card was used to pay $503.73 for brochures to Print Direct For Less.
The ending book cash balance on 01/31/10 was $5,155.93.

Topic: 4.) Membership Report
Randy A. reported:
Membership Numbers Jan. 2010
State Resident Members 3045
Increase for month of 289
Youth Membership 12
Non -Resident Members 10
Membership Numbers Feb. 2010
State Resident Members 3555
Increase for month of 510
Youth Membership 25
Increase for month of 13
Non -Resident Members 11
Increase for month of 1
*Note new members not yet added from Recent Lincoln Show.
Randy A. made to motion to accept Gunscribe's wife Pamela as a non-resident
NFOA member. Rich B. seconded the motion, and with 8 Aye votes, the motion
passed.
Two non-resident applications from Iowa and one from Michigan were
laid over for approval until the March NFOA meeting.

Topic: 5.) Adding of events to the website
Rich B. made the motion to allow Bill Starkey at HPSP to create an events thread in our forum that will be tacked/stickied. We will provide a banner on the forum that links to that thread. It is understood that there is no planned direct compensation for this. Rick M. seconded the motion, and with 4 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 6.) Discuss the purchase of additional NFOA stickers
Rick M. reported:
This quote from Professional Label Co. is for a 3.25 dia white label with four color
process printing and laminate.
100=.49/ea
250=.33/ea
500=.28/ea
6" dia, same description as above
100=.79/ea
250=.62/ea
500=.51/ea
Andy A. made the motion to purchase 500 stickers From Pro Label at .28 each (plus appropriate tax ect.). Rich B. seconded, and the motion had 3 Aye votes. Scott B. moved to amend the motion to include twenty 6" stickers. This received no second and was withdrawn. Andy moved to amend his original motion as follows: to purchase 500 stickers From Pro Label at $.28 each, and 20 6 inch at $.51 each (plus appropriate tax ect.). Scott B. seconded this motion, and with 4 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 7) Discuss possible guidelines for future NFOA events.
Some ideas were discussed to better coordinate any events that may be organized by members other than Board Members and to ensure board approval of such items. No motions were made or action taken.
Rick M. announced his resignation as "Volunteer Coordinator" for the eastern portion of the state.


The February 2010 NFOA Board Meeting was adjourned on Monday Feb. 8th at 10pm.

Minutes of the Nebraska Firearms Owners Association January 2010 Board Meeting

The meeting opened on Thursday Jan. 7th at 7am.

Topic: 1.) Approve Dec. Meeting minutes
Andy A. moved to approve the minutes of the Dec. 2009 NFOA board meeting.
Scott B. seconded the motion and with 9 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 2.) Any Old Business
Dan W. brought up the topic of the proposed members event in the fall.
Scott B. made the motion to have the first, full fledged member meeting September 11th, 2010 at the Grand Island Rifle Club, with a rain date of Sept. 18th, 2010, with Dan W. being the coordinator.
Andy A. seconded the motion and with 9 Aye votes, the motion passed

Topic: 2a.) Any Old Business - Lobbyist Registration
It was reported that Chris Z. had completed his lobbyist registration, but that Randy A. Dan W. and Andy A. (as was approved by a motion at the Nov. meeting) had not.  After some discussion, it was agreed that only one board member was needed to be a registered lobbyist. No motions made or actions taken.

Topic: 2b.) Any Old Business - Sovereignty Symposium
There was discussion of the which board members could attend and participate at the Symposium. It was agreed that the participants would be Andy A., Dan W., Rick M., and Scott B.  No motions made or other action taken.

Topic: 3.) Treasurers Report
NFOA Treasurer Rich B. reported:
The beginning book cash balance on 12/1/09 was $2,334.70.
We had net deposits totaling $2,745.28
There was an expense of $53.87 for the plaque for Scott Barry.  The vendor was Awards Unlimited.  Chris Zeeb reimbursed NFOA $3.87 since the approved expense was $50.00.

Check #1008 was paid to Copy Cat Printing - Omaha in the amount of $55.64 for business cards.

Check #1009 was paid to the Secretary of State in the amount of $100.00 for trademark registration.

Check #1010 was paid to the Constitutional Conservative Alliance in the amount of $500 for the  National Sovereignty Symposium.

The ending book cash balance on 12/31/09 was $4,970.47.

Rich B. encouraged anyone that submits reimbursement requests to include receipts.  No motions made or action taken.


Topic: 4.) Membership Report
Randy A. reported:
Dec. 2009 Membership Report
State Resident Members - 2756
Increase of 230 members for the month.
Youth Membership - 12
Non-Resident Members -10

Membership Numbers Jan.-2010
State Resident Members  -3045*
Increase for month of      - 289
Youth Membership           - 12
Non -Resident Members    - 10

*I am behind on my data entry and these numbers include all member applications in hand.
No motions made or action taken.

Topic: 5.) Approve expenses for Big Buck Classic
Andy A. stated: "We have had expenses of $200 for booth registration
The cost for 2 tables (one 6'x30" 42" high and one 6'x18 36" high for raffle item) and 2 folding chairs $124.12  We will also need sign-up sheets, a raffle sponsor sign/banner and Raffle tickets."
Scott B. made the motion to approve $344.12 to cover all expenses for the Big Bucks Classic.  This motion received 2 aye votes and one nay vote.
Jesse T. made 2 motions to amend Scott B.'s original motion.  These received no second or other votes.
After discussion of additional costs,  Andy A. made the motion to amend the original motion to raise the logistics budget set by Scott, to allow for purchase of a non permanent sign displaying our item donor's information. New budget outlined below.
$200 registration, $124.12 chairs/table, $80 Logistics incl signage, paperwork, tickets, misc (tape,pens,etc), $404.12 total.
Jay H. seconded the motion and with 7 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 5b.) Discuss Raffle for Big Buck Classic
Different options were discussed for a raffle prize to be offered at the event.
Jay H. made the motion to accept the offer from R. L. Moeller Sporting Arms to donate a Remington Model 700 XHR to be raffled off at the Big Buck classic, and to use the following raffle rules as posted by Rick earlier (copied and pasted below). Raffle price will be $5 each.
Nebraska Firearms Owners Association Firearm Raffle - Rules & Regulations
1.Participants must be 18 years of age or older to purchase raffle tickets.
2.Raffle prize is ____________to be determined________________________________.
3.Odds of winning depend upon number of tickets sold; maximum number of tickets is 1000.
4.Nebraska Firearms Owners Association (NFOA) Board of Directors and immediate family members residing in the same household are not eligible to participate in this raffle.
5.Ticket price is $5 each.  Cash and checks (paid to the order of NFOA) will be accepted, credit cards will not.
6.Tickets will be available at the Nebraska Big Bucks Classic event on Jan. 29-31 2010 at the Omaha Qwest Center.
7.The random drawing will be held on January 31, 2010 at 3:00 P.M.
8.Winner does not need to be present at the drawing.
9.Ticket price is not allowable as a charitable contribution per IRS Sec 170.
10.Raffle tickets are nontransferable and non-refundable.  All ticket sales are final.
11.It is the winner's responsibility to arrange delivery from or pick-up of the firearm from the supplying dealer.
12.All federal and state firearms laws apply.
13.No cash prize will be available in exchange for the firearm.
14.Winner is responsible for any and all federal, state and local income or excise taxes, fees, assessments and like charges associated with the prize.
15.The firearm may be donated back to the NFOA.
16.Winner will be announced at the event, notified by phone if not present, and will be posted on the NFOA website (www.NebraskaFirearms.org).
17.Winner will have ninety (90) days from the drawing notification to claim the prize.  The claim entails taking possession of the firearm.  If the winner does not claim the prize within this period, it will become the property of the NFOA.
18.The winner agrees that his or her name and likeness may be used for publicity purposes.
19.Participation in the raffle constitutes entrant's full and unconditional agreement to and acceptance of these rules.  Winning the prize is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements detailed above.
Official rules and regulations will be displayed at the raffle location.

Andy A. seconded the motion and with 5 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 6.) Final Report for first Raffle
Scott B. reported that a total of 4000 raffle tickets were sold, along with 288 bonus tickets.  Cost of gun was $485.78, and postage expenses $16.45  Total money brought in was $4078, minus expenses we made $3,575.77.  Members were reminded to keep careful track of any expenses, especially receipts.
No motions made or other action taken.

Topic: 7.)  Shooting Range Committee
Dan W. made the motion: to create a committee , consisting of Jesse T. and Dan W., to facilitate the NFOA's participation in the development of  future firearms ranges  in Nebraska.
Andy A. seconded the motion and with 9 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 8.) Approve Brochure Expenses
Andy A. made the motion to approve the cost for 5000 brochures with folding and shipping: $463.73, and an extra $40 to expedite.  Rick M. seconded the motion and with 7 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 9.) Massad Ayoob class
Chris Z. relayed a communication from Cliff L. regarding a possible event with Massad Ayoob as the feature speaker/instructor in August 2010.  Chris Z. made the motion that NFOA support and advertise (on our website, and via email to the membership) this effort. Dan W. seconded the motion and with 8 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Topic: 10.) From the Grandstand
Andy A. posted the items requested for discussion from members:

-NFOA License plate:  Those who posted said that although it was a nice idea, it most likely could not get the amount of support to make it feasible at this time.
-NRA annual meeting in Phoenix on May 15th thru 17th:  It was agreed to not send a representative to this event.
-Lots and Lots of brochures:  5000 brochures were ordered and are in hand.  It was agreed to adjust the design and content as the situation warrants.
-Official agenda for 2010 (Suttle, and the other mayors in MAIG. How do we get them to drop out., Omaha's handgun registration policy, etc.): 

It was agreed that the main goal at this point was to push the Castle Doctrine bill, followed by other firearm related bills, the Omaha handgun registration requirement and MAIG.

-Limit who can see how many forum members etc.: Dan W. made a settings change requiring that users must log in to see the member stats, preventing guests from seeing the info center stats.

It was noted that the Board has many requests for the NFOA to take on various issues, but that without increased involvement from more of our 3000+ members(including those doing the requesting), those issues can not be addressed with the effort needed to accomplish those goals.

No motions were made or other action taken.

The January 2010 NFOA Board Meeting was adjourned on Monday Jan. 11th at 10pm

 Minutes of the December 2009 Board Meeting  Nebraska Firearms Owners Association
The meeting opened on Thursday December 3rd at 7am.

Topic: 1.)

Approve Nov Meeting minutes
Dan W. moved to approve the November 2009 meeting minutes with Scott B. seconding the motion.
Motion passed with 9 aye votes.

Topic: 2.)

Any Old Business
There was some discussion pertaining to business cards, invoices, the website and youth membership
issues. No motions were made.

Topic: 3.)

Treasurers Report
Rich B. reported: The beginning book cash balance on 11/1/09 was $2,306.34. We had net deposits totaling $38.54.
There was one expense for $10.18, paid to Domain Hosting Service for registration of the old URL.
The ending book cash balance on 11/30/09 was $2,334.70. There was discussion of changing the members authorized to sign NFOA checks, no motions were made.

Topic: 4.)

Membership Report

Nov. 2009 Membership Report
State Resident Members 2526
Increase of 548 members for the month.
Youth Membership 9
Non -Resident Members 8

Membership Numbers Dec. 2009
State Resident Members 2756
Increase for month of 230
Youth Membership 12
Increase for month of 3
Non -Resident Members 10

Increase for month of 2 (members were voted on last month)
(these figures do not include about 155 sign-ups from the last 2 gun shows in Fremont and Millard)

Topic: 5.)

Educational opportunities, firearms and firearm safety There was discussion about the following subjects:
Possible promotion of the Appleseed program. Help with instructional classes for women and the elderly.
Involvement with trap shooting, especially at the High School level. The Nebraska 4H Shooting Sports Program.
Involvement with a possible firearms training course in Eastern Nebraska.
No motions were made.

Topic: 6.)

Discuss media usage and costs vs. benefits
There was discussion of ways to advertise and create publicity for the NFOA using the media, includingclassified ads in local newspapers, press releases, and TV news stories.
No motions were made.

Topic: 7.)

Discuss Big Buck Classic participation
There was discussion of the raffle of a "deer hunting" rifle for the event, along with ideas of the possible donation of a rifle from local sources.
No motions were made.

Topic: 8.)

Annual NFOA Banquet
There was discussion of the possibility of a NFOA Banquet to be held in late summer in the Grand Island Rifle Club. Sponsors, catering, facility capacities, possible dates, and costs associated with the event were among the topics discussed. No motions were made.

Topic: 9.)

National Sovereignty Symposium There was discussion about the NFOA hosting a breakout room to discuss the Firearms Freedom Act and
Second Amendment/10th/14th issues, the idea of making a donation towards getting Judge Andrew Napolitano to the event as a speaker, and whether or not the event would further the goals of the NFOA. Andy A. made a motion to donate $500 from the raffle proceeds to the Constitutional Conservative Alliance to support the National Sovereignty Symposium. Rick M. seconded the motion, and with 6 ayevotes and 1 nay vote, the motion passed.

Topic: 10.)

Approve expenses for lobbyist registration. There was discussion of the requirement of lobbyists to re-register with the Unicameral at the cost of $15
each.Chris Z. made the motion for the NFOA to pay for lobbyist registrations for Andy A., Dan W., Randy A. and Chris Z. in the amount of $60. Scott B. seconded the motion and with 8 aye votes and none against,the motion passed.

The December 2009 NFOA Board Meeting closed at 10pm on Monday December 7th.

The NFOA November 2009 Board Meeting was called to order at 7a.m. November 5th.

- Nov. Board Meeting Agenda and Time-line -
The time-line for the meeting and agenda topics for discussion were listed.

Cathy F. posted that with the time constraints of her new employment position, she needed to resign from the Board of Directors as well as from the position of Secretary.

Agenda item #1 - Approve October Meeting minutes-

Dan W. made a motion to reject the minutes due to a motion being omitted from the minutes. A corrected version of the minutes were suggested by Chris Z. and a motion was made by Jesse T. to accept the minutes as corrected. AAllen seconded the motion and with 7 Aye votes and none against, the motion carried.

It was noted with Cathy F.'s recent resignation from the position of Secretary, that the new Secretary's term did not start until Nov. 30th.
Rick M. was nominated to fill-in for the remainder of the term by Randy A. and Jay H. seconded the nomination. 6 Aye votes were cast in favor and none against, along
with Rick M. volunteering to take over the remaining time of the term of Secretary.

Agenda item #2 - Treasurer's Report-

Rich B. stated:
The beginning book cash balance on 10/1/09 was $1,467.39
There were net deposits totaling $838.95 and included at least $445 from various donors at gun shows and $25.10 from Cafe Press. The ending book cash balance on 10/31/09 was $2,306.34.

Agenda item #3 - Membership Report -

Randy A. stated:
Nov. 2009 Membership Report - State Resident Members 2526
Increase of 548 members for the month. Youth Membership 9, Non -Resident Members 8. Randy A. mentioned that he had 125 member applications that had not yet been entered into the database and that those are not yet counted toward the official member numbers. There were 2 applications for 2 non-resident membership, both from Western Iowa. Dan W. made a motion to accept the 2 non-resident applications, with Randy A. seconding the motion. With 8 Aye votes and none against, the motion passed.

Agenda item #4 - Trademark of the NFOA logo and name -

After some discussion of the benefits of a trademark versus a copyright, Chris Z. made a motion to spend $100 for a Trademark with the State of Nebraska. AAllen seconded and with 8 Aye votes and none against, the motion passed.

Agenda item #5 - Vote on addition of Youth Membership Category -

This agenda item was carried over from the Oct. meeting per the by-laws.
AAllen moved to amend the by-laws by adding the following wording:
“Youth Members” are anyone who is a resident of Nebraska and not of age to be registered to vote in Nebraska. Upon attaining 18 years of age and registering to vote, a Youth Member may be converted to General Member status by making his/her eligibility for General Membership known to a board member. Youth Members have no vote on issues regarding the operation of the NFOA Corporation.
Jay H. seconded the motion and all 9 members voted Aye to pass the motion to amend the by-laws.

Agenda item #6 - Results posted of Election of Officers -

Rick M. moved to accept the results of the Oct. elections as follows:
(Effective Nov. 30th 2009 through Nov. 30th 2010)
President- Andy Allen
Vice President- Dan Walz
Treasurer- Rich Ballas
Secretary- Rick Mangold
AAllen seconded the motion and with 8 Aye votes and none against, the motion passed.

Agenda item #7 - Proposal from Rich Wiese to have a new webmaster -

There was discussion of the improved looks of the website and forum made possible by Dan W., and the possible addition of paid ads in the future. As the board had not received a proposal at the time of the meeting, Rick M. made the motion that the subject be tabled until a later, to be determined, date.
Motion was seconded by Chris Z. With 7 Aye votes and none against, the motion passed.

Agenda item #8 - Vote on expenditure for a plaque to recognize Scott Barry for his membership -

Rich B. made a motion for the Board to authorize and expense of roughly $50 to purchase a plaque to recognize Scott Barry as our top recruiter of 2009. AAllen seconded, and the motion received 2 Aye votes.
After more discussion, Jesse T. moved to close the original motion, and move to create an NFOA Firearm Rights Champion Award.
"This award will be recognized with a plaque showing the honoree's name. The award expenditure per year will be $50.00 or less. This award recipient will be chosen yearly in the November (anniversary of NFOA's inception) Board meeting, and awarded/announced at the same time as the new officers/board members. This award recipient will be a regular NFOA member who has demonstrated an exemplary effort in championing firearms rights, through above average time and energy donation to advancing the cause of the NFOA."

Chris Z. seconded this motion and with all 9 members voting Aye, the motion passed.

AAllen made the motion to make Scott Barry the first annual recipient of the NFOA Firearm Rights Champion Award.

Rick M. seconded the motion and with 8 Aye votes and none against, the motion passed.

Agenda item #9 - Vote on expenditure for NFOA Business cards -

4 quotes were presented as follows:
From "The Printer" in Lincoln:
1000 - $95
2000 - $150
3000 - $200
I would put these on #100 Hammermill cover. It is whiter and stiffer than Cougar.

From Copycat Printing in Grand Island:
Quantity 1000, price $115.75
Quantity 2000, price $174.75
Quantity 3000, price $222.75
80# CVR Cougar white, full color.

From CopyCat printing in Omaha:
1000: $52.00
2000: $87.00
3000: $ 122.00
(plus tax)
These would be raised printing with black and red ink on #100 stock
.
From Kinkos in Lincoln:
250 $29.99 $0.12
500 $39.99 $0.08
1000 $49.99 $0.05
2500 $69.99 $0.03
Add 10$ to each for 100# paper

Rick M. made the motion to purchase an initial quantity of 1000 business cards from the Omaha CopyCat printer for the price of $52 plus tax. AAllen seconded and with 9 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Agenda item #10 - Board of Directors Membership -

Chris Z. suggested a continuation of discussion from the Oct. meeting per Rick M.'s request.

Dan W. made a motion to move the discussion to executive session. AAllen seconded the motion and it received 2 Aye votes and 1 Nay vote, thus the motion did not pass.

Rick M. stated that due to Cathy's announcement of resigning from the Board in the above mentioned Board Meeting Agenda and Timeline section, he made the motion to nominate Scott Barry as her replacement for the remainder of her term as NFOA Board Member. Chris Z. seconded the motion and with 6 Aye votes and none against,
the motion passed.

Agenda item #11 - Old Business, Positions - Public Relations, and Legal Council - Update status -

AAllen made a motion to "form a committee of members with experience in public relations and or press coverage to assist and advise the board to create positive press coverage for our activities and positions." Dan W. seconded the motion and with 9 Aye votes, the motion passed.

Rick M. also suggested "an email be sent to the membership announcing that we are looking for such individuals, and also for anyone that could help with the website and other related issues."

Agenda item #12 Addressing ways in which we could make the board meetings more open to members -

Many items were discussed including executive sessions, making the meetings  viewable to the membership during meetings, and the listing of individual votes on all motions. There was no consensus and no motions made.

Agenda item: Blade forums?

Rich B. made a post stating concern about the new "Blade" section of the forums as well as the number of sections on the forum. After some discussion with support for the new section, no action was taken.

The NFOA November 2009 Board meeting adjourned at 10p.m. on Monday Nov. 9th.

The October 2009 NFOA Board Meeting was called to order on October 1 at 7:00 a.m.

Agenda Item # 1 - Election of Officers for next year - Nominations were Andy Allen for President, Dan Walz for Vice-President, Rich Ballas for Treasurer, and Rick Mangold for Secretary. 
Eight members voted, all votes were Aye.  Officers elected as nominated.

Agenda Item # 2 - Treasurers report - The beginning balance on 9/1/09 was $1,100.10.  Check #1006 was cut to Anderson Signs for $160.50 for banners.  Check #1007 was cut to Kim Severyn for $14.00 for copy/printing reimbursement.  Total donations deposited were $541.79.  The ending balance on 9/30/09 was $1,467.39.  Another $475 in donations are still being logged in.

Agenda Item # 3 - Membership report - Since the last meeting, the member count has increased to 1,978 Resident Members and 8 Non-Resident Members.  No new non-resident applications have been received.  Over two hundred more new applications are still to be entered.

Agenda Item # 4 - Create a Youth Membership category - AAllen moved to amend the bylaws as follows:
"Youth Members” are anyone who is a resident of Nebraska and not of age to be registered to vote in Nebraska. Youth Members have no vote on issues regarding the operation of the NFOA Corporation.
Rick M. suggested adding:
Upon attaining 18 years of age and registering to vote, a Youth Member may be converted to General Member status by making his/her eligibility for General Membership known to a board member.
A. Allen amended his motion:
“Youth Members” are anyone who is a resident of Nebraska and not of age to be registered to vote in Nebraska. Upon attaining 18 years of age and registering to vote, a Youth Member may be converted to General Member status by making his/her eligibility for General Membership known to a board member. Youth Members have no vote on issues regarding the operation of the NFOA Corporation.  Rick M. seconded. 
Eight members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed, but since bylaw modification requires nine votes to take effect immediately, this item will need to be addressed in the November board meeting.

Agenda Item # 5 - Citizens Committee for the Right To Keep and Bear Arms - AAllen moved that NFOA request to become an affiliate of the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms. Rick M. seconded. 
Eight members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 6 - Public Relations and Legal Counsel - AAllen posted that he saw a need for voluteer positions addressing Public Relations and Legal Counsel. Rich B said tax questions should be directed to an accountant, CPA, or Enrolled Agent.  Jay recommended asking the general membership for suggestions on who to contact. Rich B. moved that the matter be carried over to the next meeting to allow for further research. AAllen and Jay seconded.
Seven members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 7 - Advertising ideas - Rick M. received a suggestion from Rich Wiese to advertise in NebraskaLand magazine.  Rich B said a vote was needed on a business card design. AAllen liked the idea of advertising in NebraskaLand, and said the business cards should have blank space for writing. AAllen moved that NFOA have two boxes of business cards printed with blank backs that he would pay for, using the first submitted design. Chris Z wanted to send the business card design file to a printer he uses for a quote before ordering anything. Rich B moved to use the third submitted design with a blank reverse as the official card. Rick M. seconded.
Seven members voted, all votes were Aye. Business card motion passed.
Chris Z recommended not pursuing NebraskaLand magazine for cost reasons. Four other members agreed.

Agenda Item # 8 - Volunteer Coordinators - Chris Z said Rich Wiese suggested NFOA appoint two Volunteer Coordinators to cover both ends of the state, but that Rich did not want to be one of them. Scott Barry is currently performing that function for Western NE, and Rick M is doing it for Eastern NE. 
Rick M. volunteered to formally take on that role and said that Scott Barry agreed to do the same. Dan W moved to confirm Scott Barry as the official Volunteer Coordinator for
Central/Western Nebraska.  Rick M seconded.  Jay moved to confirm Rick M. as the official Volunteer Coordinator for Eastern Nebraska.  Dan seconded. 
Eight members voted, all votes were Aye. Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 9 - Board of Directors Membership - Rick M. stated that it had become apparent that the time and effort needed to be a NFOA Board Member was more than some members may have anticipated, or have found the ability to devote. He asked that any board member that has discovered that they are unable to fulfill their duties as a board member should step down. Replacement officers were elected in Agenda Item # 1. Transferring the forum ownership, web hosting, domain name, and payment for all of these items to NFOA was also mentioned. Rick M made a motion to remove Cathy F from the Board, the motion did not receive a second, and therefore failed.

The meeting was adjourned on October 5 at 10:00 p.m.

The September NFOA Board Meeting was called to order on September 3 at 7:00 a.m.

Agenda Item # 1 - Should we purchase another banner or two - Chris Z moved that NFOA should purchase two more banners, one to be kept in Omaha, one in Lincoln, and one in central Nebraska. AAllen seconded. Jesse T said the new banners should not exceed the cost of the first.  Eight members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 2 - Need to establish Legislative Priority List for 2010 - Suggestions included Castle Doctrine, Uniform No-CCW Signeage law, Protective Responsibility Law for posted businesses, 10th amendment resolution, recognition of CCW permit for purchases, allowing owners and employees of "prohibited places" to legally carry concealed, and the ability to "opt-out" of being a prohibited place.

Agenda Item # 3 - Discuss election of new officers for NFOA for next year - Chris Z asked for any board members who want to run for offices or officers who wanted to run for reelection to say so.  He reiterated he does not want another term as president. FarmerRick suggested anyone wanting to run for office to write up a summary of why they want to run and what they would accomplish if elected.

Agenda Item # 4 - Discuss/Approve printing bill for Columbus gun show - Kim Severyn submitted a printing bill for 200 flyers for the Columbus gun show at $0.07 each, total $14.00, for reimbursement.  Chris Z moved that the expense be approved and reimbursement issued. AAllen seconded. Eight members voted, all votes were Aye. Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 5 - Any non-resident member applications to discuss - No out-of-state membership requests were received.

Agenda Item # 6 - Treasurer's Report - Beginning balance on 8/1/09 was $1,170.35. Check #1005 was cut to Action Signs for $80.25 for 100 NFOA stickers. Deposit of donations totaled $10.00.  Ending balance on 8/31/09 was $1,100.10. Chris Z said about $500 in additional donations had been received and deposited but not yet logged.

Agenda Item # 7 - Membership coordinator report - As of September 4, NFOA had 1,293 Resident Members and 8 Non-Resident Members. Several hundred more new members have not yet been added to the official spreadsheet.

Agenda Item # 8 - Discuss raffle gun for gun show - Rich B said the Mosin Nagant previously offered for raffle never came through, but now NFOA has the funds to raffle something better.  He said Scott Barry suggested a GSG-5 or one of the Colt or S&W .22LR AR clones.  A handgun would be problematic if the winner's age was 18, 19, or 20.  He said the raffle could be for winner's choice between two different firearms, and he had a dealer in mind to procure the firearm and handle the transfer.  Depending on ticket prices, he said that a DPMS Sportical AR-15 might work. If the tickets were less expensive, a Ruger 10/22 or Rock Island Armory 1911 could be raffled. For pistols in the GSG-5 price range, a Glock 17 or 19, or a Springfield GI 1911 are other choices.  Rich B thought $5 tickets would be reasonable for a 22-AR, GSG-5, Glock, or Springfield 1911. Possibly one for $5, three for $13, five for $20. He suggested board members list their choices for firearms to raffle. Cathy1911 asked what the budget was for procuring the firearm. FarmerRick said the anticipated ticket sales would figure into the budget.  Dan W asked if board members would be eligible to win. FarmerRick said it would look better if board members were not eligible. Chris Z suggested that a statewide raffle be conducted rather than focusing effort on only one gun show. FarmerRick moved that NFOA begin a raffle at the Hastings gun show this October, to be given away at the Spring Hastings gun show next March, with tickets being sold at both gun shows, with the winner to receive a firearm with the approximate value of $500. Make and model to be finalized during the October 2009 Board of Directors meeting. Chris Z said to carry the motion over to the next meeting.

Agenda Item # 9 - Volunteer Coordinators - Dan W asked if Chris Z had heard from Rich Weise or Scott Barry about whether they agreed to become Volunteer Coordinators.  Chris Z said Rich was not sure, and he hadn't had a chance to talk to Scott.

Agenda Item # 10 - "Under 18 years of age" member category - FarmerRick brought up a forum thread started by AAllen:
http://www.nebraskafirepower.com/forum/index.php?topic=1096.0
He described the need for NFOA to recognize youth in Nebraska who will be the gun owners and voters of the future. Randy said a youth section could be set up in the forums as well.  Chris Z said adding under-18 members would likely require amending the bylaws again. FarmerRick, AAllen, and Randy all felt the subject should be tabled for more discussion later.

The meeting was adjourned on September 7 at 10:00 p.m.

The August NFOA Board Meeting was called to order on August 6 at 7:00 a.m.

Agenda Item # 1 - Discuss and vote on out-of-state member requests - Chris Z submitted three new out-of-state membership requests. He stated that while out of state members were not what he envisioned when he drafted the bylaws, but since all others had been accepted he recommended accepting these.  AAllen said there is no harm in accepting them, and Gunscribe should be recognized for all his firearms advocacy work.  Cathy1911 moved to accept the three requests.  FarmerRick seconded.  Nine members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motiom passed.

Agenda Item # 2 - Any proposals for communication with NFOA members who do not have email - AAllen said he feels phone calls are too much like telemarketing and suggested a downloadable and printable newsletter on the website.  He suggested considering doing two snail-mailings a year.  Jesse T felt even two mailings would be too expensive since there are no dues.  Cathy1911 submitted some figures on mailing costs and said keeping printed flyers up to date during the legislative session would be difficult.  FarmerRick suggested a general "news" flyer that could be handed out at gun shows in the fall.  No motions made, no action taken.

Agenda Item # 3 - Do we want NFOA to be represented at the Gun Rights Policy Conference in St Louis - The 24th annual Gun Rights Policy Conference (GRPC) will be taking place September 25, 26, and 27, 2009 at the Airport Renaissance in St. Louis, Missouri.  AAllen said he was planning to attend, but an NFOA table might be more than the organization could manage. Chris Z was considering going pending workload.

Agenda Item # 4 - Updates on the Picnic, details to wrap up, number of rsvp's, etc. - Jay said he had few RSVP's even though many people indicated verbally and in the forums that they would attend.  He was going to post a reminder on the forum.  FarmerRick recommended a reminder e-mail to all members.  FarmerRick said he had confirmation from both Sen. Scott Price and from Sen. Scott Lautenbaugh that they would be attending.

Agenda Item # 5 - Cabela's open house table scheduling - Scott (LitlRat) and Rich Wiese (Huskergun) were scheduled to attend on Saturday, with Dan Walz and Chris Zeeb on Sunday. Scott Barry had requested to have the banner sent out to the machine gun shoot in Kearney the weekend before Cabela's.  Cathy1911 said she had a position at the shoot and could bring the banner.  Rich B was going to cover the table at Kearney.

Agenda Item # 6 - Discussion on getting more NFOA stickers - Chris Z asked if more stickers should be ordered.  FarmerRick said he e-mailed Anderson Signs to ask if the quoted price of 50 for $1.85 each included a UV-protective coating and suggested getting at least 100.  Dan W moved to purchase 100 stickers with UV laminate.  FarmerRick seconded.  Nine members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 7 - Discuss having a Volunteer Coordinator to make sure events are staffed - Chris Z said member Rich Wiese (huskergun) had suggested NFOA name someone as Volunteer Coordinator.  Dan W said Rich would be a good choice, but could probably not cover the whole state.  Jay suggested having two Volunteer Coordinators, Rich Wiese for eastern Nebraska and Scott Barry for western.  Chris Z said the bylaws do not address this situation and said they should not need to be amended every month.  He said he could appoint the two coordinators.  Rich B moved that the state be divided at US183 into eastern and western halves with a Volunteer Coordinator responsible for each half.  AAllen said it did not require a motion and voting.  Consensus was to act accordingly, subject to Rich's and Scott's agreement.

Agenda Item # 8 - Future Leadership of NFOA - Chris Z submitted that by November a new President be named for NFOA. He presented two options:
1) Someone on the Board takes over as the President, Chris steps aside and continues to be a member of the Board of Directors.
2) The Board be expanded by two, one of them a completely new person as the President to keep an odd number of board members.
Jay said the association was large enough to justify increasing the board by two.  AAllen pointed out that all board member positions are up for election in November anyway.  He said the term should be two years instead of one for better continuity.  He then moved that two members be added to the board with terms to start November 30.  Randy preferred to keep the board at nine members to reduce bureaucracy.  Chris Z said he would still be a lobbyist and stay on as a board member if not as president.  Cathy1911 and Rich B agreed that nine board members were enough.  AAllen withdrew his motion.  Chris Z said he would remain president for the rest of his term.

Agenda Item # 9 - Bylaws change Board of Directors Term - AAllen moved as follows:
ARTICLE VI Section 2:
TERM. Directors will serve a term of 2 years, beginning on November 30th *of the even numbered years*. Initial Board of Directors will be voted in by the initial members of the NFOA, with the initial term beginning at the formation of the corporation through November 30, 2010.
He felt this would allow any added directors to also have a two year term and provide stability
to the board with there always being some carryover leadership.  Dan W asked if all terms would be two years even if the result of mid-term resignation or removal.  Jay felt that would become too complicated and that new directors should serve the remaining term of the people they replace.  AAllen said the current bylaws allow only fulfilling the remainder of the term.  He then withdrew his motion.

Agenda Item # 10 - Treasurer's Report - Beginning balance on 7/1/09 was $947.54. Check #1003 was cut to Anderson Signs for $80.00 for the banner. Check #1004 was cut to Anderson Signs for $5.60 for sales tax that was not included on the banner invoice. Donations deposited were $308.41 including $234 from Four Rivers Sportsman's Club of Hastings. Ending balance on 7/31/09 was $1,170.35.

The meeting was adjourned on August 10 at 10:00 p.m.

The July NFOA Board Meeting was called to order on July 8 at 7:00 a.m.

Agenda Item # 1 - August 30 Picnic in Columbus - Chris Z asked if the event should be finalized.  Consensus was in favor of an event with no alcohol comsumption allowed.  Dan W reiterated that Country Shadows had less than 50% of their income from alcohol, so open/concealed carry was permitted.  Jay moved to proceed with having an open carry picnic on Aug. 30th at the Columbus Golf course.  Dan W seconded.  Eight members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 2 - Communication with Members who do not have email - Chris Z asked for suggestions on how to communicate with members who do not submit an e-mail address.  Randy offered divided phone calling assignments, or a paper newsletter.  Rich B declined to support either option due to costs involved.  Jesse T suggested paper mailings on a limited basis to only those members without e-mail.  Chris Z said he did not want to waste money on mailing newsletters.  He said if somebody wanted to use phone calls he would not object, but he would not be making any calls himself.  Dan W supported keeping NFOA an online-only endeavor.  Randy said he was willing to make calls, pointing out that there is no reason for someone to join if they never receive any information from the organization.  Jay said that members know when they join that NFOA communication will be via internet.  He felt if members wanted to do proactive calling it would have to be without reimbursement for phone expenses.  Cathy1911 pointed out that several people she talked to used the internet and said they would use the NFOA website but just declined to provide their e-mail addresses.  Rich B felt phone calls could be considered an annoyance.  Randy felt the by-laws should be amended to define how communication is achieved, and that keeping all members informed is a high priority.  If a member provides a phone number, they are tacitly accepting that they may be called.  He pointed out that one version of the NFOA flyer has the following verbiage:
May we contact you by phone:
No
Yes - Phone Number:
Note: If you select "No" we will use your email address to contact you.
Cathy1911 indicated the version of the flyer she had lacked that verbiage and suggested the flyers be consistent.  AAllen agreed, and felt a mailed notices should go out for important issues and special events only.  Randy felt a single notice should go out once the year's bills have been introduced in the legislature.  Dan W and Randy favored a postcard to save money.  Rich B pointed out giving out phone numbers for informational calling may violate the statement that NFOA will never release member information.  Randy pointed out that regular members will need to become more involved as the organization grows.  Jay thought introduction of new legislation and the membership vote on our stance on said legislation, date and location of annual NFOA fall banquet, voting on NFOA board positions, and date
and location of any other NFOA events would justify mailings.  Randy felt using the website or forums for informing members and having them vote on issues and directions would be satisfactory.  Jay felt the forums were better because they allowed for discussion.  FarmerRick moved that no action be taken at this time.  Chris Z seconded.  Five members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 3 - Cafe Press Shirts and Items - Chris Z asked if promoting the Cafe Press merchandise should proceed.  All members posting agreed the merchandise they have bought or seen is very good.  FarmerRick moved to post links to the CafePress.com NFOA store on the
front page of the NFOA website, and anywhere else the Board members feel it would be helpful and appropriate.  Dan W seconded.  Eight members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 4 - Completion of NFOA By-laws revisions - Randy submitted the following as needing revision:
ARTICLE V
Section 1. Meetings
c. Member communications will be sent electronically via our website and email.
and
ARTICLE IX
Website
a. The website of the NFOA shall be set up and maintained by volunteer members of the NFOA.
b. However the website contents, membership email lists and domain name shall remain the sole property of the NFOA Corporation.
c. Any funds spent by member volunteers towards building or maintaining the website shall be considered a donation to the NFOA.
Rich B submitted the following as needing revision:
Article 7, Section 1, line 2 - Why is the membership coordinator an officer??
Article 8, Section 2, line 2 - There should be no exceptions to expenses being approved.
Dan W said he could not support so many changes, based on the Board needing to approve expenses and feeling the Membership Coordinator should not be an officer.  Randy felt the role of Membership Coordinator needed to be specifically defined:
ARTICLE VII OFFICERS Section 3. DUTIES OF OFFICERS (proposal)
e. MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR: The membership coordinator shall have the responsibility of keeping the member roster up to date and reporting to the Board of Directors.
Randy also stated reimbursement needed additional clarification:
Section 2. PAYMENT OF EXPENSES.
a. All payment of expenses will be recorded on a reimbursement request and must be paid by a NFOA corporation check.
Exception being as to emergency supply individual items (example membership fliers printing expenses.)
As presently written:
b. All expenses must be approved by a majority vote of the Board of Directors prior to the expense being incurred.
He suggested all of the bylaws be reviewed and updated.  Dan W said there were bylaw changes previously submitted by Randy in http://www.nebraskafirepower.com/forum/index.php?topic=884.0 still pending.  He moved to amend the bylaws as follows:
Section 4. BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS. The Board of Directors will hold meetings in an online format on an as needed basis. Meeting times will be set no sooner later than 7 days prior to the meeting. Meetings may be scheduled in advance. All Directors must be notified of all meetings of the Board at least 7 days prior to the meetings start time. Online meetings will be held for the duration of 5 days, unless except upon a two-thirds majority vote of the Directors to suspend the rules and close the meeting early, upon completing completion of all business on the agenda, or a two-thirds majority votes to extend the meeting to complete important tasks. Occasionally Board meetings may be held in person. Meetings held in person must be set and Directors notified at least 30 days prior to the meeting date. Special meetings may be conducted without the 7 day prior notice, and suspending the 5 day duration upon a unanimous two-thirds majority vote by the Board.
He said all Directors were notified of this proposed change via email on June 6, 2009. According to the current by-laws , this motion can be voted on during this meeting and requires a 2/3's majority to carry.
Randy stated there were more amendments than that currently under discussion.  AAllen seconded Dan W's motion.  Eight members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 4b - Bylaws Change - Associate Membership -  AAllen sumitted the following:
ARTICLE IV
Membership
Section 1. NFOA shall have three (3) types of members. “General Members” are anyone who is a resident of Nebraska, a firearms owner, and registered to vote in Nebraska. General Members who no longer meet any of these criteria automatically forfeit their membership. “Associate members” will include those members which are not residents of Nebraska, however have made great efforts to promote an interest in supporting our cause. Associate membership is contingent upon receiving a majority vote of the Board of Directors. Associate Members have no vote on issues regarding the operation of the NFOA Corporation. "Benefactor Members" are those General or Associate members that have decided to support the NFOA by voluntary paid membership. Current levels of Benefactor membership are: level 1- $10, level 2- $20, level 3- $30, level 4 - $40, level 5- $50 Benefactors may renew their membership or upgrade their level at their discretion.
Dan W seconded.  Nine members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 5 - Out of state Member Request - Chris Z submitted a membership request from Paul Jantzen, a former Nebraska resident currently living in Las Vegas and planning to move back in 2010. Jay wasin favor of approval, but said modifying the bylaws forst was necessary. Randy moved to approve if the bylaws were first amended.  The relevant Section 4 bylaw change was approved unanimously, so Dan W moved to accept the two pending out of state memberships.  FarmerRick seconded.  Eight members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 6 - Banner design - Dan W linked images of the latest banner design.  Cathy1911 moved that the design as linked be accepted.  Jay seconded.  Nine members voted, all votes were Aye until FarmerRick noticed a discrepancy between the linked image and the most recent design sent by Anderson Signs.  No board members had any issue with either design.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 7 - Treasurer's Report - Rich B submitted the Treasurer's Report.  Starting balance on 6/1/09 was $809.27. Check #1002 was cut to Richard Mangold for $14.98 as a reimbursement for printing expenses. Deposits of donations amounted to $153.25.  Ending balance on 6/30/09 was $947.54.  Randy asked who is keeping track of Benefactor donations.  Dan W said the Google Checkout account keeps track of them, and that they should be recognized in their profiles without disclosing personal information. Jay pointed out not all Benefactors donate through Google Checkout.  Randy said the membership roster will list Benefactors.  RichB said he also has to track them for bookkeeping purposes. Dan W created a Benefactor forum group, added three members, and asked for other eligible names to be e-mailed to him.  FarmerRick asked how Benefactors are thanked.  Rich B said he sent a hand-written note to one individual.

Agenda Item # 8 - Quick membership recruitment update - FarmerRick announced LitlRat had signed up 86 new members at the Albion gun show.

Sales Tax - Rich B submitted information to clarify how sales tax must be charged for merchandise.

The meeting adjourned at midnight on Monday, July 13.

The June NFOA Board Meeting was called to order on June 3 at 7:00 a.m.

Board members were asked to check in on the Meeting Timeline thread and make their presence known.  Members checking in as Present were Chris Z, Jesse T, FarmerRick, Cathy1911, AAllen, Rich B, Dan W, and Jay.

Agenda Item # 1 - Any expenses that need to be approved for the June picnic?  Jay felt there was insufficient time left in June to organize and advertise a picnic.  FarmerRick recommended the NFOA Event thread in the forum be updated.  Jay updated the thread and FarmerRick concluded that we should instead plan an event further out.  No motion, no vote.

Agenda Item # 2 - Approve flyer printing expense for Rick M? FarmerRick had more flyers printed, adding $14.98 to the $19.32 he had already submitted for reimbursement, totalling $34.30. Dan W moved to reimburse FarmerRick a total of $34.30. Rich B seconded subject to the treasurer receiving the receipts. Dan W amended his motion accordingly. Jay seconded the amended motion. Seven members voted, all votes were Aye. Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 3 - Approve purchasing NFOA banners? Discuss bids/quality of banners. Rich B submitted quotes from Curtis Sign as follows:
Banners are heavy duty vinyl with grommets and d-rings at each corner so you can tie them off.
3x6 $205
3x8 $230
4x8 $285
Decals are a minimum of 125 but they are cheap enough to make it worth it.
3x3 1.37 each
4x4 1.46 each
Jay had approximate quotes from Action Signs of $150 for a 3'X8' banner, $129.50 for a 3'X6', and around $200 for a 4'X8'. FarmerRick had a quote from Anderson Signs for around $80 for a heavy vinyl 6'x3' banner, UV protected, and about $130-140 for a 8'x4'. Chris Z moved to purchase a 3'x6' banner from Anderson Signs. Dan W seconded. Six members voted, all votes were Aye. Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 4 - Membership Report (also approve out of state member request). Per Randy, membership currently stands at 789. Jay moved to approve the Utah resident who was discussed in May for Associate Membership. AAllen felt this person was ineligible under the bylaws and moved to table the matter until the bylaws could be changed. The first motion was not seconded and died. Cathy1911 seconded AAllen's motion to table. Six members voted, all votes were Aye. Motion to table passed.

Agenda Item # 5 - Treasurers report. Chris Z reported the balance as of May 1 was $809.47. Check #1001 was cut to FarmerRick for $19.32 as a reimbursement for
printing expenses. Donations totaling $19.12 were received. Ending balance on May 31 was $809.27.

Agenda Item # 6 - Discussion of proper procedures/rules of order for changing a policy. Chris Z stated policies should only be changed during board meetings, and that the bylaws be based on Roberts Rules of Order. Dan W pointed out that Roberts Rules are based on live face-to-face meetings and cannot strictly apply to online discussions. Randy suggested forming a focus group to study possible rule and bylaw revisions. Chris Z stated Roberts Rules are not a good fit for meetings conducted in an online forum and suggested over-analysis of rules for conducting meetings is counterproductive. Dan W moved to create a Rules Committee, but then withdrew the motion. Chris Z said he doubted whether a Rules Committee was necessary or desirable, and felt that simplifying the rules would help more. FarmerRick suggested a thread in the Board section of the Forum to discuss rule ideas and proposals.

Agenda Item # 7 - Set dates for the remaining Board Meetings online for 2009. Chris Z stated that the Board Meeting every month would begin at 7:00 am on the first Thursday of the month and end on the following Monday evening at 10:00 pm. FarmerRick suggested amending the bylaws to allow a meeting to be extended by a 2/3 majority vote of the board. Dan W moved to make the following proposed changes to the bylaws:
Section 4. BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS. The Board of Directors will hold meetings in an online format on an as needed basis. Meeting times will be set no later than 7 days prior to the meeting. Meetings may be scheduled in advance. All Directors must be notified of all meetings of the Board at least 7 days prior to the meetings start time. Online meetings will be held for the duration of 5 days, except upon a two-thirds majority vote of the Directors to suspend the rules and close the meeting early upon completing completion of all business on the agenda, or a two-thirds majority votes to extend the meeting to complete important tasks. Occasionally Board meetings may be held in person. Meetings held in person must be set and Directors notified at least 30 days prior to the meeting date. Special meetings may be conducted without the 7 day prior notice, and suspending the 5 day duration upon a two-thirds majority vote by the Board.
AAllen seconded. Five members voted, all votes were Aye. Dan W said the vote could not be uninimous since some board members were absent, so it would need to be voted on again at the July meeting.

Agenda Item # 8 - Adopt Rules for Classified Forums. Current rules posted on the Classified forum are as follows:

Nebraska residents must list their City, or Ne area in the subject/title of the post.
Those outside of Nebraska must list their state in the subject/title of the post.
2. All "For Sale" items must contain a price. No auctions. "Or Best Offer" is permitted.
3. All ads should be placed in appropriate forums.
4. You must have both your site PM/IM and e-mail turned on to sell here. (ask if help is needed)
5. No links to auction sites.
6. No links to other commercial sites unless permission has been granted by the NFOA.
7. Absolutely no trashing/critiquing other peoples' merchandise. Do not make any comments that could negatively impact the sale of someone else’s product. This can result in your account being locked.
8. Do not post anything illegal. Do not engage in any illegal transactions.
Know the law before you list the product and complete a sale. NE Handgun Firearm Purchase Permit Required for any handgun ownership exchange.
Get the permit number drivers license signitures and receipt copies.
9. Once your item is sold or traded, mark item as Sold or Funds Pending. NFOA only will delete Posting of Sold items.
10. Do not misrepresent replica parts or cheap knockoffs as if they are Name Brand/OEM equipment! Do not knowingly sell defective products without acknowledging the defect. You must handle your transactions in a timely fashion.
Please be aware that Nebraska Firearm Owners Association in no way assumes any responsibility or liability in any firearm, ammunition and/or accessory transaction conducted through these classifieds. Buyer Beware! If you feel any member is not abiding by the rules, please contact Nebraska Firearms Owner Association privately. Thank you.

The rules had been posted without a vote of the board. Rich B pointed out that the following rules had been discussed by the board through e-mail:

1. Nebraska residents must list their county in the subject/title of the post.
Those outside of Nebraska must list their state in the subject/title of the post.
2. All "For Sale" items must contain a price. No auctions. "Or Best Offer" is permitted.
3. All ads should be placed in one appropriate forum.
4. You must have both your site PM/IM and e-mail turned on to sell here.
5. No links to auction sites .
6. No links to other commercial sites unless permission has been granted by the NFOA.
7. Absolutely no trashing/critiquing other peoples' merchandise. Do not make any comments that could negatively impact the sale of someone else’s product. This can result in your account being locked.
8. Do not post anything illegal. Do not engage in any illegal transactions. Know the law before you list the product and complete a sale.
9. Once your item is sold or traded, do not delete the original title, ad text, or asking price. Leaving the ad in place after a sale is protection for both the buyer and seller, and also acts as a price reference for others.
10. Do not misrepresent replica parts or cheap knockoffs as if they are Name Brand/OEM equipment! Do not knowingly sell defective products without acknowledging the defect. You must handle your transactions in a timely
fashion.
Please be aware that Nebraska Firearm Owners Association in no way assumes any responsibility or liability in any firearm, ammunition and/or accessory transaction conducted through these classifieds. Buyer Beware! If you feel any member is not abiding by the rules, please contact Nebraska Firearm Owners Association privately. Thank you.

Jay moved to adopt the following ruled for the Classified forum:

The classified ads section of our forums is here as a service to our members. Please feel free to use them, but when doing so we ask that you follow the rules below. If you cannot follow these simple rules, please do not post in the classifieds section of the forum. If you have any questions, or feel that someone is not following the rules, please contact any of the NFOA board members privately. Thank you.
1) Nebraska residents must list their city, or the city closest to them in their ad title. If you are in Western Nebraska and looking for a FTF transaction, no need to waste the time of someone in Eastern Nebraska. Out of state members must list their state in the ad.
2) All "For Sale" items must contain a price. No auctions or "Best Offer" sales are permitted. Items with a price and "or best offer" are fine.
3) Double check to make sure you have posted your ad in the appropriate section.
4) You must list your contact information in your ad.
5) No links to auction sites or other commercial sites without permission from the NFOA.
6) Absolutely no trashing/critiquing other peoples' merchandise. Do not make any comments that could negatively impact the sale of someone else’s product. If you think an item is priced too high, don't buy it, or contact the
seller privately with your offer. Also, do not hijack someone's ad by posting in it a similar item you have for sale. Failure to abide by these rules can result in your account being locked.
7) Do not post anything illegal. Do not engage in any illegal transactions. Know the law before you list the product and/or complete a sale. If you are unsure as to the legality of any transaction, or what the proper process is to legally complete a sale, ask first.
8 ) Once your item is sold or traded, mark item as "Sold" or "Sold Pending Funds" in your ad title. Do not delete your ad. Your ad will be locked by a moderator to preserve the content of the ad for both parties of the sale. Unless the moderator is notified of any problems with the sale, your ad may be deleted 30 days after it is marked Sold.
9) No scammers! Do not misrepresent your merchandise. Do not knowingly sell defective products without  acknowledging the defect. You must handle your transactions in a timely fashion. Report any suspected scams to the NFOA Board of Directors immediately via private e-mail.
Please be aware that the Nebraska Firearms Owners Association in no way assumes any responsibility or liability in any firearm, ammunition and/or accessory transaction conducted through these classifieds. Buyer Beware!
Again, if you feel any member is not abiding by the rules, please contact the Nebraska Firearms Owners Association privately. Thank you.

Dan W seconded. Seven members voted, all votes were Aye. Motion passed. FarmerRick wanted to know if specific board members should be appointed to moderate the Classified forum. Concensus was that moderation has worked well to date without appointed moderators.

Agenda Item # 9 - Discuss the need and vote on moving the forums to a new domain. Jesse T felt moving the forums from nebraskafirepower.com to nebraskafirearms.org would look better and be less confusing.  Cathy1911 pointed out that trying to split the nebraskafirearms.org domain between different hosts could be difficult and dangerous to the data. Jay wondered if the non-forum site could be moved to nebraskafirepower.com's host and then have everything renamed. Dan W moved to indefinitely postpone moving the forums. Jay seconded. Seven members voted, all votes were Aye. Motion passed.

Agenda Item # 10 - Guns on College Campuses. Chris Z pointed out that new legislation this session more clearly defined colleges and universities as "schools" and makes carrying on campus a felony. He wanted to know how to present to legislators that this is not a good situation. Concensus was to obtain more legal advice before deciding on a strategy.

Dan W moved to adjourn at 10:09 pm on June 7. Cathy1911 seconded. Six members voted, all votes were Aye.  Meeting was adjourned at 10:09 pm.

Below are the meeting minutes of the December 2008 NFOA Board of Directors on-line meeting. This was the first such meeting of the NFOA Board.

The meeting was called to order on December 8 online at 7:00 a.m., to run through December 12 at 10:00 p.m.

Agenda Item #1 Update on NFOA finances, what we have, what we need to spend/do - Permanent web address - Register trade names

Chris Z reported the current account balance is about $425.  He estimated the following expenses were necessary:

$100 for get the website.
$200 to register the trade names.
$30 to register as Lobbyists with the Unicameral.
Approximately $50 to purchase checks for the organization.

Rich B offered to donate the cost of ordering checks.

Chris Z moved to spend the first three line items above.  Richard M seconded.  Six members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Dan W pointed out that there may be additional public notice publishing fee associated with the approved expenses.  Chris Z said he would pay that out of pocket.

Agenda Item #2 Finalize NFOA logo

Dan W reported that Logo #11 at http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa61/LJUnaTIC/NFOAredSTATE-3.jpg?t=1228800697 won the voting.  Chris Z moved that the logo be accepted as presented.  Cathy F seconded.

Jesse T suggested different colored rings to denote roles in the organization. Richard M suggested asking on ARFCOM for graphics assistance.  Rich B and Randy A agreed, and Richard M posted the request for help at http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=1&f=75&t=799720.

There was discussion about how to change the forum banner in Joomla.  Concensus was the current file would have to be replaced via FTP.

Randy A moved that Dan W's original design be approved for now.  Jay seconded.  Five members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #3 Vote on accepting non-resident members that have applied for membership.

Chris Z reported three non-Nebraska residents have applied for membership so far.

Rich B and Jay suggested Associate membership status.  Nebraska residence would be required for voting, per bylaws.

Dan W moved to accept the three non-resident applicants as non-voting members.  Richard M seconded.  Six members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #4 Changes to the NFOA forum?

Rich B recommended the following:

Remove the three forums in "Caliber Guide." That discussion can remain in the General Ammo section.
Remove the "Help!" section. Isn't the entire purpose of the forum to help each other?
Remove all child boards from the rifle, handgun, and shotgun sections.
Remove the carry issues and NFA sections. The NFA section at Arfcom is fairly slow, I doubt it will be very busy here. Carry issues can go in handgun or
general firearm sections.
Remove Optics, Ammo, and "Everything Else Firearm Related" For Sale sections, roll them into Parts and Accessories.
Remove information arsenal. Anything THAT good should be stickied/tacked in the appropriate forum.
Add child forums to the NFOA section for each BoD meeting, labeled by date.
Lock them for archive purposes. The final post should be the minutes.

Jay's response:

Remove the three forums in "Caliber Guide." That discussion can remain in the General Ammo section. Fine by me, although I kind of like the idea of having
them, especially if we could grow them into something useful. I'm somewhat neutral.
Remove the "Help!" section. Isn't the entire purpose of the forum to help each other? I see your point and have no problem with that. My only thought to the contrary was that my intentions for adding a seperate board was to specifically encourage people to ask questions. I know it can be intimidating for a newbie to ask a question when surrounded by a bunch of people who seem to know what they are talking about. No one wants to risk looking like an idiot. Maybe it's not really a problem. It's not a huge issue to me one way or the other.
Remove all child boards from the rifle, handgun, and shotgun sections. Not a bad idea at this point. We can always divide them up again down the road if the board grows.
Remove the carry issues and NFA sections. The NFA section at Arfcom is fairly slow, I doubt it will be very busy here. Carry issues can go in handgun or
general firearm sections. I agree that they may be slow, especially NFA, but personally I like having these boards and don't see them as cluttering things up
too much. Many people don't think about, or even know about NFA. I like putting it out there so people can investigate.
Remove Optics, Ammo, and "Everything Else Firearm Related" For Sale sections, roll them into Parts and Accessories. Fine by me, but I don't mind having them here, either. Again, we could always add them again if this board ever takes off.
Remove information arsenal. Anything THAT good should be stickied/tacked in the appropriate forum. I really like the information arsenal.
Add child forums to the NFOA section for each BoD meeting, labeled by date.
Lock them for archive purposes. The final post should be the minutes. Good idea.

Jay reported some members are still experiencing technical problems with the forums.

Ricard M suggested waiting before reorganizing the forums, since so many members are new.  Randy A suggested a Hunter's area.

Chris Z moved to table reorganizing the forums for a month or two.  Jay seconded.  Six members voted, four Ayes and two Nays.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #5 Any volunteers to maintain the membership list?

Chris Z asked for volunteers to manage the NFOA membership list.

Jay and Randy A volunteered to manage memberships.

Jay moved that memberships be handled as follows:

Jay will receive notifications when a new member registers. He will forward notifications to Randy for entry into the spreadsheet that Chris has started. Jay will also forward any registration forms containing comments or questions to Chris, and Chris will be the one to address any comments or questions. Jay will save all member registrations, and Randy and Jay will periodically cross check their lists to make sure all member registrations have been accounted for. Any board member that would like to view the current membership list can contact Randy at any time, and Randy will forward the current list at his earliest convenience. Also, any Board Member that would like to also receive a notification every time a new member registers can request to be added, however only Jay will forward names on to Randy (and Chris when necessary), and Chris will be the only one to address comments and questions.

Rich B seconded.  Seven members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #6 Wish list of legislation to approach Senators with.

Suggestions received included:

A consistent signage law similar to Texas 30-06.
Reciprocity.
Preemption.
Castle doctrine.
Safe/lockbox tax credit.
Reducing the list of prohibited placed defined by statute.
Eliminating handgun registration in Omaha.
Absent preemption, encouraging people in prohibited cities to work toward eliminating local restrictions with NFOA supporting their efforts.
Change to the firearm purchase permit law to include a valid CHP as equivalent to a purchase permit.

Chris Z moved to compile the list of ideas submitted and put the list out to the membership for a vote, in addition to allowing the members to add other items they feel are important. The list can then be prioritized order of importance based on the votes.

Jay seconded.  Six members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #7 Banking Security/Passwords (Rich)

Chris Z moved to amend the bylaws to add the following section under "Article VIII"

Section 3 Banking Passwords and Account Access

Upon a change in Board members who have access to the banking information, all passwords must be changed, and if that board member was a signer on the account, they must be removed, with the replacement Board member being added.

Richard M seconded.  Six members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #8 Merchandise/Sales Taxes

Chris Z moved that the issue of selling merchandise be tabled until more information can be obtained.

Jesse T seconded.  Six members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #9 Possible Fund Raisers

Suggested fund raising efforts were:

Putting on general shooting events.
Offering firearms training.
Putting on tournaments.
Raffling off donations from Nebraska companies such as Hornady, Cabela's, or Cylinder & Slide.
Raffling off a gun purchased with NFOA funds.
Having a banquet and raffle.

Richard M moved that the matter be tabled until the next board meeting.

Jay seconded.  Five members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #10 how do members become involved (public meetings, posted minutes, etc...)

Suggestions were:

Meeting minutes distribution.
Annual general membership meetings.
Electing president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer every even year, and five other positions elected every odd year.
Meet-and-greet events.
Open-carry sponsored events.
Monthly newsletter.

Rich B moved to have a quarterly newsletter, to start with March 2009.

Richard M seconded.  Five members voted, two Ayes and three Nays.  Motion failed.

Agenda Item #11 Who will be designated "voice of NFOA"? Should we keep forwarding all members inquiries to Chris to respond to? (general procedures)

General concensus was that the president should be the public voice of the organization.  Dan W suggested that a membership director position be created to shift that responsibility off the president.

Jay moved that all official communications from NFOA, including questions from members, come from the NFOA President until such time as a PR position is created.

Chris Z seconded. 

Rich B moved that all official communications from NFOA, including questions from members, come from the NFOA President, his designee, or a designee of the majority of the Board of Directors until such time as a PR position is created.

Jay withdrew his motion and replaced it with a motion that all official communications from NFOA, including questions from members, come from the NFOA President, his designee, or in case of the President's absence or incapacity, a designee of the majority of the Board of Directors until such time as a PR position is created.

Dan W and AAllen seconded Jay's motion.  Four members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #12 Methods of advertising on a small budget

Suggestions were handing out flyers at gun shows, matches, gun dealers.  Buying inexpensive advertising on small-town radio stations.  Approaching the Crash Davis show on KFAB to do a segment.

Nothing to vote on.

Agenda Item #13 Should we as an organization contact all members of the unicam and ask their position on 2A (might be a good way to get some of them to join)

Rich B suggested developing a questionnaire that could be sent to all Unicameral members.

Jay moved to put together a questionnaire with input from the board and general membership, to be received by a specific date.  He will then draft the questionnaire and forward copies to all board members to comment on, with the President then making final changes and approving final draft. The President will then draft a letter and questionnaires will be sent to Senators.

Chris Z seconded.  Seven members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #14 possibility of forming committees using all volunteering members (mentoring, community involvement, advertising, legislative watchdogs, organizational events, etc...) Obviously more for down the road as we grow, but might as well have some sort of vision

Jay pointed out that membership ranks may need to grow before this is possible.

Chris Z moved that the topic be tabled.

Jay seconded.  Six members voted, all votes were Aye.  Motion passed.

Agenda Item #15 Donations accepted on website via credit card
Agenda Item #16 Tracking of Donations

These two agenda items were combined into a single thread.

Rich B suggested Google Checkout and Merchant Inc. as possible alternatives for anti-gun PayPal.  Tracking would be a function inherent in appropriate accounting software.

Chris Z moved that a Google Checkout account be set up to see how it fits the organization's needs.

Dan W seconded.  Seven members voted, all votes were Aye.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m. on December 12, with later responses accepted from AAllen due to time zone issues.