Green Bay Sister City Minutes

Minutes: September 22, 2009

Attendance: Scott Matejov, City of Green Bay; Chief Jeff Roemer, City of Green Bay Fire Department; Gema Garcia, NWTC; Michael Frohna, Bellin Foundation; Darryl Buck, Green Bay Public Schools; Jami Harrington, City of Green Bay; Kelly Holtmeier, NWTC, Fred Monique, Advance; Becky McKee, Neville Museum Foundation

Excused: Chief Jim Arts, Green Bay Police Department; Fernando Campos, Casa Guanajuato; Francisco Henriquez, HCC; Brad Toll, Visitor’s and Convention Bureau;

Recording Secretary: Kristin Phillip

Kristin Phillip welcomed the group to the Chamber of Commerce offices. After introductions, Kristin briefed the group on the following.

Irapuato Highlights

Kristin passed out a summary of the highlights of the Irapuato Delegation from July 15-25. Highlights include the areas of Education, Business, Arts, Health and Government that the delegation made while in Green Bay.

2010 International Convention Bid

Kristin explained that after the visit from Irapuato the Greater Green Bay Sister City Committee met to discuss whether to continue its’ bid for the 2010 International Convention. After a lengthy and long discussion the committee decided to withdraw their bid. Reasons include the need and desire to work aggressively with Irapuato on their needs and the lack of a person(s) to lead the conference planning. By using the upcoming year to raise funds, develop a strong committee and hire a designated person, perhaps a future bid would be possible.

Communication Information Sheet

Kristin showed the group a communication piece that she hopes to use to make sure that the committee stays informed and up to date with happenings with Irapuato. She will check with the person who is working on the website to see how this form can be used on the website. All those involved with Sister Cities can use this form for updates and view what is currently taking place.

Brainstorming/Recap

*Discussed possible art and student exchanges either with Bellin College and UWGB and NWTC. Michael Frohna from Bellin Foundation and Kelly Holtmeier with NWTC would be involved with this. Becky McKee from the Neville would like to see art exchanges with Irapuato and artists in residence programs. Kristin will talk with Dr. Muhl and see if there is already a program in place and how Irapuato can fit in.

*The Boys and Girls Club of Green Bay have already done an exchange with Irapuato. They would like to invite youth to come to Green Bay during the summer months.

*A business delegation was scheduled to visit Green Bay but was cancelled. Fred M. will keep us posted if they choose to reschedule.

There is a need to follow up with the Police with their visit from April.

Chief Roemer has already donated items to their Fire Department and is waiting for the shipment to make it through customs.

*Michael Frohna said that Bellin Health may have medical supplies that they can donate.

*It was suggested that members of the committee find speaking engagements/presentations that they could give to area groups to gain community support and possible funds for future projects.

*Individuals that should be contacted to be kept in the loop: Dr. Diaz, Deacon Luis (St. Willebrod’s) Dr. Muhl, Rotary, Dan Carlson, Dr. Riquelme, Dr. Bacelis (retired MD from Bolivia) St. Norbert College, Yia Thao

*Future visits to Irapuato once funds and purpose are determined.

Next Meeting will possibly in early November.

Next Meeting: TBD