April 7, 2026, Board Meeting
7:00 p.m.–8:15 p.m.
Meeting ID: 827 7085 4827
Passcode: 310601
A quorum is a minimum of five voting members present.
Attendees: David Harris, Geri Spieler, Miera Rao, Vanessa MacLaren-Wray, Tice Swackhamer, Tim Flood, Alisha Willis, Sue Barizon, Jenny Raver, Nirmy Kang, Megan McDonald, Margaret Nalbach, Carole Bumpus, Colleen Olle
1) Tim made a motion to approve the March meeting minutes. Approved.
2) Vanessa reported that we still do not have a new managing editor for Fault Zone. If we do not find an editor by the end of May, we will not have a Fault Zone for the coming year. The board discussed ways to publicize this opportunity beyond our regular meetings and agreed that the new editor will have flexibility in how to create the anthology.
3) David and the board discussed the state’s options to increase dues for CWC membership. While the board supported Option 1, a $65 fee for new and returning members, board members expressed concern about eliminating the half-year membership option. Tice presented an example of a prorated approach. The board agreed that David will cast his vote at the state board meeting for Option 1. The board also supported the state’s two-month renewal period. Concerned about weakening support of and membership in the CWC branches, the board reluctantly supported the state’s proposal of having an option for statewide membership. David said he would email Roger Lubeck, president of the California Writers Club, and Jordan Bernal, the vice president, the board’s decisions and attach a document showing our branch’s proposed prorated approach.
4) Carole gave an update on our branch’s book fair to be held on Sunday, May 17. Authors will pay twenty dollars to participate. This fee will cover the cost of renting the Sequoia Yacht Club, snacks, and possibly publicity. The board discussed ways to publicize the event and dates for another book fair in the fall.
5) Tim and Nirmy talked about nominations for next year’s board positions. As of today, we have candidates for three of four elected positions. Elections will be held in June.
6) Geri presented an enthusiastic update on the NorCal Conference “Building Better Branches” to be held on April 26 at Zio Fraedo’s restaurant in Pleasant Hill from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. She asked for suggestions on items to display on a table at the conference.
7) Sue briefed the board on the Louise Bogges award to be presented at the general meeting in April.
8) Since Vibha Akkaraju was absent, there was no treasurer’s report.
9) Nirmy and Jenny talked about upcoming speakers for our general meetings and for a workshop in late summer or early autumn.
10) David noted that he will not be attending the board meeting and the general meeting in May. Nirmy and Vibha will talk with others on how to cover these two meetings.
Meeting adjourned at 8:22 pm
Colleen Olle (Secretary): Notes taken on April 7, 2026