Venue:                                    James Allen Center, NWU, Evanston, IL

Members present:                   Rabin Pradhan, Sharda Thapa, Surendra Nepali, Rajeev Dahal, Birendra Suwal, Sailesh Kasaju, Abha Bhattarai, Rajesh Sangraula, David Seaman, Suman Shrestha, Subodh Upreti, Bishnu Phuyal, & Sanjay Shrestha

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Meeting began by Rabin welcoming everbody.  Fourteen members convened for the Chicagoland Nepali Pariwar’s third executive committee meeting, Feb. 27, 2005.  He also introduced our newest member, Abha Bhattarai, who will serve as our Editor.

The following issues were discussed:

1. Tsunami Fundraising – wrap-up & comments

CNP raised over $2,000 for UNICEF’s Tsunami Fund.  The check has already been sent, and receipts will be sent to CNP.  CNP will distribute the receipts to contributors who may need them for tax deductions.  Since the check was sent out in January, tsunami contributions can be deducted from 2004 taxes.

2. CNP Tax-deductible / Tax exempt filing

A formal vote decided that CNP would apply for 501-C standing (which includes a $500 application fee).  Raeev Dahal and Sharda Thapa are looking into filing state forms with the IRS within the next couple of months.

Additionally, there was discussion about opening an official P.O. Box for CNP mailings.

In September 2005, an annual report is to be submitted to the Secretary of State – 1 page form stating we are still functioning with names of current Execs.  Forms will be mailed to Rabin by the State two months prior.

Rajeev Dahal has proposed few changes in CNP’s by-laws.

3. PayPal online payment option

CNP will be opening a PayPal account so members can buy tickets online for future events.  Once the account is up, those interested can pay for tickets using credit card or check. The payment system should be up and ready within the next two weeks.

4. Website development Update

Subodh Upreti and Rabin Pradhan will be revamping the CNP website – Angela Khanal will assist with graphic design.  Other possible features discussed were: a youth corner – lead by Mohini Ghale, a section for Nepali entrepreneurs, and a directory of members’ professions and skills with information about member availability to help with Nepali issues. An email will be sent out to all members in this regards, and the database will be managed by Subodh Upreti.

5. Finance/Accounting Update

There was some discussion about implementing CNP membership fees and life membership fees.  The idea of offering discounts to those who attend Nepali functions was raised, but no decision was reached.

Suman Shrestha will centralize/finalize CNP’s financials and accounting.  He has agreed to take lead on membership drive. 

6. Potential online advertisement revenues

The concept of offering advertisement and banner space on the CNP website was discussed.  Rates and terms of use will be discussed and confirmed in future meetings.

Rajeev Dahal will inquire on the tax-implications on such sources of revenue by Mid-March – NFP issue. 

7. Nepali New Year Celebrations and Cultural Awareness Program

      April 16, St. Andrews Greek Church, Chicago, IL 60660

      Tickets: $35 adults/$25 children (at the door: $40/$30)

The logistics of the celebrations are still being worked out.  Among other things, David Seaman will be finalizing a menu and caterer within the next week or so.

The deadline for local businesses, families and sponsors to buy advertising space for the party’s brochure will be at the end of March.  Sailesh Kasaju will take the lead on selling ad spaces. 

Entertainment options and activities for kids are being finalized.

Since there will not be an ANMA meeting in Chicago this year, the party will be a good opportunity for the Midwest’s Nepali community to get together and have a good time.  ANMA will be notified by March 12^th. 

Artists’ cost is not defined – some “reasonable” fee will be given: $1500 or 25% of net revenue – whichever is greater - provided net is $1500 or higher.  CNP will manage sales of CD sales, and will keep a % of it.

CNP will run the cash bar – we are looking for volunteers and/or bartenders. 

8. CNP Internships

            Those interested interning for CNP have two options:

1.      Working with Chicago attorneys to help issue visas to Nepal when this service is available.

2.      Working on the website -    Anybody interested in helping with periodical website updates should contact Mr. Upreti.  CNP will offer certain intangible benefits to interns – details to be announced in the next meeting.