2026 4 9 Minutes FCSC

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I. Welcome 
SISTER CITIES PROGRAM 
MINUTES 
MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 
Thursday, April 9, 2026 
11:00am - City Hall 
a. Roll Call: 
i. Present: Betty Ruleman, Randy Dowling, Anna Barrios, Larry Eaton, Becky 
Simpson, Joe Barnett and Lindsey Ferguson 
ii. Absent: Austin Fesmire 
II. Approval of Minutes 
a. Motion was made by Joe Barnett, seconded by Randy Dowling, for the approval of 
the March 19, 2026 minutes . 
Motion carried 
Ill. New Business 
a. Planning for 2026 Chinzei Gakuin Visit - The Board discussed funding a day at 
Dollywood and would need approximately $1500 for the visit at the last meeting. 
Donations will be sought by Larry to fund the event to be held on July 19th . The City 
Hall visit will be on Wednesday, July 22nd from lOam-lpm and then lunch would be 
provided from 1-2pm (sandwiches and chips). The Asian Culture Lecture series will 
host a Japanese traditional dance at the Museum on July 15th . Sponsors for a pizza 
dinner night will be sought by Joe, but no date has been set yet. 
b. Lecture Series from the Asian Culture Center - The sushi making class is scheduled for April 
30th at the McMinn County Senior Center, with Betty, Lindsey and possibly Joe volunteering. 
The bento box class is scheduled for May 18th at The Food Hub, with Lindsey, Randy, Simon 
and possibly Joe volunteering. The Japanese traditional dance is scheduled for July 15 at the 
McMinn County Heritage Museum, volunteers needed. The Japanese Tea Ceremony is 
scheduled for October 6th at the Event Space at White Street Market, volunteers needed. 
c. Board Member Vacancies - Lindsey informed the Board that she has attempted to contact 
Donna Ballew at Mayfield for the Industry vacancy but has not heard back from her yet. The 
Main Street Director position has not been filled yet, so the Main Street Director position will 
remain vacant until the Main Street Board fills their position. 
d. New Business - Larry informed the Board that he was given notice that Japanese officials will