Political Affairs Committee
Meeting Notes
June 7, 2007


Opening Remarks:
Chair Matt Giacalone called the meeting to order at 10:05 a.m and welcomed the committee to their second meeting.  He thanked everyone for attending Legislative Day and the Capitol Reception which was a huge success!2007 Fundrasing Update:
Chair Giacalone reported that we had collected $57,806 RAF contributions at the June meeting.  We had 12 new Golden Rs and 4 New Sterling Rs.  We have collected for a year-to-date total of $4.2 million.  He indicated that at this time last year, we were at $5 million. Matt indicated that the numbers are lower, but we still have an opportunity to changethis around between now and the end of the year.  Matt reminded the committee that C.A.R. has a Northern and Southern Member Mobilization Field staffers who are available to assist in any way possible.Motion:  It was moved, seconded and CARRIEDthat a recommendation to PAF for $127,500 to create a fall fundraising campaign to assist both C.A.R. and the locals in their RAF contributions.2007 Local Association Incentive Program –Bobbie Nelson
To help raise awareness among local association staff regarding the importance of our members’ contributions to RAF, C.A.R. has created a Local Staff Incentive Program. The program will reward local association staff who encourages their members to become actively involved in the RAF. Even though RAF is a voluntary contribution, it is critical that we educate the local staff about the importance of a members’ RAF contribution so they, in turn, encourage members to pay at the least the minimum of $49. Corona-Norco Presentation on their CNAR Jeweled RAF Membership Program:
In an effort to encourage members to become actively involved, CNAR offers a special membership  to local REALTORS® who choose to stay apprised of the political climate surrounding REALTORS® andhome buyers, which consists of their membership to the Legislative Liaison Program and participation in the REALTOR® Action Fund (RAF). With every level of membership C.A.R. offers a membership to the Legislative Liaison Program which keeps our members abreast of all pertinent legislation introduced in the California State Legislature.
CNAR ENTRY LEVEL MEMBER This is CNAR’s basic membership plan. Members committing to this level are required to pay the Local CNAR dues, which includes thedues for both C.A.R. and NAR. These members will enjoy all of the membership benefits offered by CNAR, C.A.R and NAR, and will receive a NAR membership card.
CNAR RAF MEMBER This plan includes the benefits provided by an entry-level membership, plusa C.A.R. RAF contribution in the amount of $49.00. Additionally, members will also receive a one-time 15% discount on all store purchases at the CNAR Store, as well as receive a standing invitation to Member Mixers hosted by CNAR.
CNAR RUBY MEMBER This level of membership also includes the entry-level membership benefits, as well as a C.A.R. RAF contribution in the amount $197.00, and qualifies the member to attend the Capitol Reception following Legislative Day in Sacramento during June of that sameyear. In addition, Ruby Members will receive 5 complimentary training classes annually, a 10% store discount, and a chance to win an all expenses paid trip to C.A.R.’s Legislative Day that is held in Sacramento, CA.
CNAR EMERALD MEMBER-This plan includes the entry-level membership, and a minimum of a $498.00 RAF contribution, which includes the CAR Sterling” R” status. Additionally, with each successful closing submitted to CNAR, CNAR will send, or prepare for the member to send, acomplimentary letter for the member’s client indicating their involvement and continued assistance in homeownership protection. Members will also receive benefits provided by a CNAR Ruby Membership. Furthermore, an Emerald Membership affords the member an opportunity to become more involved in the political process by committing to be an Office Liaison for CNAR and C.A.R. Finally, this membership requires a commitment from the member to attend at least 3 Member Mixers annually, and in exchange, CNAR will include the member in at least one press release annually.
CNAR DIAMOND MEMBER-This plan includes ALL of the membership benefits provided to CNAR EMERALD MEMBERS, but requires a minimum RAF contribution of $1598.00. This contribution entitlesthe member to the benefits afforded to California Golden R’s, which includes a 14k Gold Pin and entry to C.A.R.’s Golden R reception held in October each year. Additionally, the names of these members will be posted in the Association office and on CNAR’s web site quarterly. The renewal for this program is only $498 annually!
Importance of RAF Captains-Les Fishman

RAF Captain Update
As you know, seven out of tem CAR members are “REALTOR® Karls,” which means they don’t contribute to RAF.  If we are going to be successful in 2007, EVERY REALTOR® needs to pull their own weight!  We must continue to educate the “REALTOR® Karls” who are happy to benefit from others, on the importance of their annual $197 RAF contribution.  With the help of the RAF Captains, we can accomplish this goal. As you know, we have a whole new look and a new RAF Fundraising Tool Kit, which includes a new “Training Manual”. Dues Billing Statement- Les Fishman
Dues billing inserts to AORs  not using C.A.R dues billing statement-a copy of the insert was in PDF format in the packet.  The new policy is that all Associations must request the quantity of inserts via a website that will be forwarded to them after this meeting from Keismond Trammer, Membership Coordinator.Administrative Updates
A. RAF Fundraising Tool Kit/PowerPoint presentations
B. Fundraising Team Captains
• Need…please check and be sure to send in
C. NAR President Circle Club Recognition for C.A.R. Members in their lifetime contribution
• Remind members that if they participate in NAR’s program, that the $2,000 will goes towards their lifetime contribution
 D.   Voter Registration Cards are available through C.A.R. and the request form was part of their packet.

Adjourned at 11:15 a.m.