Governors International Team Abbreviated Minutes

October 19, 2010:

Attendance:
Gordon Andersen, Dessie Apostolova, Kate Arroyo, Steve Biggers, Debbie Blanke, Rico Buchi, Jim Collard, Desa Dawson, Jen Gross, George Lee, Richard Lehrter, Bob Lieser, Steve Miller, Chusk Mills, Amanda Mitchum, Jon Neff , Manuel Prestamo, Susan Savage, Marcus Verner, Bill Price

Guest Speaker: Ron Bussert, Chairman, Tulsa Global Alliance Board of Directors

Minutes of Previous Meetings

Minutes from the June 15 and September 21 meetings were presented. The minutes were approved, subject to revision.

Treasurer’s Report:

The GIT balance as of September 1 was $19,207. There were $21.42 in expenditures and $.15 interest in September. In October, there were expenses of $933 and $200 income. The balance as of October 19 is approximately $18,500. The Treasurer’s report was approved.

Membership
Dr. Cheryl Matherly, Assistant Provost for Global Education at the University of Tulsa, has been approved as a new member of GIT. Out of the country today, but will be at our November meeting. There are two more pending applications. Anita Gordy-Watkins is assembling a list of membership criteria.

Executive Directors Report
Steve Miller reported that work is being done on the website, including provisions to post minutes on a “member-only” section of the website. A brochure about GIT and its purpose is also being prepared. Susan Savage suggested that the Oklahoma Department of Commerce have an opportunity to review the brochure. The goal is to have it ready by the next GIT meeting.

Monthly Updates

Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC)
Dessie Apostolova reported that the most recent trade figures have been published. There has been a 15% increase in exports in the first two quarters of the year 2010. If we can sustain this, it will bring Oklahoma close to where it was in 2008. 50% of what is exported from Oklahoma is heavy industrial machinery, electrical machinery, followed by medical equipment and mineral fuels. Liquid pumps are one of our most significant exports. Canada, Mexico, Japan, Russia and China are the top markets. ODOC continues to work on fly-in visits and presentations to companies. Under the Small Business Jobs Act signed by President Obama, the U.S. Small Business Administration has been given a mandate to work on small business exporting. There will be grant opportunities for Oklahoma organizations to participate in this program, and Rose State College is hoping to submit a proposal to apply for some of these funds.

U.S. Department of Commerce (USDOC)
Marcus Werner reported that there will be a Basics of Exporting workshop on October 26 that will present an A-Z concept of how to export products. On November 30 there will be a Shipping and Documentation workshop, covered by a freight forwarder. On November 3, the second session of the Exportech program will take place. The final session will occur on November 30. April 6-13, 2011 are potential dates for the OklahomaWorld Trade Conference in Oklahoma City. Verner asked for recommendations of potential topics for the Oklahoma World Trade Conference in 2011.

Education
Desa Dawson thanked GIT members who participated in the education summit, and this participation was well-received by the conference organizers. 125 people attended, and she is very pleased with the attendance. An official from the U.S. Department of Education delivered the keynote address. Susan Savage noted that connecting the dots between international programs at universities and how future teachers are encouraged to promote an international curriculum is important. On a related topic, there may be a webinar on November 9 sponsored by the Longview Foundation on internationalizing teacher preparation.
Debbie Blanke announced that Rogers State University will be hosting a higher education conference on March 9, 2011. Blanke said that the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education are working on a study abroad database, as well as a database on who is knowledgeable about SEVIS and visa issues at each campus. Blanke has just received her visa to travel to Vietnam to work on transitioning the management of the Oklahoma office there from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Manufacturing
Gordon Andersen noted that the declining dollar is creating opportunities for American manufacturers to create more jobs. Boeing just released a letter to its employees asking non-union workers to pay more for their health insurance. General Electric has plans to spend half a billion dollars on plants for new energy-efficient appliances. The GM union has made wage concessions. In Kansas, a union refused to accept a 10% reduction in wages. August employment numbers show that the mining, logging and construction industries have increased employment by 9% in Oklahoma. Manufacturing is still down significantly (over 1,000 employees). Employment has leveled out at low level (5% under what it was) compared to previous recessions, and is showing no signs of increasing any time soon. Employment in the business sector is showing an uptick in most sectors except manufacturing. The challenge is to look for opportunities for international business and exporting to increase business in Oklahoma. George Lee noted that the State of South Carolina has a “Power Team” that is trying to lure Red Devil and possibly other companies there, and has invited him to hear their presentation.

OCAST
Steve Biggers - No Report

Agriculture
Steve Biggers - No Report

Secretary of State
Susan Savage noted that GIT’s meeting in November will coincide with the World Creativity Forum. Ten countries will be participating in the World Creativity Forum. The consuls of those ten countries will be invited. A room in the Petroleum Club has been reserved so that we could arrange a reception for the consuls or participants from those countries. If there is an event on Wednesday evening November 17, GIT would dispense with its November 16 meeting. The World Creativity Forum is an annual event held by the Districts of Creativity, and Oklahoma is the only U.S. district. The others include regions within India, Spain, France, Germany, and Belgium. The goal of the Forum is to come together around issues that foster creativity, and the various districts meet every year. The representation on the Creativity District is through the Governor’s office. The Chickasaw Nation and the State of Oklahoma are two sponsors, and the event will showcase the State of Oklahoma and Oklahoma City. There will be some detailed discussion of some issues, as well as conceptual discussions. Some of the program is business- focused, but there will also be some cultural activities. Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce Natalie Shirley will be hosting a luncheon to discuss business development with some of the delegations. There is a non-profit board called Creativity Oklahoma, and the Lieutenant Governor serves on it as do representatives of organizations such as OCAST. Oklahoma Olympic gymnast Bart Connor and the Oklahoma First Lady are honorary co-chairs of the event. Savage emphasized that the value of this forum is that people from across the U.S. and around the world will come to learn about ways to foster entrepreneurship, research and development.

Committee Reports

International Day at the Capitol
Melissa Graffigna has spoken with Sandy Cowden at the Oklahoma House of Representatives and planning is under way for next year’s event.

Consular Committee
Richo has spoken with all but two honorary consuls – Guatemala and Romania (Represented by former Olympic gymnast Nadia Comaneci). The 13 he has spoken with are all interested in participating in a consular event. Susan Savage noted that the University of Oklahoma’s School of International and Area Studies is interested in participating as well. GIT would need to be clear about the purpose of the event, whether it’s networking or something to do to develop the Consular Corps. GIT’s role would be to host a social event to bring consuls together. GIT would also need to discuss how to present honorary consuls on the GIT website.

Fundraising
No Report

Programs
Gordon Andersen is working on programs for upcoming GIT meetings

Oklahoma International Congress
Steve Miller said that early stage planning is under way for International Strategic Plan.

Program - Ron Bussert, Tulsa Global Alliance
Ron Bussert, Chairman of the Tulsa Global Alliance Board of Directors and Vice-President of Finance at the Oklahoma State University – Tulsa campus, spoke about Tulsa Global Alliance (TGA). This is the beginning of his fourth year on TGA’s board. He has found over time that TGA is a dynamic group of people that promote international relationships and trade. TGA is working with a budget of over $550,000 this year. Every two years, TGA hosts an event called Kids’ World International Festival that hosts thousands of school children to learn about other countries and cultures, and this year’s event is scheduled for November 4-6. TGA has wonderful partners in the City of Tulsa, higher education institutions, foundations and corporations. TGA manages eight Sister City relationships with Tulsa’s Sister Cities of San Luis Potosi, Mexico; Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Beihai, China; Tiberias, Israel; Utsunomiya, Japan; Zelenograd, Russia; Celle, Germany; and Amiens, France. TGA recently hosted seven of the eight Sister Cities for Savoring Sister Cities. Each one brought an economic development person, and the Mayor of Tulsa spent an afternoon meeting with all of the Sister City delegations.
TGA has expanded its role in hosting international visitors, and last year hosts approximately 300 visitors representing 54 countries. They come for professional programs on thematic topics, often visiting businesses in the Tulsa area. TGA and the International Visitor Leadership Program are known nationally by the U.S. State Department and sought after because of work by TGA staff and volunteers. This is the fourth year that TGA has organized seminars to promote international trade. Typically these seminars are in the morning at the University of Tulsa on doing business in a particular country or region. Mexico, China, Brazil, Africa, Canada have all been the subject of recent seminars. TGA will usually ask a Desk Officer from the U.S. Department of Commerce who specializes in a particular country to travel to Tulsa to serve as the keynote speaker, then build a panel representing local businesses that are active in that country to speak as well. Seminars have also focused on topics such as international legal issues and updates to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Consuls General and Economic Development Officers representing specific countries have also spoken at these events. There are three or four business seminars per year and 35 to 100 people attend each one.
TGA is a recognized international relations organization, has hundreds of members and funding from multiple sources – federal and local government, foundations, and corporations. Bussert suggested that if you don’t have a TGA in your community, you should consider creating one. TGA oversees a full range of exchanges – cultural, educational, and business relationships. He also suggested that if you’re in the Tulsa area, you should join TGA.

Old Business
None

New Business
None

Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 12:05 p.m. The next GIT meeting is scheduled for November 16 at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.

Governors International Team Abbreviated Minutes

September 21, 2010:

Attendance:

Debbie Blanke, Jen Gross, Lynda Speller, Joe McEuen, Dwight Perkins, Tim Burg, Melissa Graffigna, Steve Miller, Chris, Morriss, Rico Buchli, Mehran Koranki, Jim Collard, George Lee, Anita Gordy-Watkins, Debbie Blanke, Barbara Charlet, Jon Neff, Marcus Verner, Desa Dawson, Amanda Mitchum

The meeting was called to order at 10:05 a.m. by Chair Jon Neff who welcomed everyone.

Treasurer’s Report:

Melissa Graffigna highlighted the following items from the Treasurer’s Report:

Current GIT balance as of August 31, 2010 was $19,207.00

Income of $3,800.53 was recorded this month (dues and interest)

Expenses for this month include items pertaining to the GIT Summit

The OIC report remains unchanged

Anita Gordy-Watkins questioned what expenses related to the Summit remain outstanding, and Dr. Steve Miller responded that this will be answered later in the meeting during his presentation.

Committee Reports:
Membership: Debbie Blanke spoke on behalf of Bob Leiser who nominated Dr. Cheryl Matherly to join OKGIT. Blanke stated Matherly would be a valuable resource for GIT because of her extensive international education experience. Neff reminded all that this nomination has been pending for about four months and he would like to take action on her nomination. Neff agrees that she is a valuable addition and would be the first member to bring a connection to the University of Tulsa. Neff solicited additional comments, to which Graffigna motioned for approval to nominate Matherly as a new member. The motion was seconded by Gordy-Watkins and unanimously approved by present GIT members.

Neff then began a discussion about having the GIT establish a more clear definition of what it may offer as a resource to business, government, and education entities. He would also like to see a committee formed to concentrate on defining criteria for officer jobs, with a target for 5-6 positions within GIT.

International Day at the Capitol: Graffigna discussed this matter and stated that she plans to contact Shane Jett. She asked for clarification about the expectations of the person who leads the committee with regard to location, food, drink, invitations, and exhibitors. Neff stated that in the past GIT sponsored a passport registration event. Neff stated Jett will be hard to replace. Dr. Miller added that the GIT usually wrote a check in support of the event. Moriss stated it has been a legislature event and discussed who managed it in the past. Neff stated we will have a better idea of who will be involved next month, but probably not completely until January.

Moriss suggested that we reserve a date now. Neff inquired what would be the best date and Moriss responded sometime during March when the legislature is not in session. Neff suggested it may be a last minute arrangement, but wants it to continue GIT involvement. Graffigna will work on securing a date and will call a contact about it. Morriss added that we may have to do more than in the past in case we cannot find a replacement for Jett’s office assistance.

Consular Corps: Rico Buchli spoke about this subject. He stated that he found more information, confirmed by State Department, that we can place on the website. Buchli has flags, e-mail, phone numbers, direct links to embassies, and to their website addresses. He suggested we decide how much information is revealed to the public. Dr. Miller would like to know if there are any models from other states. Buchli responded no, but he will learn more at a consular summit in Atlanta, in December. He will ask other attending consuls how frequently they meet and what they do. He will also locate jurisdiction information beyond Oklahoma. Buchli suggested we add clubs, such as the Swiss or Italian clubs, as well as commercial and cultural clubs as an information link on the GIT website.

Lee wants to know how one becomes a consul. Buchli states they assist in getting visa services to the given country.

Moriss stated that consular information will be on the Secretary of State website. Morriss asked how one will know they should go through the Secretary of State’s office to start relations with any given country? Buchli stated that the idea is to share information and has nothing to do with inviting foreign representatives to Oklahoma. Perhaps the GIT should have a statement on the website stating that if someone is planning on inviting a foreign dignitary, they need to contact the Secretary of State.

Neff suggested the GIT website have a disclosure about protocol for hosting foreign visitors. This is a statement that we can sort out with Moriss. Moriss agreed.

Dr. Miller stated that the role of GIT is to assist in making international resources available. Buchli gave examples of when consuls should be contacted. Mehran Koranki suggested we have a Q&A sheet on the website. He also complimented Rico on his work.

Neff also stated that the GIT would like to partner with the honorary consular corps for it to become an active group. The GIT would like to develop a presence in the consular field as part of our international mission.

Website: Kate Arroyo spoke about website updates. Neff stated Buchli and Moriss will work with the website committee on the consular contact message.

Executive Director: Dr. Miller spoke about dues collections. He stated a few members have not yet paid dues and have also been contacted with regard to dues payment twice by correspondence. He will personally visit with these members to discuss their interest in continued GIT membership. A few individuals have paid dues but have not been attending meetings. He will visit them to clarify their interest in GIT or if they would like to have someone else sit in to represent them.

Dr. Miller then began a discussion about the Oklahoma Strategic Plan and reminded members that OKGIT created a brochure in the past, but it was not accepted at the time. Dr. Miller wants to resurrect the concept of a brochure. He is working on developing a new brochure. He stated that when we have a guest, they should leave with a brochure. He also posed the question of whether we consider fundraising for this.

Neff commented that the GIT is putting great thought into rebuilding policies and membership; we are focusing more on this than events. Neff then thanked Dr. Miller for giving so much effort and for keeping GIT on track.

August 12 Special Meeting: Neff stated the meeting was very enlightening and helpful. He does not see much changing structurally, but that the GIT needs to concentrate on building activities. He stressed the importance of the International Congress and International Day at the Capitol. He would like to move forward on these activities with a stronger membership.

Neff stated that the meeting was an opportunity to takes notes for a formal written program; for a 2011 GIT plan. He stated that during the fall we will flesh out a plan for 2011.

Monthly Reports

Oklahoma Department of Commerce
There was no report this month since Dessie Apostolova was unable to attend the meeting. She did relay a message to another member that there is nothing major to report.

US Department of Commerce
Marcus Verner spoke on behalf of Ron Wilson. He announced the Export Workshop for October 26 and a Shipping and Documentation Workshop, conducted by Freight Forwarder, on November 30. Both workshops are first-come first-served (no reservations required) and are held at the Department of Commerce building in Gallery 1-1.

Verner also stated that the Oklahoma District Export Council (DEC) has been very active and was nominated to attend a national meeting in Michigan from October 24-27.

Verner explained that Oklahoma was selected to attend the national meeting because it has had so many workshops. In fact, the Wilco Fabricating and Machining Workshop won an award. This shows Oklahoma is playing an active role to promote the National Export Initiative with its workshops.

Neff asked if there are any Export Tech programs. Verner replied not at the moment.

Dr. Miller asked by how much the U.S. would like to increase exports. Verner replied that he would have to check the specific number, but that it should double by 2012.

Dr. Miller would like the GIT to support the workshops and explained that the National Export Initiative was designed to create more jobs. For every 1 billion exports, 6,000 jobs are created. We are currently at $333 billion exports yet $1.5 trillion is the target mark.

Jim Collard asked if ISO standards are addressed. Verner replied no. Collard recommended that the DOC would partner with agencies involved in ISO the process.

Lee asked if the workshops address the REACH procedures for manufacturing. Verner responded no, but that he can help Lee get in contact with the appropriate resource.

Verner stated that everyone has a different way they like to learn; some like to learn via web while others like to learn in a classroom setting.

Lee stated he would like the GIT website to serve as a resource for members to coordinate on attending the workshops.

Department of Education
Dessa Dawson spoke about a grant received in coordination with the Department of Higher Education Regents in preparation for the International Education Summit. The keynote presentation will be with the U.S. Department of Education Secretary for Language and Education. Dawson stated that Oklahoma is the first state the Secretary will address. Dawson also thanked Miller, Graffigna, and Gordy-Watkins for attending the Summit planning meeting.

The conference plans to give the state of the state; where is Oklahoma standing? Dawson also made a call for typists and recorders for the meeting. The summit will consist of planning meetings and then workshops. The summit’s goal is to prevent piecemeal planning; it is intended to be in a central location for planning instead of having many plans in many places. Neff stated this is a great opportunity to learn about global education and to show GIT is supportive of the summit. This is particularly important since the GIT wrote a recommendation letter that helped Oklahoma get the grant for the summit.

Manufacturing
Gordon Andersen was absent, so there was no report.

Department of Agriculture
Neff advised that Barbara Charlet will speak later in the meeting.

Oklahoma Secretary of State
Chris Morriss stated there will be a briefing this Friday in preparation for a visit from the Consul General of Italy. The Consul General will be a guest speaker on issues with Iran at a dinner on Sunday and a presentation on Monday.

The former Ambassador of Egypt will be in Oklahoma Tuesday at OCU. He and the Secretary of State will attend a dinner with the OCU President.

Today there was a farewell meeting with the Consul General of Japan. Morriss stated thatOklahoma is really on the map and it is amazing how much is happening.

Morris stated it is the 30th anniversary for Oklahoma’s Sister State relationship with Taiwan. She also stated we have a Sister City relationship with Ganzhu, China and with Kyoto, Japan with whom some events will be scheduled later this year. Morriss has not had a chance to contact the Consuls General for the World Creativity Forum from November 15-17; she might solicit help from OKGIT.

The World Creativity Forum is an opportunity for Oklahoma to let the world know what it has to offer. Representatives from other states will be there. Oklahoma might become the site for the National Office of the World Creativity Forum.

Debbie Blanke asked who is driving the forum. Morriss stated she is not sure. Dawson stated this is the first time it will be in the USA so that it is a big deal that it is in Oklahoma.

Neff asked what to expect. Morriss explained it will be a tour of museums and Route 66 sites. There will be post-Conference events like a tour of the Port of Catoosa and of wind farms. Morriss believes the Chamber is leading those activities.

Neff asked who sponsors the Forum. Moriss stated it is state-sponsored under the Governor, and the First Lady is the Honorary Chair. Neff stated this will replace the OKGIT Consular Summit because all Consuls will be there. He would like to have GIT play a part in it.

Collard stated another event is scheduled for the same time.

Neff requested Dr. Miller to circulate information about events via an e-mail.

Graffigna asked what our role will be. Morriss and Neff suggested that GIT host a meal or reception event for the Consuls. Morriss stated as of now the highest member attending is a Minister from Belgium, but once she starts calling, more high profile members will attend. Morriss states she might not get confirmation of attendance until right before the event.

Dr. Miller asked who will attend; Morriss stated consuls from Italy, France, China, Spain, Belgium, and Scotland.

Dr. Miller noted that many internationally know speakers will be there. Lee wants to know where it will be held. Morriss stated it will probably be held at the Petroleum Club.

Mehran Koranki asked what kind of help is needed. Gordy-Watkins and Morriss suggested to treat is like the Consul General Summit. Neff suggested we form an ad-hoc committee to help with it. He asked for three to four members willing to volunteer.

Gordy-Watkins, Lee, and Amanda Mitchum volunteered.

Dr. Miller asked how many people needed to go. Neff suggested 20 attend. Koranki confirmed this is what they need.

Neff pointed out that the GIT budget will be used to pay for expenses to attend. He was unsure if we should have corporate sponsors. Moriss confirmed that Chickasaw Nation is sponsoring the event. Neff said we have some sponsors in reserve in case financial support is needed.

Morriss suggested we hold a reception for November 16th; perhaps a dinner at the Cowboy Hall of Fame. She also suggested we consider having it on the 18th or 19th if the Consuls are willing to stay.

Rico Buchli stated the GIT meeting scheduled for that month overlaps with the conference. Neff added that if we can get a reception for the 16th then the Consuls can attend the GIT meeting as well.

Department of Agriculture
Barbara Charlet stated she handles any business in Europe and Asia, but another representative, Haidar, handles business in North America, South America, Mexico, and the Middle East. She stated the second largest international food show will be held in Paris next month. Oklahoma is a member of the Southern U.S. Trade Association. 11 companies from the U.S. will be at the conference, and representing Oklahoma will be Head Country. Charlet stated that Head Country has been shipping gallon containers of bar-b-que sauces to Sweden for several months.

Charlet also stated there will be a private label manufacturing show in November targeting grocery stores in Mexico call Soriana. Oklahoma would like to do a project with them. There is funding from the federal government from the U.S. Trade Association. We are also trying to sell Oklahoma wheat. We are trying to sell 100,000 metric tons of wheat to Iraq.

Neff asked when the conference is, while Dr. Miller asked if Head country is the only company attending the World Food Show. Morriss asked if the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture has become involved with the Creativity World Forum.

Lee asked what Soriana does. Charlet stated that Haidar created a website with 80 different companies in Oklahoma that can serve their food needs, rather than Soriana having to circle around Oklahoma.

Graffigna then mentioned that a visitor from France is coming to Oklahoma-she is the equivalent of the Head of TSA in France. She will be here Thursday and Friday. The visitor expressed interested in seeing an Indian Reservation, possibly Anadarko. Graffigna asked Collard if he could help. Lee asked what the visitor is doing in Oklahoma. Graffigna stated she is doing a program for three weeks about security. 66 parties counseled for her to visit, but she chose Oklahoma.

Neff stated that he is looking into getting funding for a GIT office with a phone for 2011.

At 11:40a Neff concluded the agenda

Department of Agriculture

Dr. Miller discussed the Oklahoma International Strategic Plan.
At 12:00p Neff adjourned the meeting.

Governors International Team Abbreviated Minutes

June 15, 2010:

Attendance:

Gordon Andersen, Dessie Apostolova, Rico Buchli, George Lee, Bob Lieser, Jon Neff, Anita Gordy-Watkins, Ron Wilson

The meeting was called to order at 10:07 a.m. by Chair Jon Neff who welcomed everyone.

Treasurer’s Report:

Gordy-Watkins reported that there had been no recent expenditures.

Membership:
Phil Scoggins called and asked Jon Neff to report. Two applications pending – Dr. Cheryl Matherly, Associate Dean for Global Education at the University of Tulsa, nominated by Bob Lieser, and a nominee submitted by Joe McUen with experience in engineering. The membership committee has decided to hold on reviewing any new membership applications until GIT’s planning retreat in August.

There are 40 current GIT members, many of whom have not attended a meeting in quite a while. There was discussion of how to maintain balance of different sectors in GIT, such as business, government, education, and cultural organizations; how to target specific individuals in the state who would make good GIT members, and how to develop membership criteria. We need to fill any vacancies in GIT with people who are truly active internationally. Gordon Andersen suggested researching export sectors, determining which industries lead, and approaching leaders in those industries for membership. A similar approach could be taken in the cultural area.

There was discussion of how to deal with inactive members, and it was noted that the bylaws specify that GIT members need to attend at least 2/3 of the meetings. The bylaws permit GIT to send letters notifying members that they are no longer in good standing, although most likely they would also receive phone calls first. Also, some organizations and companies are represented with members on GIT, but they do not attend. Rico Buchli suggested that there should be an opportunity for Susan Savage to remain on GIT after 2010 even if she is longer serving as Secretary of State. There are 45 seats on GIT, and it might be good to leave one or two seats vacant in case we come across a potential great member.

Dessie Apostolova suggested that GIT should consider the role of state agencies such as the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Apostolova noted that she refrains from voting because ODOC doesn’t pay dues. Jon Neff said that the bylaws will probably need to be amended because GIT’s purpose has changed. He would like to clarify the role of government representatives and enable them to vote after the bylaws are revised.

Agenda for August 12
There will be no GIT meeting in July, and the next GIT event will be the August 12 workshop. The workshop is intended to develop an implementation plan for GIT’s objectives. The session will open at 1:30. There will be four break-out sessions on Communications, Membership, Events and Activities, and Fundraising, and at 4:00 we will reconvene, followed by a reception. The goal is to come up with plans in each of these areas. The Executive Committee will be sending out emails outlining where planning process is going, including points of summaries of recent special GIT meetings.

Monthly Updates

ODOC – Dessie Apostolova
Dessie Apostolova provided some historical perspective on ODOC’s role in GIT. In 2003, the International Division’s name and structure changed, but it remained as a freestanding entity within ODOC under the name of Global Business Services. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) became part of Office of Business Location. The focus of the Global Business Services was international trade promotion until July 2009. Last July, budget for Global Business Services was divided between trade functions and FDI. Within the past year, support for FDI has increased, but at the expense of trade promotion programs. Going forward, there is room to discuss ways GIT can support FDI.

Apostolova reported on the following ODOC activities:

In May a session of ExporTech was completed in Oklahoma City and one was started in Tulsa. This is a program that the Alliance for Manufacturing is spearheading, in partnership with ODOC and one that is helping to develop export strategy. Oklahoma is serving as a national model in how successful this program can be.

In May the Assistant Trade Representative for the Americas spoke at the Oklahoma School for Science and Math.

Last Friday, a high-level economic development delegation from Bahrain came in conjunction with National Conference of Mayors. Chris and Dessie provided some protocol support, and also helped some targeted Oklahoma businesses make contacts.

The fiscal year ends on June 30. Leading up to this, there will be a final series of video briefings. We will hear from Mr. Wei, Oklahoma’s international trade representative in Shanghai. The briefing will be simulcast in Gallery 1-1 of ODOC in Oklahoma City and in Tulsa’s ODOC office from Shanghai on June 30 from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. Mr. Wei will discuss trade opportunities in Shanghai and how his office can assist.

USDOC – Ron Wilson reported the following:

The Oklahoma World Trade Conference took place on April 14 in Tulsa.

Wilson traveled to Arkansas and Mississippi in May to deliver presentations on the importance of having a web presence in international trade. On August 25 there will be a similar presentation, entitled “Website design for a Global Marketplace,” at OSU Tulsa from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

President Obama recently announced the National Export Initiative. As part of this initiative, USDOC is working to encourage Oklahoma companies to diversify and to export to more than one market. JN- very impressed with World Trade Conference, on a par with conferences anywhere in the country.

Manufacturing – Gordon Anderson reported the following:

A business development mission will be traveling to Europe and the EU October 18-22, and this has come about as a result of ExporTech sessions. They will be visiting Dublin with funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce Office of Commercial Assistance.

The U.S. has a widening trade deficit and $148 billion fewer in exports. Europe’s debt troubles are beginning to affect the U.S., as the fall of the Euro has made U.S. products more expensive in Europe and European products cheaper here.

Andersen distributed a handout from the National Association of Manufacturers. Manufacturing makes up 92% of Oklahoma’s exports, and the total employment in Oklahoma is between 60,000 and 75,000 employees.

Committee Reports

International Day at the Capitol
Jon Neff said that he would like to find out this Fall what GIT’s role will be in next year’s International Day at the Capitol, and whether it will be the same as in the past or if it will increase. The Oklahoma House of Representatives International Development Committee, chaired by Shane Jett, has had responsibility for this event, but Jett will be leaving the legislature in 2011, and it’s not clear who will be taking his place. Jon Neff was invited to speak to this committee, and two of its members inquired about GIT – one from Norman and one from Stillwater.

Consular Corps
Rico Buchli noted that the World Cup is currently under way, and that Brazil and Spain will play tomorrow. Rico played semi pro soccer, and still plays on Sundays. He has received information from the U.S. State Department on 14 honorary consuls in Oklahoma, including a new honorary consul, from Guatemala, appointed June 7 of this year. The State Department has provided a list of honorary consuls in Excel format that is ready to go on the website. The next step will be to find links to consulates’ websites and embassies in Washington. This is public information provided by the State Department, so it’s fine to post it, and Buchli recommends listing the officials as consular officers in Oklahoma for now, not “Consular Corps.”

Programs
Gordon Anderson asked for suggestions for Fall GIT programs, beginning in September, and said that he has some ideas as well.

Fundraising
Will progress toward making grant applications to hire paid executive director. Personal goal is to be able to submit a grant application by the end of the year.

Program – Barbara Charlet
Barbara Charlet has spent 16 years with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture. Every year the depart publishes a document that details how much is exported. In 2008 the figure was $1.6 billion in exports, and 50% of that amount ($800 million) was wheat. 80% of Oklahoma’s wheat is exported, much of it to North Africa. There is a steady stream of agricultural buyers coming to the U.S., and many direct relationships have developed with Mexico. In 2008 - $260 million in meat products were exported, primarily pork from Seaborne Farms in Guymon, and $100 million in poultry. These Oklahoma agricultural export figures are still less than 1% of U.S. agricultural exports. There are two staff in the international division – Barbara and Haidar Haidary. They deal with approximately 300 agricultural manufacturers. Only 20 of these have the volume and capacity to export, and half a dozen do the bulk of exporting. Haidar focuses on Mexico and the Americas. Barbara was originally assigned to the Asian markets, but in the past 10-15 years it has seemed that Oklahoma has a competitive disadvantage, as the West Coast states can get foods to Asia faster and more cheaply. Barbara now focuses on European, Canadian, Caribbean markets. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture is a member of the Southern U.S. Trade Association, which includes all southern states up to Maryland, as well as Puerto Rico. Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Haidar, for example, has a $100,000 project related to in-store food product promotion in Mexico. Barbara and Haidar also spend some of their time on market research, and have access to U.S. Department of Agriculture offices around the world. Most of all, they assist companies in identifying markets and help them get active internationally.

Charlet then described some of the companies that the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture works with.

Bar-S: This company’s headquarters are in Phoenix, but all their production is in Oklahoma in the towns of Clinton, Altus, Lawton, and Weatherford. The company has 1,600 employees. They don’t actively seek export opportunities, and primarily ship container loads of products.

Chefs Requested: Located in the Oklahoma City stockyards, they are the biggest supplier of steak for Cattleman’s Steakhouse. They have experimented with exporting to Mexico.

Advance Food: The company is located in Enid, and one of owners lives in Austin. She is the one who does all the marketing in Mexico. Retailers there not looking for big container loads. Advance Food has also partnered with Bar-S.

Fields Pies: Located in Pauls Valley, it manufactures pecan pies.

Griffin Foods – This company packages syrup in Muskogee and has been selling syrup to Germany for the past ten years. Containers of Griffin’s syrup are shipped to the Netherlands.

Head Country – This Ponca City company makes barbecue sauce and has shipped some of its products to Germany.

Clements Foods: This Oklahoma City company makes salad dressings and also private labels for chain stores such as Best Buy and Dollars and Sense.

Fancy Food Show in New York City at the end of June – U.S. is real market for their products.
The meeting adjourned at 12:05 p.m.

Governors International Team Abbreviated Minutes

May 18, 2010:

Attendance:

Dessie Apostolova, Katie Arroyo, Debbie Blanke, Rico Buchli, Tim Burg, James Collard, Desa Dawson, Melissa Graffigna, Jen Gross, Lloyd Hardin, Mehran Koranki, Bob Lieser, Rick Maloney, Joe McEuen, Steve Miller, Chris Morriss, Jon Neff, Dwight Perkins, Bill Price, Lynda Speller, Mike Warren, Anita Watkins.

The meeting was called to order at 10:07 a.m. by Chair Jon Neff who welcomed everyone.

Minutes of April 2010

Copies of the April 2010 GIT Minutes were distributed. The minutes were approved with the amendment that Melissa Graffigna be listed as Treasurer. A summary of the April 30 special GIT meeting was also distributed.

Treasurer’s Report – Steve Miller

Steve Miller highlighted the following items from the Treasurer’s Report:

Income of 11 cents was recorded for this month.

The expenses for this month include some office supply needs, a GIT executive committee lunch in Tulsa, and a gift for Debbie Blanke.

Dues invoices have been sent to members.

Committee Reports

Membership
Jon Neff reported that there are some open seats in GIT now, and Bob Lieser said he knew of an interested candidate who would be submitting a resume soon.

Summary of April 30 GIT Meeting
The April 30 meeting included a discussion of the history of GIT. GIT has bylaws but it has evolved over time into a different organization than has existed in the past, and there has been discussion of changing its structure as a result. Friday June 11 is the next special GIT meeting, and the next regular meeting will take place June 15. There may be an August meeting or workshop that will also address the future of GIT as well as the updated of the Oklahoma International Strategic Plan. In September and October, there may be further development of the plan, which would be presented to the new Governor in 2011.

Website – Katie Arroyo
Katie Arroyo said that she had removed several former GIT members from the website and had added four new members’ bios. We can now add links to other organizations and she will regularly include the dates of future meetings and topics for programs. She will also add international trade data and other information from ODOC. Arroyo said that additional photos and CVs of GIT members were needed, and encouraged members to look at the existing CVs, which can be found in the “Who We Are” section of the website.

International Student Awareness Day at the Capitol
Jon Neff observed that next year State Representative Shane Jett and his assistant Sandy Cowden, who have worked very hard on this event for years, will most likely not be available to assist next year, and that GIT should discuss the best way to ensure a seamless transition for next year’s event.

Oklahoma International Congress
Steve Miller said that this committee is deciding what route to take. The Oklahoma International Congress will most likely serve as the coordinator of any update to the Oklahoma International Strategic Plan. The goal would be to put together the skeleton structure of a plan first, then submit a draft plan to the next Governor in 2011 who may suggest changes.

Consular Committee
Rico Buchli reported that there are two upcoming events that GIT might be called upon to assist with that could involve consuls and honorary consuls – a July celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Sister State relationship between Oklahoma and Taiwan, and the November World Creativity Forum, both of which are being coordinated by the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office.

Buchli has been researching how other U.S. states and municipalities involve consuls in their international activities. The State of Texas has a web page on its consular corps and how to arrange an international visit, and Colorado and Arizona both have established consular corps. Kansas City has a city office that works with consuls, and the Dallas World Affairs Council coordinates activities with the Dallas consular corps.

The committee stressed that any effort to organize a consular corps in Oklahoma should work to avoid overlap between GIT and the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office, and should focus on being of benefit to the consuls. It was noted that it is difficult for foreign residents to get driver licenses in Oklahoma now, and that Oklahoma honorary consuls declined processing visas due to the work load.

Fundraising
Melissa Graffigna encouraged GIT members to sign up for the fundraising committee.

Monthly Updates

ODOC – Dessie Apostolova
Dessie Apostolova said that ODOC’s 2009 export report had been distributed to GIT members. She announced that the Assistant trade representative for the Americas would be in Oklahoma City on May 20 and would be speaking at the Oklahoma School for Science and Math from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Seating will be limited to 35 people.

Education
Desa Dawson reported the following items:

The Oklahoma Department of Education has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Longview Foundation to conduct a summit on global education this Fall. The theme will be “A View from the Mountain Top: Global Competence in Focus.” GIT has offered to support this project, which will most likely take place in October, and it is a good opportunity for GIT members to get involved.

Oklahoma has received a StarTalk grant from the Confucius Institute and will use it to host a two-week Chinese Language Camp in July.

The Alliance Francais of Oklahoma city has received $100,000 for Jeanne Kirkpatrick French exchange fellowships. Students have traveled from Oklahoma to Amiens, France, and vice versa, to conduct research.

February 2011 is the date for the next Governor’s Global Education conference, which will take place at Northeastern State University in Broken Arrow.

A study abroad database and faculty research database are being created, and they will be posted on the State Regents for Higher Education website.

The Oklahoma Department of Commerce and the State Regents are discussing the transfer of the Oklahoma Trade Office in Vietnam to the State Regents.

Agriculture – Rick Maloney
Rick Maloney reported the following items:

Barbara Charlet just returned from a trade mission to Germany, where Oklahoma’s Clements Foods and Griffin Foods were represented.

Last week the U.S. Deputy Undersecretary of Agriculture spoke about international trade.

China recently opened its market to beef imports.

Maloney closed with the announcement that he would be retiring from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture June 30. He joined GIT in 1994 and said that it has been a very positive experience for the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture in terms of networking and experience. Steve Miller and Jon Neff both praised Maloney for his consistent support for GIT and said he was welcome to continue his involvement.

Program - Honorable Pierre Grandjouan, Consul General of France
Barbara Thompson, Honorary Consul of France, introduced the program speaker, the Consul-General of France for Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, the Honorable Pierre Grandjouan. She also spoke about the importance of French language immersion programs and listed Eisenhower International School as a shining example of international partnership. She noted that 22 French companies have activity in Oklahoma and that 25 U.S. cities have French immersion programs.

Consul Grandjouan spoke about the vital role that Sister City partnerships have played for developing educational exchanges and relations between countries. He spoke about French and European international trade and economic development priorities and how Oklahomans might attract French companies to invest here. He dedicated himself to representing France in our region of the United States, and also to representing Oklahoma to France as an example of life in the United States.

Old Business
None.

New Business
None.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 12:10 p.m. There will be a special session of GIT on June 11 at 10:00 at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. The next regular GIT meeting is scheduled for June 15 at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.

Governors International Team Abbreviated Minutes

April 20, 2010:

Attendance:

Gordon Andersen, Dessie Apostolova, Rico Buchli, Desa Dawson, Melissa Graffigna, Jen Gross, Mehran Koranki, George Lee, Bob Lieser, Joe McEuen, Steve Miller, Chuck Mills, Chris Morris, Jon Neff, Lynda Speller, Mike Warren, Dick Williamson, Ron Wilson.

Guests:

Dessie Apostolova, Oklahoma Department of Commerce

The meeting was called to order at 10:21 a.m. by Chair Jon Neff who welcomed everyone. New GIT member Rick Lehrter was unable to attend due to an illness in the family.

Minutes of March 2010

Copies of the March 2010 GIT Minutes were distributed. The minutes were approved.

Treasurer’s Report – Anita Gordy-Watkins

Treasurer Melissa Graffigna highlighted the following items from the Treasurer’s Report:

As of April 20, the GIT balance is $14,391.56 and the OIC balance is $1,133.22.

GIT’s expenses for International Awareness Day at the Capitol and the February Gavel Ceremony were $1,226.

Dues invoices will be sent out soon via email.

TD Williamson had been managing GIT’s accounting, but this is now being done by Steve Miller. GIT will be sending a thank-you letter to TD Williamson for providing accounting services over the years.

Committee Reports

Membership
Jon Neff reported that there are some open seats in GIT now, but there have been no specific membership requests.

International Student Awareness Day- Steve Miller
Steve Miller reported that approximately 600 people attended International Student Awareness Day at the Capitol on March 29. He extended special thanks to State Representative Shane Jett for doing a wonderful job of greeting and recognizing the students, and to his assistant Sandy Cowden for organizing the event. There were 17 new passport applications for Passport Day, 14 renewals, and 35 photos taken. Senator Coffee and his wife were both there. Jeff Hamilton, who started International Student Awareness Day when he was in the state legislature, also attended this year’s event. This year’s Passport Day event took place just outside the Governor’s conference room. Several international students came in and had their photos taken there. Representative Jett and Ms. Cowden arranged a thank-you reception for the food vendors, entertainers, and other supporters on April 12. GIT will be sending a thank-you letter to both of them for their work on the event.

Chris Morriss noted that since Shane Jett will not be in the legislature next year, and Sandy Cowden will most likely be working with another legislator, there will need to be a new team planning next year’s event. Senator Coates may be the next Senate co-chair of the Joint Committee on International Development, but it’s not yet known who will co-chair the committee from the House side.

Oklahoma International Congress – Chuck Mills/James Collard
Several members of GIT met with Secretary Savage last week to discuss plans for an Oklahoma International Congress event, but it may not be possible to organize the event until 2011. The goal of the event would be to bring together representatives of the various sectors in Oklahoma active in international affairs – economic development, business, cultural, educational, government, non-profit, tribal, and perhaps others – to share information about activities in each sector and statewide.

Steve Miller noted that when the first Oklahoma International Strategic Plan was formulated in 1999 and 2000, 70-75 people joined in three or four brainstorming sessions. The plan received attention from organizations outside Oklahoma, including the Southern Growth Policy Board. Many people in Oklahoma who did not know of each others’ international programs became acquainted as a result of the OIC.

Miller suggested that GIT convene a small committee of 8-12 people who would discuss objectives and goals, and then organize a larger event, by invitation at a later time. In the future, on an ongoing basis, the various constituencies could be brought together again. As was the case in the first International Strategic Plan, GIT’s authority to create a plan will be entirely volunteer-driven and will depend on the enthusiastic participation of organizations representing different sectors working together to develop the plan and review its progress.

Oklahoma International Congress – Chuck Mills/James Collard
Several members of GIT met with Secretary Savage last week to discuss plans for an Oklahoma International Congress event, but it may not be possible to organize the event until 2011. The goal of the event would be to bring together representatives of the various sectors in Oklahoma active in international affairs – economic development, business, cultural, educational, government, non-profit, tribal, and perhaps others – to share information about activities in each sector and statewide.

Steve Miller noted that when the first Oklahoma International Strategic Plan was formulated in 1999 and 2000, 70-75 people joined in three or four brainstorming sessions. The plan received attention from organizations outside Oklahoma, including the Southern Growth Policy Board. Many people in Oklahoma who did not know of each others’ international programs became acquainted as a result of the OIC.

Miller suggested that GIT convene a small committee of 8-12 people who would discuss objectives and goals, and then organize a larger event, by invitation at a later time. In the future, on an ongoing basis, the various constituencies could be brought together again. As was the case in the first International Strategic Plan, GIT’s authority to create a plan will be entirely volunteer-driven and will depend on the enthusiastic participation of organizations representing different sectors working together to develop the plan and review its progress.

Consular Committee
Rico Buchli reported that he is working with Chris Morriss and Secretary of State Susan Savage to plan for the World Creativity Forum November 15-17, which may replace GIT’s yearly consular summit.

Secretary Savage’s office is planning a 30th anniversary celebration of the Sister State relationship between Oklahoma and Taiwan in July.

On May 18, the French Consul-General from Houston will be visiting Oklahoma, and GIT discussed plans to invite him to our meeting that day and possibly take him to lunch afterwards.

The GIT discussed how to involve the fourteen consuls-general in Oklahoma in its activities. Mehran Koranki suggested that GIT seriously consider how we could benefit them with an event, and what would be in it that would attract them.

Website – George Lee
Katie Arroyo said that she had removed several former GIT members from the website and had added four new members’ bios. We can now add links to other organizations and she will regularly include the dates of future meetings and topics for programs. She will also add international trade data and other information from ODOC. Arroyo said that additional photos and CVs of GIT members were needed, and encouraged members to look at the existing CVs, which can be found in the “Who We Are” section of the website.

Programs, Fundraising – Jon Neff
The French Consul-General may be the program for the May meeting. Program topics and speakers for upcoming meetings include Chris Morris to speak about protocol, Desa Dawson to speak about Chinese programs and exchanges, and Barbara Charlet to speak about international business in agriculture. GIT is looking for community foundation and government grants in order to pay for a part-time executive director. Steve Miller is volunteering his time.

Program: Sister Cities – Melissa Graffigna

Melissa Graffigna delivered a presentation on Oklahoma City’s Sister Cities program. 185 U.S. cities have Sister Cities overseas, and Oklahoma towns with Sister Cities include Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Shawnee, Norman, Pawhuska, and Stillwater. Sister Cities International of Oklahoma City (SCI OKC) is a nonprofit citizen diplomacy network. Oklahoma currently has six Sister Cities and on April 28 Kigali, Rwanda will become the seventh after a signing ceremony. No two cities are managed the same way. For example, Tulsa Global Alliance has a paid staff and SCI OKC is an all-volunteer organization. A major part of Oklahoma City’s program has been brining teachers from the Sister Cities to Oklahoma City University to study English teaching and then return to their home countries to teach. One teacher from Oklahoma City traveled to Puebla, Mexico to study Spanish. This program will be continuing under the auspices of Oklahoma Christian University.

Graffigna described how Sister Cities are selected. In many cases the Mayor or someone in the organization travels to a city in another country, and after returning home speaks to the board about the possibility of signing an agreement. Agreements must be approved by both the OKC SCI board of directors and the Mayor of Oklahoma city. The Mayor is the honorary chair of each Sister City partnership. In many cases the cities are of similar size. The most important things are to have community support and to have grassroots connections in fields such as economics, education, and culture.

Monthly Update

ODOC – Dessie Apostolova
Dessie Apostolova said that ODOC’s international trade programs have been rebalanced to FDI. She and Jesse Garcia represented ODOC at an EXIM Bank conference in Washington. President Obama gave the keynote address at this meeting, and his administration plans to emphasize exports. The Oklahoma export report is ready and will be distributed to the GIT. Oklahoma’s exports in 2009 were $4.4 billion, and aerospace is the leading industry. The top export markets are Mexico, Canada, Japan, Singapore, and China. Exports to Mexico grew by 47%. Oklahoma’s exports declined by 13%, but the national decline was by 20%.

At 10:00 on May 13 there would be video market briefing form ODOC’s office in Shanghai. The briefing will be simulcast to ODOC’s offices in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

The Regional Manager of the EXIM Bank will be coming to Oklahoma to present a workshop on using EXIM tools.

There will be an ExporTech workshop for executives of small companies interested in exporting.

Dessie will be going to Washington to for the annual meeting of the State International Development Organizations to share best practices.

USDOC – Ron Wilson
Ron Wilson reported the following:

The Oklahoma World Trade Conference took place on April 14 at the Hilton Southern Hills in Tulsa. 145 participants attended.

There will be a “Basic of exporting” workshop at OSU Tulsa in May, and a Shipping and Documentation” workshop in June.

Manufacturing – Gordon Andersen
Andersen reported that by the end of March the U.S. unemployment rate was 9.7% and the Oklahoma rate was 6.6%. There was a 9.3% decrease in Oklahoma manufacturing, but industrial production at the end of the first quarter was up 7.8%. The number of massive layoffs in manufacturing had decreased, and manufacturing employment trended up in March by 17,000 jobs.

Monthly Updates

ODOC – No Report

USDOC – Ron Wilson

Ron Wilson reminded everyone of the 21st Annual World Trade Conference scheduled for April 14th at the Tulsa Southern Hills Hilton. Wilson explained that GIT members can check the website for more information and that GIT members will receive an online notification for the conference.

Manufacturing – Gordon Andersen

Andersen reported that by the end of March the U.S. unemployment rate was 9.7% and the Oklahoma rate was 6.6%. There was a 9.3% decrease in Oklahoma manufacturing, but industrial production at the end of the first quarter was up 7.8%. The number of massive layoffs in manufacturing had decreased, and manufacturing employment trended up in March by 17,000 jobs.

Education – Desa Dawson
Desa Dawson reported the following:

She just visited Beijing and Shanghai to evaluate the Chinese guest teachers in Oklahoma.

The French Consulate conducted a workshop on French teacher for Oklahoma educators.

The Oklahoma Department of Education recently purchased an excellent video on foreign language education called “Speaking in Tongues.” It will be shown to the Oklahoma Foreign Language Teachers’ Association on May 1, and Chris Morriss will be the keynote speaker there.

The Confucius Institute will present a two-week Chinese language camp in Jenks in July.

The Oklahoma Department of Education submitted a grant to the Longview Foundation to organize an International Education Summit in the Fall. OKAGE, the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office, Oklahoma Foreign Language Teachers’ Association are all partners for the grant. A decision about the grant award should be known in May.

Agriculture – No report

Special Meeting of Oklahoma Governor’s International Team
Jon Neff recommended calling a special meeting to discuss the mission and future of GIT and to consider a proposed name change. The meeting was scheduled for Friday April 30 at 10:00 a.m.

Old Business
Desa Dawson requested an updated GIT roster to create new name badges.

New Business
None.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 12:10 p.m. The next regular GIT meeting is scheduled for May 18 at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.

Governors International Team Abbreviated Minutes

March 16, 2010:

Attendance

Jon Neff, Susan Savage, Dr. Yoshi Sasaki, Lloyd T. Hardin, Jr, Gordon Andersen, James Collard, George L. Lee, III, Ron Duggins, Bill Price, Dick Rush, Chris Morris, Mike Warren, Dwight Perkins, Debbie Blanke, Barbara Charlet, Phil Scoggin, Ron Wilson, Anita Gordy-Watkins

Guests:

Roy Peters, Oklahoma Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence

Fred Morgan, State Chamber President-Elect

Steve Biggers, OCAST

Barbara Charlet, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture

Olga Elizarova, Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology

The meeting was called to order at 10:10 a.m. by Chair Jon Neff who welcomed everyone. Dick Rush introduced State Chamber President Elect Fred Morgan. Lloyd Hardin recognized Dr. Yoshi K. Sasaki’s contributions as a long-time member and contributor to the GIT as well as the State of Oklahoma. Anita Gordy-Watkins introduced guest, Olga Elizarova, a new employee in the OSUIT international office.

Minutes of January 2010

Copies of the 2010 GIT Minutes were distributed. Gordon Andersen noted that there was a misspelling in his name on page 3. Lloyd Hardin noted a couple of changes under new business. Debbie Blanke made a motion to approve the February 2010 minutes with the amended changes. Dwight Perkins seconded, the motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report – Anita Gordy-Watkins

Anita Gordy-Watkins gave a verbal report on behalf of Treasurer Melissa Graffigna. She reported that Graffigna had met with Emily Perkins at T.D. Williamson the previous week to convey how grateful the GIT is for the years of service and support they have provided to the Treasurer and to transition the Treasurer files. Although Graffigna was unable to make it to the meeting, she reported that the current GIT balance as of March 15 is $12,362.75. She is in the process of going through the boxes of files and will be able to give a full report of all that has transpired from December 2009 through April 2010 at the April meeting. She reported that Steve Miller had confirmed that as the Executive Director, he will be willing to accept the bookkeeping responsibilities that have been provided by T.D. Williamson in the past. Dues invoices will be going out in the near future. The question was raised as to whether or not Form 990 had been filed, it was noted that the Treasurer and Executive Director should check on the status of this.

Agenda and Meeting Changes – Jon Neff

Jon Neff reported that the meeting times have changed to 10:00 a.m. to allow for members to commute, but also to encourage greater networking and collaboration after the meeting in the event that members wish to continue networking and meeting on various topics or issues over lunch. He reported that Gordon Andersen had agreed to serve as Program Chair to ensure that each meeting includes a program or presentation on a relevant topic and encouraged members to provide their ideas to Gordon.

Andersen reported that the next month’s program will be on Sister Cities which inspired a great deal of discussion such as: What are the current Sister Cities? How are these relationships developed? Dick Rush noted that there are many less formal relationships between cities that should not be overlooked. Dr. Sasaki noted that there cannot be more than one city relationship per country, but that another option is through a program called “Friendship Cities”. Lloyd Hardin cautioned that there should be a clear understanding of protocol when referring to these relationships between cities.

James Collard requested that the GIT consider co-sponsorship at no cost of a reception for an upcoming conference of the Native American Indian Tribes and Economic Development on June 7th from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel in Oklahoma City. The meeting follows the annual Sovereignty Symposium which is widely attended. The purpose of the sponsorship is mainly an opportunity for the GIT members and other co-sponsors to have an opportunity to network and to represent the State of Oklahoma. Other co-sponsors will include The International Economic Development Council which is a Washington D.C. based organization with a membership of approximately 4500 members. Lloyd Hardin motioned that the GIT give their approval contingent upon approval from the Secretary of State and Governors offices.

Membership – Phil Scoggin

Phil Scoggin reported that Mark Stansberry had resigned on March 5th due to his workload and extended commitments. He reported that Rick Lehrter of Commerce Bank had been nominated by George Lee. George reported that Lehrter is involved in international trade finance and is assigned to promote Oklahoma’s economic growth through international trade activities. Debbie Blanke motioned for approval of Lehrter’s membership in the GIT, Gordon Andersen seconded, the motion passed. Phil Scoggin encouraged members to consider nominating key people to fill additional vacant positions.

Committee Reports

International Passport Day at the Capitol – March 29 – Ron Duggins

Ron Duggins reported that Passport Day is normally for legislators and their staff and family to encourage international travel and involvement. The County Clerk’s office will be on hand and a photographer so that everything can be accomplished that day. They try to poll periodically to determine how many have actually utilized their passports as a result. He noted that there had been a location change to the Governor’s Conference Room east of the 2nd Floor Rotunda. The times are from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

It was also noted that for $10 more, an individual can order a passport card to be left in a safe deposit box.

Oklahoma International Congress – Steve Miller/Chuck Mills

Jon Neff reported on behalf of Steve and Chuck that the date will be changing from June 25th to September 10th or 17th in order to give adequate time to plan and make speaker arrangements. Secretary Savage said that her office will be willing to assist and they would possibly be able to have the Governor be Honorary Chair. Jon reported that there will be an April 9th planning meeting.

Secretary Savage recommended that the GIT also consider working with her office to assist with the Creativity World Forum scheduled for November 16th and 17th. Chris Morriss handed out materials on the conference explaining the purpose and saying that there will be numerous Heads of State and distinguished guests in attendance that the GIT could assist in hosting.

Consular Summit – Rodger Randle

Jon Neff reported that the Consular Summit will be deferred this year due to the GIT’s involvement with the events and activities discussed.

Website – George Lee

George Lee reported that the new web-site www.OKGIT.com, had been live for two weeks and that members were encouraged to review and make any recommendations to Steve Miller. Gordon Andersen commented that the biggest challenge is keeping it updated and encouraged everyone review their bio information for any needed updates.

Fundraising – Jon Neff and Anita Gordy-Watkins

The committee discussed the issue of fundraising for the primary purpose of supporting a part-time Executive Director. Anita Gordy-Watkins said that although the committee had been successful in generating private funds to support various events and/or endeavors, continuing operational money would be different. A committee would be looking at various possibilities for public and private grants that might be available including Foundations and that any suggestions would be appreciated. It was suggested that the GIT try to make more money on programs. Other suggestions included looking at the George Nigh Foundation, Noble, the Tribes, Community Foundations, and also looking at the TGA model. Dick Rush suggested that a business plan for the organization would be helpful.

Program: Overview of ExporTech Program – Roy Peters

Roy Peters provided a presentation of the key elements of the program saying that the primary aim is to assist Oklahoma companies to enter or expand in global markets. They work with approximately eight company executives of small and mid-sized product companies at a time to develop customized international growth plans. The cost is $800 per company.

Monthly Updates

ODOC – No Report

USDOC – Ron Wilson

Ron Wilson reminded everyone of the 21st Annual World Trade Conference scheduled for April 14th at the Tulsa Southern Hills Hilton. Wilson explained that GIT members can check the website for more information and that GIT members will receive an online notification for the conference.

Manufacturing – Gordon Andersen

Andersen reported that although Oklahoma has 3% less unemployment than the U.S., the oil and gas business is down significantly. Manufacturing is also down by 13.6% which is yet another reason to encourage more manufacturers to become more involved in export trade.

Agriculture – Barbara Charlot

Barbara Charlot reported on their involvement in Oklahoma food processing saying they were involved in a Trade Show in Mexico, a Food Forum in Stockholm, and are scheduled for a presentation at a Food Show in Sweden in mid-April.

Education – Debbie Blanke

Debbie Blanke reported that the Longview Foundation proposal had been submitted by Desa Dawson. She also reported that the Governors International Education Conference had gone very well with the exception of a more limited attendance because of the date change due to the weather. Ron Duggins reported that OSUIT and Career Tech would be hosting a Brazilian delegation associated with a project funded through the U.S. Department of Education.

Old Business

None.

New Business

Lloyd Harden noted that the visiting Consul General for Japan was very impressed with Oklahoma. He commented that he was surprised that there was not more business occurring between Japan and Oklahoma and said that he planned to facilitate more interaction.

Chris Morriss reported that Phil Scoggin and Secretary Savage had recently hosted the Canadian Consul General.

Dr. Sasaki announced that he will be working with Secretary Savage on the 25th year Kyoto anniversary which will include an impressive exhibition of art in Oklahoma.

Dr. Sasaki also announced that this will be the 50th year celebration for the meteorologist program at OU. As one of the original founder in 1960, he would like to extend an invitation to the GIT members to attend the ceremonial event on October 10th. He requested that the GIT address list be provided to him for the invitations.

Secretary Savage also discussed that the there will be an event the latter part of July to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the relationship between Taiwan and Oklahoma in which the Governor will be participating.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 11:45 a.m. Jon Neff reminded everyone that the meetings have moved from the second Tuesday of the month to the third Tuesday. The next meeting is scheduled for April 20th and will be back at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce.

Governors International Team Abbreviated Minutes

February 16, 2010

The meeting was called to order at 3:45p.m. Chair Jon Neff welcomed everyone. Copies of the 2010 GIT Budget, Treasurer’s Report, and proposed Committee List were distributed.

The following individuals attended

Gordon Andersen, Dessie Apostolova, Kate Arroyo, Debbie Blanke, Steve Biggers, Rico Buchli, Kay Bulls, Tim Burg, Barbara Charlet, Jim Collard, Desa Dawson, Ron Duggins, Melissa Grafigna, Jen Gross, Ron Holmes, Shane Jett, George Lee, Steve Miller, Chris Morriss, Jon Neff, Vince Orza, Dwight Perkins, Susan Savage, Lynda Speller, Marcus Verner, Michael Warren, Anita Gordy Watkins, Dick Williamson, Ron Wilson

Minutes of January 2010

Approval of the January 2010 minutes was deferred since selected portions had failed to be distributed to the full membership.

Treasurer’s Report – Anita Gordy-Watkins

As of February 15, the GIT balance was $15,019.41 and the OIC balance was $1,133.22. The financial record keeping process that has been graciously provided by the T.D. Williamson Company is recent years is being transferred directly to the GIT. The nature of the new arrangements will be reported at the March meeting.

Guest Introduction – Jon Neff

Jon Neff introduced guests Rick Lehrter and his associate Gabe Agergio of Commerce Bank in Kansas City. Lehrter is involved in international trade finance and is assigned to promote Oklahoma’s economic growth through international trade activities. Lehrter will be nominated for membership in the GIT at a later date.

Introduction of New Officers

Jon Neff, Chair. Anita Gordy-Watkins, Vice-Chair. Melissa Graffigna, Treasurer. Bob Leiser, Secretary. Steve Miller, Executive Director.

Overview of Proposed GIT 2010 Activities – Jon Neff

Neff made a number of points in sharing his view of the 2010 GIT activities:

Neff stated that we need to improve communications among the membership and the various constituencies we serve. We should communicate our goal to be an outlet for global development and outreach in Oklahoma and follow through with significant events. He reminded members of our website address: www.okgit.com He also suggested that committee reports be prepared in advance of the meetings for posting on the web site. This will allow greater time for discussion of content of the reports and their implications for the organization’s activities. He also urged completion of personal profiles of members to better allow members to use the website to better understand the GIT professional resources that can be applied in support for upcoming activities. A request for assistance will come in the next few days from Ms. Kate Arroyo, assistant to Miller. Finally, the web site will begin inclusion of critical event calendar dates and reports that may be of value to individual members.

Neff briefly noted a planned June 25 Oklahoma International Congress event to be held in Stillwater. The program will include Oklahoma business, government, education and NGO leaders. The Oklahoma Secretary of State will attend the event with invitations extended to the Governor and the Lieutenant Governor. The event will showcase the best international programs in Oklahoma while having a business, culture, and education focus. This is a major opportunity for us to show that GIT is the crossroads of communication and cooperation among organizations regarding international activities.

Neff raised the issue of a change in meeting times and days of the week. He proposed a new time/date of 10 a.m.-12:00 noon on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. This would allow greater time for networking among members, special brief programs, and possibly committee meetings extending through the lunch hour. The GIT meetings would continue to be held at the ODOC offices in Oklahoma City and Tulsa with video linkages. (Note: the March meeting site in Oklahoma City would be held at the office of the Higher Education Regents due to a schedule conflict). After brief discussion, the membership expressed approval of the time/date changes. Neff also suggested we might not have a meeting every month. For example in July and December we can cancel. In June we will have the International Congress instead of a meeting and may arrange an extended time planning retreat in August.

Neff stated that we spend more than we earn. We anticipate spending $9,500-$10,000 on the Oklahoma International Congress and will plan to recover most, if not all of the expenses, through registration fees and corporate sponsorships. He recommended that we should consider applying for grants or other avenues for fund raising in support of upcoming events. We now have an unpaid Executive Director, but would eventually like to give the Executive Director a salary and over cover out-of-pocket expenses.

The GIT should continue involvement with the foreign consuls as the diplomatic aspect of the GIT and to provide visibility of Oklahoma internationally. This likely will include the fall consular summit event. Additionally, having three honorary consuls on our team, it appears appropriate to encourage and support establishment of an Oklahoma honorary consular corps organization and to cooperate with the organization in delivering the consular summit event. The GIT might assist in planning and implementation of a November Creativity World Forum in Oklahoma City. If so, this may necessarily require bypassing of the consular summit in 2010. That matter is open for discussion as more details on the CWF are provided.

Neff proposed consideration of a joint activity with the GEDMT (not a golf tournament) focused on international trade development and avenues for joint support of these activities.

Given the various initiatives outlined by Neff, the members reviewed proposed committees and assignments to them.

Jon explained we need to establish a number of committees so our ambitious agenda can be achieved. A listing of the committees was distributed and many individuals agreed to chair them. A complete list of member assignments will be distributed shortly.

Follow Up Reports-Steve Miller

Miller discussed the current website development and that input will be sought from the web-site committee regarding changes. Additionally, special attention will be devoted to updating and expanding the availability of member bios on the site. Finally, a greater number of general reports on international issues will be posted to the site.

Dr. Miller stated that a general draft of the upcoming OIC conference has been prepared. The new OIC committee will needs to meet quickly to flesh out details of the conference. He also noted that the OSU Wes Watkins Center has been reserved and may well be provided at no charge. As a follow-up, Neff stated the International Congress will be an excellent venue for bringing to individuals across the spectrum of international interests to share best practices and thoughts.

Department Updates

OK Department of Commerce-Dessie Apostolova

Apostolova said that final 2009 trade data was just released. Oklahoma exports were $4.4 billion. This was a 13% decrease from 2008. We are still doing better than the national market. All exports except for those to Mexico went down. We had a 47% increase in exports to Mexico. She stated we are still working on the 2009 Oklahoma export report. Dessie stated that the export-financing workshop in January was good exposure for Oklahoma.

She also talked about the February Calendar and spring series of market briefs via video. The next one will involve international offices focusing on international education. OKDOC will hold a market brief at the Vand Broadcasting office February 23 at 8:30a-10:00a. This is a videoconference with Israel.

She explained there that there will be monthly market briefs with different groups. She also stated that ODOC is looking for honorary consular corps. Also she reminded members that the Governor is having a meeting with eight Canadian premiers in the near future to discuss border issues. This will be held in Gallery 11 and will be open to the public.

U.S. Department of Commerce-Ron Wilson

Wilson spoke of exporting workshops being held in Gallery 11 of ODOC. He also spoke of an upcoming shipping and documentation workshop. Finally, the Oklahoma World Trade Conference will be held on April 14 at the Tulsa Southern Hills Hilton. Wilson explained that we can check the website for more information and that GIT members will receive an online notification for the conference.

Manufacturing-Gordon Anderson

Anderson urged manufacturers to come to the state capital to talk to their legislator about the need for a strong manufacturing base in Oklahoma. He also noted that over 4,000 Oklahoma manufacturers create 133,500 jobs. Manufacturers are especially important due to their export activity.

Agriculture – No report

Education – Desa Dawson

Dawson explained that the Office of State Superintendent for Public Education is preparing a grant proposal regarding international education and will be seeking endorsement by the GIT. Also the Governor’s Global Education Conference has been rescheduled to March 10. This event, originally scheduled for February, was delayed due to bad weather.

Old Business

It was noted that we had voted to set aside money for the International Day at the Capitol. Neff indicated that $1,300 was spent in 2009. Gordy-Watkins moved for approval of up to $1,500 for the event. Graffigna seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote.

New Business

Lloyd Harden explained that Japan has moved from second to third in global exports. This is also the first time they have elected new government party leaders in 60 years. This new leadership is interested in increased involvement with Sister Cities as this has been an underserved resource for trade development. This presents a good opportunity to combine consular and commercial activities. From March 1 to March 3, the Japanese Consul will be in Tulsa, Stillwater. and Oklahoma City to meet with sister city representatives and the Governor.

Shane Jett indicated that informational hearings on international matters have been conducted in recent weeks before the joint committee on international. Jett also asked GIT members to let the Secretary of State know when any foreign dignitaries are in Oklahoma.

Jon Neff said that he hopes the GIT will do positive things and will reach out to legislators with international interests. He also offered GIT support in hosting foreign dignitaries when they come to Oklahoma.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m. The next GIT meeting will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 16, 2010 in the Office of Higher Education Regents office in Oklahoma City and at the ODOC office in Tulsa.