IRS Response 2009 06: Difference between revisions

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== Question 2: Noisebridge Activities ==
== Question 2: Noisebridge Activities ==


'''2.1 Circuit Hacking Monday'''
=== '''2.1 Circuit Hacking Monday''' ===


2.1.a  The activity offers instruction in  
2.1.a  The activity offers instruction in  
Line 214: Line 214:
2.1.o See matrix of time attached.  
2.1.o See matrix of time attached.  


'''2.2 San Francisco Unified School District ExCEL  
=== '''2.2 San Francisco Unified School District ExCEL  
Project (Pending Activity)'''
Project (Pending Activity)''' ===


2.2.a Noisebridge recently partnered with Teach Me  
2.2.a Noisebridge recently partnered with Teach Me  

Revision as of 12:26, 3 June 2009

Request

The IRS responded to our 501(c)3 application with a request for additional information (7MB PDF). We are responding as follows.

Response Context

Our lawyer has asked us to focus on responses to Questions 2, 3,5, 7,8, and 10 from the IRS request for information. We meet with her at 11AM on Friday 6 June 2009. Please iterate on this response before then.

Things we specifically need: 0) add activities performed at Noisebridge but not currently mentioned in Question 2 1) fill in Time Matrix as part of Question 2

Question 2: Time Matrix

Note: I made a one-off gDocs spreadsheet anyone can edit for this, here: http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=r04ctAsgVjhOuFLr-LLSA_g&hl=en. Anyone (and I do mean anyone can edit it) -jbm

Time usage matrix

Activity %time (must sum to 100)

Circuit Hacking Monday

ExCEL project

Noisebridge Meeting

Python Class

Haskell Class

Machine Learning Wednesday

Mandarin Corner

German

Design Huddle

Five Minutes of Fame

VFX Class

Crazy Crypto Night

Cyborg Group

Text Response

Question 2: Noisebridge Activities

2.1 Circuit Hacking Monday

2.1.a The activity offers instruction in "soldering," which is a basic skill required to build electronics. The following extended description appears at the web page advertising the activity, available at https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Circuit_Hacking_Mondays

"Learn to solder! Mitch will bring kits to make cool, practical, intriguing, hackable things that you can bring home after you make it. Of course, you can also bring your own projects to hack.

Anyone can learn to solder! Even if you have never made anything in your life, you can learn this very useful and enjoyable skill. It really is fun! Mitch has taught thousands of people to solder all around the world, and he can teach you, too! Add yourself to the ever increasing community!"

2.1.b The instructor is Mitch Altman. Altman's qualifications include being a founder of 3Ware, pioneering virtual reality research at VPL Research, and founding Cornfield Electronics. In addition, Mitch has run soldering teaching sessions at a variety of locations across the world. Mitch Altman is also a Noisebridge member, the Noisebridge treasurer, and a member of the Noisebridge board of directors. See his wikipedia entry at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitch_Altman


The instructor is responsible for teaching participants the skill of soldering. This skill is fundamental to building electronics.

The instructor's duties are to greet participants, then assesses each participant's current level of skill. The instructor then works with each participant to improve his or her soldering skills. Typically, this will be done by the participant completing a small project under the supervision of the instructor.

2.1.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility, located at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.1.d The activity is conducted every Monday night from 8:30PM until participants agree to stop.

2.1.e The instructors deeply believe in teaching anyone who wants to learn the basic skills required to build electronics. No instructor receives a financial benefit or has any financial interest from the activity.

2.1.f The activity is part of a series of Noisebridge education activities that are open to the general public. As such, the activity is important to Noisebridge's mission and exempt purposes.

2.1.g Anyone may participate in the activity. In particular, participation is not limited to Noisebridge members.

2.1.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at 8:30PM on Monday night and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.1.i Participants may optionally buy kits containing parts required to build small electronic devices. Noisebridge charges only the cost of parts. Noisebridge offers different kits with a range of $7 to $25. Purchasing such a kit is not required for participation; participants may bring in their own electronics projects for soldering instruction.

During the activity, we also suggest donations to Noisebridge in the $3 to $5 range per person, but participation is encouraged even without such donations. All donations go directly to Noisebridge. No member of Noisebridge and no instructor of the activity receive any financial benefit from the activity.

2.1.k The event is free and readily accessible to the general public. As described in 2.1.i, participants may optionally buy kits containing parts for small devices and may optionally donate to Noisebridge, but there is no fee for participation.

Noisebridge advertises the event on the front page of its web site http://noisebridge.net . Instructors also send periodic reminders of the activity to electronic mailing lists run by Noisebridge and to other electronic mailing lists. Noisebridge has also advertised the event at Maker Faire 2009, a public event held 29 and 30 May 2009 at the San Mateo Fairgrounds, as part of a booth at the fair.

2.1.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing free instruction to the general public in basic skills required to create new electronics technology. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.1.m Noisebridge dedicates 0% of total general funds to this activity. Specifically, no labor costs are involved in the activity because the instructor donates his time. Costs for parts are covered by the participants, either in the form of their own electronics projects or in the purchase of optional electronics kits. Noisebridge does pay for the rent of the facility used for this activity, but the rent money is not specifically earmarked for this activity.

2.1.n Some of the kits available for purchase during the activity are designed by Cornfield Electronics, which is a company founded by the instructor and Noisebridge treasurer Mitch Altman. Cornfield Electronics donates the design of the kits, including the list of parts required and instructions for assembly to the general public.

2.1.o See matrix of time attached.

=== 2.2 San Francisco Unified School District ExCEL Project (Pending Activity) ===

2.2.a Noisebridge recently partnered with Teach Me To Make to propose after-school instruction in basic electronics for children in the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD). The proposal has been filed with the ExCEL program of SFUSD. Noisebridge is currently waiting for a response from the ExCEL program.

We have a page on the Noisebridge web site dedicated to this effort: https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Sfusd_excel_program

The page links to a detailed proposal, including budget, to the SFUSD ExCEL program. The proposal is also attached to this response to the request for information.

2.2.b From the proposal:

"Our organizations [Noisebridge and Teach Me To Make] include a great many members covering a wide range of skills, experiences, and areas of expertise. While many may participate in the ExCEL program as guest speakers, a much smaller subset will be the formal instructional personnel.

Teachers are chosen on the basis of knowledge, interpersonal skills, and the ability to impart their knowledge to students in a clear, easy-to- follow manner. To participate in this program, teachers must show sensitivity to the needs and understanding of different students, and must be able to explain concepts in alternate ways appropriate to each students. Teachers must be patient, good listeners, and respectful." Please also see the attached proposal.

2.2.c The activity will be conducted at local schools of the San Francisco Unified School District. Specific schools will be established if the proposal is accepted by the SFUSD.

2.2.d The time of the activity will be established jointly by Noisebridge, Teach Me To Make, and SFUSDif the proposal is accepted by the SFUSD.

2.2.e The Noisebridge members involved with the proposal have a deep and passionate commitment to teaching others basic electronic skills. In addition, the proposal includes financial compensation for time spent teaching. Please refer to the attached proposal budget for details.

2.2.f The activity forms part of Noisebridge's efforts at outreach to the general public. Because this activity will, if accepted by SFUSD, take Noisebridge's educational mission directly to children in their schools, the activity is significant.

2.2.g School children enrolled in participating schools within the SFUSD may participate.

2.2.h If the proposed activity is accepted by SFUSD, Noisebridge will work with SFUSD to determine criteria for selecting participants in the event.

2.2.i Please see attached budget.

2.2.j Yes, the proposal budget includes $3840 compensation for teaching time for an electronics teacher, as shown in the attached budget.

2.2.k The activity, if accepted by SFUSD, will be free and accessible to students enrolled in schools of the SFUSD. The activity will be advertised by participating schools.

2.2.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing instruction to public school children in basic skills required to create new electronics technology. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purposes.


2.2.m Noisebridge devotes no funds directly to this activity. Funding for the activity, if approved, will comes from the ExCEL program of the SFUSD.

2.2.n The proposal is joint between Noisebridge and Teach Me To Make. One principal of Teach Me To Make, Michael Shiloh, is also a member of Noisebridge, but Teach Me To Make is a separate organization. For more information on Teach Me To Make, see their web site http://www.teachmetomake.com/

2.2.o See attached matrix.

2.3 Python Class

2.3.a Noisebridge offers free instruction in the computer language Python. Python is a popular language used in developing new web sites. Please see attached class announcements distributed to Noisebridge electronic mailing lists.

2.3.b The activity was created by Noisebridge member Asheesh Laroia. Asheesh is a professional programmer and startup founder with several years of experience working in Python. Asheesh led the first round of classes.

Currently the activity is led by Noisebridge member Dan Silverstein. Dan is a professional programmer with deep expertise in building large scalable web services.

2.3.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.3.d The activity is conducted every Monday at 6:30PM.

2.3.e The teaching of Python has deep personal interest to Asheesh and Dan; several Noisebridge members also enjoy learning new programming languages. No Noisebridge member has a financial interest in the development of the language.

2.3.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education in art and technology to the general public.

2.3.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.3.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at 6:30PM on Monday night and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.3.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.3.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity. 2.3.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.3.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing free instruction to the general public in how to program computers. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.3.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.3.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.3.o See attached time matrix.

2.4 Haskell Class

2.4.a Noisebridge offers free instruction in the computer language Haskell. Haskell is a language noted for its stress on a "pure functional" style, which differs significantly from traditional computer languages.

2.4.b The activity was created and is led by Noisebridge member Jason Dusek.

2.4.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.4.d The activity is conducted every Tuesday at 6:30PM.

2.4.e The teaching of Haskell has deep personal interest to Jason; several Noisebridge members also enjoy learning new programming languages. No Noisebridge member has a financial interest in the development of the language.

2.4.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education in art and technology to the general public.

2.4.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.4.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at 6:30PM on Tuesday night and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.4.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.4.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity.

2.4.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.4.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing free instruction to the general public in how to program computers. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.4.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.4.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.4.o See attached time matrix.

2.5 Noisebridge Weekly Meeting

2.5.a Noisebridge hosts an open weekly meeting to discuss current issues of interest to the general public and to members of Noisebridge. The weekly meeting is the method used by Noisebridge to bring up questions for discussion and resolution by the Noisebridge membership.

2.5.b All members of the general public may participate in the activity. Decisions are made by consensus. Members of Noisebridge may block consensus, causing no action to be taken on a specific issue, while members of the general public may not.

2.5.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.5.d The activity is conducted every Tuesday at 8PM.

2.5.e Every member of Noisebridge has an interest in the weekly meeting because it is where decisions are made about the direction of Noisebridge.

2.5.f The activity is critical because it determines what other activities will be carried out as part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education in art and technology to the general public.

2.5.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity. To block consensus, however, a person must be a member of Noisebridge.

2.5.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at 8PM on Tuesday night and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.5.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.5.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to participate in this activity.

2.5.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.5.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by directing Noisebridge's future efforts and projects. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (c ), (d),(e), (f), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.5.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.5.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.5.o See attached time matrix.

2.6 Machine Learning Wednesday

2.6.a Noisebridge offers instruction in and group discussion time for statistics, mathematics, and programming techniques related to the field of “machine learning.”

2.6.b The activity was created and is led by Noisebridge member Josh Myer. Josh is a professional programmer working for The Mechanical Zoo. His day job involves machine learning as part of working on a product called Aardvark.

2.6.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.6.d The activity is conducted every Wednesday at 8PM.

2.6.e The teaching of Machine Learning has deep personal interest to Josh; several Noisebridge members also enjoy learning new mathematics.

2.6.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education in art and technology to the general public.

2.6.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.6.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at 8PM on Wednesday night and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.6.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.6.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity.

2.6.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.6.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing space for discussion of and instruction in machine learning. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.6.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.6.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.6.o See attached time matrix.

2.7 German Class

2.7.a Noisebridge offers free instruction in the German language. Please see our web page https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/German

2.7.b The activity is run by Charlotte, who has a BA and MA in German and ten years of experience as an instructor. Charlotte has taught workshops on creative games and activities for foreign language acquisition, and using multiple intelligences for foreign language acquisition, and pain-free classroom management. She taught college, high school, Business German, German for children (ages 6 to 18) both for children of native speakers and non-native speakers.

2.7.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.7.d The activity is conducted every Thursday at 6PM.

2.7.e The teaching of German is of interest to Charlotte.

2.7.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education to the general public.

2.7.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.7.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at the event time and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.7.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.7.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity.

2.7.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.7.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing free instruction to the general public about the German language. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.7.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.7.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.7.o See attached time matrix.

2.8 Professional VFX Compositing With Adobe After Effects Class

2.8.a Noisebridge offers free instruction in the computer program Adobe After Effects. After Effects is a program used for video editing and video effects (“VFX”). See the program description on the web here: https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Professional_VFX_Compositing_With_Adobe_After_Effects

2.8.b The activity was created and is led by Noisebridge member Aaron Muszalski. Aaron is a professional Visual Effects Artist, who formerly worked at Industrial Light + Magic. Aaron currently teaches classes in VFX at the San Francisco Academy of Art University, including classes on Compositing, Rotoscoping and Digital Paint. Applications used in my classes include Photoshop, After Effects, Shake (though less so since Apple killed it), Commotion, Combustion and Silhouette.

2.8.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.8.d The activity is conducted the first, second, and fourth Thursdays of each month at 7PM.

2.8.e The teaching of visual effects generation has deep personal interest to Aaron.

2.8.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education in art and technology to the general public.

2.8.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.8.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at the appointed time and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.8.i There is no fee for participation in the activity. The instructor does offer the ability for participants to donate to the instructor or to Noisebridge during the activity, but these donations are not required for participation.

2.8.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity. The instructor does offer the ability for participants to donate to the instructor or to Noisebridge during the activity, but these donations are not required for participation.

2.8.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.8.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is "The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing free instruction to the general public in how to use computers to perform video editing. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose. 2.8.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity. 2.8.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity. 2.8.o See attached time matrix.

2.9 Science, Engineering, and Design Huddle

2.9.a Noisebridge offers a group brainstorming session for people who have trouble with current design or engineering projects. The session focuses on high level goals for projects to help participants think through problems they are having with carrying out such projects. https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Science,_Engineering_%26_Design_Huddle


2.9.b The activity was created and is led by Noisebridge member Michael Kan.

2.9.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.9.d The activity is conducted each Thursday at 7PM.

2.9.e Helping people with their projects is of deep personal interest to Michael Kan. 2.9.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education in art and technology to the general public.

2.9.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.9.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at the appointed time and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.9.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.9.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity.

2.9.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.9.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is "The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to:

(a). Through talks, classes, workshops, 

collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space.

(b). Provide educational spaces for teaching 

practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art.

(c). Provide work space, storage, and other 

resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing time and space for members of the general public to share ideas about engineering projects. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.9.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.9.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.9.o See attached time matrix.

2.10 Five Minutes of Fame

2.10.a Noisebridge offers an opportunity for members of the general public to give five-minute talks about current projects or areas of interest. These five minute talks are an opportunity for participants to practice public speaking and to seek out potential collaborators on areas of interest. Please see https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Five_Minutes_of_Fame for list of previous talks.

Noisebridge also publishes free videos on YouTube of talks from the Five Minutes of Fame series. Please see http://www.youtube.com/noisebridge

2.10.b The activity is run by Noisebridge members aestetix and Ani Vinow. The main qualifications required to run the activity are the ability to organize people and publicize the activity, which they have shown themselves to have by running the activity for several months.

2.10.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.10.d The activity is conducted every third Thursday 8PM.

2.10.e Providing a platform for others to do five minute talks is of interest to Noisebridge members Ani Vinow and aestetix. 2.10.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education to the general public.

2.10.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.10.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at the event time and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.10.i There is no fee for participation in the activity, either to present a five minute talk or to listen.

2.10.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to participate in this activity.

2.10.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.10.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to:

(a). Through talks, classes, workshops, 

collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing a platform for members of the general public to present their ideas to a wide audience. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.10.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.10.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.10.o See attached time matrix.


2.11 Mandarin Corner'

2.11.a Noisebridge offers group study in the Mandarin Chinese language. Please see our web page https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Mandarin_Corner

2.11.b The activity is run by the participants, who have a wide range of abilities in speaking and reading/writing Mandarin Chinese.

2.11.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.11.d The activity is conducted every Friday at 5PM.

2.11.e Chinese culture and language is of interest to several Noisebridge members.

2.11.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education to the general public.

2.11.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.11.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at the event time and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.11.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.11.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity.

2.11.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.11.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space.

(b). Provide educational spaces for teaching 

practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants. (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing free instruction to the general public about the German language. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.11.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.11.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.11.o See attached time matrix.


2.12 Crazy Crypto Night

2.12.a Noisebridge offers a group study session on the theory and practice of cryptography, the science of secret codes. https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/CrazyCryptoCnight

2.12.b The activity is run by its participants.

2.12.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.12.d The activity is conducted every Friday at 6PM.

2.12.e David Molnar, a Noisebridge member and Noisebridge secretary, has a deep personal interest in cryptography.

2.12.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education to the general public.

2.12.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.12.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at the event time and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.12.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.12.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity.

2.12.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.12.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology.

(d). To create, learn, and teach, individually 

and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes.

(g). To foster, by all legal means, the common 

purposes of its participants.

(h). To conduct or engage in all lawful 

activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing group study in the science of cryptography. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.12.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.12.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.12.o See attached time matrix.


2.13 Cyborg Group Meeting

2.13.a Noisebridge offers a group study and build session focusing on new user interfaces for computers.

2.13.b The activity is run by the participants.

2.13.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.13.d The activity is conducted every Sunday at 11AM.

2.13.e Building new ways to interface with computers is of interest to several Noisebridge members.

2.13.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering education to the general public.

2.13.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity.

2.13.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at the event time and wishes to participate in the activity participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis.

2.13.i There is no fee for participation in the activity.

2.13.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to teach or to participate in this activity.

2.13.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings.

2.13.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to: (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology. (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world. (e). To develop, support the development of, and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society.

(f). Collaboration across disciplines for the 

benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes.

(g). To foster, by all legal means, the common 

purposes of its participants.

(h). To conduct or engage in all lawful 

activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing group design and build sessions focused on new user interfaces for computers. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.13.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. Noisebridge does pay the rent for the facility used by this activity, but those funds are not devoted specifically to the activity.

2.13.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.13.o See attached time matrix.


2.14 Pay Phone

2.14.a Noisebridge offers the ability to make free phone calls from the Noisebridge facility to anywhere in the United States. The phone calls are made from a pay phone converted to make phone calls over. Please see our web page regarding the design and operation of the converted pay phone. https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/Payphone


2.14.b The activity is run by Noisebridge member Seth Schoen and various others who help out as needed.

2.14.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.14.d The activity is available 24/7 within the Noisebridge facility.

2.14.e Making free phone calls available to others is of interest to Seth.

2.14.f The activity is a part of Noisebridge's mission of offering art and technology to the general public. The pay phone is a specific example of repurposing seemingly obsolete technology for the public benefit.

2.14.g Any member of the general public may participate in the activity. Just pick up the phone.

2.14.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility and wishes make a phone call can participate. In the event that there is someone already on the phone, a participant needs to wait until that person has hung up.

2.14.i There is no fee for participation in the activity. The phone service is donated to Noisebridge by Seth Schoen.

2.14.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to participate in this activity, aside from the benefit of being able to make free phone calls.

2.14.k The activity is free and readily accessible to the general public. The activity is advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings. The pay phone itself is mounted in an easily visible location within the Noisebridge facility .

2.14.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to:

    (a). Through talks, classes, workshops, 

collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space.

    (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching 

practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art.

    (c). Provide work space, storage, and other 

resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology.

    (d). To create, learn, and teach, individually 

and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world.

    (e). To develop, support the development of, 

and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society.

    (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the 

benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes.

    (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common 

purposes of its participants.

    (h). To conduct or engage in all lawful 

activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing free phone calls to members of the general public.. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (d), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.14.m No funds are devoted specifically to this activity. While the phone service does cost money, this service is paid for and donated by Seth Schoen.

2.14.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.14.o See attached time matrix.


2.15 Rent and Utilities for 83C

2.15.a Noisebridge pays the rent and utilities for a facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA. This facility is the location for most of Noisebridge's other activities.

2.15.b The rent and utilities are paid monthly by the Noisebridge Treasurer, Mitch Altman.

2.15.c The activity is conducted at the main Noisebridge facility at 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA.

2.15.d The activity is ongoing.

2.15.e The facility and its use are of deep perosnal interest to every member of Noisebridge.

2.15.f The activity is critical to Noisebridge's mission of offering education to the general public, because it establishes the space where educational activities occur.

2.15.g Any member of the general public may participate in the Noisebridge facility.

2.15.h Anyone who shows up at the Noisebridge facility at a scheduled event time and wishes to participate in an event participates. In the event that there are not enough materials or space to accomodate everyone, participation slots are allocated on a first come first serve basis. In addition, the space is available outside of scheduled events for people to meet informally and exchange information about projects.

2.15.i There is no fee for participation in the activity. Becoming a Noisebridge member is not required to use the Noisebridge facility.

2.15.j No member of Noisebridge receives any financial incentive to participate in this activity. Noisebridge members donate either $40 or $80 per month to Noisebridge to pay for rent and utilities.

2.15.k Use of the space is free. Noisebridge members have keys to the space, but membership in Noisebridge is not required to obtain a key to the Noisebridge facility. Activities taking place at the Noisebridge facility are advertised through electronic mailing lists, on the front page of the Noisebridge web site, and announced at Noisebridge general meetings. Members of the general public are welcome at the space at all times.

2.15.l The purpose of Noisebridge set out in its bylaws is

"The purpose of this corporation is to promote and encourage technical, scientific, and artistic skills through individual projects, social collaboration, and education. Also in the context of these purposes, the corporation shall engage in scientific, charitable and educational activities within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including but not limited to:

(a). Through talks, classes, workshops, 

collaborative projects, and other activities, to encourage research, knowledge exchange, learning, and mentoring in a safe, clean space. (b). Provide educational spaces for teaching practical skills and theory of technology, science, and art. (c). Provide work space, storage, and other resources for projects related to art, science, and technology that will benefit the individual members' personal growth in their fields of interest, encouraging the individual members to share their projects and knowledge for the betterment of society through art, science and technology.

(d). To create, learn, and teach, individually 

and as a group, inviting members of the community in the San Francisco Bay area and the world.

(e). To develop, support the development of, 

and provide resources for the development of free and open source software and hardware for the benefit of society. (f). Collaboration across disciplines for the benefit of cultural, charitable, and scientific causes. (g). To foster, by all legal means, the common purposes of its participants.

(h). To conduct or engage in all lawful 

activities in furtherance of the stated purposes or those incidental to them."

The activity furthers the exempt charitable purposes of Noisebridge by providing space for activities by members of Noisebridge and members of the general public. This falls under paragraphs (a), (b), (c ), (d),(e),(f), (g), and (h) of the Noisebridge exempt purpose.

2.15.m Noisebridge pays the rent and utilities for the 83C facility. Rent is $1975 per month, utilities vary but are roughly $400 per month. This constitutes the main part of the monthly Noisebridge budget.[TODO: fill in exact percentage.]

2.15.n Noisebridge works with no other individual members or organizations for this activity.

2.15.o See attached time matrix.

Question 3: Ownership of Noisebridge Lease

Our facility, 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA is owned by Ahuva Jolish, who is not a member of nor affiliated in any way with Noisebridge. The facility is leased to the organization. The lease for 83C Wiese Street, San Francisco, CA is held by Noisebridge. This is the only facility currently associated with Noisebridge. All activities mentioned in our response Question 2 are conducted at 83C Wiese Street, except for the pending activity with the San Francisco Unified School District ExCEL program (section 2.2), which will take place at San Francisco schools.

No member of Noisebridge has a direct or indirect financial interest in the space. We did have a brief period in October 2008 prior to the incorporation of Noisebridge when the lease was in the name of individual members. We immediately re-signed the lease to transfer the lease to Noisebridge after incorporation. The lease is now held by Noisebridge alone.

Question 5: Describe Residency Program

We do not currently offer a residency program, but we marked the box on the application because we hope to offer such a program in the future. When we do offer such a program, we envision that the program will consist of inviting an artist or technologist to visit the Noisebridge facility and interact with members of the general public. This interaction would consist of discussions with members of the public present at the Noisebridge facility and leading new activities at the space.

The resident would not live in the Noisebridge facility. Instead, the person would be housed by a Noisebridge member as part of the program, at no cost to Noisebridge or the person. Noisebridge would pay for the person's expenses and a small reasonable stipend for the person. The specifics of the reimbursement, lodging, and stipend will be determined if and when we offer such a residency program. We welcome suggestions for ways to improve this process.


Question 7: Describe Oversight/Selection for Residency

As mentioned in the answer to question 5, we do not currently offer the residency program, but we hope to offer such a program in the future. When we do offer this program, we plan to select potential residents by recommendations from Noisebridge members or members of the general public brought up at Noisebridge general meetings. A committee of Noisebridge members would then review these recommendations, screen for the appearance of conflicts of interest, and make recommendations to the general membership. Noisebridge members would then come to a consensus about the selection of a resident to invite and the duration of the residency. We welcome suggestions for ways to improve this process.


Question 8: Describe Publication Activities

Noisebridge does not engage in any printed publication activity. Noisebridge does publish videos of the "Five Minutes of Fame" lightning talks held at Noisebridge (see response 2.10 above) on YouTube. See http://www.youtube.com/noisebridge

Noisebridge makes no charge for and derives no income from this publication activity. Noisebridge posts these videos to further the exempt purposes of the "Five Minutes of Fame" talk series, as described above, by making the talks available to a broad public audience for no cost. All work required to create these videos was donated by members of Noisebridge and their friends.

Question 10: Ownership In Name of Noisebridge

The Noisebridge facility and all common tools, equipment, and books are all held in the name of the Noisebridge organization. These tools, equipment, and books are labeled as property of Noisebridge to avoid confusion with private property of members of the general public that may be visiting the Noisebridge facility. All donations made to the organization directly, not to individuals associated with the organization.