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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><b>Attached please find the new arrangement of our Board Meeting for Sunday. Apparently we have been doing things wrong since the beginning of our elections. Amy Ruell spoke with president Riccobono and he said we should be having our entire board meeting prior to any voting. So that is what we are going to do from now on. I have put the Board Meeting and Our Constitution in the body of this email and as attachments. As always please share with those not on our list serve.<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p><span style='text-decoration:none'> </span></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Sunday, November 1, 2020<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p><span style='text-decoration:none'> </span></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:00a.m. Call to order <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:05a.m. Board Meeting<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Roll Call<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>NFB Pledge<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Reports:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Advisory Board: Mary Silverberg<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>SRC: Deb Reed<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>BCAC: Barbara Blejewski<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>PAC Plan: Anne West<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Vehicle Donation: Marilyn Wenzel<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Federationist: Brianna Rigsbee<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>New Business:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Vote on Amendment to Constitution<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>BELL Academy-Thank you Honorata and your volunteers<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Subsidy Committee: Shonda Rosetta and Deb Reed<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Washington Seminar Appointments: Mary Silverberg<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Discuss Washington Seminar being Virtual<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Donation Mailings: More help needed<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>2021 Convention<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>January Board Meeting date and location<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Chapter News<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><i><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Voting:<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Any member nominated from the floor should have already agreed to serve prior to this convention.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Nominees from the committee and from the floor will have one minute to state why they feel the affiliate should vote for them. The one minute time will be strictly enforced.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Elections: Results will be given to our national Representative Amy Ruell<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Positions: President<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> First Vice President<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> Second Vice President<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> Treasurer<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> Secretary <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> Board Member <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> Board Member<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Meeting adjourned<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>1. NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF CONNECTICUT<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> CONSTITUTION<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Adopted December 4, 1971, at Meeting at Oak Hill School, Hartford<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Amended September 18, 1976, at Board Meeting, West Willington<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Amended November 8, 1992, at Board Meeting, Danbury<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Amended November 5, 1995, at Board Meeting, Stamford<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Amended November 8, 1998, at Board Meeting, New Britain<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Amended November 4, 2012, at Board Meeting, Hartford<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Amended November 2, 2019, at State Convention, Meriden<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article I: NAME<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The name of this organization shall be: National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article II: PURPOSE<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The purpose of this organization shall be to promote the general welfare and education of the blind of the State of Connecticut, and the nation, and to cooperate with the National Federation of the Blind in its various activities.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article III: MEMBERSHIP<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Section 1. ACTIVE MEMBERS: At least a majority of the active members must be blind. Active members shall be of two classifications: active members who are affiliated with local chapters and Divisions, and active members who are not affiliated with local chapters and Divisions. All active members shall pay dues.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-left:.75in;mso-add-space:auto;text-align:justify;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1'><![if !supportLists]><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>A.<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span></b><![endif]><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>All active members of this organization, shall have the right to vote, serve on committees, speak on the floor, and hold office. Such persons may be voting members of only one chapter at a time.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-left:.75in;mso-add-space:auto;text-align:justify;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1'><![if !supportLists]><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>B.<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span></b><![endif]><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Members at Large who have paid their dues have the right to vote at the annual state convention and run for any position on the board of directors that is open.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> C. Any person who is not affiliated with a local chapter may become an active member of this organization by a majority vote of the active members present and voting at a Convention, or by action of the Board of Directors. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Section 2. ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: Associate members shall have all the rights and privileges of active members except that they may not vote, hold office, or serve on the Board of Directors. Associate Members shall not pay dues. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Section 3. EXPULSION: Any member or chapter may be expelled from this affiliate because of misconduct or neglect of duty or continued opposition to the state or National Federation of the Blind by a two-thirds vote of the active membership present and voting at any regular business session or convention and/or by a three-fourths vote of the Board of Directors. All parties shall be given at least 14 days written notice of intent to expel.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article IV: LOCAL CHAPTERS<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Any local group desiring to become a local chapter of the NFB of Connecticut shall apply for affiliation by submitting to the President of the NFB of Connecticut a copy of its Constitution and a list of names and addresses, phone numbers, and email if applicable of its members and local officers. When the NFB of Connecticut, either in Convention assembled or by action of its Board 2.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>of Directors, shall have approved the Constitution, it shall issue to the local chapter a Charter of Membership. Annually, on or before January 1st, each local chapter shall provide to the President of the NFB of Connecticut a current list of its members names, phone numbers, addresses and emails if applicable. At the same time, each local Treasurer shall forward to the State Treasurer its dues in the amount of $3.00 for each member of the chapter. As new members enter the local chapter, their names, phone numbers, addresses and email if applicable shall be sent without delay to the president of the State organization. State dues shall be sent without delay to the Treasurer of the State organization. Chapter presidents shall assist new members in filling out the New Member Form online and submit such form to the National office. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>No group shall be accepted as a Chapter, and no group shall remain a Chapter, unless at least a majority of its voting members are blind. The President, the Vice-President, or Vice-Presidents, and at least a majority of the Executive Committee, or Board of Directors of the local Chapter must be blind.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The President of the NFB of CT shall be an Ex Officio member of each local chapter.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article V: OFFICERS AND THEIR DUTIES<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>There shall be elected at the regular Annual Convention, during each even-numbered year, a President, a First Vice-President, a Second Vice-President, a Secretary, and a Treasurer. The terms of these officers shall begin at the close of the Convention at which they are elected and qualified. Officers shall be elected by a majority vote of the active members who are present and voting. There shall be no proxy voting.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>If no nominee receives a majority vote on the first ballot, a run-off election will be held between the two candidates receiving the highest number of votes. If a tie occurs between two or more candidates receiving the second highest number of votes, see procedural addendum.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Should a vacancy occur in any office, except that of the presidency before the term expires, the office will be filled by a presidential appointment until the next state convention at which time an election will be held to fill the office of the unexpired term. The election shall be held in the same manner as that provided for the election of officers. The vacancy of President shall be filled by the succession of the Vice Presidents.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The President and Vice-Presidents must be blind. The duties of each officer shall be those ordinarily associated with his office.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article VI: BOARD OF DIRECTORS<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The Board of Directors shall consist of the five constitutional officers, and four additional members, two of whom shall be elected for a two year term at the Annual Convention during even-numbered years, and two of whom shall be elected for a two year term at the Annual Convention during odd-numbered years.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The Board shall, upon reasonable notice, meet at the call of the President, or on written call signed by any three of the Board members. The Board shall advise the President and shall have charge of the affairs of the organization between conventions.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>3.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>At least five members of the Board shall be present at any meeting to constitute a quorum to transact business. The Board may be polled by telephone or mail ballot on any question.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article VII: MEETINGS<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Section 1. Annual Convention: This organization shall hold an Annual Convention, the time and place of which shall be fixed by the membership, <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>or if this is not possible, by the Board of Directors. At least 15 active members must be present to constitute a quorum to transact business at any Annual Convention.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Section 2. Special Meetings: The President of the organization may call a special meeting of the body at any time he/she, or a majority of the Board of Directors, deems such action to be necessary; but at such special meetings, at least 15 active members must be present to constitute a quorum to transact business, and written notices must have been sent to the membership at least ten days prior to the date of the meeting.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article VIII: COMMITTEES<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The President may appoint such committees as he/she or the organization, deem necessary.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article IX: AFFILIATION<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut shall be an affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, and shall furnish to the President of the National Federation of the Blind annually, on or before January 1st a list of the names, addresses, phone numbers, addresses and emails if applicable of its members and elected officers, a copy of the Constitution of the NFB of Connecticut, and all amendments to the Constitution shall also be sent to the President of the National Federation of the Blind.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article X: DELEGATES TO THE NATIONAL CONVENTION<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The organization shall elect each year at least one delegate, and at least one alternate delegate to attend the Convention of the National Federation of the Blind. No person shall be elected as delegate, or alternate, unless he is an active member in good standing. To the extent of the resources of the organization, the expenses of delegates, and alternate delegates, to the <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Convention of the National Federation of the Blind shall be paid.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article XI: DUES<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The dues of the organization shall be set by a vote of the board of directors, payable in advance, in accordance with Article IV of the Constitution. Local chapters shall pay the dues of their members. Members who are not affiliated with local chapters shall pay their dues before January 31st. A life-time membership may be secured for a fee of $100.00. A person must be a paid member at least fifteen (15) days in advance of a state convention to be able to vote at said convention.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>4.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article XII: DISBURSEMENT OF FUNDS<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>The funds of this organization shall be deposited in a bank selected by the Treasurer, with the approval of the President. The Treasurer shall be bonded. All financial obligations of the organization shall be discharged by checks issued on written order of the President and signed by the Treasurer.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article XIII: DISSOLUTION<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>In the event of the dissolution, all assets of the organization shall be given to the National Federation of the Blind.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Article XIV: AMENDMENT<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>This Constitution may be amended at any regular meeting of this organization by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the active members present and voting, provided the proposed amendment has been submitted in writing and read at a previous business session.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF CONNECTICUT<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> CONSTITUTION<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> PROCEDURAL ADDENDUM<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>I. Article V: Officers and Their Duties: Elections<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>A. If two or more candidates receive the second highest number of votes, they will be included in a run-off election against the person receiving the highest number of votes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>B. If there is a tie for the highest number of votes among three or more candidates, they will <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>participate in a run-off election.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Amendment 11/3/2019 at State Convention </span><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><ol style='margin-top:0in' start=1 type=1><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Article III: Membership:</span> <span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Removal of; All active members shall be over 16 years of age.</span> <span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Change all active members of local “Chapters” to Chapters and Divisions. Add; </span><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Members at Large who have paid their dues have the right to vote at the annual state convention and run for any position on the board of directors that is open.</span><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></li></ol><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><ol style='margin-top:0in' start=2 type=1><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Article IV: Local Chapters: Replace “approved the application” with approved the Constitution. Replace issue to the local chapter a” Certificate of Acceptance” with Charter of Membership. Replace “Annually or before “December 15<sup>th</sup>” with Annually on January 1st provide to the state; Replace from “Secretary” to President… Replace list of “names and addresses” to names, phone numbers, addresses and email if applicable wherever it is listed and replace “December 15<sup>th</sup>” with January 31<sup>st</sup> their state dues shall be sent without delay to the Treasurer of the State organization. Regarding new members: their information shall be sent to the President replacing “Secretary.” New language added “Chapter Presidents shall assist new members in filling out the new member form online and submit such form to the national office.”<o:p></o:p></span></li></ol><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><ol style='margin-top:0in' start=3 type=1><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Article VII: Meetings, Section 2. Change “he” too he/she when referring to the president.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ol><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><ol style='margin-top:0in' start=4 type=1><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Article IX: Affiliation change “names and address” of members to names, phone numbers, addresses, and email if applicable.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ol><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><ol style='margin-top:0in' start=5 type=1><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:106%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2'><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Article XI: Dues change “Members who are not affiliated with local chapters shall pay their dues before, or during, the time of the annual convention” to, shall pay their dues on or before January 31<sup>st</sup>. <o:p></o:p></span></li></ol><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Totally remove “any person affiliated with a local chapter…<o:p></o:p></span></p><b><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;layout-grid-mode:line'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span></b><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Courier New"'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Best Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Maryanne Melley<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>President<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>860-212-5549<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>“Live the Life You Want”<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>