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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72"><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>Please see below or as an attached Word Document.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:70.9pt;text-indent:35.45pt'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF CONNECTICUT<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>BOARD MEETING MINUTES<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>APRIL 15, 2023<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The regular meeting of the NFB of CT Board was called to order by President Melley at 11:14 AM.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Members Present: Deb Reed (Board Member), Beth Rival (Board Member), Cheri Duquette (Treasurer), Becky Ireland (Secretary), Maryanne Melley (President), Mary Silverberg (2<sup>nd</sup> Vice-President), Veronica Alston (Board Member), Jim McCullom (Board Member).<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Members Absent: Nathanael Wales (1<sup>st</sup> Vice-President).<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>President Melley led the members in the NFB pledge.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Treasurer's Report:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Cheri Duquette gave a Treasurer's report. If you would like a copy please contact Lucia, at llee@nfbct.org, and she will forward a copy to you.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Cheri requested that she be allowed to move $100,000 from the checking account into the savings account. This way all the money for the restricted funds is in one place. The money left in the checking will be used to pay for bills, subsidies, and other expenditures.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Members had a brief discussion on the best way to earn interest on our accounts and ways we can advertise our group and increase the membership.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Beth Rival made a motion to move $100,000 from the checking account to the savings account.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Seconded: Becky Ireland<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Vote: 8 to 0 motion passes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Beth Rival made a motion to accept the Treasurer's report.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Seconded Mary Silverberg<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>:Vote: 8 to 0 motion passes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Minutes For January Board Meeting</span></u></b><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Pres. Melley asked if everyone reviewed the minutes for the January board meeting. She then asked for a motion to approve the minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary Silverberg made a motion to approve the January 14, 2023, minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Seconded: Beth Rival<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Vote: 8 to 0 Motion passes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>ABPVI (Advisory Board for Persons who are Visually Impaired)</span></u></b><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> Beth Rival<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Beth reported the following:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Their last meeting was in March 2023 via Zoom they no longer meet in person.<o:p></o:p></span></b></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> BESB is down 12 positions at this time. Positions include 2 secretaries, VOC Rehab people, and mobility instructors. <o:p></o:p></span></b></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Beth stated that they are posting for the opening but that after 30 days the postings are taken down even though the position has not been filled. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Members had a brief discussion about why this is allowed and whether it can be changed. Pres. Melley said she will contact Carol Jenkins for more information. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Members had a brief discussion about the struggles people are having getting services from BESB. Due to a tight budget and being understaffed it is becoming harder for those who need their services to receive them.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> Pres. Melley encouraged members to write to their Representatives and asking them to increase funding for BESB.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> SRC (State Rehabilitative Council)</span></u></b><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> Deb Reed<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Deb reported the following:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The Council met on Jan. 23<sup>rd</sup>. The Board has 2 vacancies one from Work Force Investment Board and the other is from the Labor Department Board.<o:p></o:p></span></b></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Director Carol Jenkins informed them that they will be updating their electronic filing system. This will make things easier, more efficient, and accessible. They will be implementing new software called JOT Forms which is accessible to everyone.<o:p></o:p></span></b></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>They have been working on the Consumer Satisfaction Survey. Director Jenkins is currently waiting for several proposals to come. She has received one from Louisiana Tech University. For this year they will need to use CCSU for the survey.<o:p></o:p></span></b></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l1 level1 lfo2'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>VR is down 3 counselors one is a Technology specialist and 2 Clerical position.<o:p></o:p></span></b></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>They had a meeting with a group the Director Jenkins reached out to, it is called the Older Individuals Who Are Blind Technology Assistance Center. They will be doing an evaluation of BESB in May. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>CT-LAB (CT Library for Accessible Books</span></u></b><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>) Mary Silverberg<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary reported the following:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo3'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary stated there is no news to report their next meeting is Friday April 21<sup>st</sup>.<o:p></o:p></span></b></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary stated that she was offered a great opportunity by Matt Geeza, the CT-LAB Director, to participate on a panel of four presenters to librarians from all over the CT. The purpose of the ninety-minute session was to share ideas and information on how to make library programming more accessible to people with disabilities. Each member offered information about different areas of disability.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The Federationist</span></u></b><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> Brianna Rigsbee<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Brianna was not present no report was given.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>PAC Plan (Pre-Authorized Contribution</span></u></b><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>) Len Schlenk<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Len reported that the PAC Plan had a couple of new contributors. He encourages members to ask their friends and family to start donating to the PAC plan. If you would like to start contributing to the PAC Plan, go to nfb.org\Pac to download the application form or call 1-877-632-2722.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>NEW BUSINESS <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>NFB National Convention 2023<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Pres. Melley gave the members the following information on the National Convention:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The National Convention is scheduled for July 1, 2023, to July 6, 2023, in Houston, Texas.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The convention will be held at the Hilton Americas Houston and the overflow hotel is the Marriot Marquis. Both locations are asking for $119 per night.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>When booking your flight be sure you land at Hobby Airport which is 10 miles from the hotel.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>There are 2 tours scheduled one is to the Space Center and the other is to the Houston Museum of Natural Science. For more information go to nfboftx.org.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Donations to NFB Funds<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Pres. Melley stated that every year we make donations to the following funds:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The White Cane Fund, The SUN Fund, The Jacobus tenBroek Fund, and the Kenneth Jernigan Fund.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>After a brief discussion members agreed to donate $600 to the White Cane Fund, Jacobus tenBroek Fund, and Kenneth Jernigan fund and $200 to the SUN Fund.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Beth Rival made a motion to donate $600 to the White Cane Fund, Jacobus tenBroek Fund and The Kenneth Jernigan Fund, and to donate $200 to the SUN Fund in the total amount of $2000.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Seconded: Deb Reed<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Vote: 8 to 0 Motion passes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Door Prizes for National Convention<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Pres. Melley asked all Chapters and Divisions to donate a door prize for the Convention. The door prizes must be:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo4'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>A minimum of $25.<o:p></o:p></span></b></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Door prizes may be in cash or Visa/Mastercard gift cards. No gift cards for stores or restaurants.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Please send all door prizes to Lucia by May 31<sup>st</sup>.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>NFB Newsline </span></u></b><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Deb Reed<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Deb reported the following:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Deb explained the 3 ways you can access NFB Newsline. They are by phone, IOS App for smartphones, and Echo Dot or smart speaker.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>She spoke about all the media, TV listings, and other information you will have access to.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> To register for this service call Lucia at 860-289-1971 and she will provide you with a security code and ID number you can use to access NFB Newsline.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Memorial for Steve Famiglietti<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Members are still extremely interested in donating a tree or bench to the Oak Hill Meet Center in memory of Steve. Pres. Melley stated that we need to know two things. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>A (Will they allow us to do this?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>B (Where will we be able to put the tree or Bench?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary Silverberg will contact Barry Simon at Oak Hill to find out and let us know at our next meeting.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Birdies for Charity</span></u></b><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> Mary Silverberg<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary reported the following:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The Travelers Golf Tournament will be held from June 19<sup>th</sup> to June 25<sup>th</sup>, 2023.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>We are registered and ready to start our campaign later this week. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Our fund-raising goal this year is $2500. We will contact Brian Mackey to put it on NFB of CT website. Joe will put it on the NFB Facebook page. Lucia will include information with the May and June donation letters.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary encouraged everyone to put it on their Facebook pages and pass it on to family and friends.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Berlin Lions VIP Fishing<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Pres. Melley explained that the Berlin Lions pay for all expenses for the VIP fishing trip. This includes meals, buses, boats, fishing gear etc. The cost of everything has gone up and since many members of NFB go on this trip she would like to give back.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>After a brief discussion members agreed upon a $2500 donation.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Beth Rival made a motion to donate $2500 to the Berlin Lions VIP Fishing.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Seconded: Mary Silverberg<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Vote: 8 to 0 Motion passes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>State Convention Updates<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> Jim Cronin reported the following: <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>This year’s state convention will be held Nov. 3<sup>rd</sup> through Nov. 5<sup>th</sup>, 2023, at the Holiday Inn, located at 35 Governor Winthrop Blvd. In New London. The room rate is $89 plus tax per night. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>We will have one breakout room for division meetings, and the banquet room. There will be a sectioned off room for the Vendors on Friday night.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Jim mentioned the train station is half a mile away from the hotel. This should help make traveling easier for members.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Pres. Melley asked members to volunteer for the convention committee to help finalize details for the convention.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Harlow Grant <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Beth Rival answered several questions concerning the grant that included the following:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Q: Do we need any paperwork from BESB?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>A: No, you only need to explain why BESB did not provide you with the items you requested.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Q: Does the grant cover expenses for training for new computers?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>A: Yes, however they are currently looking for someone who can provide the training.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Q: How do I apply for the Harlow Grant?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>A: To apply go to nfbct.org or call Lucia at 860-289-1971 and she will send you the application.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Beth reminded members they must live in the greater New Haven area to be eligible for the grant.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'> <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Chapter News<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Southern CT Chapter Len Schlenk<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Len reported that the chapter did several outreaches they were at an Oyster Festival, Stop & Shop, and Walmart. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Central CT Chapter Deb Reed<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Deb reported that they will be having their annual picnic on June 10<sup>th</sup> at Norton Park. She also mentioned that they are planning an outreach table at the Plainville Balloon Festival in August. Becky Ireland explained to the members what the Balloon Festival is and where it is held. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The At Large Chapter Jim Cronin<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Jim reported in the last few months they had a guest speaker from BESB, spoke about the Washington Seminar, and are planning to have a guest speaker from the NFB Independence Market. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Southwest Chapter Jim Cronin also reported for this chapter.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Jim reported the chapter is still being organized and does not yet have officers. They meet on a regular basis. He also mentioned they attended a Hartford Braillers hockey game and after one of their meetings members stopped at a local coffee shop for coffee, donuts and to bond as friends. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The Hartford Chapter Mary Silverberg<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary reported that Melissa had her first meeting as President. The meeting went very well and was attended by 12 to 13 people.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Mary also reported that she and Deb Reed were invited to speak to the Low Vision group in Glastonbury in March about services and resources for the blind especially through NFB-CT.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>The next NFB of CT Board meeting will be July 22, 2023, via Zoom. Pres. Melley will email Zoom information.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Meeting adjourned at 2:50 PM.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Respectfully submitted by,<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Rebecca Ireland<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>Secretary<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma Times New Roman"'>NFB of CT<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>