[NFBA-Phoenix] Fwd: NFBA Phoenix Chapter April 11-2020 Business Meeting Minutes 05-02-20
Brad Kuhn
papa.ks.kafe at gmail.com
Sat May 2 08:41:33 UTC 2020
These minutes were superb as usual Vicky. Hope all can make it to today’s meeting. The number to call is 712-770-4856 and the extension is 614039 pound. The meeting will start at 9:30 and I can’t wait to see all of you there. The agenda will be included in the next email
Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:
> From: Vjazz at cox.net
> Date: May 2, 2020 at 12:56:03 AM MST
> To: Brad Kuhn <Papa.ks.kafe at gmail.com>, Jordan Moon <JMoon at saavi.us>, Colin Wong <CWong at saavi.us>
> Cc: Donna Silba <dsilba at cox.net>, Monica Nunez <monicapnunez1963 at gmail.com>, Vicki Hodges <vjazz at cox.net>
> Subject: NFBA Phoenix Chapter April 11-2020 Business Meeting Minutes 05-02-20
> Reply-To: <vjazz at cox.net>
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> NFBA Phoenix Chapter Business Meeting
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> Secretary’s Report
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> Date: Saturday, April 11, 2020
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> Time: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
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> Location: Conference Call
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> Phoenix Chapter Conference Call Line: (712) 770-4856
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> Code: 614039 Pound Sign
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> NFBA Phoenix Chapter Listserv
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> Email: nfba-phoenix at nfbnet.org
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> Meeting Minutes
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> Call to Order
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> At 9:33 a.m., President Brad Kuhn called the meeting to order.
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> Roll Call
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> Seventeen people participated in the meeting, including thirteen members and four visitors.
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> Pledges
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> Brad led both the Pledge to the American Flag and the NFB Pledge. Also, he encouraged each person to memorize the NFB “One-Minute Message,” that explains the purpose of the Federation and our involvement in the organization. The NFB One-Minute Message can be found at the end of this report, along with the NFB Pledge.
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> Prayer Requests
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> Mike Smith opened with Prayer, followed by:
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> Jordan thanked people for joining the Phoenix Chapter meeting and the Monday evening meetings, as the NFB Family. We want to remember to Pray for and to reach out to one another, locally and nationally, especially supporting those that are struggling emotionally and financially. Unfortunately, we have lost some NFB Family members to the virus, but still rely on God to Guide us to do the right thing at the right time, and to Show His Hand in a Mighty Way.
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> Tom asked for Prayer for Strength, Healing, and Well-Being, as he and his medical team research the right treatment to resolve health challenges.
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> Brad asked for Prayer on behalf of his roommate, Marty, who is recovering at a Medical Rehab Center after having surgery this past week. Also, for the planning and convening of this year’s NFB National Convention, via Zoom.
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> Joy shared that Jonathan was improving, and thanked people for their Prayers. She and Jonathan need continued Prayer for strength, during this time of physical and emotional struggle.
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> Secretary’s Report, Vicki Hodges, Secretary
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> A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the March 07, 2020, Minutes, as corrected. Corrections include: Aint Nick’s Tavern is on 27th Avenue; include both links to the March and April Presidential Report, at the end of the Minutes; SAAVI Cultural Day is scheduled on, Friday, March 13, 2020; and the spelling of Governor Ducey’s name. A copy of the corrected March 07, 2020 Phoenix Chapter Minutes will be emailed to Affiliate President Porterfield and copied to Brad, according to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of the Federation.
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> Treasurer’s Report, Donna Silba, Treasurer
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> Previous Balance: $967.84 (as of March 07, 2020)
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> Total INCOME: $00.00
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> Total Expenses: $125.00
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> Total expenses over income: $125.00
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> New Balance: $842.84 (as of April 11, 2020)
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> Lanyards
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> Expenses: $700.00
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> Income: $452.00
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> Profit: -$248.00
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> A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the April 11, 2020, Treasurer’s Report, as presented. A copy of the April 11, 2020 Phoenix Chapter Treasurer’s Report will be emailed to Affiliate President Porterfield and copied to Brad, according to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of the Federation.
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> Donna and Jordan will work on establishing Zell access to the Phoenix Chapter account with Wells Fargo, so dues can be paid and donations can be accepted. Joy described how she set up Zell access to her personal account, stating that it was a simple, straight-forward process. However, it is understood that the current closures, due to the Covid-19 “Stay at Home” order, may complicate matters. Every effort will be made to launch this additional means to manage financial obligations and fund “The Movement,” as soon as possible.
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> Presidential Release, Mark A. Riccobono, President/National Federation of the Blind
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> Presidential Release #493, April 2020, President Riccobono delivered this month's presidential release before a live online audience for the first time. He discussed COVID-19 resources, advocacy efforts, virtual events, the national convention, and more. More than 800 members and friends listened in, and many asked questions in the Q&A portion of the release, that was moderated by NFB's first vice president, Pam Allen.
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> Note: The English Audio link to this live Presidential Release #493 can be found at the end of this report.
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> A motion was made, seconded, and approved to dispense with the playing of Presidential Release 493, due to the length of the Zoom live presentation. A link to the English audio recording will be posted to the Phoenix Chapter Listserv, so people can access it at their leisure.
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> Old Business
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> 2020 NFB National Convention
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> The 2020 National Federation of the Blind National Convention will mark the 80th Anniversary of the organization’s existence. For the first time in the history of the Federation, this year’s convention will be completely conducted online, via Zoom. More details will be shared as they become available. Please register, so the Convention Planning Committee can arrange for the appropriate level of band-width to accommodate all virtual attendees. While no registration fee is being charged, donations are needed and appreciated. Those that have made reservations and paid a room deposit should contact the hotel for a full refund. State Affiliates are encouraged to plan gatherings and events, connected with the NFB National Convention. Our very own Colin Wong is involved in planning a national, online seminar, being offered to all Rehabilitation professionals.
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> Side-Bar
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> An impromptu discussion began, punctuated by individual comments expressing frustration and concern, regarding the “Stay-at-Home” order and stricter, social-distancing requirements. At least we have some freedom of movement, unlike the Navajo reservations that are completely locked down. It is better to be safe, than sorry. As blind people, we are used to developing and using alternative techniques to cope with daily life. In many ways, the world is learning to identify and apply alternative techniques to cope with the far-reaching, long-term affects of the pandemic. It is more important than ever to regularly, stay in touch with one another, making sure that everyone has the moral support and supplies they need. There is no way of knowing how long the recovery will take, but this too, will pass. Mike encouraged us to Pray for God’s Guidance.
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> NFB Coronavirus Resources & Impact
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> Jordan shared that the NFB blog page has a wealth of information, regarding the effect of Covid19 on the lives and life-styles of blind people. For information related to aspects of the CARES Act or COVID-19 in general, please visit our COVID-19 Resources page.
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> From the NFB homepage, activate the link to “Coming Together during CoVig19: Concerns & Connections, that includes:
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> “The Disproportionate Impact” addresses: transportation; medical treatment; Information; Groceries & Supplies; School Materials; Risk Considerations; and Taking Action together.
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> Issues under “Taking Action Together,” include:
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> Contacting senators about threats to IDEA rights;
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> Providing resources and recommendations about schools and accessibility, including an education technology survey;
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> NFB Newsline includes a coronavirus breaking news section;
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> Affiliates and divisions hosting informative workshops, over the Zoom platform; and
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> Local chapters are meeting via conference call to develop ways to help one another compile resource lists, and participate in virtual social gatherings, such as Happy Hour, Crafting calls, and Descriptive Movie night.
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> Access Breaking News For COVID-19 Updates on NFB-NEWSLINE
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> From: Scott White
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> (410) 659-9314, Ext. 2231
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> swhite at nfb.org
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> In response to the current situation with the coronavirus (COVID-19), the National Federation of the Blind has decided to provide up-to-date information to all eligible subscribers of the service.
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> COVID-19 updates are available in the Breaking News Online category of NFB-NEWSLINE. This information is being obtained by the system searching the thirty-four publications in the Breaking News Online category for "coronavirus" and displaying the results. This information will also be available for those few states that are currently not sponsored for the next sixty days starting Monday, March 16th.
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> Access the coronavirus COVID-19 information using the telephone by pressing 5 from the main menu, then press 1 for the Breaking News Online category, followed by pressing the 1 key which will bring you to the virus information. If you are using the NFB-NEWSLINE Mobile IOS app, look for the virus information under the "All Publications" section. The content can be accessed with Braille devices such as note-takers and refreshable Braille displays.
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> Note: The NFB Free White Cane Program and the Free Slate and Stylus Program are still active.
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> Note: The NFB Independence Market is closed, until further notice.
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> Jordan stated that Governor Ducey has authorized an Information Hotline to be established, and available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Dial 211, and follow the prompts. It is possible to talk with someone, directly, staffing this hotline.
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> Membership Committee
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> Monica Nunez chairs this Committee, and works with the Treasurer and Secretary to keep current on dues and contact information. Phoenix Chapter annual dues are $5.00, and can be paid to the Treasurer, Donna Silba, at any time. Everyone is welcome to participate in this Chapter’s meetings and events.
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> The NFB of Arizona Board policy requires each dues-paying member to declare a “home” chapter, where they have voting privileges, among other rights and responsibilities. As a formality, each new member is accepted, by the passing of a simple majority vote of approval, during the New Business section of the meeting agenda. Once contact information is gathered, each new member submits his/her primary email address to be added to the Phoenix Chapter Listserv, where timely messages are posted, for members and friends to access.
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> Eventually, all new members will receive a Welcome Packet from the NFB National office, containing a Welcome Letter from the leadership, a Membership coin, and a Membership Card. On one side of the Membership card is found the “NFB One-Minute Message,” in braille and print. The NFB Pledge is provided on the opposite side of that same card. It is the responsibility of the Affiliate Membership Recruitment and Retention Committee chair to forward new member information to the National office, that will prompt the sending of a New Member Packet. Tarik Williams is the current chair of this Arizona Affiliate Committee, and is planning, as soon as it is safe, to conduct a Philosophy Seminar and other activities to help new members feel welcomed, and become more knowledgeable about the Federation. Meanwhile, Jordan agreed to provide a link to the NFB One-Minute Message and the NFB Pledge, for all of us to be better able to recite both.
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> Phoenix Chapter Listserv
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> Monica and Jordan will work with Lori Kirsop to ensure that she is added to the Listserv, in order to access current, posted messages.
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> 2020 Phoenix Chapter Norma Robertson-Wagner Annual Picnic
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> As we all know, the picnic scheduled to be held on, Saturday, April 04, 2020, at Encanto Park was canceled, due to the pandemic.
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> A motion was made, seconded, and approved to reschedule the 2020 Phoenix Chapter Norma Robertson-Wagner Annual Picnic on, Saturday, October 10, 2020, at Encanto Park, as one of our “Meet the Blind Month” activities.
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> Fund-Raising Committee
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> Rodnick Fletcher and Mike Smith agreed to co-chair the Fund-Raising Committee. Monica Nunez, Hope Dowden, and Brad Kuhn will serve as Committee members.
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> 2020 Fund-Raiser Sing-a-Thon
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> Due to the Coronavirus restrictions on holding public events, arrangements were postponed to host the June 06, 2020, Phoenix Chapter Business Meeting and Sing-a-Thon Fund-Raiser at Aint Nick’s Tavern, 6840 North 27th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85017; (602) 242-2345. Committee members include Brad Kuhn, Cindy Garfio, Colin Wong, Jordan Moon, Joy Harris, and maybe, Betty Love. It was suggested that the Phoenix Chapter organize a virtual Sing-a-Thon event, for this year’s National Convention.
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> A motion was made, seconded, and approved to postpone the Sing-a-Thon Fund-Raiser event to a later date, to be announced.
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> Legislative Update
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> Jordan reported that the Arizona Legislature is in recess, and will reconvene this summer, so the State Budget can be approved.
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> Since SB 1593 unanimously passed in the Arizona Senate 30 to 0, with support from the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind (ASDB) and the Secretary of Education, it was scheduled to go before the House, on March 09, 2020. As one of the NFB of Arizona Education Committee co-chairs, Colin Wong defended the passing of this bill, resulting from one of the resolutions adopted by the 2019 Arizona State Convention. The bill was unanimously approved by the House. Heart-felt thanks and congratulations go to Colin, Jordan, Monica, Mike, and all Federationists that championed this legislation. It will strengthen program preparation qualifications that graduate trainees must achieve to receive certification as a Teacher of blind and visually impaired students in Arizona.
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> New Business
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> New Member Vote
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> Kim, Hope, and Jenny were welcomed as guests. As stated earlier, all who are interested in furthering the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind are encouraged to get involved at the local, state, and national level. Each dues-paying member of the Arizona Affiliate is required to declare a “home chapter,” in order to vote, make motions, chair committees, and hold office. Although, Jenny’s “home chapter” is the East Valley Chapter, and Hope’s “home chapter” is the Tucson Chapter, their enthusiasm, comments, and support are greatly welcomed and appreciated.
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> Kim Parks has chosen the Phoenix Chapter as her “home chapter.” Kim attended her first NFB National Convention with SAAVI, stating that she “finally felt like she belonged.” Her goals include (but are not limited to) improving as a person, and helping others through the NFB.
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> A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously approved to recognize Kim Parks, as a new member of the NFB of Arizona Phoenix Chapter, with the full rights of membership. Welcome, Kim!
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> A motion was made, seconded, and approved to wave the payment of dues by voting members, until we can meet in person, once again.
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> Note: Once Zell access is established, payments may be received electronically.
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> For those that have questions about membership policies adopted by the NFB of Arizona Board, please contact Jordan at, (951) 316-5363.
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> Other Resources
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> CARES Stimulus Payments
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> A great deal of confusion exists, regarding the Economic Impact Payments (also known as stimulus payments) that are made as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act.
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> In an email from John G. Paré Jr., Executive Director for Advocacy and Policy, the following link was provided. For information related to aspects of the CARES Act or COVID-19 in general, please visit our COVID-19 Resources page.
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> Weekly Phoenix Chapter 2020 Coronavirus Resources Meeting
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> On Monday, March 23, 2020, the Phoenix Chapter held its first conference call meeting, resulting from the Covid-19 restrictions, shortages, and major impact on the lives of our members and friends. A Buddy Call chain was established. Brad emphasized the importance of regularly contacting the person chosen as our “Buddy,” since circumstances can change from, moment-to-moment and day-to-day. Each participant has the opportunity to share their thoughts, concerns, and strategies, for meeting daily living needs that contribute to peace of mind. Meeting comments, as well as local and national resource contact information are presented in summary notes, taken from the discussion, and posted through the Phoenix Chapter Listserv. You may request previous copies of these meeting notes by contacting Vicki at, (602) 403-9019, or at, vjazz at cox.net. For more information about these meetings, you may also contact Brad at, (815) 501-1153, Jordan at, (951) 316-5363, or Colin at, (480) 886-4445.
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> Meeting participants need not be a member of the Phoenix Chapter. All are welcomed. Until further notice, meetings are held every Monday evening, beginning at 6:00 p.m., using the Phoenix Chapter Conference Call Line. The next meeting is scheduled:
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> Date: Monday, May 04, 2020
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> Time: 6:00 p.m.
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> Conference Call Line: (712) 770-4856
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> Code: 614039 Pound Sign
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> Announcements
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> Colin provided information for the following groups on Facebook with potential helpful resources.
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> World Blind Union (WBU) Facebook Page:
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> Helpful updates regarding blindness and their efforts on working with other organizations to support the blind, especially during the Coronavirus.
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> https://www.facebook.com/BlindUnion/
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> Professionals in Blindness Education Facebook Page:
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> Posting videos on how to keep kids entertained and learning when they are not at school. Their tools are not specific to blind kids.
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> https://www.facebook.com/groups/120627771365602/
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> SAAVI services for the Blind, Lunch & Learn Series Facebook Page:
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> Every Tuesday and Thursday at noon, blindness professionals post training videos and tips for the blind, during the Coronavirus.
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> https://www.facebook.com/GetSAAVI/
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> Jordan provided the following link to the page describing the disability-delivery service qualifications and contact information.
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> https://www.phoenix.gov/humanservices/programs/older/home-delivered-qual
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> The requirements for disabled adults to qualify for these services are described as follows: A Disabled individual under 60 years of age, must have a physical or mental impairment(s), that substantially limit(s) his/her ability to independently function in one or more major activities of daily living (ADLS), such as eating, bathing, and mobility.
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> Please note, the phone number where a resident can apply is:
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> Area Agency on Aging (AAA), Senior Help Line: (602) 264-4357, Ext. 2.
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> Friends of Vicki’s provided the following, regarding Regional Valley Metro delivery service parameters, during the Coronavirus quarantine. The link opens the website, where these services are described.
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> https://www.valleymetro.org/news/additional-paratransit-services-response-covid-19
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> Mike watched the “Horizons” interview of Jordan and Kim, regarding a survey they completed that was designed to gather information as to how blind people are dealing with the Covid-19 impact. Jordan will provide a link to the interview.
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> Brad reminded us that funding “The Federation Movement” is more important than ever, and encouraged us to make a donation, when we receive the Stimulus Payment. Through Saturday, May 02, 2020, donations can be made on Brad’s Facebook page, to the NFB of Arizona in celebration of his birthday, which happens to be, April 30, 2020. $240.00 has been raised, as of this meeting.
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> Lori Kirsop’s birthday was yesterday, Friday, April 10, 2020. Happy belated Birthday, Lori!
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> NFB of Arizona Quarterly Board Meeting
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> Jordan announced that the next NFB of Arizona Quarterly Board Meeting is scheduled, Saturday, May 09, 2020, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., via Zoom. For an accessible tutorial of the Zoom platform to learn how to join on the web, app, or phone, access the audiobook:
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> Meet Me in the Cloud
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> Details will be provided at the next Phoenix Chapter business meeting, regarding Zoom connection to this NFBA Board meeting.
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> Colin is waiting for a response, as to how the Phoenix Chapter can conduct our meetings via the Affiliate Zoom link. The Tucson Chapter is already using Zoom to remotely connect participants to meetings. Also, Colin reminded us that weekly, virtual meetings and events are being sponsored by various NFB Affiliates that are opened to all. Weekly schedules of these virtual Zoom events are distributed via the NFB national Listserv.
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> Brad shared an entertainment resource that he enjoys. Through Apple TV, he joined Quarantine Karaoke. Members can watch videos that others have posted, or record videos to post, for others to watch and enjoy.
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> Brad invited anyone interested in learning more about the Meals for Moms food delivery program, to stay on the line, after the Phoenix Chapter Business Meeting adjourned.
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> Adjourn
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> At 11:59 a.m., President Brad Kuhn adjourned the meeting.
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> Respectfully submitted,
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> Vicki Hodges, Secretary/NFB of AZ Phoenix Chapter
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> · Presidential Release #493, April 2020 (English Audio)
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> Note: Presidential Release #494, May, 2020, is not available, as of this meeting.
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> NFB Pledge
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> I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind,
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> to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind;
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> to support the policies and programs of the Federation;
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> and to abide by its constitution.
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> NFB One-Minute Message
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> THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND KNOWS THAT BLINDNESS IS NOT THE CHARACTERISTIC THAT DEFINES YOU OR YOUR FUTURE. EVERY DAY WE RAISE THE EXPECTATIONS OF BLIND PEOPLE, BECAUSE LOW EXPECTATIONS CREATE OBSTACLES BETWEEN BLIND PEOPLE AND OUR DREAMS. YOU CAN LIVE THE LIFE YOU WANT; BLINDNESS IS NOT WHAT HOLDS YOU BACK.
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> “THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND IS NOT AN ORGANIZATION SPEAKING FOR THE BLIND--IT IS THE BLIND SPEAKING FOR OURSELVES.”
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> NFB songs you can play at chapter meetings.
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