[Nfbf-l] seeking a board position

Denise Valkema valkemadenise at aol.com
Mon Jan 12 16:15:42 UTC 2015


I have encouragedJorge to run. He has participated faithfully, observed, listens, offers feedback. He is goal oriented and dedicated to fulfilling them.

I believe in encouraging and recognizing each and every member. This is a great organization with great members! Let's have a great convention together!

Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone 

> On Jan 12, 2015, at 12:56 AM, Peter Cerullo via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> Excellent! You are a young rising star I feel the spirit you have vision and I am encouraging you to go for it.
> 
> 
> Peter Cerullo
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Jorge Hernandez via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> To: nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Mon, Jan 12, 2015 12:10 am
> Subject: [Nfbf-l] seeking a board position
> 
> Hi Fellow Federationists
> 
> For several days I have read the concerns of members who are interested on
> knowing who will be seeking a position on the upcoming state convention.
> Although some of the individuals like to keep it a secret until elections
> begin, while others will be more direct and make it publicly known that they
> will be running for re-election.
> 
> Saying so, I will be seeking   a position on the state board.  I believe
> that transparency is a key factor and that is why I am making it public.  As
> a new comer, not many members know me personally or what I can bring to the
> board.  I am currently the Vice-President of the Miami-Dade Chapter and am
> an active member in my community as an advocate for disability issues.  I
> participate in mentoring transitional students who are starting college;
> Assist in constructing a foundation     on needed skills to assure the
> success   in their college career; Training and assessing in assistive
> technology in our fast changing world for individuals who are blind or
> visually impaired.
> 
> I have been a FABS member for three years and I currently hold a board
> position and will be seeking re-election this term.  I am in the events
> committee, the fund raising committee, and I am in the mentoring program
> that FABS is having this year.  I recently obtained a Bachelor's Degree in
> Information Technology and have a minor in Business Management.  I will
> start graduate school this summer seeking a Master's Degree in Information
> Management Systems.
> 
> Now that you know who I am; this is what I can bring to the Board of
> Directors of the National Federation of the Blind of Florida.  I bring great
> enthusiasm, great team oriented skills, and the willingness   to listen to
> my constituencies on their ideas or concerns that their chapters or
> divisions are having.  Furthermore, I will make it the primary goal to
> recruit new members so the Florida Affiliate strengthens and becomes the
> primary voice of the blind.  Moreover, instill the younger members of the
> affiliate through mentoring the grassroots of the NFB enriching their lives
> and assuring the existence of the Federation for future generations.
> 
> I look forward to a great convention and a wonderful stay in Fort
> Lauderdale.
> 
> Regards
> 
> Jorge Hernandez
> Vice-President
> Miami-Dade Chapter
> FABS
> Board Member
> 
> "Live the life you want"
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
> nfbf-l-request at nfbnet.org
> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 6:10 PM
> To: nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
> Subject: Nfbf-l Digest, Vol 105, Issue 10
> 
> Send Nfbf-l mailing list submissions to
>    nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
> 
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> 
> 
> Today's Topics:
> 
>  1. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Marion Gwizdala)
>  2. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Denise Valkema)
>  3. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Denise Valkema)
>  4. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Darlene Laibl-Crowe)
>  5. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Kathy Davis)
>  6. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Denise Valkema)
>  7. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Tom Bellone)
>  8. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Tom Bellone)
>  9. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Tom Bellone)
> 10. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Tom Bellone)
> 11. Calling for resolutions (Denise Valkema)
> 12. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (jbmini at comcast.net)
> 13. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Paul Martinez)
> 14. Re: Elections at 2015 State Convention (Tom Bellone)
> 
> 
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> Message: 1
> Date: Fri, 09 Jan 2015 07:25:56 -0500
> From: "Marion Gwizdala" <marion.gwizdala at verizon.net>
> To: "'Kathy Davis'" <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>,    "'NFB of Florida Internet
>    Mailing List'" <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID: <00c601d02c07$6b334620$4199d260$@verizon.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
> 
> Kathy,
> 
>    I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who is
> seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems to be only a
> popularity contest and not founded in a good business practice. I believe
> members must realize that the National Federation of the Blind of florida is
> a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs are managed by the board elected by
> the membership. This is one reason I pushed to have the minutes of the board
> of directors publicly available on our website. Similarly, I feel the
> meetings of the board of directors should be publicized and members ought to
> be able to observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right now, I
> believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the NFBF, through its
> board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
> 
> Fraternally yours,
> Marion Gwizdala
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy Davis via
> Nfbf-l
> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office in the
> NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to announce their
> candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting if our public elections
> were held similarly? Certainly having lots of money to support a campaign
> wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the voting public wouldn't know much if
> anything when they go to cast their votes. Guess I would have the tendency
> not to vote at all.  Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their
> vision for the future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those
> seeking a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
> case for many years when I held various positions on the board including the
> two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF President.
>    It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future of the NFB
> of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our members what we
> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.
> 
> 
> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
> 
> Kathy Davis
> NFBF Past President
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora J.
> Marten via Nfbf-l
> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> 
> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election or
> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that information in
> person at the convention. While someone usually suggests that people post to
> the list, most choose to communicate on a more personal level.
> 
> That being said, there have been some years where those initially running or
> running for re-election have posted to the list.
> 
> Wish I could be of more help...
> 
> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or position, I
> would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
> 
> 
> Lenora
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida Internet
> Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> 
> Hi, Lenora!
> 
> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
> 
> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?  I realize
> that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about her passing.  She
> will be missed.
> 
> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for re-election.
> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term (progress) and
> what can be expected for the next term?
> 
> Thanks so much,
> Darlene
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora J.
> Marten via Nfbf-l
> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> 
> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions are up for
> election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing, there are six
> positions:
> 
> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice president,
> two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema secretary, two year term -
> currently held by Lenora Marten board position, two year term - currently
> held by Jim Ellsworth board position, two year term - currently held by Paul
> Martinez board position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie
> Slayton's position)
> 
> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
> 
> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by Peter
> Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held by Gloria Hicks
> board member, two year term until 2016 - currently held by Miranda Kilby
> 
> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to another
> position, their currently held position will also be up for election.
> 
> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan 19.
> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really tempting to
> just take off and head home early. However, keep in mind that your vote
> really does count!! It was just two years ago where a position was decided
> by just one vote.
> 
> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position it is an
> excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for the future of
> NFBF.
> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address the
> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
> 
> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my best to
> answer them.
> 
> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
> 
> Lenora J. Marten, President
> 
> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL Florida
> Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
> 904-229-9554
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> 
> Hi, Kathy and all.
> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president last
> year, this means that president, second vice president, secretary and a pair
> of board positions are up for two year terms.  There were possibly a couple
> of one year elections for board seats where members resigned their seat or
> moved to another position.  This could cause some rearrangement of the deck
> chairs, so to speak.
> 
> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board is up for
> election, two of the board positions and in this case, three of the five
> constitutional officers, as there are nine total board members.
> 
> This is my recollection at the moment.
> 
> Bill Outman
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy Davis via
> Nfbf-l
> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> Hi Fellow Federationists,
> 
>                With our state convention only a short time away, it would
> be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. It would also
> be neat to know who is planning to run for these positions. No doubt we will
> have new members who are completely unfamiliar with the candidates. Others
> who have been around for a while just need to be familiarized with the open
> board seats for 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful
> avenue for members to become aware of those who are running for office. It
> would be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if they are
> elected.
> 
>               I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to have a
> terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and their chapter
> members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> With warmest regards,
> 
> 
> 
> Kathy Davis
> 
> NFBF Past President
> 
> 
> 
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> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 2
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 09:09:24 -0500
> From: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>
> To: Marion Gwizdala <marion.gwizdala at verizon.net>,    NFB of Florida
>    Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID: <253C95EC-F005-4AB5-8AC8-6F9BACC46C6A at aol.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform chapters
> and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents at their
> monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't call in on
> this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and share, how
> do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are not on this
> list by choice so, communication is not as good.
> 
> I would like to see more communication between state board members and to
> the membership.  I would like committees to share after each meeting, who
> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do the same
> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of quarterly. I
> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their chapter
> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a division,
> or ask questions.  The communication issue is not just from state board.
> 
> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we have
> the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter meetings due to
> work or school or don't have a local chapter can
> Join it.
> 
> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so they are
> complying with our constitution to run or someone who only attended one or a
> few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in Miami.
> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at and
> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of our
> students are good examples of doing this.
> 
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
> 305-972-8529
> valkemadenise at aol.com
> by iPhone
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> wrote:
>> 
>> Kathy,
>> 
>>   I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
> is
>> seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems to be
> only
> a
>> popularity contest and not founded in a good business practice. I
> believe
>> members must realize that the National Federation of the Blind of
> florida
> is
>> a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs are managed by the board
> elected by
>> the membership. This is one reason I pushed to have the minutes of the
> board
>> of directors publicly available on our website. Similarly, I feel the
>> meetings of the board of directors should be publicized and members
> ought
> to
>> be able to observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and
> more
>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
> now, I
>> believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the NFBF,
> through
> its
>> board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>> 
>> Fraternally yours,
>> Marion Gwizdala
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
> Davis
> via
>> Nfbf-l
>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
> in the
>> NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to announce their
>> candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting if our public
> elections
>> were held similarly? Certainly having lots of money to support a
> campaign
>> wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the voting public wouldn't know
> much if
>> anything when they go to cast their votes. Guess I would have the
> tendency
>> not to vote at all.  Being apprised of a person's qualifications and
> their
>> vision for the future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for
> those
>> seeking a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was
> the
>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board
> including
> the
>> two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF President.
>>   It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future of
> the
> NFB
>> of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our members
> what we
>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.
>> 
>> 
>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> NFBF Past President
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora J.
>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> 
>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election or
>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
> information in
>> person at the convention. While someone usually suggests that people
> post
> to
>> the list, most choose to communicate on a more personal level.
>> 
>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
> running
> or
>> running for re-election have posted to the list.
>> 
>> Wish I could be of more help...
>> 
>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or position,
> I
>> would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>> 
>> 
>> Lenora
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
> Internet
>> Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> 
>> Hi, Lenora!
>> 
>> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
>> 
>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?  I 
> realize
>> that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about her passing.
> She
>> will be missed.
>> 
>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
> re-election.
>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
> (progress) and
>> what can be expected for the next term?
>> 
>> Thanks so much,
>> Darlene
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora J.
>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> 
>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions are
> up
> for
>> election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing, there are
> six
>> positions:
>> 
>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
> president,
>> two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema secretary, two year
> term
> -
>> currently held by Lenora Marten board position, two year term -
> currently
>> held by Jim Ellsworth board position, two year term - currently held
> by
> Paul
>> Martinez board position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie
>> Slayton's position)
>> 
>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>> 
>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by Peter
>> Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held by Gloria
> Hicks
>> board member, two year term until 2016 - currently held by Miranda
> Kilby
>> 
>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to another
>> position, their currently held position will also be up for election.
>> 
>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan
> 19.
>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
> tempting
> to
>> just take off and head home early. However, keep in mind that your
> vote
>> really does count!! It was just two years ago where a position was
> decided
>> by just one vote.
>> 
>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
> it is
> an
>> excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for the future
> of
>> NFBF.
>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address the
>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>> 
>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
> best to
>> answer them.
>> 
>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>> 
>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>> 
>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
> Florida
>> Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>> 904-229-9554
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> 
>> Hi, Kathy and all.
>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
> last
>> year, this means that president, second vice president, secretary and
> a
> pair
>> of board positions are up for two year terms.  There were possibly a
> couple
>> of one year elections for board seats where members resigned their
> seat or
>> moved to another position.  This could cause some rearrangement of the
> deck
>> chairs, so to speak.
>> 
>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board is
> up
> for
>> election, two of the board positions and in this case, three of the
> five
>> constitutional officers, as there are nine total board members.
>> 
>> This is my recollection at the moment.
>> 
>> Bill Outman
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
> Davis
> via
>> Nfbf-l
>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>> 
>>               With our state convention only a short time away, it
> would
>> be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. It would
> also
>> be neat to know who is planning to run for these positions. No doubt
> we
> will
>> have new members who are completely unfamiliar with the candidates.
> Others
>> who have been around for a while just need to be familiarized with the
> open
>> board seats for 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a
> wonderful
>> avenue for members to become aware of those who are running for 
> office. It
>> would be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications
> of
>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if they
> are
>> elected.
>> 
>>               I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
> have a
>> terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and their chapter
>> members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> With warmest regards,
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> 
>> NFBF Past President
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/woutman%40earthlink.net
>> 
>> 
>> ---
>> This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus
>> protection is active.
>> http://www.avast.com
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> Nfbf-l:
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>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
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>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
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>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> Nfbf-l:
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>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> Nfbf-l:
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>> 
>> 
>> -----
>> No virus found in this message.
>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>> Version: 2015.0.5577 / Virus Database: 4257/8887 - Release Date:
> 01/07/15
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>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
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> 01/07/15
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>> _______________________________________________
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>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> Nfbf-l:
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>> n.net
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/valkemadenise%40aol.com
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 3
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 09:39:08 -0500
> From: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>
> To: Marion Gwizdala <marion.gwizdala at verizon.net>,    NFB of Florida
>    Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID: <03A3C73D-3D9A-44EB-B6AB-D974EE27F07E at aol.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> The board has discussed having more than one in person board meeting. We
> feel it is a good idea.  Not all issues should be made public though so, we
> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>
>> wrote:
>> 
>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents at
> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't call in
> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and share,
> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are not on
> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>> 
>> I would like to see more communication between state board members
> and to
> the membership.  I would like committees to share after each meeting, who
> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do the same
> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of quarterly. I
> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their chapter
> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a division,
> or ask questions.  The communication issue is not just from state board.
>> 
>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we
> have
> the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter meetings due to
> work or school or don't have a local chapter can
>> Join it.
>> 
>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so
> they
> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only attended one
> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in Miami.
> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at and
> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of our
> students are good examples of doing this.
>> 
>> 
>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>> 305-972-8529
>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>> by iPhone
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Kathy,
>>> 
>>>  I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
> is
>>> seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems to be
> only a
>>> popularity contest and not founded in a good business practice. I
> believe
>>> members must realize that the National Federation of the Blind of
> florida
> is
>>> a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs are managed by the board
> elected by
>>> the membership. This is one reason I pushed to have the minutes of 
> the
> board
>>> of directors publicly available on our website. Similarly, I feel the
>>> meetings of the board of directors should be publicized and members
> ought
> to
>>> be able to observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and
> more
>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
> now, I
>>> believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the NFBF,
> through
> its
>>> board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>> 
>>> Fraternally yours,
>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
> Davis
> via
>>> Nfbf-l
>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
> in
> the
>>> NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to announce their
>>> candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting if our public
> elections
>>> were held similarly? Certainly having lots of money to support a
> campaign
>>> wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the voting public wouldn't know
> much if
>>> anything when they go to cast their votes. Guess I would have the
> tendency
>>> not to vote at all.  Being apprised of a person's qualifications and
> their
>>> vision for the future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for
> those
>>> seeking a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this
> was the
>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board
> including
> the
>>> two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF President.
>>>  It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future of
> the
> NFB
>>> of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our members
> what we
>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>> 
>>> Kathy Davis
>>> NFBF Past President
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora
> J.
>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election or
>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
> information in
>>> person at the convention. While someone usually suggests that people
> post
> to
>>> the list, most choose to communicate on a more personal level.
>>> 
>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
> running
> or
>>> running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>> 
>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>> 
>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or
> position, I
>>> would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Lenora
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
> Internet
>>> Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>> 
>>> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
>>> 
>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?  I
> realize
>>> that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about her passing.
> She
>>> will be missed.
>>> 
>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
> re-election.
>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
> (progress)
> and
>>> what can be expected for the next term?
>>> 
>>> Thanks so much,
>>> Darlene
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora
> J.
>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions
> are up
> for
>>> election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing, there are
> six
>>> positions:
>>> 
>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
> president,
>>> two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema secretary, two year
> term
> -
>>> currently held by Lenora Marten board position, two year term -
> currently
>>> held by Jim Ellsworth board position, two year term - currently held
> by
> Paul
>>> Martinez board position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie
>>> Slayton's position)
>>> 
>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>> 
>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
> Peter
>>> Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
> Gloria
> Hicks
>>> board member, two year term until 2016 - currently held by Miranda
> Kilby
>>> 
>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to another
>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for election.
>>> 
>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan
> 19.
>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
> tempting
> to
>>> just take off and head home early. However, keep in mind that your
> vote
>>> really does count!! It was just two years ago where a position was
> decided
>>> by just one vote.
>>> 
>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
> it is
> an
>>> excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for the future
> of
>>> NFBF.
>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address the
>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>>> 
>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
> best
> to
>>> answer them.
>>> 
>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>> 
>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>> 
>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
> Florida
>>> Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>> 904-229-9554
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Hi, Kathy and all.
>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
> last
>>> year, this means that president, second vice president, secretary
> and a
> pair
>>> of board positions are up for two year terms.  There were possibly a
> couple
>>> of one year elections for board seats where members resigned their
> seat
> or
>>> moved to another position.  This could cause some rearrangement of
> the
> deck
>>> chairs, so to speak.
>>> 
>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board
> is up
> for
>>> election, two of the board positions and in this case, three of the
> five
>>> constitutional officers, as there are nine total board members.
>>> 
>>> This is my recollection at the moment.
>>> 
>>> Bill Outman
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
> Davis
> via
>>> Nfbf-l
>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>> 
>>>              With our state convention only a short time away, it
> would
>>> be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. It would
> also
>>> be neat to know who is planning to run for these positions. No doubt
> we
> will
>>> have new members who are completely unfamiliar with the candidates.
> Others
>>> who have been around for a while just need to be familiarized with
> the
> open
>>> board seats for 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a
> wonderful
>>> avenue for members to become aware of those who are running for
> office.
> It
>>> would be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications
> of
>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if
> they are
>>> elected.
>>> 
>>>              I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
> have a
>>> terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and their
> chapter
>>> members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> With warmest regards,
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Kathy Davis
>>> 
>>> NFBF Past President
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/woutman%40earthlink.net
>>> 
>>> 
>>> ---
>>> This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus
>>> protection is active.
>>> http://www.avast.com
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/bluegolfshoes%40aol.com
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/dlaiblcrowe%40att.net
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/kdavisnfbf%40cfl.rr.com
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----
>>> No virus found in this message.
>>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>>> Version: 2015.0.5577 / Virus Database: 4257/8887 - Release Date:
> 01/07/15
>>> 
>>> -----
>>> No virus found in this message.
>>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>>> Version: 2015.0.5577 / Virus Database: 4257/8887 - Release Date:
> 01/07/15
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> Nfbf-l:
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>>> n.net
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/valkemadenise%40aol.com
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 4
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 09:45:13 -0500
> From: "Darlene Laibl-Crowe" <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
> To: "'Denise Valkema'" <valkemadenise at aol.com>,    "'NFB of Florida
>    Internet Mailing List'" <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID: <008d01d02c1a$e10a8800$a31f9800$@att.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset="us-ascii"
> 
> Well said, Denise!
> 
> Darlene
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Denise Valkema
> via Nfbf-l
> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:09 AM
> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform chapters
> and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents at their
> monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't call in on
> this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and share, how
> do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are not on this
> list by choice so, communication is not as good.
> 
> I would like to see more communication between state board members and to
> the membership.  I would like committees to share after each meeting, who
> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do the same
> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of quarterly. I
> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their chapter
> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a division,
> or ask questions.  The communication issue is not just from state board.
> 
> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we have
> the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter meetings due to
> work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
> 
> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so they are
> complying with our constitution to run or someone who only attended one or a
> few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in Miami.
> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at and
> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of our
> students are good examples of doing this.
> 
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
> 305-972-8529
> valkemadenise at aol.com
> by iPhone
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> wrote:
>> 
>> Kathy,
>> 
>>   I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems to
>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National Federation
>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs are
>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one reason I
>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the board
>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
> now,
>> I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the NFBF,
> through
> its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>> 
>> Fraternally yours,
>> Marion Gwizdala
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
> in
>> the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to announce
>> their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting if our
> public
>> elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of money to
>> support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the voting
> public
>> wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast their votes. 
> Guess
>> I would have the tendency not to vote at all.  Being apprised of a
>> person's qualifications and their vision for the future is crucial. I
>> believe that the same is true for those seeking a position on the
> NFBF
>> Board of Directors. Certainly this was the case for many years when I
>> held various positions on the board including the two terms when I
> ran and
> was elected to the office of NFBF President.
>>   It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future of
>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
> members
> what we
>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.
>> 
>> 
>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> NFBF Past President
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora J.
>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> 
>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election or
>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
> information
>> in person at the convention. While someone usually suggests that
>> people post to the list, most choose to communicate on a more personal
> level.
>> 
>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>> 
>> Wish I could be of more help...
>> 
>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or position,
>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>> 
>> 
>> Lenora
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> 
>> Hi, Lenora!
>> 
>> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
>> 
>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?  I
>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about her
>> passing.  She will be missed.
>> 
>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
> re-election.
>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
> (progress)
>> and what can be expected for the next term?
>> 
>> Thanks so much,
>> Darlene
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora J.
>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> 
>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions are
>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
> there
>> are six
>> positions:
>> 
>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
> secretary,
>> two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board position, two
>> year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board position, two year
>> term - currently held by Paul Martinez board position, one year term
> -
>> vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's position)
>> 
>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>> 
>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
> Peter
>> Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
> Gloria
>> Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>> Miranda Kilby
>> 
>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to another
>> position, their currently held position will also be up for election.
>> 
>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan
> 19.
>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in mind
>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago where a
>> position was decided by just one vote.
>> 
>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
> it
>> is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for the
>> future of NFBF.
>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address the
>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>> 
>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>> best to answer them.
>> 
>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>> 
>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>> 
>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>> 904-229-9554
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> 
>> Hi, Kathy and all.
>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
> secretary
>> and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms.  There were
>> possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats where members
>> resigned their seat or moved to another position.  This could cause
>> some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>> 
>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board is
>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, three 
> of
>> the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board 
> members.
>> 
>> This is my recollection at the moment.
>> 
>> Bill Outman
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>> 
>>               With our state convention only a short time away, it
>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. It
>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these 
> positions.
>> No doubt we will have new members who are completely unfamiliar with
>> the candidates. Others who have been around for a while just need to
>> be familiarized with the open board seats for 2015. Posting to this
>> subject line would be a wonderful avenue for members to become aware
>> of those who are running for office. It would be an interesting
>> discussion to learn about the qualifications of candidates as well as
>> their vision for the future of the NFBF if they are elected.
>> 
>>               I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to 
> have
>> a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and their
>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> With warmest regards,
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> 
>> NFBF Past President
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
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>> k.net
>> 
>> 
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>> 
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>> 
>> 
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> _______________________________________________
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> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 5
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 10:18:43 -0500
> From: "Kathy Davis" <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
> To: "'Denise Valkema'" <valkemadenise at aol.com>,    "'Marion Gwizdala'"
>    <marion.gwizdala at verizon.net>,    "'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing
>    List'" <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID: <00df01d02c1f$8e85dc10$ab919430$@cfl.rr.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset="us-ascii"
> 
> Good Morning Denise,
>    Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF officer. I
> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is important for the
> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I certainly hope
> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their views and to
> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it would be
> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of directions who
> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>    It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going on?
> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered to and is
> not being followed at this time.
>    I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that they are
> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I have no
> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly all should
> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the matters I have
> outlined above?
> 
> Have a blessed day,
> 
> Kathy Davis
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
> Cc: Kathy Davis
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> The board has discussed having more than one in person board meeting. We
> feel it is a good idea.  Not all issues should be made public though so, we
> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com> 
> wrote:
>> 
>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents at
> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't call in
> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and share,
> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are not on
> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>> 
>> I would like to see more communication between state board members 
> and to
> the membership.  I would like committees to share after each meeting, who
> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do the same
> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of quarterly. I
> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their chapter
> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a division,
> or ask questions.  The communication issue is not just from state board.
>> 
>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we
>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter 
> meetings
> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>> 
>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so 
> they
> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only attended one
> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in Miami.
> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at and
> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of our
> students are good examples of doing this.
>> 
>> 
>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>> 305-972-8529
>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>> by iPhone
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Kathy,
>>> 
>>>  I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems 
> to
>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National 
> Federation
>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs are
>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one reason I
>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the 
> NFBF,
> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>> 
>>> Fraternally yours,
>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting if
>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of
>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.
>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for the
>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those seeking
>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board 
> including
> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF President.
>>>  It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future of
>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our 
> members
> what we
>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>> 
>>> Kathy Davis
>>> NFBF Past President
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election 
> or
>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to communicate on 
> a
> more personal level.
>>> 
>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>> 
>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>> 
>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Lenora
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>> 
>>> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
>>> 
>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?  I
>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about her
>>> passing.  She will be missed.
>>> 
>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
> re-election.
>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>> 
>>> Thanks so much,
>>> Darlene
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions 
> are
>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>> there are six
>>> positions:
>>> 
>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>> position)
>>> 
>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>> 
>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held 
> by
>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently held
>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>> 
>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for election.
>>> 
>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan 
> 19.
>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in mind
>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago where a
>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>> 
>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for
>>> the future of NFBF.
>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address the
>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>>> 
>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>>> best to answer them.
>>> 
>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>> 
>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>> 
>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>> 904-229-9554
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Hi, Kathy and all.
>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms.
>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats
>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.  
> This
>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>> 
>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board 
> is
>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, three
>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board
> members.
>>> 
>>> This is my recollection at the moment.
>>> 
>>> Bill Outman
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>> 
>>>              With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. 
> It
>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue for
>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they are
> elected.
>>> 
>>>              I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> With warmest regards,
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Kathy Davis
>>> 
>>> NFBF Past President
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
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>>> Nfbf-l:
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>>> nk.net
>>> 
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>>> 
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> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 6
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 10:33:35 -0500
> From: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>
> To: Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID: <27D23E21-82FD-48FB-9A83-88C1BE68CF4F at aol.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> I agree that the minutes should be posted and will ask why they are not. You
> have asked me to research other things and I have followed through. I like
> that you ask.
> 
> The presidents committee teleconference is only for chapter presidents and
> division presidents. I am sorry if I did not make that clear.
> 
> The members should be active in local chapter and divisions if possible.
> could show interest in committees, but at minimum be active in a chapter.
> 
> I will not run  if not nominated and will run if nominated and feel people
> want me on the board. I would like to see more mentoring of others that
> could rise to higher positions on board. I thought what Dr. Maurer did
> planning to not run in few years, and mentoring in process was a good idea.
> 
> Hope this helps.
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 10:18 AM, Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com> 
> wrote:
>> 
>> Good Morning Denise,
>>   Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF officer. 
> I
>> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is important 
> for
> the
>> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I certainly 
> hope
>> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their views 
> and
> to
>> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it 
> would
> be
>> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of 
> directions
> who
>> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>>   It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
>> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going on?
>> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered to 
> and
> is
>> not being followed at this time.
>>   I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that they 
> are
>> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I 
> have no
>> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly all
> should
>> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the matters 
> I
> have
>> outlined above?
>> 
>> Have a blessed day,
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
>> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
>> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>> Cc: Kathy Davis
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> The board has discussed having more than one in person board meeting. 
> We
>> feel it is a good idea.  Not all issues should be made public though 
> so,
> we
>> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
>> 
>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com> 
> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
>> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents 
> at
>> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't 
> call
> in
>> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and 
> share,
>> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are 
> not on
>> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>>> 
>>> I would like to see more communication between state board members 
> and to
>> the membership.  I would like committees to share after each meeting, 
> who
>> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do 
> the
> same
>> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of 
> quarterly. I
>> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their 
> chapter
>> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a
> division,
>> or ask questions.  The communication issue is not just from state 
> board.
>>> 
>>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we
>>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter 
> meetings
>> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>>> 
>>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so 
> they
>> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only 
> attended
> one
>> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in
> Miami.
>> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at 
> and
>> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of 
> our
>> students are good examples of doing this.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>>> 305-972-8529
>>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>>> by iPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy,
>>>> 
>>>> I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
>>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems 
> to
>>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National 
> Federation
>>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs 
> are
>>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one reason 
> I
>>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the 
> NFBF,
>> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>>> 
>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
>>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting 
> if
>>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of
>>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.
>>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for 
> the
>>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those 
> seeking
>>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board 
> including
>> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF 
> President.
>>>> It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future 
> of
>>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
> members
>> what we
>>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election 
> or
>>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to communicate 
> on a
>> more personal level.
>>>> 
>>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>>> 
>>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>>> 
>>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
>>>> 
>>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?  I
>>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about 
> her
>>>> passing.  She will be missed.
>>>> 
>>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
>> re-election.
>>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks so much,
>>>> Darlene
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions 
> are
>>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>>> there are six
>>>> positions:
>>>> 
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>>> position)
>>>> 
>>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>>> 
>>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held 
> by
>>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently 
> held
>>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>>> 
>>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for 
> election.
>>>> 
>>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan 
> 19.
>>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in 
> mind
>>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago where 
> a
>>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
>>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for
>>>> the future of NFBF.
>>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address 
> the
>>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>>>> 
>>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>>>> best to answer them.
>>>> 
>>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>>> 
>>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
>>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>>> 904-229-9554
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Kathy and all.
>>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
>>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms.
>>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats
>>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.  
> This
>>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>>> 
>>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board 
> is
>>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, three
>>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board
>> members.
>>>> 
>>>> This is my recollection at the moment.
>>>> 
>>>> Bill Outman
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>>> 
>>>>             With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. 
> It
>>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue for
>>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they
> are
>> elected.
>>>> 
>>>>             I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> With warmest regards,
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> 
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
> for
>>>> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/woutman%40earthli
>>>> nk.net
>>>> 
>>>> 
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>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> 
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> for
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>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
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>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
> for
>>>> Nfbf-l:
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>>>> 
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>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
> for
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>>>> 0verizo
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>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
> for
>> Nfbf-l:
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>> 
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> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 7
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 16:15:48 +0000 (UTC)
> From: Tom Bellone <tom.bellone01 at yahoo.com>
> To: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>,    Kathy Davis
>    <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>,    NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>    <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID:
>    
> <2139404560.278292.1420820148899.JavaMail.yahoo at jws10616.mail.bf1.yahoo.c
> om>
>    
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
> 
> Congratulations Denise for bring the first (and so far only) one?to declare
> your candidacy for a board position.? I would truly hope that everyone else
> who is contemplating running would declare their intentions sooner as
> opposed to later.? If that does in fact happen, we all will have ample time
> to help make informed decisions when it comes time to vote.? It might be a
> good idea to consider a candidates' forum on the list or?at convention?
> prior to voting.As far as the minutes are concerned, I made a request some
> time ago to have them posted.? That happened shortly after my request, but
> has since gone by the wayside.? I'm not sure why, but would like to see them
> again.??The last set of minutes I saw?was for the April 2014
> meeting.??Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ft. Lauderdale next week.
> Tom BelloneDaytona Beach
> ?      From: Denise Valkema via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> To: Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 10:33 AM
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> I agree that the minutes should be posted and will ask why they are not. You
> have asked me to research other things and I have followed through. I like
> that you ask.
> 
> The presidents committee teleconference is only for chapter presidents and
> division presidents.? I am sorry if I did not make that clear.
> 
> The members should be active in local chapter and divisions if possible.
> could show interest in committees, but at minimum be active in a chapter.
> 
> I will not run? if not nominated and will run if nominated and feel people
> want me on the board. I would like to see more mentoring of others that
> could rise to higher positions on board. I thought what Dr. Maurer did
> planning to not run in few years, and mentoring in process was a good idea.
> 
> Hope this helps.
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 10:18 AM, Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com> 
> wrote:
>> 
>> Good Morning Denise,
>> ? ? Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF officer. 
> I
>> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is important 
> for
> the
>> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I certainly 
> hope
>> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their views 
> and
> to
>> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it 
> would
> be
>> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of 
> directions
> who
>> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>> ? ? It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
>> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going on?
>> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered to 
> and
> is
>> not being followed at this time.
>> ? ? I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that they 
> are
>> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I 
> have no
>> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly all
> should
>> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the matters 
> I
> have
>> outlined above?
>> 
>> Have a blessed day,
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
>> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
>> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>> Cc: Kathy Davis
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> The board has discussed having more than one in person board meeting. 
> We
>> feel it is a good idea.? Not all issues should be made public though 
> so,
> we
>> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
>> 
>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com> 
> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
>> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents 
> at
>> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't 
> call
> in
>> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and 
> share,
>> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are 
> not on
>> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>>> 
>>> I would like to see more communication between state board members 
> and to
>> the membership.? I would like committees to share after each meeting, 
> who
>> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do 
> the
> same
>> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of 
> quarterly. I
>> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their 
> chapter
>> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a
> division,
>> or ask questions.? The communication issue is not just from state 
> board.
>>> 
>>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we
>>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter 
> meetings
>> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>>> 
>>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so 
> they
>> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only 
> attended
> one
>> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in
> Miami.
>> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at 
> and
>> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of 
> our
>> students are good examples of doing this.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>>> 305-972-8529
>>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>>> by iPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy,
>>>> 
>>>> ? I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
>>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems 
> to
>>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National 
> Federation
>>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs 
> are
>>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one reason 
> I
>>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the 
> NFBF,
>> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>>> 
>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
>>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting 
> if
>>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of
>>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.?
>>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for 
> the
>>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those 
> seeking
>>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board 
> including
>> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF 
> President.
>>>> ? It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future 
> of
>>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
> members
>> what we
>>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.? ?
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election 
> or
>>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to communicate 
> on a
>> more personal level.
>>>> 
>>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>>> 
>>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>>> 
>>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks for this info!? I have some questions.
>>>> 
>>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?? I
>>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about 
> her
>>>> passing.? She will be missed.
>>>> 
>>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
>> re-election.
>>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks so much,
>>>> Darlene
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions 
> are
>>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>>> there are six
>>>> positions:
>>>> 
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>>> position)
>>>> 
>>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>>> 
>>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held 
> by
>>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently 
> held
>>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>>> 
>>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for 
> election.
>>>> 
>>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan 
> 19.
>>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in 
> mind
>>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago where 
> a
>>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
>>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for
>>>> the future of NFBF.
>>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address 
> the
>>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>>>> 
>>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>>>> best to answer them.
>>>> 
>>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>>> 
>>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
>>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>>> 904-229-9554
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Kathy and all.?
>>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
>>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms.?
>>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats
>>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.?
> This
>>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>>> 
>>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board 
> is
>>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, three
>>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board
>> members.
>>>> 
>>>> This is my recollection at the moment.?
>>>> 
>>>> Bill Outman
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>>> 
>>>> ? ? ? ? ? ? ? With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. 
> It
>>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue for
>>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they
> are
>> elected.
>>>> 
>>>> ? ? ? ? ? ? ? I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> With warmest regards,
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> 
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
> for
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>>>> nk.net
>>>> 
>>>> 
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>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> 
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>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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> _______________________________________________
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> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 8
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 16:15:48 +0000 (UTC)
> From: Tom Bellone <tom.bellone01 at yahoo.com>
> To: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>,    Kathy Davis
>    <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>,    NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>    <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID:
>    
> <2139404560.278292.1420820148899.JavaMail.yahoo at jws10616.mail.bf1.yahoo.c
> om>
>    
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
> 
> Congratulations Denise for bring the first (and so far only) one?to declare
> your candidacy for a board position.? I would truly hope that everyone else
> who is contemplating running would declare their intentions sooner as
> opposed to later.? If that does in fact happen, we all will have ample time
> to help make informed decisions when it comes time to vote.? It might be a
> good idea to consider a candidates' forum on the list or?at convention?
> prior to voting.As far as the minutes are concerned, I made a request some
> time ago to have them posted.? That happened shortly after my request, but
> has since gone by the wayside.? I'm not sure why, but would like to see them
> again.??The last set of minutes I saw?was for the April 2014
> meeting.??Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ft. Lauderdale next week.
> Tom BelloneDaytona Beach
> ?      From: Denise Valkema via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> To: Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 10:33 AM
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> I agree that the minutes should be posted and will ask why they are not. You
> have asked me to research other things and I have followed through. I like
> that you ask.
> 
> The presidents committee teleconference is only for chapter presidents and
> division presidents.? I am sorry if I did not make that clear.
> 
> The members should be active in local chapter and divisions if possible.
> could show interest in committees, but at minimum be active in a chapter.
> 
> I will not run? if not nominated and will run if nominated and feel people
> want me on the board. I would like to see more mentoring of others that
> could rise to higher positions on board. I thought what Dr. Maurer did
> planning to not run in few years, and mentoring in process was a good idea.
> 
> Hope this helps.
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 10:18 AM, Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com> 
> wrote:
>> 
>> Good Morning Denise,
>> ? ? Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF officer. 
> I
>> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is important 
> for
> the
>> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I certainly 
> hope
>> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their views 
> and
> to
>> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it 
> would
> be
>> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of 
> directions
> who
>> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>> ? ? It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
>> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going on?
>> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered to 
> and
> is
>> not being followed at this time.
>> ? ? I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that they 
> are
>> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I 
> have no
>> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly all
> should
>> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the matters 
> I
> have
>> outlined above?
>> 
>> Have a blessed day,
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
>> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
>> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>> Cc: Kathy Davis
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> The board has discussed having more than one in person board meeting. 
> We
>> feel it is a good idea.? Not all issues should be made public though 
> so,
> we
>> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
>> 
>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com> 
> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
>> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents 
> at
>> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't 
> call
> in
>> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and 
> share,
>> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are 
> not on
>> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>>> 
>>> I would like to see more communication between state board members 
> and to
>> the membership.? I would like committees to share after each meeting, 
> who
>> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do 
> the
> same
>> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of 
> quarterly. I
>> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their 
> chapter
>> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a
> division,
>> or ask questions.? The communication issue is not just from state 
> board.
>>> 
>>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we
>>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter 
> meetings
>> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>>> 
>>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so 
> they
>> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only 
> attended
> one
>> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in
> Miami.
>> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at 
> and
>> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of 
> our
>> students are good examples of doing this.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>>> 305-972-8529
>>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>>> by iPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy,
>>>> 
>>>> ? I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
>>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems 
> to
>>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National 
> Federation
>>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs 
> are
>>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one reason 
> I
>>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the 
> NFBF,
>> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>>> 
>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
>>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting 
> if
>>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of
>>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.?
>>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for 
> the
>>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those 
> seeking
>>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board 
> including
>> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF 
> President.
>>>> ? It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future 
> of
>>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
> members
>> what we
>>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.? ?
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election 
> or
>>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to communicate 
> on a
>> more personal level.
>>>> 
>>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>>> 
>>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>>> 
>>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks for this info!? I have some questions.
>>>> 
>>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?? I
>>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about 
> her
>>>> passing.? She will be missed.
>>>> 
>>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
>> re-election.
>>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks so much,
>>>> Darlene
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions 
> are
>>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>>> there are six
>>>> positions:
>>>> 
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>>> position)
>>>> 
>>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>>> 
>>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held 
> by
>>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently 
> held
>>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>>> 
>>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for 
> election.
>>>> 
>>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan 
> 19.
>>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in 
> mind
>>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago where 
> a
>>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
>>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for
>>>> the future of NFBF.
>>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address 
> the
>>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>>>> 
>>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>>>> best to answer them.
>>>> 
>>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>>> 
>>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
>>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>>> 904-229-9554
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Kathy and all.?
>>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
>>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms.?
>>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats
>>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.?
> This
>>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>>> 
>>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board 
> is
>>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, three
>>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board
>> members.
>>>> 
>>>> This is my recollection at the moment.?
>>>> 
>>>> Bill Outman
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>>> 
>>>> ? ? ? ? ? ? ? With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. 
> It
>>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue for
>>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they
> are
>> elected.
>>>> 
>>>> ? ? ? ? ? ? ? I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> With warmest regards,
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> 
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
> for
>>>> Nfbf-l:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/woutman%40earthli
>>>> nk.net
>>>> 
>>>> 
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>>>> This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! 
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>>>> protection is active.
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> for
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>>>> 
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>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> No virus found in this message.
>>>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>>>> Version: 2015.0.5577 / Virus Database: 4257/8887 - Release Date:
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>>>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>>>> Version: 2015.0.5577 / Virus Database: 4257/8887 - Release Date:
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>>>> 
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>> 
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>> No virus found in this message.
>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
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> 01/08/15
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>> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
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> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
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> m
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 9
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 16:19:23 +0000 (UTC)
> From: Tom Bellone <tom.bellone01 at yahoo.com>
> To: Tom Bellone <tom.bellone01 at yahoo.com>,    Denise Valkema
>    <valkemadenise at aol.com>,    Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>,
> NFB of
>    Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>,    NFB of
> Florida
>    Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID:
>    
> <1238550937.94739.1420820363494.JavaMail.yahoo at jws10607.mail.bf1.yahoo.co
> m>
>    
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
> 
> OOOPS! Sorry folks, looks like I got too ambitious with hitting the send
> button twice.Tom
> ?      From: Tom Bellone via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> To: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>; Kathy Davis
> <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 11:15 AM
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> Congratulations Denise for bring the first (and so far only) one?to declare
> your candidacy for a board position.? I would truly hope that everyone else
> who is contemplating running would declare their intentions sooner as
> opposed to later.? If that does in fact happen, we all will have ample time
> to help make informed decisions when it comes time to vote.? It might be a
> good idea to consider a candidates' forum on the list or?at convention?
> prior to voting.As far as the minutes are concerned, I made a request some
> time ago to have them posted.? That happened shortly after my request, but
> has since gone by the wayside.? I'm not sure why, but would like to see them
> again.??The last set of minutes I saw?was for the April 2014
> meeting.??Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ft. Lauderdale next week.
> Tom BelloneDaytona Beach
> ?? ? ? From: Denise Valkema via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> To: Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 10:33 AM
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> ?
> I agree that the minutes should be posted and will ask why they are not. You
> have asked me to research other things and I have followed through. I like
> that you ask.
> 
> The presidents committee teleconference is only for chapter presidents and
> division presidents.? I am sorry if I did not make that clear.
> 
> The members should be active in local chapter and divisions if possible.
> could show interest in committees, but at minimum be active in a chapter.
> 
> I will not run? if not nominated and will run if nominated and feel people
> want me on the board. I would like to see more mentoring of others that
> could rise to higher positions on board. I thought what Dr. Maurer did
> planning to not run in few years, and mentoring in process was a good idea.
> 
> Hope this helps.
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 10:18 AM, Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com> 
> wrote:
>> 
>> Good Morning Denise,
>> ? ? Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF officer. 
> I
>> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is important 
> for
> the
>> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I certainly 
> hope
>> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their views 
> and
> to
>> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it 
> would
> be
>> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of 
> directions
> who
>> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>> ? ? It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
>> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going on?
>> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered to 
> and
> is
>> not being followed at this time.
>> ? ? I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that they 
> are
>> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I 
> have no
>> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly all
> should
>> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the matters 
> I
> have
>> outlined above?
>> 
>> Have a blessed day,
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
>> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
>> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>> Cc: Kathy Davis
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> The board has discussed having more than one in person board meeting. 
> We
>> feel it is a good idea.? Not all issues should be made public though 
> so,
> we
>> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
>> 
>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com> 
> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
>> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents 
> at
>> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't 
> call
> in
>> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and 
> share,
>> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are 
> not on
>> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>>> 
>>> I would like to see more communication between state board members 
> and to
>> the membership.? I would like committees to share after each meeting, 
> who
>> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do 
> the
> same
>> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of 
> quarterly. I
>> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their 
> chapter
>> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a
> division,
>> or ask questions.? The communication issue is not just from state 
> board.
>>> 
>>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we
>>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter 
> meetings
>> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>>> 
>>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so 
> they
>> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only 
> attended
> one
>> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in
> Miami.
>> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at 
> and
>> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of 
> our
>> students are good examples of doing this.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>>> 305-972-8529
>>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>>> by iPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy,
>>>> 
>>>> ? I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
>>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems 
> to
>>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National 
> Federation
>>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs 
> are
>>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one reason 
> I
>>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the 
> NFBF,
>> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>>> 
>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
>>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting 
> if
>>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of
>>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.?
>>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for 
> the
>>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those 
> seeking
>>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board 
> including
>> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF 
> President.
>>>> ? It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future 
> of
>>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
> members
>> what we
>>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.? ?
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election 
> or
>>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to communicate 
> on a
>> more personal level.
>>>> 
>>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>>> 
>>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>>> 
>>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks for this info!? I have some questions.
>>>> 
>>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?? I
>>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about 
> her
>>>> passing.? She will be missed.
>>>> 
>>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
>> re-election.
>>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks so much,
>>>> Darlene
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions 
> are
>>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>>> there are six
>>>> positions:
>>>> 
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>>> position)
>>>> 
>>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>>> 
>>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held 
> by
>>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently 
> held
>>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>>> 
>>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for 
> election.
>>>> 
>>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan 
> 19.
>>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in 
> mind
>>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago where 
> a
>>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
>>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for
>>>> the future of NFBF.
>>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address 
> the
>>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>>>> 
>>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>>>> best to answer them.
>>>> 
>>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>>> 
>>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
>>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>>> 904-229-9554
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Kathy and all.?
>>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
>>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms.?
>>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats
>>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.?
> This
>>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>>> 
>>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board 
> is
>>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, three
>>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board
>> members.
>>>> 
>>>> This is my recollection at the moment.?
>>>> 
>>>> Bill Outman
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>>> 
>>>> ? ? ? ? ? ? ? With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. 
> It
>>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue for
>>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they
> are
>> elected.
>>>> 
>>>> ? ? ? ? ? ? ? I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> With warmest regards,
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> 
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
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> for
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>>>> nk.net
>>>> 
>>>> 
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>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> 
>>>> 
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>>>> No virus found in this message.
>>>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>>>> Version: 2015.0.5577 / Virus Database: 4257/8887 - Release Date:
>>>> 01/07/15
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>>>> -----
>>>> No virus found in this message.
>>>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>>>> Version: 2015.0.5577 / Virus Database: 4257/8887 - Release Date:
>>>> 01/07/15
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>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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> for
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>> 
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>> No virus found in this message.
>> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
>> Version: 2015.0.5577 / Virus Database: 4257/8893 - Release Date: 
> 01/08/15
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> 
> _______________________________________________
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> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
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> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
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> 
> 
> 
> 
> ?
> _______________________________________________
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> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 10
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 16:19:23 +0000 (UTC)
> From: Tom Bellone <tom.bellone01 at yahoo.com>
> To: Tom Bellone <tom.bellone01 at yahoo.com>,    Denise Valkema
>    <valkemadenise at aol.com>,    Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>,
> NFB of
>    Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>,    NFB of
> Florida
>    Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID:
>    
> <1238550937.94739.1420820363494.JavaMail.yahoo at jws10607.mail.bf1.yahoo.co
> m>
>    
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
> 
> OOOPS! Sorry folks, looks like I got too ambitious with hitting the send
> button twice.Tom
> ?      From: Tom Bellone via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> To: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>; Kathy Davis
> <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 11:15 AM
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> 
> Congratulations Denise for bring the first (and so far only) one?to declare
> your candidacy for a board position.? I would truly hope that everyone else
> who is contemplating running would declare their intentions sooner as
> opposed to later.? If that does in fact happen, we all will have ample time
> to help make informed decisions when it comes time to vote.? It might be a
> good idea to consider a candidates' forum on the list or?at convention?
> prior to voting.As far as the minutes are concerned, I made a request some
> time ago to have them posted.? That happened shortly after my request, but
> has since gone by the wayside.? I'm not sure why, but would like to see them
> again.??The last set of minutes I saw?was for the April 2014
> meeting.??Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ft. Lauderdale next week.
> Tom BelloneDaytona Beach
> ?? ? ? From: Denise Valkema via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> To: Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 10:33 AM
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> ?
> I agree that the minutes should be posted and will ask why they are not. You
> have asked me to research other things and I have followed through. I like
> that you ask.
> 
> The presidents committee teleconference is only for chapter presidents and
> division presidents.? I am sorry if I did not make that clear.
> 
> The members should be active in local chapter and divisions if possible.
> could show interest in committees, but at minimum be active in a chapter.
> 
> I will not run? if not nominated and will run if nominated and feel people
> want me on the board. I would like to see more mentoring of others that
> could rise to higher positions on board. I thought what Dr. Maurer did
> planning to not run in few years, and mentoring in process was a good idea.
> 
> Hope this helps.
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
> 
> 
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 10:18 AM, Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com> 
> wrote:
>> 
>> Good Morning Denise,
>> ? ? Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF officer. 
> I
>> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is important 
> for
> the
>> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I certainly 
> hope
>> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their views 
> and
> to
>> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it 
> would
> be
>> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of 
> directions
> who
>> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>> ? ? It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
>> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going on?
>> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered to 
> and
> is
>> not being followed at this time.
>> ? ? I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that they 
> are
>> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I 
> have no
>> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly all
> should
>> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the matters 
> I
> have
>> outlined above?
>> 
>> Have a blessed day,
>> 
>> Kathy Davis
>> 
>> 
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
>> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
>> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>> Cc: Kathy Davis
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> The board has discussed having more than one in person board meeting. 
> We
>> feel it is a good idea.? Not all issues should be made public though 
> so,
> we
>> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
>> 
>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com> 
> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
>> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the presidents 
> at
>> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't 
> call
> in
>> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and 
> share,
>> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are 
> not on
>> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>>> 
>>> I would like to see more communication between state board members 
> and to
>> the membership.? I would like committees to share after each meeting, 
> who
>> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do 
> the
> same
>> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of 
> quarterly. I
>> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their 
> chapter
>> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a
> division,
>> or ask questions.? The communication issue is not just from state 
> board.
>>> 
>>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that we
>>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter 
> meetings
>> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>>> 
>>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so 
> they
>> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only 
> attended
> one
>> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in
> Miami.
>> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at 
> and
>> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of 
> our
>> students are good examples of doing this.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>>> 305-972-8529
>>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>>> by iPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy,
>>>> 
>>>> ? I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about who
>>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems 
> to
>>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National 
> Federation
>>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs 
> are
>>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one reason 
> I
>>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the 
> NFBF,
>> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>>> 
>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for office
>>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting 
> if
>>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of
>>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.?
>>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for 
> the
>>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those 
> seeking
>>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board 
> including
>> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF 
> President.
>>>> ? It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the list
>>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future 
> of
>>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
> members
>> what we
>>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.? ?
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election 
> or
>>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to communicate 
> on a
>> more personal level.
>>>> 
>>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>>> 
>>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>>> 
>>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks for this info!? I have some questions.
>>>> 
>>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?? I
>>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about 
> her
>>>> passing.? She will be missed.
>>>> 
>>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
>> re-election.
>>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks so much,
>>>> Darlene
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Lenora 
> J.
>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions 
> are
>>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>>> there are six
>>>> positions:
>>>> 
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>>> position)
>>>> 
>>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>>> 
>>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held 
> by
>>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently 
> held
>>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>>> 
>>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for 
> election.
>>>> 
>>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, Jan 
> 19.
>>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in 
> mind
>>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago where 
> a
>>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a position
>>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for
>>>> the future of NFBF.
>>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address 
> the
>>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you think.
>>>> 
>>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>>>> best to answer them.
>>>> 
>>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>>> 
>>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>>> 
>>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, NFB-FL
>>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>>> 904-229-9554
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Hi, Kathy and all.?
>>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice president
>>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms.?
>>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats
>>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.?
> This
>>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>>> 
>>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board 
> is
>>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, three
>>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board
>> members.
>>>> 
>>>> This is my recollection at the moment.?
>>>> 
>>>> Bill Outman
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>>> 
>>>> ? ? ? ? ? ? ? With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. 
> It
>>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue for
>>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they
> are
>> elected.
>>>> 
>>>> ? ? ? ? ? ? ? I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> With warmest regards,
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> 
>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> 
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>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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> 
> 
> ?
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> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 11
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 12:01:33 -0500
> From: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>
> To: NFBF <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Calling for resolutions
> Message-ID: <B4483AF0-2550-4667-802C-E01FD784FB9A at aol.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=utf-8
> 
> I have been asked just recently to chair the resolutions committee by our
> state president at our 2015 convention.Since the convention is only a week
> away, I ask that you bring any resolutions complete led, already written or
> typed up, and ready to present to committee at the meeting to be held on
> Friday evening, January 16, 2015 from
> 9:00 ? 10:00 PM In the Grand Venue Ballroom.
> 
> 
> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 12
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 16:33:55 -0500
> From: jbmini at comcast.net
> To: Tom Bellone <tom.bellone01 at yahoo.com>,    NFB of Florida Internet
>    Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID: <E4666C36-4033-4FEB-B946-667F2D059758 at comcast.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Well reading through these responses I decided to add my nonsense not my two
> cents my nonsense that being said I too would like to see who is running for
> these positions on the State Board I am curious is anyone running as a
> Republican for anyone who knows me I very warily vote for Democrats so I
> think we should know what your political party is thank you
> 
> Sent from my iPhone
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 11:19 AM, Tom Bellone via Nfbf-l 
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> wrote:
>> 
>> OOOPS! Sorry folks, looks like I got too ambitious with hitting the 
> send
> button twice.Tom
>>       From: Tom Bellone via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> To: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>; Kathy Davis
> <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 11:15 AM
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> Congratulations Denise for bring the first (and so far only) one to
> declare your candidacy for a board position.  I would truly hope that
> everyone else who is contemplating running would declare their intentions
> sooner as opposed to later.  If that does in fact happen, we all will have
> ample time to help make informed decisions when it comes time to vote.  It
> might be a good idea to consider a candidates' forum on the list or at
> convention  prior to voting.As far as the minutes are concerned, I made a
> request some time ago to have them posted.  That happened shortly after my
> request, but has since gone by the wayside.  I'm not sure why, but would
> like to see them again.  The last set of minutes I saw was for the April
> 2014 meeting.  Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ft. Lauderdale next
> week.
>> Tom BelloneDaytona Beach
>>       From: Denise Valkema via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> To: Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
>> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 10:33 AM
>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>> 
>> I agree that the minutes should be posted and will ask why they are 
> not.
> You have asked me to research other things and I have followed through. I
> like that you ask.
>> 
>> The presidents committee teleconference is only for chapter 
> presidents and
> division presidents. I am sorry if I did not make that clear.
>> 
>> The members should be active in local chapter and divisions if 
> possible.
> could show interest in committees, but at minimum be active in a chapter.
>> 
>> I will not run  if not nominated and will run if nominated and feel 
> people
> want me on the board. I would like to see more mentoring of others that
> could rise to higher positions on board. I thought what Dr. Maurer did
> planning to not run in few years, and mentoring in process was a good idea.
>> 
>> Hope this helps.
>> 
>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 10:18 AM, Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com> 
> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Good Morning Denise,
>>>    Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF 
> officer. I
>>> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is important 
> for
> the
>>> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I certainly 
> hope
>>> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their 
> views and
> to
>>> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it 
> would
> be
>>> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of 
> directions
> who
>>> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>>>    It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
>>> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going 
> on?
>>> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered to 
> and
> is
>>> not being followed at this time.
>>>    I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that they 
> are
>>> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I 
> have
> no
>>> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly all
> should
>>> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the 
> matters I
> have
>>> outlined above?
>>> 
>>> Have a blessed day,
>>> 
>>> Kathy Davis
>>> 
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
>>> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
>>> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>> Cc: Kathy Davis
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> The board has discussed having more than one in person board 
> meeting. We
>>> feel it is a good idea.  Not all issues should be made public though 
> so,
> we
>>> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
>>> 
>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>
> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
>>> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the 
> presidents at
>>> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't 
> call
> in
>>> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and
> share,
>>> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are 
> not
> on
>>> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>>>> 
>>>> I would like to see more communication between state board members 
> and
> to
>>> the membership.  I would like committees to share after each 
> meeting, who
>>> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do 
> the
> same
>>> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of 
> quarterly. I
>>> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their 
> chapter
>>> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a
> division,
>>> or ask questions. The communication issue is not just from state 
> board.
>>>> 
>>>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that 
> we
>>>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter
> meetings
>>> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>>>> 
>>>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so 
> they
>>> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only 
> attended
> one
>>> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings in
> Miami.
>>> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is at 
> and
>>> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some of 
> our
>>> students are good examples of doing this.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>>>> 305-972-8529
>>>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>>>> by iPhone
>>>> 
>>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
>>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>> Kathy,
>>>>> 
>>>>>  I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about 
> who
>>>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it seems 
> to
>>>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National 
> Federation
>>>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs 
> are
>>>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one reason 
> I
>>>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the 
> NFBF,
>>> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>>>> 
>>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>> 
>>>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for 
> office
>>>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting 
> if
>>>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of
>>>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.
>>>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for 
> the
>>>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those 
> seeking
>>>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board
> including
>>> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF 
> President.
>>>>>  It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the 
> list
>>>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future 
> of
>>>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
> members
>>> what we
>>>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.   
> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>>> 
>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
> Lenora J.
>>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for election 
> or
>>>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to communicate 
> on a
>>> more personal level.
>>>>> 
>>>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>>>> 
>>>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Lenora
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>>>> 
>>>>> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election? I
>>>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about 
> her
>>>>> passing.  She will be missed.
>>>>> 
>>>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
>>> re-election.
>>>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>>>> 
>>>>> Thanks so much,
>>>>> Darlene
>>>>> 
>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
> Lenora J.
>>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions
> are
>>>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>>>> there are six
>>>>> positions:
>>>>> 
>>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>>>> position)
>>>>> 
>>>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>>>> 
>>>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently held 
> by
>>>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently 
> held
>>>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>>>> 
>>>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for 
> election.
>>>>> 
>>>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday, 
> Jan 19.
> 
>>>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in 
> mind
>>>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago where 
> a
>>>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a 
> position
>>>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for
>>>>> the future of NFBF.
>>>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address 
> the
>>>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you 
> think.
>>>>> 
>>>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>>>>> best to answer them.
>>>>> 
>>>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>>>> 
>>>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>>>> 
>>>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, 
> NFB-FL
>>>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>>>> 904-229-9554
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Hi, Kathy and all.
>>>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice 
> president
>>>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms. 
> 
>>>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats
>>>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.  
> This
>>>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>>>> 
>>>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the board 
> is
>>>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, 
> three
>>>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board
>>> members.
>>>>> 
>>>>> This is my recollection at the moment.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Bill Outman
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>> 
>>>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>>>> 
>>>>>              With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for election. 
> It
>>>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue for
>>>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they
> are
>>> elected.
>>>>> 
>>>>>              I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in Ft.
>>>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> With warmest regards,
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>>> 
>>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
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> for
>>>>> Nfbf-l:
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>>>>> nk.net
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> ---
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>>>>> protection is active.
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>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>> Nfbf-l:
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>>>>> 0verizo
>>>>> n.net
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
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>> 
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
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> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 13
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 17:59:13 -0500
> From: Paul Martinez <paul09ms at gmail.com>
> To: jbmini at comcast.net,    NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>    <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID:
>    <CAFUv7iVc0+ZY_VWQqZwt-eOyV-h8jKyonOEAT3WwuL2+wnBk6g at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
> 
> Greetings fellow Federation,
> For those who do not know me, my name is Paul Martinez, and I
> currently serve on the State board of directors. I was selected to be
> on the board during the Daytona State convention to complete a one
> year term. Since then one of my main goals for the NFB of Florida, has
> been to strengthen members. So, we can all continue to build and
> follow our mission, to live the life we want. I am very passionate
> about the NFB and everything I do within our organization. For the
> past two years, I have held the position of president of the Florida
> Association of blind students. Within those years, we have tripled our
> membership, created a mentoring project, held successful fundraisers,
> and most importantly we have worked together as a team. Not only do I
> work hard for the student division, but I believe in helping chapters
> grow. Therefore, I helped build the state wide chapter by becoming the
> treasurer. I also believe it is important to be involved in your local
> area. So, I am a strong member of my local Tampa Bay chapter. Within
> both chapters, I have assisted with several successful fundraisers,
> kept the chapter organized and on task, and help with recruiting new
> members. Also, I have had the honor of chairing the Scholarship
> Committee for the last two years, which I am passionate about. On the
> other hand, my personal mission is to not show our disability but show
> the world our capabilities. Therefore, if I was reelected on the state
> board not only will I bring the necessary skills needed for the
> position, but bring my dedication and my passion
> 
> Looking forward to state convention.
> 
> Sincerely,
> 
> Paul Martinez
> 
> 
> On 1/9/15, Joe Minichiello via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>> Well reading through these responses I decided to add my nonsense not 
> my
> two
>> cents my nonsense that being said I too would like to see who is 
> running
> for
>> these positions on the State Board I am curious is anyone running as a
>> Republican for anyone who knows me I very warily vote for Democrats
> so I
>> think we should know what your political party is thank you
>> 
>> Sent from my iPhone
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 11:19 AM, Tom Bellone via Nfbf-l 
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> wrote:
>>> 
>>> OOOPS! Sorry folks, looks like I got too ambitious with hitting the 
> send
>>> button twice.Tom
>>>       From: Tom Bellone via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> To: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>; Kathy Davis
>>> <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 11:15 AM
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> Congratulations Denise for bring the first (and so far only) one to
>>> declare your candidacy for a board position.  I would truly hope that
>>> everyone else who is contemplating running would declare their 
> intentions
>>> sooner as opposed to later.  If that does in fact happen, we all will
> have
>>> ample time to help make informed decisions when it comes time to 
> vote.
> It
>>> might be a good idea to consider a candidates' forum on the list or 
> at
>>> convention  prior to voting.As far as the minutes are concerned, I 
> made a
>>> request some time ago to have them posted.  That happened shortly 
> after
> my
>>> request, but has since gone by the wayside.  I'm not sure why, but 
> would
>>> like to see them again.  The last set of minutes I saw was for the 
> April
>>> 2014 meeting.  Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ft. Lauderdale 
> next
>>> week.
>>> Tom BelloneDaytona Beach
>>>       From: Denise Valkema via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> To: Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
>>> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 10:33 AM
>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>> 
>>> I agree that the minutes should be posted and will ask why they are 
> not.
>>> You have asked me to research other things and I have followed 
> through. I
>>> like that you ask.
>>> 
>>> The presidents committee teleconference is only for chapter 
> presidents
> and
>>> division presidents.  I am sorry if I did not make that clear.
>>> 
>>> The members should be active in local chapter and divisions if 
> possible.
>>> could show interest in committees, but at minimum be active in a 
> chapter.
>>> 
>>> 
>>> I will not run  if not nominated and will run if nominated and feel
> people
>>> want me on the board. I would like to see more mentoring of others 
> that
>>> could rise to higher positions on board. I thought what Dr. Maurer 
> did
>>> planning to not run in few years, and mentoring in process was a good
>>> idea.
>>> 
>>> Hope this helps.
>>> 
>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 10:18 AM, Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com> 
> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Good Morning Denise,
>>>>    Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF 
> officer. I
>>>> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is important
> for
>>>> the
>>>> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I certainly
>>>> hope
>>>> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their 
> views
> and
>>>> to
>>>> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it
> would
>>>> be
>>>> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of 
> directions
>>>> who
>>>> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>>>>    It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
>>>> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going 
> on?
>>>> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered 
> to and
>>>> is
>>>> not being followed at this time.
>>>>    I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that 
> they are
>>>> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I 
> have
>>>> no
>>>> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly 
> all
>>>> should
>>>> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the 
> matters I
>>>> have
>>>> outlined above?
>>>> 
>>>> Have a blessed day,
>>>> 
>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
>>>> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
>>>> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>> Cc: Kathy Davis
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> The board has discussed having more than one in person board 
> meeting. We
>>>> feel it is a good idea.  Not all issues should be made public 
> though so,
>>>> we
>>>> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
>>>> 
>>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>>>> 
>>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>
>>>>> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
>>>> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the 
> presidents at
>>>> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that don't
> call
>>>> in
>>>> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and
>>>> share,
>>>> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that are 
> not
>>>> on
>>>> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>>>>> 
>>>>> I would like to see more communication between state board members
> and
>>>>> to
>>>> the membership.  I would like committees to share after each 
> meeting,
>>>> who
>>>> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to do 
> the
>>>> same
>>>> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of 
> quarterly.
>>>> I
>>>> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their 
> chapter
>>>> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a
>>>> division,
>>>> or ask questions.  The communication issue is not just from state 
> board.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that 
> we
>>>>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter
>>>>> meetings
>>>> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>>>>> 
>>>>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so 
> they
>>>> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only 
> attended
>>>> one
>>>> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings 
> in
>>>> Miami.
>>>> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is 
> at and
>>>> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some 
> of our
>>>> students are good examples of doing this.
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>>>>> 305-972-8529
>>>>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>>>>> by iPhone
>>>>> 
>>>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
>>>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Kathy,
>>>>>> 
>>>>>>  I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about 
> who
>>>>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it 
> seems to
>>>>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>>>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National 
> Federation
>>>>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs 
> are
>>>>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one 
> reason I
>>>>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>>>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>>>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>>>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>>>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>>>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the
>>>>>> NFBF,
>>>> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>>>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for 
> office
>>>>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>>>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be interesting 
> if
>>>>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots of
>>>>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>>>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>>>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.
>>>>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for 
> the
>>>>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those 
> seeking
>>>>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>>>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board
>>>>>> including
>>>> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF
>>>> President.
>>>>>>  It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the 
> list
>>>>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the future 
> of
>>>>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
>>>>>> members
>>>> what we
>>>>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
> Lenora J.
>>>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>>>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for 
> election or
>>>>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>>>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>>>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to communicate 
> on a
>>>> more personal level.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>>>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>>>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Lenora
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>>>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>>>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election? I
>>>>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about 
> her
>>>>>> passing.  She will be missed.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
>>>> re-election.
>>>>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>>>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Thanks so much,
>>>>>> Darlene
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
> Lenora J.
>>>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>>>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board positions
> are
>>>>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>>>>> there are six
>>>>>> positions:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>>>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>>>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>>>>> position)
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>>>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently
> held by
>>>>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently
> held
>>>>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>>>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for 
> election.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday,
> Jan
> 19.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>>>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in 
> mind
>>>>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago 
> where a
>>>>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a 
> position
>>>>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision for
>>>>>> the future of NFBF.
>>>>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address 
> the
>>>>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you 
> think.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do my
>>>>>> best to answer them.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, 
> NFB-FL
>>>>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>>>>> 904-229-9554
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Hi, Kathy and all.
>>>>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice 
> president
>>>>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>>>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year terms.
>>>>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board seats
>>>>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.
> This
>>>>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the 
> board is
>>>>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, 
> three
>>>>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total board
>>>> members.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> This is my recollection at the moment.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Bill Outman
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Kathy
>>>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>>>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>>>>> 
>>>>>>              With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>>>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for 
> election. It
>>>>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>>>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>>>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>>>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>>>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue for
>>>>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>>>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>>>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they
>>>>>> are
>>>> elected.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>>              I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in 
> Ft.
>>>>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>>>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>>>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> With warmest regards,
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
> for
>>>>>> Nfbf-l:
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>>>>>> nk.net
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> ---
>>>>>> This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! 
> Antivirus
>>>>>> protection is active.
>>>>>> http://www.avast.com
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
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>>>>>> ol.com
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>>> .net
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
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>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
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>>>>>> rr.com
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>>>>>> 
>>>>>> -----
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>>>>>> 
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>>>>>> 
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>>> Nfbf-l:
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>>>>>> 0verizo
>>>>>> n.net
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>>>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
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>>>>>> ol.com
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>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
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>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>>> Nfbf-l:
>>> 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/tom.bellone01%40yahoo.co
> m
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
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> 
> 
> --
> Paul M. Martinez
> President,  Florida Association of Blind Students
> 
> NFBFL Board Member
> 
> Treasurer, Florida State Wide Chapter
> Paul09ms at gmail.com
> Ph: 813-390-5720
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Message: 14
> Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 18:09:41 -0500
> From: Tom Bellone <tom.bellone01 at yahoo.com>
> To: Paul Martinez <paul09ms at gmail.com>,    NFB of Florida Internet
>    Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
> Message-ID: <574DD85D-0144-49ED-BD35-E491CCEB0318 at yahoo.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain;    charset=us-ascii
> 
> Well said Paul. Thank you for having the courage to declare your intention
> to stand for reelection well in advance of the time for us to vote.
> Best of luck to you.
> Tom Bellone
> 
> Sent from my iPhone
> 
>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 5:59 PM, Paul Martinez via Nfbf-l 
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
> wrote:
>> 
>> Greetings fellow Federation,
>> For those who do not know me, my name is Paul Martinez, and I
>> currently serve on the State board of directors. I was selected to be
>> on the board during the Daytona State convention to complete a one
>> year term. Since then one of my main goals for the NFB of Florida, has
>> been to strengthen members. So, we can all continue to build and
>> follow our mission, to live the life we want. I am very passionate
>> about the NFB and everything I do within our organization. For the
>> past two years, I have held the position of president of the Florida
>> Association of blind students. Within those years, we have tripled our
>> membership, created a mentoring project, held successful fundraisers,
>> and most importantly we have worked together as a team. Not only do I
>> work hard for the student division, but I believe in helping chapters
>> grow. Therefore, I helped build the state wide chapter by becoming the
>> treasurer. I also believe it is important to be involved in your local
>> area. So, I am a strong member of my local Tampa Bay chapter. Within
>> both chapters, I have assisted with several successful fundraisers,
>> kept the chapter organized and on task, and help with recruiting new
>> members. Also, I have had the honor of chairing the Scholarship
>> Committee for the last two years, which I am passionate about. On the
>> other hand, my personal mission is to not show our disability but show
>> the world our capabilities. Therefore, if I was reelected on the state
>> board not only will I bring the necessary skills needed for the
>> position, but bring my dedication and my passion
>> 
>> Looking forward to state convention.
>> 
>> Sincerely,
>> 
>> Paul Martinez
>> 
>> 
>>> On 1/9/15, Joe Minichiello via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>> Well reading through these responses I decided to add my nonsense 
> not my
> two
>>> cents my nonsense that being said I too would like to see who is 
> running
> for
>>> these positions on the State Board I am curious is anyone running as 
> a
>>> Republican for anyone who knows me I very warily vote for Democrats 
> so I
>>> think we should know what your political party is thank you
>>> 
>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 11:19 AM, Tom Bellone via Nfbf-l 
> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> OOOPS! Sorry folks, looks like I got too ambitious with hitting the 
> send
>>>> button twice.Tom
>>>>      From: Tom Bellone via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> To: Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>; Kathy Davis
>>>> <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 11:15 AM
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> Congratulations Denise for bring the first (and so far only) one to
>>>> declare your candidacy for a board position.  I would truly hope 
> that
>>>> everyone else who is contemplating running would declare their
> intentions
>>>> sooner as opposed to later.  If that does in fact happen, we all 
> will
> have
>>>> ample time to help make informed decisions when it comes time to 
> vote.
> It
>>>> might be a good idea to consider a candidates' forum on the list or 
> at
>>>> convention  prior to voting.As far as the minutes are concerned, I 
> made
> a
>>>> request some time ago to have them posted.  That happened shortly 
> after
> my
>>>> request, but has since gone by the wayside.  I'm not sure why, but 
> would
>>>> like to see them again.  The last set of minutes I saw was for the 
> April
>>>> 2014 meeting.  Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ft. Lauderdale 
> next
>>>> week.
>>>> Tom BelloneDaytona Beach
>>>>      From: Denise Valkema via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> To: Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com>
>>>> Cc: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 10:33 AM
>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>> 
>>>> I agree that the minutes should be posted and will ask why they are 
> not.
>>>> You have asked me to research other things and I have followed 
> through.
> I
>>>> like that you ask.
>>>> 
>>>> The presidents committee teleconference is only for chapter 
> presidents
> and
>>>> division presidents.  I am sorry if I did not make that clear.
>>>> 
>>>> The members should be active in local chapter and divisions if 
> possible.
>>>> could show interest in committees, but at minimum be active in a
> chapter.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> I will not run  if not nominated and will run if nominated and feel
> people
>>>> want me on the board. I would like to see more mentoring of others 
> that
>>>> could rise to higher positions on board. I thought what Dr. Maurer 
> did
>>>> planning to not run in few years, and mentoring in process was a 
> good
>>>> idea.
>>>> 
>>>> Hope this helps.
>>>> 
>>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 10:18 AM, Kathy Davis <kdavisnfbf at cfl.rr.com> 
> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>> Good Morning Denise,
>>>>>   Thank you for sharing some of your convictions as an NFBF 
> officer. I
>>>>> really appreciate your openness about what you believe is 
> important for
>>>>> the
>>>>> NFBF as we move forward. Will you be running for office? I 
> certainly
>>>>> hope
>>>>> so. I also urge other officers and board members to share their 
> views
> and
>>>>> to
>>>>> let us know if they will be running for reelection. In addition, it
> would
>>>>> be
>>>>> terrific if others plan to run for a position on the board of
> directions
>>>>> who
>>>>> do not currently hold such a leadership role at this time.
>>>>>   It's troubling that we do not have board minutes posted on our
>>>>> website since April. How in the world are we to know what is going 
> on?
>>>>> Besides, posting board minutes is a policy that should be adhered 
> to
> and
>>>>> is
>>>>> not being followed at this time.
>>>>>   I don't believe that the rank and file members realize that 
> they are
>>>>> invited to participate in the NFBF President's conference calls. I 
> have
>>>>> no
>>>>> idea which chapter presidents attend these meetings but certainly 
> all
>>>>> should
>>>>> be on these very important calls. Can you enlighten us on the 
> matters I
>>>>> have
>>>>> outlined above?
>>>>> 
>>>>> Have a blessed day,
>>>>> 
>>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>> From: Denise Valkema [mailto:valkemadenise at aol.com]
>>>>> Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 9:39 AM
>>>>> To: Marion Gwizdala; NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>>> Cc: Kathy Davis
>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>> 
>>>>> The board has discussed having more than one in person board 
> meeting.
> We
>>>>> feel it is a good idea.  Not all issues should be made public 
> though
> so,
>>>>> we
>>>>> still need closed meetings. It is a good idea to post minutes.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema by iPhone
>>>>> 
>>>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 9:09 AM, Denise Valkema <valkemadenise at aol.com>
>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Currently, we have a quarterly presidents teleconference to inform
>>>>> chapters and divisions so information can be shared by the 
> presidents
> at
>>>>> their monthly meetings but we have chapters and divisions that 
> don't
> call
>>>>> in
>>>>> on this call or rarely call in. If presidents don't participate and
>>>>> share,
>>>>> how do members get information? We have chapter presidents that 
> are not
>>>>> on
>>>>> this list by choice so, communication is not as good.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> I would like to see more communication between state board 
> members and
>>>>>> to
>>>>> the membership.  I would like committees to share after each 
> meeting,
>>>>> who
>>>>> attended and share what was discussed. I would like divisions to 
> do the
>>>>> same
>>>>> or post minutes. This way we have ongoing updates instead of 
> quarterly.
>>>>> I
>>>>> think chapter presidents should share what is going on in their 
> chapter
>>>>> monthly. This way others might join the chapter, get involved in a
>>>>> division,
>>>>> or ask questions.  The communication issue is not just from state
> board.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Members should be active members of a chapter especially now that 
> we
>>>>>> have the statewide chapter, those that cannot make local chapter
>>>>>> meetings
>>>>> due to work or school or don't have a local chapter can Join it.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> We don't need someone on state board that just joined a chapter so
> they
>>>>> are complying with our constitution to run or someone who only 
> attended
>>>>> one
>>>>> or a few chapter meetings. Since I attend regular chapter meetings
> in
>>>>> Miami.
>>>>> Part of being a good leader is joining the membership where it is 
> at
> and
>>>>> work on voicing your opinions to make changes in the future. Some 
> of
> our
>>>>> students are good examples of doing this.
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Sincerely, Denise Valkema
>>>>>> 305-972-8529
>>>>>> valkemadenise at aol.com
>>>>>> by iPhone
>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> On Jan 9, 2015, at 7:25 AM, Marion Gwizdala via Nfbf-l
>>>>> <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Kathy,
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I tend to agree with you about wanting to know a little about 
> who
>>>>>>> is seeking a seat on our board. Without such information, it 
> seems to
>>>>>>> be only a popularity contest and not founded in a good business
>>>>>>> practice. I believe members must realize that the National
> Federation
>>>>>>> of the Blind of florida is a 501(c)(3) corporation whose affairs 
> are
>>>>>>> managed by the board elected by the membership. This is one 
> reason I
>>>>>>> pushed to have the minutes of the board of directors publicly
>>>>>>> available on our website. Similarly, I feel the meetings of the 
> board
>>>>>>> of directors should be publicized and members ought to be able to
>>>>>>> observe the proceedings. I feel NFBF would be stronger and more
>>>>>>> cohesive if the board had more accountability. As it stands right
>>>>>>> now, I believe the average grassroots member has no clue what the
>>>>>>> NFBF,
>>>>> through its board, is doing on their behalf! JMHO!
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Fraternally yours,
>>>>>>> Marion Gwizdala
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
> Kathy
>>>>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 1:33 PM
>>>>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten'; 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List';
>>>>>>> dlaiblcrowe at att.net
>>>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Yes, Lenora, in recent years I notice that those running for 
> office
>>>>>>> in the NFBF lean toward the surprise factor and choose not to
>>>>>>> announce their candidacy via the list. Wouldn't it be 
> interesting if
>>>>>>> our public elections were held similarly? Certainly having lots 
> of
>>>>>>> money to support a campaign wouldn't be necessary. Of course, the
>>>>>>> voting public wouldn't know much if anything when they go to cast
>>>>>>> their votes. Guess I would have the tendency not to vote at all.
>>>>>>> Being apprised of a person's qualifications and their vision for 
> the
>>>>>>> future is crucial. I believe that the same is true for those 
> seeking
>>>>>>> a position on the NFBF Board of Directors. Certainly this was the
>>>>>>> case for many years when I held various positions on the board
>>>>>>> including
>>>>> the two terms when I ran and was elected to the office of NFBF
>>>>> President.
>>>>>>> It was helpful and informative when candidates posted to the 
> list
>>>>>>> indicating their qualifications and their platform for the 
> future of
>>>>>>> the NFB of Florida. Having only three to five minutes to tell our
>>>>>>> members
>>>>> what we
>>>>>>> are all about during elections is hardly adequate in my opinion.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Have a terrific day and I look forward to seeing you very soon.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
> Lenora
> J.
>>>>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>>>>> Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2015 10:45 AM
>>>>>>> To: dlaiblcrowe at att.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Hi Darlene - I don't want to comment on who's running for 
> election or
>>>>>>> re-election because some people prefer to communicate that
>>>>>>> information in person at the convention. While someone usually
>>>>>>> suggests that people post to the list, most choose to 
> communicate on
> a
>>>>> more personal level.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> That being said, there have been some years where those initially
>>>>>>> running or running for re-election have posted to the list.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Wish I could be of more help...
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> If you have a question concerning a certain board member or 
> position,
>>>>>>> I would suggest e-mailing that person directly.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Lenora
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>>> From: Darlene Laibl-Crowe <dlaiblcrowe at att.net>
>>>>>>> To: 'Lenora J. Marten' <bluegolfshoes at aol.com>; 'NFB of Florida
>>>>>>> Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>>> Sent: Wed, Jan 7, 2015 3:43 pm
>>>>>>> Subject: RE: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Hi, Lenora!
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Thanks for this info!  I have some questions.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Are all whose positions are opening up running for re-election?  
> I
>>>>>>> realize that is not the case for Johnny...so sorry to hear about 
> her
>>>>>>> passing. She will be missed.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I would like to hear from these individuals who are running for
>>>>> re-election.
>>>>>>> Can they share their thoughrs on their positions, past term
>>>>>>> (progress) and what can be expected for the next term?
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Thanks so much,
>>>>>>> Darlene
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
> Lenora
> J.
>>>>>>> Marten via Nfbf-l
>>>>>>> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2015 2:47 PM
>>>>>>> To: woutman at earthlink.net; nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>>>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Hi everyone, here is the list of which NFBF State Board 
> positions are
>>>>>>> up for election or re-election for 2015. With Johnnie's passing,
>>>>>>> there are six
>>>>>>> positions:
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Dan Hicks 2nd vice
>>>>>>> president, two year term - currently held by Denise Valkema
>>>>>>> secretary, two year term - currently held by Lenora Marten board
>>>>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Jim Ellsworth board
>>>>>>> position, two year term - currently held by Paul Martinez board
>>>>>>> position, one year term - vacant (previously Johnnie Slayton's
>>>>>>> position)
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> The positions that are not up for election or re-election are:
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 1st vice president, two year term until 2016 - currently held by
>>>>>>> Peter Cerullo treasurer, two year term until 2016 - currently 
> held by
>>>>>>> Gloria Hicks board member, two year term until 2016 - currently 
> held
>>>>>>> by Miranda Kilby
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> In the event that an NFBF board member runs and is elected to 
> another
>>>>>>> position, their currently held position will also be up for 
> election.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I hope that clears up what positions will be decided on Monday,
> Jan
> 19.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I do realize by the time Monday morning rolls around it's really
>>>>>>> tempting to just take off and head home early. However, keep in 
> mind
>>>>>>> that your vote really does count!! It was just two years ago 
> where a
>>>>>>> position was decided by just one vote.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Kathy makes a great point that if you do wish to run for a 
> position
>>>>>>> it is an excellent idea to post to this list as to your vision 
> for
>>>>>>> the future of NFBF.
>>>>>>> Yes, during elections, you get three minutes to talk and address
> the
>>>>>>> membership, but sometimes those minutes go by faster than you 
> think.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> If anyone has any other questions, just let me know and I'll do 
> my
>>>>>>> best to answer them.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> See you in Ft. Lauderdale!
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Lenora J. Marten, President
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Florida Organization of Parents of Blind Children Secretary, 
> NFB-FL
>>>>>>> Florida Rehabilitation Council for the Blind 
> bluegolfshoes at aol.com
>>>>>>> 904-229-9554
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>>> From: Bill Outman via Nfbf-l <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>>> To: 'NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List' <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org>
>>>>>>> Sent: Tue, Jan 6, 2015 12:34 pm
>>>>>>> Subject: Re: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Hi, Kathy and all.
>>>>>>> Remembering that Peter Cerullo was elevated to first vice 
> president
>>>>>>> last year, this means that president, second vice president,
>>>>>>> secretary and a pair of board positions are up for two year 
> terms.
>>>>>>> There were possibly a couple of one year elections for board 
> seats
>>>>>>> where members resigned their seat or moved to another position.
> This
>>>>>>> could cause some rearrangement of the deck chairs, so to speak.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> For those who may be new to the process, every year half the 
> board is
>>>>>>> up for election, two of the board positions and in this case, 
> three
>>>>>>> of the five constitutional officers, as there are nine total 
> board
>>>>> members.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> This is my recollection at the moment.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Bill Outman
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>>>> From: Nfbf-l [mailto:nfbf-l-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of 
> Kathy
>>>>>>> Davis via Nfbf-l
>>>>>>> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 10:16 PM
>>>>>>> To: NFB of Florida Internet Mailing List
>>>>>>> Subject: [Nfbf-l] Elections at 2015 State Convention
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Hi Fellow Federationists,
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>             With our state convention only a short time away, it
>>>>>>> would be helpful to know what board positions are up for 
> election. It
>>>>>>> would also be neat to know who is planning to run for these
>>>>>>> positions. No doubt we will have new members who are completely
>>>>>>> unfamiliar with the candidates. Others who have been around for a
>>>>>>> while just need to be familiarized with the open board seats for
>>>>>>> 2015. Posting to this subject line would be a wonderful avenue 
> for
>>>>>>> members to become aware of those who are running for office. It 
> would
>>>>>>> be an interesting discussion to learn about the qualifications of
>>>>>>> candidates as well as their vision for the future of the NFBF if 
> they
>>>>>>> are
>>>>> elected.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>>             I am hoping that we have an excellent turn out in 
> Ft.
>>>>>>> Lauderdale and that everyone will arrive in good spirits ready to
>>>>>>> have a terrific convention. Many thanks to Tom and Deb Ryan and 
> their
>>>>>>> chapter members for hosting us in Ft. Lauderdale.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> With warmest regards,
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Kathy Davis
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> NFBF Past President
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>>> Nfbf-l mailing list
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>>>>>>> nk.net
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> ---
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> Antivirus
>>>>>>> protection is active.
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>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>>>> ol.com
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
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>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> -----
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>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>>>> 0verizo
>>>>>>> n.net
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>>> 
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>>>> _______________________________________________
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> for
>>>> Nfbf-l:
>>>> 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/tom.bellone01%40yahoo.co
> m
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
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> m
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>> 
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>> 
>> 
>> --
>> Paul M. Martinez
>> President,  Florida Association of Blind Students
>> 
>> NFBFL Board Member
>> 
>> Treasurer, Florida State Wide Chapter
>> Paul09ms at gmail.com
>> Ph: 813-390-5720
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> Nfbf-l mailing list
>> Nfbf-l at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> Nfbf-l:
>> 
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nfbf-l_nfbnet.org/tom.bellone01%40yahoo.co
> m
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------
> 
> Subject: Digest Footer
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> ------------------------------
> 
> End of Nfbf-l Digest, Vol 105, Issue 10
> ***************************************
> 
> 
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