[NFBP-Erie] March agenda not minutes!

[Connie Scheu]

Please note that the following is actually the agenda I had prepared.
I was 2 days out of surgery and could not also take minutes. Since I was also on pain medication, I don't remember enough to write minutes. 
So, If you are not listed as present and you were there, please do reply and add your name. 
Also please write any notes you recall. 
Thank you much.
Connie 

The Erie County Chapter 
National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania  

Agenda:
The Erie County Chapter meeting was held via Zoom  
and was brought to order by Facilitator, Connie Scheu 
On March 18, 2023 at 2:00 PM.

ATTENDANCE:  
Connie Scheu 
Lynn Heitz 
Brian Mackey 
Passle Helminski 
Mucie Allred 
Carolyn Crawford 
Mark Zink 
Pam Carbonetti 

PRAYER BY MARK 

I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity and security for the blind.  To support the policies and programs of the Federation and to abide by its constitution.

ARTICLE III-MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. The majority of the membership of this organization must be blind,
A member in good standing is a member whose dues are paid.
An active member is one who regularly attends meetings. A member becomes inactive when they have not attended three (3) consecutive meetings or when a member  declares themself inactive. A member becomes active when they attend two (2) consecutive meetings.     
Any person, having attained to the age of sixteen years, or who will attain to the age of sixteen years within sixty days of his or her application for membership, may become an active member of this Chapter by a majority vote.

Section 2. All active members in good standing shall have the right to vote, serve on committees, speak on the floor and hold offices (according to Article IV.)

Section 3. Associate Members
Any person may be elected to associate membership in this Chapter by a majority vote.
Associate members shall have all the rights and privileges of active members, except that they may not vote, or hold office, Associate members shall not pay dues.

Connie suggested that people in attendance consider becoming a member. In April's meeting she would like those interested, to be voted on. They will send in their $10 dues which will make them members in good standing eligible to vote. 
Those who have been members need to pay their dues. At this time, Passle and Connie are the only paid members.
Elections would normally be held on November 18 but members can agree to have an earlier election since all positions are available. 

Minutes:  Were emailed by Connie. 

TREASURER’S REPORT:   by Brian Mackey.

PUBLIC RELATIONS REPORT:  

LEGISLATIVE REPORT:  


FUND RAISING:   Connie emailed raffle ticket numbers to chapter participants who then chose their numbers and sent Connie a check. We sold 44 tickets. Hopefully, more people will sell tickets next time. 

OLD BUSINESS:  
Will Heidi request a proclamation on behalf of The NFB of PA Erie County Chapter during White Cane Week?

Connie Scheu with her driver, Dave Szymanowski, attended the Leadership Seminar March 10 - 12 in Bolesburg, PA.  Steve Pennington spoke on the why, what and how of an organization. We concentrated on the why, why we belong and work for The NFB.
We learned that the state constitution states that membership dues should be received by December 31 for the following year. 

NEW BUSINESS:  
The PA state convention will be held November 9 - 12 in Harrisburg at the Crown Plaza Hotel.  So far 5 people plan to attend. If you would like to attend and ride with the group, please let Connie know.
There will be a Possibilities Fair for Seniors on Thursday morning 

The 2023 NFB convention  will be held in Houston TX July 1 - 6, 2023. 

Sharing: Reading and Writing with low or no vision. 

Special Announcements:  


The Next meeting is Saturday April 15, 2023 at 2:00 PM.

MEETING CLOSED:  

Respectfully  submitted by