The monthly meeting of the American Council of the Blind of Western New York was held on Friday September 11 at the Plaka Restaurant. The meeting was called to order at 6-34. Present were Karen Blachowicz, Alex Meister, Lynn Lum, Karen Palau, Rich and Karlene Fiorello, Paul Jerge, Bernadette Johnson, Gracey Chambers, and Doug Whitford.

Karen Blachowicz reported that Rob Blachowicz resigned as Vice President and that Kathy Lyoys was chosen to be Vice-President.

The board voted at its last meeting that we should file for our own 501 C3 status. Rich Fiorello moved to accept the board’s recommendation, Paul Jerge seconded the motion and it was carried unanimously. The board voted to donate 100 dollars to the American Council of the Blind of NY in appreciation for the use of their 501 C3 authorization. Alex moved to accept this recommendation, Karen Palau seconded the motion and it was passed by the group with one no vote. The board also voted that the 350 dollars which will be given to the scholarship winner would be replaced with proceeds from the fundraiser. Karen moved to accept this motion Doug seconded it and the motion was approved by the group. The minutes of the July meeting were read, Alex moved to accept the minutes as read, Karen seconded the motion and it was approved by the group. In the treasurer’s report, Alex stated that the previous balance was 2016 dollars, the current balance was $2482, the scholarship balance was $501.18 and Paypal balance was $259.35. Rich moved to accept the treasurer’s report, Paul seconded the motion and the reported was accepted by the group. Alex found an attorney from the Free Lawyers Project who agreed to help us complete the 501 C3 application free of charge. The attorney asked to meet with some members of the group as part of the process.

The children’s event on Oct. 3rd was discussed. We will be submitting a bid to host the 2016 ACBNY convention. Paul reported that a law requiring auditory crossing signals will be going into effect in the future. Karen Alex Bernadette and Gracey will be attending the next NFTA meeting.

Alex moved to adjourn the meeting at 8 PM, Paul seconded the motion and the
meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,
Lynn Lum