Meeting Minutes 17 January, 2009 President, Anne Wheeler, called the meeting to order. Secretary, Ann Sims, read the minutes of the last meeting. The Minutes were accepted by acclamation. Secretary-Treasurer, Ann Sims presented the Treasurer’s report with an ending balance of $646.00 as of December 31, 2008 The Treasurer’s report was filed for audit. Bob McGarry volunteered to audit the Treasurer’s reports. President, Anne Wheeler, welcomed all present and asked for introductions. The following individuals were present for the meeting: Anne Wheeler, Ann Sims, Bob Robinson, Wendy Roberts, Chris Roberts, Barbara Graham, Tim Kelly, Jamie Teal, Mike Teal, Bob McGarry, Marsha Farrow, Roger Keeney, Peter Tolly, Bill Holley, Robin Oliver, and Jerrie Toney. New Members include: Wendy Roberts, Chris Roberts, Ken Thurmond, Bob McGarry, and Joe Hirsch. Ann Sims informed the group that Laverne King fell and broke three ribs and her shoulder. Bob Robinson informed the group of the bolo that has been designed for our group, but currently it is too costly for us to have in production. More members are needed. Anne Wheeler discussed growing membership and the purpose of our group. She also suggested that members volunteer to conduct a program at their local Lion Club to inform them about the GCBL. She will assist with conducting the program if necessary. Mike Teal brought up a discussion of the membership for our group. His concern with allowing members from the NFB to our group. These individuals are welcome to join our group, but they must be made aware that we are affiliated with the Georgia Council of the Blind. Marsha Farrow brought up the subject of fundraising. Anne Wheeler informed the group of the auction item that she brought to the convention. Anne also talked about taking the remaining garden equipment and make another cart to take to the Lion’s convention and sell it there. We also have a table at this convention to disseminate information. Another option for a fundraiser was the Belk Charity Day event that is believed to be happening in March. Anne Wheeler brought up the question of what we should plan to spend our money on. Some ideas were braille materials, brochures, and to spend money as necessary to bring the awareness to the attention of the public. Jerrie Toney and Robin Oliver will be developing our brochure. Anne Wheeler informed the group of the Ann Sullivan and Blind Lion awards that the Lions will be presenting at the next State Lions’ convention. The deadline for entries for these awards is soon. Talk to your local club for more information. The Ann Sullivan award does not have to go to a blind person. It can go to an individual that has exemplified the talent of helping the blind. Ann Sims received the Blind Lion award last year and Bill Holley was also nominated. It was recommended that we do what we can to make that happen for Bill Holley this year. Marsha Farrow will look into who is responsible for developing the state newsletter and to see if we can get it produced in alternative formats. The next meeting will be at the state convention. We will be doing lunch on Friday. Meeting Adjourned Submitted by Bob McGarry for Ann Sims Treasurer’s Report November beginning balance: $413.00 Debits: $135.00 ($50 for GCB State Convention, $75 for Speaker’s gasoline expenses, and $10 for Speaker’s breakfast.) Deposits: $352.00 (Fundraiser and Dues) Bank Charge: $19.00 (Check order) Checks Check #108: $60.00, 2 Plaques Check #109: $25.00, GCB affiliate membership dues for 2009 Ending Balance: $526.00 as of November 30, 2008 December beginning balance: $526.00 Deposits: $120.00 for dues Ending balance: $646.00 as of December 31, 2008 Treasurer’s report will be filed for audit. Respectfully Submitted, Lion Ann Sims