PPDB BOARD OF DIRECTOR’S MEETING

April 13, 2020 Minutes

Call to Order:  Tammy Kitterman, President, brought the meeting to order at 8:01 PM

Present:  Tammy Kitterman, Lisa Lopatofsky, Patti McGowan, Gordon Boe, Sandra Salerno, Juli Baumgarner, Molly Black

Excused Absence:  Tina Hertzog

To the Board:  There were no conflicts to the Agenda, however, Juli requested to add: Review Toolkit/Self-Evaluation to New Business.

Approval of Minutes: Lisa made the Motion to accept the Minutes of March 9, 2020 and Patti seconded the Motion.  Motion Passed.

Treasurer’s Report:   Gordon Boe, Treasurer, Balance is $3,147.57 – No new monies received this past month.

Outreach Committee - Patti McGowan and Molly Black, indicated no new activity, but reported that the NE CHARGE Conference was cancelled and rescheduled for September and the DB Family Learning Conference was cancelled for June, but may be added to the HELIX Conference in November, in some form.

Membership Committee - Tammy Kitterman and Patti McGowan, reported no new memberships. 

Nominations Committee – Molly Black, Chair, shared that she had forwarded the Nomination Application of Johnine Bickauskas – for review and consideration prior to this meeting by email.  The Nominations Committee (Molly, Patti & Lisa) wholeheartedly recommend Johnine to the Board.  Vote will take place at May meeting.
 
Molly also had nominated Erin Gabriel to the Board.  She has declined the nomination, but may reconsider at a future time. 
 
It was determined that Juli’s term will end and the Board discussed appointing her to a Special Advisory role at the May meeting, allowable under Article VIII of the Bylaws as stated:

ARTICLE VIII
ADVISORY BOARDS AND CONSULTANTS
Section 1.  Establishment.  The Board of Directors may establish one or more Special Advisory Boards, Liaisons or Consultants.
Section 2.  Size, Duration, and Responsibilities.  The size, duration, and responsibilities of such boards, liaisons or consultants shall be established by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.

Molly also reported that there have been three officer nominations to the Board so far:   Tammy Kitterman, President; Lisa Lopatofsky, VP and Molly Black, Secretary.  Any other nominations are welcome and encouraged.  This vote will take place next month following any vote of general board members.  If Lisa does move into the VP role, her general board membership will be an open position for a year balance of her current term. 
 
There was discussion around whether our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws follow PA Non-Profit Law.  Juli suggested we review annually and Lisa forwarded the state statute to all members by email for your review. 
Title 15, Article B, Chapter 55, Subchapter A, Section 5504
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=15&div=0&chpt=55&sctn=4&subsctn=0
 
New Business:   Tammy
Molly & Patti indicated we are now in short supply of our exhibitor handouts items.  Discussion was held around purchasing new/additional exhibitor supplies. Budget - $200 or 10% of balance of current budget year, which is $273.00, as of Sept. 1, the start of our fiscal year.  Molly will get firm bids from our current vendor and see if items are even available because of state shutdown. 
 
Fundraising – a short discussion occurred regarding whether this is an individual vs. whole Board responsibility.  Molly feels that the Healing Place is still hoping to designate PPDB as a donation designee.  Gordon mentioned that when PA Skills is back up and running, he will pursue a donation through his VFW.  Patti suggested that a Fundraising Committee be formed.  Gordon suggested a small games of chance license could run through his VFW. Tickets are printed and sold among the Members. Gordon volunteered to chair the Fundraising Committee. 
 
Juli shared the results of the Self-Evaluation she conducted. She is requesting feedback on the Overview information that she emailed out.  She will email it out again as a reminder.  She indicated that we really never had a real Vision or Mission Statement.   Toolkit #6 is about Strategic Planning and she wondered if NFADB could lead us through it.  What we believe and our vision needs to be fleshed out.  This would be what drives and gives us a clear vision of what we do as an organization.  Patti said that it would be important to determine: Who we are; What we believe (vision), which should drive the Mission; and then give Our Purpose before we do any strategic planning.  If we did do any strategic planning, will it be 1 yr. 2 yr. 3y,r etc.? Patti also suggested that we do not need a lot of committees.  Juli would like an outside person to help us facilitate a meeting on strategic planning.  Juli will work with Patti to talk about locating a facilitator. 

Tammy read the following -
Articles of Incorporation: 

1. . The corporation is incorporated under the Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988 for the following purpose or purposes:

PPDB is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, and more specifically to provide a statewide voice for the promotion of support, services and policies that impact individuals who are deaf-blind (spelled this way)and their families
 
Lisa made a suggestion of a Zoom meeting for concerned parents.  She agreed to set it up for PPDB Open call – Triumphs and Challenges 8pm on Thursday, April 30. 

Old Business:
Shout Outs –
April – Gordon
May – Lisa
June – Tina
July – Sandra
August – Juli
September – Tammy
October – Possible New Board Member #1 TBD
November – Possible New Board Member #2 TBD
December - Patti
January - Molly
 
Committees – Tabled until next month 
Good of the Order - None
Adjournment - Meeting Adjourned at 9:33 p.m.

March 9, 2020 Minutes
 
Call to Order:  Tammy Kitterman, President, called the meeting to order at 8:01 PM
Present: Tammy Kitterman, Juli Baumgarner, Patti McGowan, Tina Hertzog, Sandra Salerno, Molly Black

Excused Absences:  Lisa Lopatofsky, Gordon Boe

To the Board:  Tammy asked if anyone had a conflict with any of the agenda topics.   There were no objections or conflicts to the Agenda.  

Approval of Minutes:  A motion to accept the Minutes of the February 10, 2020 Board Meeting Minutes was made by Tina Hertzog and Patti McGowan seconded the motion.  Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report:   Gordon Boe, Treasurer, provided the Treasurer’s Report by email, prior to the meeting.  Molly Black made motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report and Juli Baumgarner seconded the motion.  Motion passed.

Outreach Committee - Patti and Molly reported that they exhibited at Rep. Dan Miller’s Disability and Mental Health Summit on March 3. PPDB got a lot of exposure and many people stopped by the table.  Event was attended by over 1,100 people.   Vendor giveaway items are running low.  Molly will look into the cost of replenishing the current items and ideas for other items with our logo on them.  Juli mentioned that she will follow up with Gordon to get started on placing this as a line item for the budget, especially as we move forward with Committees. 

Membership Committee - Tammy Kitterman and Patti McGowan – One new member was added since last month, Erin Gabriel and Family.  One new renewal was added, which was Johnine Bakauskas.

Board Votes:  
Molly presented the Nomination Policy, adapted from NFADB’s template. After discussion and noted changes and typos corrected, a Motion was made to accept the Nomination Policy by Juli and seconded by Patti.   Motion passed.
 
Nominations Committee – Full Board and Molly Black, Chair.
There have been two nominations to the Board, those being:  Johnine Bickauskas and Erin Gabriel.  No Applications have been received to date for review.   Molly will follow up with the nominees to determine if they will accept these nominations and complete the application process.

Old Business:

1. Toolkit Completion –– Juli completed the review of the Toolkit.  We are to look at who we are as an organization and as a Board.  New members need to know what is expected from them and an orientation should be conducted.  We need to be clear about our organization and our Board as a whole.   Discussion included:
   1. How do we orient a new person – FAQ Sheet
   2. How do we look at ourselves as a Board?

Tina suggested that it would be a good idea to meet once a year in person and we could consider meeting in the summer.  Patti indicated that we should delay meeting in person until we have had a chance to review the goals and missions of each Committee and determine action plans of the committee work.  
We should have a Board purpose and outline for meeting in person.
Juli asked that each member complete an Evaluation Form and return it to her so that we can define our strengths and prioritize and address our weaknesses.

Please complete how we feel about ourselves as a Board, with notes and suggestions and how can we improve ourselves?  Where do we have gaps and how can we strengthen the Board so that we can strengthen the organization.    This Evaluation Form was provided to you by email.   (Since this meeting a Talent Form has also been emailed and you are requested to complete that too and return to Juli.)

​New Business:

1. NE CHARGE CONFERENCE – NY Parent Association for the DeafBlind requested a donation for the Saturday evening parent event.  Juli reviewed the line item protocol and she made the Motion and Patti seconded the motion to: participate at a vendor table, cost is $100, and $50 donation toward supplies/music for Saturday evening Social for families and one $15.00 free membership to be drawn among the PA attendees who are not yet PPDB members.  Vote – Juli – yes, Molly, yes; Tina, No, Tammy, yes, Patti, yes, Sandra had to leave the meeting prior to the vote, but had texted this before stepping off the conference call: “I would be in favor of spending 200 (or more) for the charge family conference”, so she was included as a “yes” vote.   5-Yes, 1-No.     Molly will work with Gordon to have the amounts forwarded to the NYPADB, through its President, Suzanne Chen. 
2. Shout Outs – This subject will be addressed by Tammy through an email vote. 

 

1. Meeting Adjourned at 9:26 PM

Annual General Board of Directors Meeting
February 10, 2020
Agenda
Present:  Sandra Salerno, Patti McGowan, Tammy Kitterman, Gordon Boe, Molly Black, Lisa Lopatofsky, Juli Baumgarner, Tina Hertzog, Johnine Bickauskas

Call to Order:  Tammy Kitterman, President – Brought the meeting to order at 8:02
President Welcomed all and everyone introduced themselves.

To the Board:  Does anyone have a conflict with any of the following agenda topics?   No conflicts were reported.

Approval of Minutes:  January 13, 2020 Board Meeting Minutes, Patti McGowan made the motion to accept the minutes of the January 13, 2020 minutes and Gordon Boe seconded that motion. Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report:   Gordon Boe, Treasurer reported starting balance of $2943.20 with receipts of $209.37 and expense of $20 totalling $3132.57.  A membership dues check was received, but will not be deposited and reflected until February.

Outreach Committee - Patti McGowan and Molly Black –
Patti reported that the Outreach/Social Committee purpose is to create and support awareness, events, and engagement toward the mission of PPDB.  This Mission of the Outreach Social Committee is to promote better understanding of the organization through a variety of public efforts, forums, and social events to strengthen, foster, and support its membership and improve the visibility, understanding, and appreciation of the PPDB.

• Outreach opportunities – 3/3 Disability and Mental Health Summit in Pgh – hosted by Rep. Dan Miller – 7th year and celebrating 30th anniversary of ADA.   Also an information table at FLC in State College in June.
• Conference Announcements – find details on our website regarding the following conferences:  PDE Conference; NE Regional CHARGE Conference; Medical Expo Wayne County; AVA’s Voice disUSH Family Weekend; Great Start; CdLS Conference; PA Deaf-Blind Project Family Learning

Conference; AER Conference; PennDel AER Conference; Cadre Conference; HELIX;

• Advocacy Opportunities – 2/25 – Galludet University Educational Summit, 2/26 Day on the Hill-Advocacy Day Summit; NFADB Diana Griffin Board member and PPDB member will attend. 

Membership Committee - Tammy Kitterman and Patti McGowan –  Tammy reported that the Committee reviews the memberships annually and recruits new members.   The Annual Drive is held each year in December – Lifetime membership is at 40 and annual memberships is 6.
Board Votes:
 
Record Retention and Destruction Policy – Gordon made the motion to accept this Policy and it was seconded by Molly.  Motion Passed unanimously.

Branding/Documents Process Policy- Gordon made a motion to accept this Policy and Juli seconded the motion.  Motion passed unanimously.

Budget Policy – Gordon asked to table the Budget vote. Some discussion occurred, and it is understood that any Policy may be revisited annually.  Motion was made to accept the Budget by Patti, seconded by Juli.  A vote was taken  Sandra, yes; Lisa, yes; Tina, no; Molly, yes; Gordon, no; Juli, yes; Tammy, yes.  6- yes and 2 no.  Policy is passed.

Nominations Committee – Tammy reported that the Full Board was named to the Committee on January 15th, 2020 – Patti and Lisa and Molly will accept applications and review for recommendation to the whole Board. Tammy reviewed the Nomination Process:

• Nominations Committee formed on January 15, 2020
• Secretary will be directed to send out “Open Call for Nominations” 60 day timeline.
• Tammy will add the Call for Nominations on our Home Webpage

Good of the Order

Molly – NE Charge Conference is looking for donations and more information will be provided for consideration of this request, adding it to March’s Agenda.

Patti – Juli did a fabulous job and helping PPDB Policies going.  All Board members thank Juli for all of these efforts.

Patti – reported that Jackie Brennan had emailed a sincere thank you to the
Board for the gift we gave we sent in appreciation for her service on the Board for many years. 

Adjournment – Meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM by President, Tammy Kitterman.

PPDB
 
Minutes of the January 13, 2020 Board of Directors Meeting

Present: Tammy Kitterman, Juli Baumgarner, Patti McGowan, Gordon Boe, Lisa Lopatofsky, Sandra Salerno, Molly Black

Excused Absence – Tina Hertzog

Call to Order:  Meeting was called to order at 8:08 PM by Tammy Kitterman, President
No Conflicts of Interest were indicated by the Board. 
Motion to approve November’s minutes:  Patti made the motion and it was seconded by Gordon Boe. Motion Passed.

Treasurer’s Report:  Gordon Boe presented the following report:

Reported receipts of 131.13 – PayPal transfer, and an expenditure of $150 to reimburse Gordon for deposit of puppeteer for FLC = $2,943.00 balance.
General Discussion:     

Regretfully, Kristina Kezmarsky resigned her position as President. Resignation Letter is attached to these minutes.   Tammy Kitterman, is stepping up from Vice-President to President and will complete Kristina Kezmarsky’s term.  She will work with PNC Bank to become a signatory on the checking account. 

Tammy requested that major changes be made and the overall feeling of the current Board is that not much has been accomplished over the past year.  Tammy is asking that we commit to getting things accomplished, and all responded in the affirmative.  

Tammy is requesting that we get our bylaws updated before the next meeting.   Lisa volunteered to review the Bylaws with Tammy.  Sandra also asked that she be informed when they are meeting and she will also try to be on that call to review as well.

Molly will take over the follow-up with Bob Veinovich, for the possible fundraising opportunity through The Healing Center.  
In the position as NFADB Affiliate Liaison, Lisa indicated that she is able to attend the scheduled conference call meetings on March 2nd, June 1st and Sept. 14th and will report back to the PPDB Board.

Tammy forwarded a complete list of Members to each Board member. 
Discussion was held around the possibility of eliminating the position of Vice-President, but no clear decision was made.

Patti forwarded the FLC Save the Date to Tammy and she added it the PPDB Website.

Juli will reach out to Tina for a possible professional/special advisor recommendation to be on the Board, as well as a possible location for a central Social Outreach.  Sandra will also be considering ideas to share for central Social Outreach locations.

Juli asked about the 990 Form and Gordon will follow-up with that action.  This is for filing our Tax Exempt Status.   A Whistle Blower Policy and a Retention and Destruction Document will also be created in order that the Board be informed and General membership can reference.    Patti will share these forms from NFADB for comparison/reference.    Patti also shared that an Operations Manual was created for NFADB and it appears that NFADB wants to help the affiliates to create their own. 

For the purposes of reporting for the Minutes, Juli indicated that Toolkit #3 was now completed. 

The Agenda for next month’s General Board Membership meeting was discussed and Molly and Tammy will work to develop this and send to members for review. 
It was suggested that each Board member send a Note of thanks to Kristina for the time she served as general member of the Board and as its President.   Her address is:  23 Elizabeth Street, Millvale, PA 15209

Meeting Adjourned at 9:10 PM
Respectfully Submitted,
 
 
Molly Black, Secretary
 


January 10, 2020
Molly Black, Secretary
Pennsylvania Partnership for the Deafblind

            Re:          Resignation

Dearest Molly,

Please view this letter as my official resignation as President of the Pennsylvania Partnership for the Deabflind effective immediately. I will assist the Executive Committee to the best of my abilities during this transition.

I have enjoyed my time as President of PPDB and thoroughly enjoyed working with you and the rest of the board. Thank you very much for your time and I hope to work together again in the future.

kmkezmarsky@gmail.com 724.884.3586
 
 

Attendance:
Gordon
Tina
Patty
Tammy
Lisa
Sandra
Kristina
 
Excused:
Molly
Julie
 
8:04 pm meeting called to order
 
No conflicts on agenda
 
Patty approved motion to approve last month’s minutes.
Gordon seconded the motion.
All in favor.
 
Treasurer report from Gordon
 
NFADB finance committee policy going to full board for vote sending to lawyer to review NY stare laws, still in process.
 
Julie not on call, discussion re: committees will be postponed until Jan agenda.
 
Contacted Bob a few times re:  fundraising opportunity via phone and email no response.
 
Jackie Brennan gift - Molly to send card, admins to put card and gift together. Gordon sent check.
 
Verify PayPal transactions - complete
 
Julie and Gordon to complete holiday mailing by 12th Dec., will send to Christina for approval. Gordon volunteered to do the mailing.
 
All board members should have access to full membership list, Patti working on updating and will send out at end of drive.
 
For January line item category for budget will be created. Travel, marketing, supplies, honors and awards, communications, FLC.
 
Patti proposed to look at existing committees and what’s working /what needs to change.
 
Feb 10th annual meeting - Molly attached information to email
 
Several board members have terms ending in 2020.
Molly as secretary, Tammy as VP and Patti General Board term.
 
We need to send notice to the general membership if anyone is interested in being a board member they may nominate themselves.
 
Molly sends letter out to all membership re: the annual meeting.
 
Check for puppeteer needs to be sent to Gordon.
 
Board elected at annual meeting
 
Meeting adjourned 8:37 pm

PPDB
   September 2019 Board Meeting Minutes
 
Date:  September 9, 7:30 PM   
Topic:  Monthly Board Meeting
Next Phone Call or Meeting:  Monday, October 14, 2019, 7:30 PM
Call to Order:   Kristina Kezmarsky, President, called the meeting to order at 7:33 PM

Present:  Patti McGowan, Sandra Salerno, Kristina Kezmarsky, Lisa Lopatofsky, Tammy Kitterman, Gordon Boe, Tina Hertzog, Molly Black

Excused Absence:   Juli Baumgarner  (julibaumgarner@gmail.com – please note Juli’s correct email address)

To the Board:  Does anyone have a conflict with any of the following agenda topics?   None stated.
 
Motion made by Kristina and seconded by Gordon to accept the August Meeting Minutes, and unanimously passed. 

Treasurer’s Report – Gordon –   Amounts remain the same as reflected in August minutes.  Upcoming expense includes reimbursing himself for the personal deposit he made to the FLC2019 Puppeteer.   No one else has check signing privileges but he and Kristina will make arrangements to have her as a second signer and will do so this week.  Gordon will be in touch with Kristina to finalize everything.    Tammy was able to get into the online banking account and she and Gordon will confer and update with new passwords.
 
Action Plan/To Do:  Add Kristina as a check signer
Lead:  Gordon & Kristina
Timeline:  Before next meeting

Action Plan/To Do
Task:  Update online baking accoutn with new passwords
Lead:  Gordon and Tammy
Timeline:  Before next meeting

Action Plan/To Do:
Task: Budge discussion
Lead:  Juli and Gordon
Timeline:  ASAP
Questions/Notes:  They will streamline and share at future meeting
Did not have a chance to meet yet.

Action Plan/To Do:
Task:  Bank Refund on fees and transfer of check signage
Lead:  Gordon
Timeline:  ASAP
Questions/Notes:  Worked with Sue Shaffer to complete transfer; update still needed on bank refund on fees
Partially completed

Action Plan/To Do:
Task  Toolkit #3, almost complete, #2 is about fiance, #1 is about structure
Lead:  Juli
Timeline:  ASAP
Questions/Notes:  Requesting members to view videos and come back with questions and discussions.  At next meeting would like to wrap up Toolkit #3, relating to content, not necessarily actions.    Review Toolkit #1- Board Structure and will send through with instructions.
Moved to next meeting

Action Plan/To Do:
Task  October Shout Out
Lead:  Tina
Timeline:  October
Questions/Notes:  Will work with Molly to also share from PPDB to the DB Listserv
 
Action Plan/To Do:
Task:  Share NFADB Finance Committee Examples
Lead:  Patti
Timeline:  When available
Questions/Notes:  Clarification – NFADB Finance Policy is not yet developed, but Patti will share when/if available.
NFADB is working on policy and guidelines.

Action Plan/To Do:
Task:  If Mission Statement were to be updated, does it require reporting/changing 501(c)(3) paperwork?
Lead:  Gordon
Questions/Notes:  Gordon will check into this and report back.
Gordon Continuing to check on this

Action Plan/To Do:
Task: Brochure to reflect the following changes“Finance” will be removed and “Life Transitions” will be added.
Lead: Board member
Timeline:  When appropriate
Questions/Notes:  When committees are updated and all changes made.
 
 
NEW BUSINESS –

1. Fundraising Opportunity through The Healing Center – Kristina reported that the Healing Center has not gotten back to her, as she emailed Bob Veinovich and called twice.  She will continue to try to reach The Healing Center and report to the Board when she hears back.

 

1. Identify additional Affiliate Liaison(s) to NFADB. Tammy will continue to attend these meetings when available to do so.  These are quarterly meetings and Kristina and possibly Lisa have indicated a willingness to attend when available to do so.   Several Affiliates have more than one Liaison and this will give PPDB a better chance to always have someone available to attend and report back.   A google survey is happening now to see what times and dates are best for most Liaisons to attend and Tammy will contact Edgenie Bellah Affiliate Committee Lead at NFADB to inform her of Kristina and possibly Lisa’s interest in order to share the link to complete the survey.

 

1. Sharing the Shout Outs and other important items from PPDB to the DB Listserv (giving credit to PPDB and bringing awareness, using PPDB Logo and website) – Also having PPDB be the “sharer” of information from NFADB, again preferably on both lists.   Discussion was held as to whether to share from the PPDB listserv to the DB listserv.  All agreed this would be a great way to bring awareness of PPDB to the larger DB community and Molly will work with Tina to make that happens in October when the next Shout Out is due.  Depending on convenience and timeliness as to whether a template will be created for use by all members when posting, or if it makes sense for Molly to forward as Secretary. 

 

1. PPDB should consider/discuss a “Sunshine Fund” with a policy in place.  All agreed that this is a good idea and should happen.   Discussion was held on how to fund this, with differing of opinions.   When Gordon and Juli have a chance to discuss and streamline the budget, a couple of funding scenarios will be presented to the Board for a vote.  This fund could be used to recognize and/or support board members in celebrations and/or sorrow of life events.    Patti shared NFADB’s current Sunshine policy:  $25 suggested donation by each board member (or larger amount if the member so desires) given annually (pick a month) and a set amount agreed for a gift/flowers/etc. given for each life event occurrence.

 

1. Status of Jackie Brennan’s Board Gift - Gordon shared that individual Board members had donated toward Jackie’s gift and enough money was collected to cover the cost.  Those donations had been deposited into the general account   Gordon will provide an updated Treasurer’s report to note these donations.  Purchase of the gift will occur and reported back to the Board.

 

1. Molly & Patti agreed to bring information regarding the current committees and their goals to the full Board in a report for further discussion on their relevancy.  We should be revisiting these goals to determine whether they are still appropriate and if the current Committees support these goals.   A report is ready for Board discussion on current committees and an example of goals for Outreach/Social Committee is updated for reference and will be shared.  This will be shared at a future meeting, after the Toolkits discussions are completed.  

 

1. Sandra suggested that we revisit our Board meeting times as the 7:30 PM time is difficult for members with small children.   This will be placed on next month’s Agenda. 

 
 
Gordon mentioned how appreciative he was to have the outpouring of love, concern and donations expressed by PPDB Board and membership.  He and Mary thank everyone sincerely. 
 
Shout Outs –                          
October – Tina                                   
November – Sandra
December – Juli
January – Tammy
February – Kristina
March – Patti 
April – Molly
May – Gordon
June – Lisa
July – Tina
 
Meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
Molly Black, Secretary

August 12, 2019 Monthly Board Minutes
 
Date:  August 12, 7:30 PM
Topic:  Monthly Board Meeting
Next Phone Call or Meeting:  September 9, 2019, 7:30 PM
Call to Order:   Kristina Kezmarsky, President, called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM.
Present:  Kristina Kezmarsky, Patti McGowan, Juli Baumgarner, Molly Black, Tammy Kitterman, Gordon Boe,

Excused Abesence:  Lisa Lopatofsky, Sandra Salerno and Tina Hertzog

To the Board:  Does anyone have a conflict with any of the following agenda topics?   None stated.
 
Motion for the approval of the June 10th, 2019 meeting minutes was made by Patti McGowan  and seconded by Juli Baumgarner, Motion passed. 
 
Treasurer’s Report – Gordon –  reported a $250.00 donation by Roslyn Veterans of Foreign Wars donation, and $50.00 donation from Sue Shaffer – total $300.00 in donations.  Kristina will send thank you notes.   Current balance is: $2,624.57
 
Action Plan/To Do:  Budget Discussion
Task
Lead:  Juli & Gordon
Timeline:  They will streamline and share at future meeting
Questions/Notes
Completed?

Action:  Bank refund on fees and transfer of check signage
Lead:  Gordon
Timeline:  ASAP
Will be working with Sue Shaffer to complete
 

Action:  Toolkit #3, almost complete, #2 is about Finance, #1 is about Structure
Lead:  Juli
Timeline:  April 8th
Requesting members to view videos and come back with questions and discussions.  At next meeting would like to wrap up Toolkit #3, relating to content, not necessarily actions.    Review Toolkit #1- Board Structure and will send through with instructions. 
 
Action:  August Shout Out
Leada:  Gordon
Timeline:  8/31
 
Action:  Share NFADB Finance Committee Examples
Lead:  Patti
Timeline:  When Available
Clarification – NFADB Finance Policy is not yet developed, but Patti will share when/if available.
NFADB is still working on policy and guidelines.

 
Old Business:
Review of our current Mission Statement for relevancy at this time and need for any updating was discussed and it was determined that we did not.
In this regard, we would need clarification regarding whether the Mission Statement could be changed without changing the 501(c)(3) paperwork.  Gordon will look into the issue and report back to the Board.  Juli suggested that some of the mission statement will be fleshed out while going through the Toolkits.

In the meantime, we will keep the Mission Statement as is; members present agreed that the word “Finance” will be removed from the brochure, “Life Transitions” will be added to the brochure; and the website will be changed from “Service Providers to Service Agencies to keep all verbiage consistent.  Once all changes are made and committees are updated, new brochures may be printed.
 
NEW BUSINESS –

1. Molly & Patti agreed to bring information regarding the current committees and their goals to the full Board in a report for further discussion on their relevancy.  We should be revisiting these goals to determine whether they are still appropriate and if the current Committees support these goals.   A report is ready for Board discussion on current committees and an example of goals for Outreach/Social Committee is updated for reference and will be shared.  This will be shared at a future meeting, after the Toolkits discussions are completed.  

 

1. Sharing the Shout Outs and other important items from PPDB to the DB Listserv (giving credit to PPDB and bringing awareness, using PPDB Logo) – Also having PPDB be the “sharer” of information from NFADB, again preferably on both lists. This was tabled for lack of time and will be added to September Agenda.

 

1. PPDB should consider/discuss a “Sunshine Fund” with a policy in place.  This fund could be used to recognize and/or support board members in celebrations and/or sorrow of life events.  The board could vote on an up to amount to be spent on behalf of the board, as well as an agreed amount that each board member should suggestively donate yearly.  This fund should be kept separate from the PPDB financial business.  This was tabled for lack of time and will be added to September Agenda.

 

1. Status of Jackie Brennan’s Board Gift – was any further action done post what was documented in the May Minutes?  This was tabled for lack of time and will be added to September Agenda.

Shout Outs –
August – Gordon                            December – Juli                  April - Molly
September – Lisa                            January – Tammy               May - Gordon
October – Tina                                February – Kristina             June - Lisa
November – Sandra                       March – Patti                       July – Tina
 
Respectfully submit,
 
Molly Black, Secretary

June Minutes
 
Date:  June 10, 2019, 7:30 PM

Topic:  Monthly Board Meeting

Next Phone Call or Meeting: August 12, 2019, 7:30 PM

Present:  Kristina Kezmarsky, Patti McGowan, Tina Hertzog, Lisa Lopatofsky, Molly Black,

Excused Absences:  Tammy Kitterman, Gordon Boe

Absent:  Juli Baumgarner and Sandra Salerno

Call to Order:   Kristina Kezmarsky, President, brought the meeting to order at 7:34 PM

There were no conflicts stated with any of the following agenda topics from the Board members present.
 
Motion for the approval of the May 13th, 2019 meeting minutes was made by Patti McGowan and seconded by Kristina Kezmarsky, motion passed. 
 
Treasurer’s Report – Gordon - Excused Absence, will submit Treasurer’s Report in August
 
Outreach Committee – Patti & Molly – Family Learning Conference Update – 29 Families are registered with eight new families coming.  Many Exhibitors and Panelist will attend to support the content piece.  PA Family Network will present “Charting the LifeCourse” a tool for planning a good life through integrated supports. 
 
Budget Discussion
Juli & Gordon:   Continued to next meeting.

Bank refund on fees and transfer of check signage:  Gordon:  ASAP
Bank offices are in contact with each other and Gordon will update upon return from vacation.  Update to be shared at next meeting.

Update Brochure:  Tammy:  To be dropped into the Google Suite:  Completed

Toolkit #3:  Juli:  April 8th:  Determine at which Future Board meeting to complete.
Finalize #3 and possibly begin Toolkit #1

May Shout Out:  Kristina:  5/30:  Completed

June Shout Out:  Patti:  6/30:  Completed

July Shout Out:  Molly:  7/31
 
Share NFADB Finance Committee Examples:  Patti:  When Available:  
Clarification – NFADB Finance Policy is not yet developed, but Patti will share when/if available.  NFADB is still working on policy and guidelines.

 
Old Business:

1. Reminder was given to send a gift card donation to Lisa Lopatofsky at 306 Elk Lake Drive, Waymart, PA 18472 – who will put together this basket for raffle at FLC2019. – Kristina will bring tickets for gift card basket and magnets for sale.  Patti & Tammy have submitted their gift cards already.  So far we have 2 Starbucks, Dick’s and Subway. 

 

1. Deposit was made for the Entertainment for Saturday evening FLC2019 – Gordon has provided a personal check until checking account matter is resolved.  Thanks to Gordon for this gesture.  Noted that Shelley & Gordon attempted to have signature switch made on Saturday, June 1st.  Gordon will report back regarding the status of the checking account.

 

1. Discussion was held around the need to review our current Mission Statement.   This was added as an action for an upcoming meeting.

Current mission:  The PPDB exists to provide support for individuals with deafblindness and their families through a family-driven network. We support our members as they deal with the daily issues of life, such as:

• Relationships with family and friends
• Healthcare
• Education
• Employment
• Insurance
• Service providers
• Life transitions  

 
Purpose, as listed in the Bylaws:    PPDB is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, and more specifically to provide a statewide voice for the promotion of the economic, educational, employment, social equality and just rights and privileges as individuals who are deafblind and their families.
 
Possible additional discussion –

1. Do we support deafblind individuals or families of individuals with deafblindness? 

NFADB endorses the following: 
Promote a strong national Affiliate Network (any association or group organized and led by families with individuals who are deaf-blind is eligible) 
Partner with the Affiliate Network to improve opportunities and services for families.
NEW BUSINESS –

1. Accepted the resignation of Shelley Lill, as General Board Member.  Resignation accepted.  All board members should be recruiting new board members.    A question came up as to the makeup of the Board.  Molly referred to the Bylaws and it does not state that there needs to be 51% family members.  It does state that the Board shall consist of at least 7 members.  The Board shall be the Officers of the Partnership and at least 3 non-Officer members.  New Directors shall be periodically elected by the majority of those members in attendance at a meeting. 

 

1. Molly & Patti agreed to bring information regarding the current goals to the Full Board in a report for further discussion on their relevancy.  Once the Mission is agreed to and voted on, we should be revisiting these goals to determine whether they are still appropriate, and if the current Committees support these goals. 

Shout Outs –
July – Molly
August – Gordon
September – Lisa
October – Tina
November – Sandra
December Juli
February – Tammy
March – Kristina
April – Patti
 
Meeting Adjourned – at 8:33 PM 
 
Respectfully submitted,
Molly Black, Secretary
 
 

May Board Minutes
 
Date:  May 13, 2019, 7:30 PM

Participants:   Tammy Kitterman, Juli Baumgarner, Patti McGowan, Sandra Salerno, Lisa Lopatofsky, Gordon Boe

Excused Absences:  Kristina Kezmarsky, President, Tina Hertzog, Shelley Lill

Topic:  Monthly Board Meeting

Next Phone Call or Meeting: June 10, 2019, 7:30 PM

Discussion Notes:

Call to Order:   Tammy Kitterman, Vice-President called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM

To the Board:  Tammy asked if anyone has a conflict with any of the following agenda topics.   No one did.
 
Patti made a Motion for the approval of the April minutes and Gordon seconded that motion.  Motion passed.
 
Treasurer’s Report – Gordon reported the following:
 
2.026.51
     10.00 – donation
2,036.51
 
Tammy asked if Gordon had a chance to talk to Shelley Lill about getting banking fees refunded back from PNC (a service charge).   Gordon will investigate this refund and report back.
 
Juli brought up discussion around creating budget and do we want to set aside an amount not to exceed a certain amount for specific matters.  Gordon will work with Juli and at next meeting they will have thoughts to discuss in this regard.
 
Outreach Committee – Patti & Molly - On April 16th Patti and Molly presented at the Deaf-Blind Task Force Meeting and shared PPDB information.   Amy Letari, Psychologist from Children’s Hospital presented on CI.  Dr. Kim Mathos of HealthBridges requested our participation.  PPDB Brochures were shared. 
 
Lisa Lopatofsky also shared our brochures at Geisinger, in Danville, at an H & V table/event.
 
Tammy will update the Brochure and share for outreach purposes when completed.  
 
Current Committees:  It was discussed to review the current Committees and review the goals listed on our website as our guiding light to determine what each committee (and work groups) will do.  Are our Committees supporting these goals? Will we have a mission/purpose statement for each?  Perhaps reach out to our general membership to seek how to meet their needs, but keep our eyes on these goals:

• Establish & maintain a network to identify & help connect families with similar needs.
  
• Develop & disseminate accurate, timely information & share resources.
  
• Collaborate with other organizations & groups to ensure that the needs & concerns of persons who are deafblind are addressed.
• Educate policymakers on issues involving the deafblind.
  Current Committees:

 
Fundraising -

• Solicit contributions and other activities
• To support membership and advocacy.

Membership - (Tammy Kitterman & Patti McGowan)

• Recruit new members and retain
• Current ones.

Outreach/Social - (Molly Black & Patti McGowan)

• Disseminate information to
• membership on issues related to
• deafblindness, training opportunities,
• and topics of interest to PPDB
• Plan and implement social events and
  
• Activities for PPDB and its members.
• If you are interested in joining in these

 
Action Plan/To Do:
Task
Lead
Timeline
Questions/Notes
Completed?

Complete Updated Conflict of Interest Forms
Molly
May 13th Meeting
All Board Members submit upon receipt.  Leave no lines blank
One form outstanding.

Set up a Google Suite Account
Tammy
May 13th meeting
If 501(c) (3) status is verified.
Completed. Tammy emailed all with password.

PPDB Roster
Molly
 
All Board Members
May 13th
Forward your own Roster Info to Molly according to when you joined the Board as general member and Officer.
Still working on updating this.  When completed will be dropped into Google Suite.

Toolkit #3
Juli
Future Meeting.
See discussion notes above with regard to budgets.
Finalize #3 and possibly begin Toolkit #1
We will wait until whole board is together to complete this. 

Current Committee Makeup
Molly/Patti
Future Meeting.
See Discussion Notes.
 
Full Board Discussion at future meeting.

May Shout Out
Kristina
By 5/30
 
 New Business: 
  
Formal Discussion and Vote regarding purchasing individual gifts and specifically for Jackie Brennan, former Board Member.

No formal vote had previously taken place regarding a gift for Jackie.  Tammy indicated a worry about setting a precedent in giving a past Board members a gift.  Juli felt this is why we need a policy moving forward.  Patti suggested a sunshine fund account and not have gifts come from the treasury.  Gordon suggests we have a recognition fund with monies that do come from our treasury. 
 
Vote was taken as to whether a gift for Jackie should come from general budget. Vote did not pass to use treasury dollars for this gift.    Gordon will accept donations toward a gift to Jackie, and any amount over the cost of the gift will be donated to PPDB.  If you wish to donate toward a gift for Jackie, please forward to Gordon Boe at 1700 Gwynedd View Road, North Wales, PA 19454. 
 
FLC Gift Card Basket – It was agreed that we would raffle off a Gift Card Basket at FLC.  Lisa volunteered to compile the basket.  Please mail your contribution(s) to Lisa Lopatofsky at 306 Elk Lake Drive, Waymart, PA 18472.
 
Discussion was held regarding co-sponsorship of Entertainment for FLC2019 and possible donation secured by Gordon to financially contribute. Gordon is soliciting $250 on behalf of this effort, and any amount over $150 will be added to the treasury.In the event that Gordon is unable to secure a donation for this co-sponsorship, Patti made a motion to use $150 of our current budget to co-sponsor the puppeteer for FLC, Gordon seconded it.Motion passed.

Discussion was tabled on the following, as the meeting ran too long. This will be added to next month’s Agenda:   Whole Board discussion regarding whether we need to update our Mission Statement:   do we support deafblind individuals or Families of Individuals with deafblindness? 
When NFADB promotes the State Affiliates this is clearly defined:
Promote a strong national Affiliate Network (any association or group organized and led by families with individuals who are deaf-blind is eligible)                             
Partner with the Affiliate Network to improve opportunities and services for families
 
Shout-Outs:
May:  Kristina 
June:  Patti
July:  Molly
August:  Gordon
September:  Lisa
October:  Tina
November:  Shelley
December: Sandra
January:  Juli
February:  Tammy 
March:  Kristina 
 
Meeting Adjourned at 9:00 PM
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
Molly Black, Secretary
 

April 2019 Minutes of Meeting

Date: April 8, 2019 

Participants:   Kristina Kezmarsky, Juli Baumgarner, Molly Black, Lisa Lopotofsky, Sandra Salerno, Patti McGowan, Shelley Lill, Gordon Boe
Excused Absences:  Tammy Kitterman

Topic:  Monthly Board Meeting

Next Phone Call or Meeting: May 13, 2019, 7:30 PM

Discussion Notes:

Call to Order:   Kristina Kezmarsky, President called the meeting to order at 7:33 PM.

To the Board:  Does anyone have a conflict with any of the following agenda topics?   No conflicts reported
 
Motion for the approval of the March 11, 2019 meeting minutes – Gordon moved to approve the Minutes, and Juli seconded the Motion, Motion carried.
 
Treasurer’s report:  Gordon
Starting balance:  $2,022.06
Receipts:             $15.00 (I assume this was for a membership)
Expenses:           $10.55 (To Shelley Lill for postage--mailing treasurer's package to Gordon)
Ending balance:   $2,026.51

Current News:
 
Conflict Policy Statement– discussed and approved a specific policy.  – Gordon opened the discussion by referring to NFADB’s template and comparing that form to our original version.   Gordon suggested that with the following insertion we would be in compliance:
I have received a copy of PPDB’s conflicts of interest policy.  I have read and understand the policy.  I agree to comply with the policy.   I understand the Organization is charitable and in order to maintain its federal tax exemption it must engage primarily in activities, which accomplish one or more of its tax-exempt purposes.
Gordon moved that we accept the modified Conflict of Interest Form, which will become policy and submit to Secretary each year, which was seconded by Kristina Kezmarsky, unanimously carried.    Timeline for submitting Conflict of Interest Form is March of each year, or 30 days after annual meeting.    Gordon will forward the new Conflict of Interest form for completion by each member.
 
Officer Terms, regarding staggering of terms - Gordon led discussion and provided draft of new policy, which includes the following:
The Articles do not specify whether all officers and Directors will be elected at the same time, or whether they will serve staggered terms.  In order to establish uniform election procedures for Board members and officers, and to prevent the possibility of a 100% turnover in officers and Directors in any one year, the Board of Directors has developed the following election policy:

1. Beginning in 2020, the President and Secretary will be elected for a two-year term.Thereafter, these two officers will be elected in even-numbered years.
   
2. Beginning in 2021, the Vice President and Treasurer will be elected for a two-year term.Thereafter, these two officers will be elected in odd-numbered years.

1. For the purposes of term limits, the Board will consider 2019 a transition year for the President and Secretary.  Their first full term will begin in 2020. 
2. In 2020, the majority of non-officer Directors shall be randomly selected for re-election to a two-year term, with the remaining Directors up for re-election in 2021.  For the purposes of term limits, the Board will consider 2019 a transition year for Board members.

 
Kristina made the motion to adopt the above election policy and Juli seconded the Motion, Motion carried unanimously. 
 
In order to preserve the history of PPDB, as well as to secure tracking of elections, Molly requested that each Board member complete and return information on their own history with the Board.  Please indicate when you were elected to the Board and when you accepted any particular Office.  Complete before next meeting and return to Molly for reporting.
 
Discussion on formation of new or continuation of current Committees was tabled until next month’s meeting.  Molly & Patti will provide information regarding current committees to the Board prior to May’s meeting
 
Google Suite Drive and/or current Google Drive Account - Tammy has not received an update yet and will report back next month. 
 
Outreach Report – Dan Miller Disability Expo – Patti & Molly manned table and it was well received and good information shared.  Rich McGann was in attendance and stopped by the table.    On April 16th Patti and Molly will speak at the Deaf-Blind Task Force Meeting and will share PPDB information.   Amy Letari, Psychologist from Children’s Hospital will be presenting on CI.
 
Family Learning Conference – Sandra asked about a presence at FLC. PPDB will exhibit and Kristina will man the table at this year’s conference.  Discussion was held on how to have a larger presence at FLC and perhaps sponsor some social aspect at FLC.  Possible future discussion to be held around outreach and collaboration with PaTTAN and support recruitment. 
 
Gift for Jackie – Patti provided purchasing information and Molly will work with Gordon, Treasurer, to arrange the purchase of the gift as discussed for Jackie Brennan for her years of service on the Board.  A suggestion was made to consider a Sunshine Fund in the future for all areas of circumstances that may arise.    
 
Letter of Support for HKNC increased funding – All members agreed that Kristina, as President should forward letters on behalf of PPDB Board, and individual letter are encouraged to be sent as well before April 12. 
 
Action Plan/To Do:  Complete Updated Conflict of Interest Forms
Lead: Gordon
Timeline:  May 13th Meeting
All Board Members submit upon receipt.  Leave no lines blank
 

Action Plan/To Do:  Set up a Google Suite Account
Lead:  Tammy
Timeline:  May 13th meeting
If 501(c) (3) status is verified.
 
Action Plan/To Do:  PPDB Roster
Lead:  Molly
Timeline:  May 13th
Forward your own Roster Info to Molly according to when you joined the Board as general member and Officer.
 
Action Plan/To Do:  Toolkit #3
Lead:  Juli
Timeline:  April 8th
Head up Review for New Members.
Completed.

Action Plan/To Do:  Current Committee Makeup
Lead:  Molly/Patti
Timeline:  May 13th
Proposed Committees  

Action Plan/To Do:  Share NFADB Finance Committee Examples
Lead:  Patti
Timeline:  When Available
Clarification – NFADB Finance Policy is not yet developed, but Patti will share when/if available.
  
Shout-Outs:
April:  Tammy 
May:  Kristina 
June:  Patti
July:  Molly
August:  Gordon
September:  Lisa
October:  Tina
November:  Shelley
December: Sandra
January:  Juli
February:  Tammy 
March:  Kristina 
 
Adjourned at 8:48 PM
 
Respectfully submitted,
 
Molly Black, Secretary