PPDB BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Minutes of June 8, 2020 Meeting

Call to Order:  Tammy Kitterman, President, called meeting to order at 8:02 PM.

Present:  Tammy Kitterman, Patti McGowan, Lisa Lopatofsky, Juli Baumgardner, Molly Black, Sandra Salerno, Johnine Bickauskas
Absent:  Gordon Boe (approved absence)

To the board: There were no conflicts to the agenda voiced.
 
Approval of Minutes:  Motion was made by Lisa and seconded by Johnine to approve the minutes of the May 11th meeting.
 
Treasurer’s Report:   Gordon Boe emailed treasurer’s report prior to meeting. PPDB received a generous donation of $400 in the month of May to use toward new family memberships. The general fund received $45 dollars in donations.
Molly motioned to approve treasurer’s report and Lisa seconded.

Outreach/Social Committee - Patti McGowan and Molly Black reported no new news due to covid19 pandemic.

Membership Committee - Tammy Kitterman and Patti McGowan – Application of $400 donation made by Tina Hertzog to be used for new family memberships. Email letter to be sent to members – start drive as soon as we are contacted by families, Patti asked for us to add an August 31st deadline, idea to allow each board member to ask a family or friend if we don’t fill all memberships. Tammy will send to listserv’s and Facebook.

Nominations Committee – Molly, Chair, onboarding of Johnine Bickauskas complete.
 
New Business:  Tammy

Cogswell-Macy Act – Jackie Brennan, Superintendent of Overbrook School for the Blind and a past PPDB Board member, Guest.  In reference to request of PPDB's support and participation in supporting the Cogswell Macy Act, through increased sponsorship by congress to improve services for children with sensory impairments. Jackie sent information to Sandra to disseminate to the Listserv as well as on the Facebook page. Members were encouraged to contact our congressmen in support of the Cogswell Macy Act. June 21-28 is deaf blind awareness week.

Old Business:   Tammy

​Purchase of exhibitor handout items.  Discussed budget adjustment that was suggested through email for the exhibitor items. Molly motioned to adjust the marketing budget to $300 on even years and $100 on odd years for marketing budget. Patti seconded the motion and it passed. Pens and 6X6 micro cloths will be ordered for total cost of $315.

Shout Outs – Juli is due to post in July. (The board will discuss possibly moving Tammy up from August due to Juli’s new role).
August – Tammy
September – Johnine
October – Patti
November – Molly
December - Gordon
January – Lisa
February – Sandra
March – Sandra

PPT Overview –   Belief and the Standing and Ad Hoc Committees slides were updated. Most recent version shared with entire Board.  Will be available for outreach

Committees Review – Discuss Current Committees and possible Committees to be formed:

Bylaws Committee: Review the appropriateness of the Bylaws on an as needed basis – Tammy and Lisa

Fundraising: Solicit contributions and other activities to support membership and advocacy Johnine, Gordon, and Sandra

Membership Committee: Recruit new members and retain current ones Tammy, Patti, and Lisa

Outreach/Social Committee: Create and support awareness, events, and engagement toward the mission of the Pennsylvania Partnership for the Deafblind. Molly/Patti – West, Lisa/Johnine – Central, Sandra - East

Add Finance: The Finance Committee will provide oversight responsibilities to ensure PPDB is fiscally responsible with respect to budgeting, safeguarding assets, financial reporting, and compliance with federal and Pennsylvania tax reporting. Tammy, Gordon, Lisa
Committees may want to schedule a meeting in July during our “off” month and report back in August with their mission and goals.


Strategic Planning –. Molly reported that Jeannine Brinkley, the PEAL Executive Director indicated that she would be willing to facilitate our strategic planning meeting(s); however, it would have to be on a virtual basis during COIVD. Juli has also spoken with Edgenie Bellah from the NFADB regarding setting up a consultation. There is a possibility this meeting could include other states (not just PA) and we could potentially pool resources if necessary.  Edgenie said she may also be able to facilitate strategic planning if needed. 
Good of the Order – No additional items.
Adjournment – 9:33 PM
​

Minutes of May 11, 2020 Meeting

Call to Order:  Tammy Kitterman, President, brought the meeting to order at 8:00 PM

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

Absent:  Tina Hertzog

To the Board:  There were no conflicts to the Agenda voiced. 

Approval of Minutes:  Motion was made by Lisa and seconded by    Gordon to approve the minutes of the April 13, 2020 Minutes

Treasurer’s Report:   Gordon Boe, Treasurer reported that PPDB started April with $3,147.57 in checking, added $0, spent $0, and ended April with $3,147.57.  One donation was made in the month of May and that will be reported next month.

Outreach/Social Committee - Patti McGowan and Molly Black – There were no events or updates to report.

Membership Committee - Tammy Kitterman and Patti McGowan reported that Tina Hertzog resigned from the Board.  Her letter of resignation is attached.  She indicated that she will donate $400 and has requested that it be a conditional donation, to be used for 25 new family memberships.  Tammy will reach out to Tina and thank her for her time on the Board and her donation.  Gordon, as Treasurer, indicated that we can add a line item in the budget for these memberships.  Patti and Tammy will bring back ideas to the June meeting on how to apply this donation to new families.  The whole Board agreed that this donation will be used in this way to honor Tina’s request. 

Nominations Committee – Molly Black, Chair, directed the votes as follows:

1. The appointment of Juli Baumgarner to a Special Advisory role was unanimously approved.  Juli suggested that the length of this term be one year and reviewed at each annual vote of the Board.
2. There being no new additional nominations to the Board for President, Tammy Kitterman has accepted this nomination.  Tammy has just completed the balance of Kristina Kezmarsky’s 2 yr. term, due to Kristina’s resignation as President.  Tammy will begin her first, two-year term as President.
3. There being no additional Nominations for Vice President, Lisa Lopatofsky has accepted this nomination.  Lisa will complete the balance of Tammy’s VP Term that occurred when she stepped into the office of President. 
4. There being no additional Nominations for Secretary, Sandra has accepted this nomination.  Sandra will begin her first two-year term as Secretary.
5. Nominations to General Board Members.  Molly and Patti have each accepted nominations as general board members.  Patti will begin her last, two-year term as a general board member.  Having just completed her term as Secretary, Molly begins a first two-year term as a general board member.   

 
Old Business:   Tammy

1. Exhibitor handouts items.  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 provided a breakdown of costs for replenishing our pens, sticky pads and a new item, microfiber cloths.  All seemed to like the idea of the cloths, but not the price quoted.  Tammy will look into Vista Printing for purchasing microfiber cloths and report back next meeting.
2. Lisa reported on the Zoom meeting for concerned parents and sharing of Triumphs and Challenges which occurred on Thursday, April 30.  She reported back that no families joined the meeting, but felt that families are tired of zoom meetings, but it was good to give them this opportunity.  If we feel it is needed, we can try again either in a couple of weeks or over the summer. It was likely just bad timing.
3. Shout Outs – Sandra is due to post in June.

July – Juli
August – Tammy
September – Johnine
October – Patti
November – Molly
December - Gordon
January – Lisa
February - Sandra
 
New Business:

1. PPT Overview –   Juli presented the overview of PPDB and some changes were made to our Belief and the Standing and Ad Hoc Committees were updated. 
2. Committees – Each member should review the updated list of Committees and should email Molly & Sandra as outgoing and incoming Secretaries to report on next month’s Agenda these assignments.  Committees will then meet separately from the Board to update their mission and goals and report back to the whole Board.
3. Strategic Planning – Juli has offered to draft a letter for Tammy and Lisa to forward directly to Edgenie Bellah, Affiliate Liaison of NFADB, to inquire whether they might be able to provide or suggest a facilitator for the process of strategic planning.  Molly will inquire at PaTTAN and PEAL, as well.  Any Board member may reach out to any non-profit organization as well for this purpose of locating a facilitator.

 
Good of the Order – Gordon mentioned that he will be unable to attend next month’s June 8th meeting, as it is his 52nd Wedding Anniversary.  

​Adjournment - Meeting Adjourned at 9:20 PM
 
 
 
 
 

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