[IL-Talk] at large minutes November 2023

[David Meyer]

National Federation of the Blind of Illinois
At Large Chapter

Minutes of meeting held Sunday November 5th, 2023

The meeting began at 7:02 PM. Present: President Dave Meyer, Vice 
President Linda Hendle, Secretary/Treasurer Bill Reif, Cathy Randle, 
Debby Pittman, Dustin Cather, Eileen Truschke, Ken Schad, John 
Holtgrave, Michelle Alt, Leslie Hamric, Yvonne Agyarko, Marilyn Green 
and Olivia Cichawlas.

Debbie moved, and Cathy seconded, that the August and September 2023 
minutes be approved. The motion passed.

Dave played November Presidential Release 532. President Riccobono 
noted that the first recorded release happened on November 12, 1973. He 
noted that Netflicks has released a movie based on the book All the 
Light We cannot See, with a blind person playing the main character. He 
advised Those with Social Security questions or issues to contact Jesse 
Shirek at 4 1 0-6 5 9-9 3 1 4, Extension 2348. Watch the Monitor for 
updates on possible changes to the Social Security program. Mark 
reminded us to keep up efforts on our legislative initiatives. Mark 
also noted the October passing of long-time Chicago Chapter Member Gina Falvo.

The November chapter program was a description of the Washington 
Seminar and encouragement for those considering attending. The event 
involves 300 to 500 people  from throughout the U.S. traveling to 
Washington D.C. in late January/early February to speak with 
legislators on issues important to the blind. Illinois normally sends 7 
to 9 participants. People need to apply, and to participate in training 
during which they will be briefed on the issues we will present. Our 
web site is being redesigned, so those wanting to apply should email 
cather.dustin at gmail.com or Marilyn Green at president at nfbofillinois.org 
for an application to participate. This year's seminar will begin 
January 29th. Applications are due by December 2nd. Unlike in previous 
years, participants are responsible for making their respective room 
reservations. Hotel rooms are about $200 per night, with flights from 
Chicago to Washington D.C. about $250. Cathy, Debby and Michelle also 
shared their experiences and feelings following their participation in 
previous seminars. Finally, Dave shared his story about Rose Sloan, 
whose attendance led to her work with the Department of Labor.

State Report:

Marilyn reported on our October convention, the theme of which was 
Rooted in Philosophy. Content and recordings will be available on our 
new web site soon.

Olivia will be leaving November 13th to participate in training at the 
Colorado Center for the Blind.

Debbie recently learned of a fund raising opportunity with Honey Baked 
Hams, which sells numerous items including ham. 20 percent is given 
back to the organization. Debbie will send a link so we can find out 
what we need to do to set this up. Debbie moved, and Marilyn seconded, 
that this fund raiser be substituted for the March Double good fund 
raiser. Dave invited people to participate in the Beggars Pizza fund 
raiser to take place Wednesday, November 15th. Beggars is at 310 S 
Clinton in Chicago.

The next meeting will take place Sunday December 3rd 7:00.

The meeting adjourned at 8:37 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Bill Reif, Secretary