Sept 28, 2024 – RRC Meeting Minutes

  • Meeting date: September 28, 2024
  • Place: Hybrid, 525 Central Ave. #M4 & Zoom.
  • Meeting called to order at 10:10 AM – Ed Worrell, President

Roll Call:

Ed Worrell, Juli Brandvold, Kristi Eagle Horse, Lou Fern Bracha, Ron Bracha, Morris Miller, Sharon Miller, Patti Howse, Leah Brown, Becky Worrell, Jessica Trumbower, Phoenix Robinson, Satin La Rance, Wava Goetz, Melanie Bush.

Note: Doug Robinson and Jocelyn DeHaas joined later via Zoom.

Old Business:

ITEM 1: Ed discussed our first unofficial meeting, which was a brainstorming session about how we want our new chapter to be run:

  • “Everyone has a voice” We all need to be heard
  • “The group makes decisions”
  • “Do things outside together” Be visible, debunk the stereotype of blindness

New Business:

ITEM 2: Position of Treasurer:

  • Ed stated that Becky would not be Treasurer, but instead hold the appointed position of Bookkeeper.
  • Ed asked if anyone was willing to run for the position of Treasurer, and asked if there were any nominations. With no nominations, the election of Treasurer was tabled until the next meeting.

ITEM 3: Bank account:

  • Discussion regarding which bank we should use for the chapter. Montana Credit Union was suggested. Ed and Juli agreed to research the costs, if any.
  • The subject of which bank to use was tabled until the next meeting, when Ed and Juli would give their report.

ITEM 4: Fundraising/Events:

  • All fundraising events need to be cleared with the Board. Either the chapter President or Vice President will approach the board for approval.
  • Christmas Stroll: At this point, we do not know the new building owner’s contact information.
  • Intentions Regarding the Christmas Stroll: Ed indicated that he would be available to open his office if necessary. He will be informed of the new owner’s actions within the next few weeks.
  • White Cane Day: Phoenix proposed an unofficial walk that would combine elements of other disabilities, with the MAB serving as the primary group. She and Satin would organize the event. A final decision has not yet been made.
  • Phoenix also suggested that we consider commemorating the ADA anniversary in July.

ITEM 5: Communication between Chapter and Board: Conversation with Doug and Jocelyn.

Ron emphasized the importance of maintaining communication between Chapters and the Board. Ed agreed that the Board should be transparent and engage in open discussions with the Chapters. Doug asserted that there is no secrecy within the organization. Jocelyn mentioned the monthly Presidents’ meetings and The Bozeman Chapter’s social Connection hour.

ITEM 6: General Comments/Discussion:

  • Jocelyn offered to provide documentation to the Board if required.

We must proceed with the necessary actions:

  • The MAB accountant should have access to our bank account (read-only).
  • The Chapter is responsible for submitting quarterly reports and coordinating/getting permission for fundraising events with the Board.
  • Note: Doug emphasized that he can be a valuable resource at any time. He provided his contact information. He also stressed the need for the MAB to move forward and emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency between the Board and the Chapters.

ITEM 7: Meeting Time/Place:

  • After deliberation, it was agreed that Chapter meetings will be held on the second Saturday of each month at 1:00 PM in Ed’s office. Patti made a motion to approve this arrangement, which was seconded by Kristi.
  • The motion was subsequently passed.

The next meeting will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 1:00 PM 525 Central Ave. #M4. in the OverHere Consulting office. Please enter through the back door of the building. The office is the first door to the left.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:25 AM, by President Ed Worrell.