date of meeting: December 12, 2020
When: 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Where: Virtually
The meeting was called TO order AT 1:00 P.m. by President Frank Ventura. Following introductions, the following announcements were made.
Frank reminded everyone about how they should mute and unmute throughout meetings.
Jerry indicated we may have had one or two new members, but as of this meeting we have 40 or so members.
Bob indicated our treasury is in good shape. If people want to join there is a PayPal button which gives you the option of paying via PayPal or with a major credit card. If you have any problems paying, please get in touch with Bob. If you are a new member and you pay in November you will be considered paying for 2021 dues.
Tim reported that all is well with recording and in our virtual zoom room and that he appreciates not having to bring equipment to meetings.
Jeanette reported the minutes were done and would go out right after the meeting.
The Bay State Council of the Blind is trying to gather information about peoples' experiences with voting during the election. The survey is still up, so if you have not completed it, please take the time to do so as Bay State really needs as much information as they can gather regarding consumers' voting experiences.
Jerry Berrier demonstrated the custom list view feature in JAWS.
Kim Charlson and Nancy Gahagan from the Perkins Braille and Talking Book Library talked about some of the technology used in producing library books, and about the Amazon Store which now sells NLS cartridges we can use for downloading and storing bard books. They also talked about their Tele-fun zoom activities, teaching Tuesdays, and the changes in the Library Without Walls Programming. They also answered questions about Bard and locally available recorded books on "shelf" but not yet available on Bard, ending with a discussion of E-readers being tested for future distribution to NLS patrons.
Frank Ventura demonstrated the Alexa app for Windows.
Kelsey Nicolay gave us an iPad Mini review.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Jeanette Kutash, Vibug Clerk