Date of Meeting: January 12, 2002

The meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. by President Amy Ruell. Following introductions, the minutes were read and approved as written.

Jim Roberts presented the treasurer's report. We began the year with $2522. He stated that in 2001 we had 51 paid members. We took in $1076 dollars; after paying out all expenses we had $2987.00 in our account. We ended the year with an increase in our income of $465.00.

Amy reminded people that next month she will be conducting individual computer instruction for members. Interested persons should contact her directly. Also, she informed us that Kim Charlson will be demonstrating WebBraille.

Amy reminded us that if a meeting needs to be cancelled because of inclement weather, she will leave a message in the VIBUG Mailbox by 8:00 a.m. People can check the status of a meeting by calling (617) 266-6160 extension 48.

Amy informed us that Katherine and Bob had been providing much assistance so that we could finally purchase a new computer cart which she hopes to have available for use by March. Following some discussion, a motion was made that she could spend up to $600.00 on the cart. It was seconded, and unanimously approved.

Amy also announced that there is a new tuner available for download on ACB Radio's website. Also, Bookshare.org is looking for beta testers. She stated that they hope to launch their program in February or March. For more information, go directly to their website at bookshare.org.

Amy announced that John Mattioli had placed information about Windows XP on our website. People were encouraged to check out the links at their convenience.

Amy requested that people who wished to socialize after the meeting leave the building first and continue to socialize outside of NBP. She told people that she was ultimately responsible for ensuring that the room was left in good order, and locking the facility. As well, she told people that she often had commitments after the meetings and needed to lock the building by 4:30. She reminded us that she could not leave until all present had exited.

Don Breda discussed the benefits of being members in VIBUG. He also reminded people that if they had changes in their e-mail address, home addresses, or phone numbers that they should contact him by e-mail at: Don.breda@mediaone.net; he can be contacted by phone at: (781) 767-0528.

People were also reminded that if they were interested in borrowing tutorials they should contact Pauline and Ginny at (617) 776-9706.

Following the business portion of the meeting, John Mattioli demonstrated Windows XP and the meeting was adjourned at 4:00 PM.

Respectfully Submitted
Jeanette Kutash
VIBUG Clerk