MINUTES OF BOARD MEETING OF THE

MARYLAND AREA GUIDE DOG USERS, INC.

MARCH 2007

MAGDUI's board met on Saturday, March 24, and quorum was present; at which Gary discussed that ACB of Maryland and MAGDUI, a long with other non-profits, such as, NCSD did a fine job in testifying on the Service Animal Reform Act.  As of these recollections, MAGDUI has learned that the

bill has received a favorable report with amendments.  This is assuredly due to Cecelia having been present at a workgroup meeting in Annapolis on the bill at which she refuted the claims of the retail association.  We have received the first responder training but not the increased fines.  We are

confident that this bill will pass, at least, in the House.  Pat, Cecelia and Gary will continue to work with Delegate Cullen on anti-attack issue legislative policy.  Gary also mentioned that MAGDUI had submitted testimony on a pet related bill being advocated by the Animal Law Section of the MSBA.

Gary stated that he is forging a relationship with that organization and has plans to run for a Counsel position on it.  Gary also stated that MAGDUI should comment on the bills regarding quite cars and stem cells that are in the M.D. General Assembly this session.

Gary and Cecelia discussed that they will present at the Ronald McDonald House on the 29th of March.  Gary and Cecelia discussed that they are collaborating on the production of and dissemination of a new brochure for MAGDUI.

Gary and Cecelia discussed the next large-scale event of MAGDUI will be a walk to create and foster fellowship among puppy raisers and guide dog users on April 28, in Annapolis.  There will be pre-selected routes, watering stations and all who attend will convene after the walk at a local eating

cafe at which MAGDUI will be leading their famous and regular recitation of the pledge.  This will be a fine photo op for MAGDUI and we have conveyed letters to newspapers about it.  Gary discussed that MAGDUI will endeavor to be more present at community festivals at which the new brochure will be utilized, including, for example, an up-coming horse expo in May.

Gary and Charlie discussed the possibilities of working on a proposal together for a training/educational campaign that can be presented to wealthier ACB chapters, such as Ohio and Colorado.  Charlie agreed to be of assistance to Gary on that project in a few weeks.  Charlie and Gary discussed a new project for next fall called the Guide Dog Olympics.  This is intended to bring greater exposure to guide dogs and to the organization.  It was agreed that this will be a project goal of MAGDUI.

Gary also discussed that MAGDUI is endeavoring to establish a program to educate blinded vets about guide dogs and other blindness resources.  Don stated that he would provide contact information for certain VA O&M and rehab staff in this regard.

Gary is working, a long with the assistance of Cecelia, with regional chapters to host a regional conference.  Cecelia and Gary will be outreaching to local eating establishments as a matter of fund-raising.  Gary stated that Nancy had an emergency but would be transmitting the financial report.  The meeting abjured at about 11:15 A.M.