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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>Here is the information promised by the NYS Commission for the Blind at their town hall meeting.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div><div style='border:none;border-top:solid #E1E1E1 1.0pt;padding:3.0pt 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal><b>From:</b> Hovey, Julie (OCFS) <Julie.Hovey@ocfs.ny.gov> <br><b>Sent:</b> Friday, October 22, 2021 12:00 PM<br><b>To:</b> president@nfbny.org; Beyer, Nathaniel (OCFS) <Nathaniel.Beyer2@ocfs.ny.gov><br><b>Cc:</b> Hovey, Julie (OCFS) <Julie.Hovey@ocfs.ny.gov><br><b>Subject:</b> NYSCB<o:p></o:p></p></div></div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>Thank you Mike for having us today and giving us an opportunity to listen and learn about how we can improve our services. It is very important to all of us that we provide quality services statewide.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>All of our contact information is attached, please feel free to share.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>Our website is <a href="http://visionloss.ny.gov">http://visionloss.ny.gov</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>The credential program information:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><a href="mailto:Omavrta.instructor@ocfs.ny.gov">Omavrta.instructor@ocfs.ny.gov</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>518-473-1599<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>I have also attached more information about the credential program.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>My telephone number is 518-474-7299.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>Thank you again and I look forward to working with you.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>Julie<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><div><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'>Julie Hovey, CRC<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>Acting Associate Commissioner<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>Pronouns: She/Her/Hers<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;color:#7030A0'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt;color:#7030A0'>New York State Office of Children and Family Services<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>NYS Commission for the Blind<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'>52 Washington Street<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'>Rensselaer, NY 12144<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'>Phone: 518.474.7299<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'>Email:</span></b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'> <a href="mailto:Julie.Hovey@ocfs.ny.gov">Julie.Hovey@ocfs.ny.gov</a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'>NYSCB website:</span></b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'> <a href="http://visionloss.ny.gov/">http://visionloss.ny.gov</a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><img border=0 width=199 height=61 style='width:2.075in;height:.6333in' id="Picture_x0020_2" src="cid:image002.png@01D7C733.30A04BB0"><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><div><div style='border:none;border-top:solid #E1E1E1 1.0pt;padding:3.0pt 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal><b>From:</b> <a href="mailto:president@nfbny.org">president@nfbny.org</a> <<a href="mailto:president@nfbny.org">president@nfbny.org</a>> <br><b>Sent:</b> Sunday, October 17, 2021 4:46 PM<br><b>To:</b> Hovey, Julie (OCFS) <<a href="mailto:Julie.Hovey@ocfs.ny.gov">Julie.Hovey@ocfs.ny.gov</a>>; newsline director <<a href="mailto:newsline@nfbny.org">newsline@nfbny.org</a>>; <a href="mailto:vparadiso92@gmail.com">vparadiso92@gmail.com</a>; <a href="mailto:caitryl@gmail.com">caitryl@gmail.com</a>; 'Pamela Allen' <<a href="mailto:pallen@louisianacenter.org">pallen@louisianacenter.org</a>>; 'Regina Mitchell' <<a href="mailto:chefrdm@gmail.com">chefrdm@gmail.com</a>>; 'David Whalen' <<a href="mailto:dwhalen@niagara.edu">dwhalen@niagara.edu</a>>; 'Pare, John' <<a href="mailto:JPare@nfb.org">JPare@nfb.org</a>>; <a href="mailto:raywayne1959@gmail.com">raywayne1959@gmail.com</a>; Arthur Jacobs <<a href="mailto:ajacobs633@aol.com">ajacobs633@aol.com</a>>; Justin Young <<a href="mailto:jty727@gmail.com">jty727@gmail.com</a>>; <a href="mailto:shawn.Lemieux@nysed.gov">shawn.Lemieux@nysed.gov</a>; <a href="mailto:cmartinez@bridgesrc.org">cmartinez@bridgesrc.org</a>; <a href="mailto:callaway.shawn@gmail.com">callaway.shawn@gmail.com</a>; <a href="mailto:KARENABLACHOWICZ@GMAIL.COM">KARENABLACHOWICZ@GMAIL.COM</a>; Bunting Rasheta <<a href="mailto:nfbvanguardny@gmail.com">nfbvanguardny@gmail.com</a>>; 'chris minkler' <<a href="mailto:chrisminkler@gmail.com">chrisminkler@gmail.com</a>>; <a href="mailto:heather.l.bird@gmail.com">heather.l.bird@gmail.com</a>; 'Joyce Carrico' <<a href="mailto:jcarrico7@twc.com">jcarrico7@twc.com</a>>; 'Mary Lou Mendez' <<a href="mailto:successwithoutseeing@gmail.com">successwithoutseeing@gmail.com</a>>; 'Romeo Edmead' <<a href="mailto:romeoedmead@gmail.com">romeoedmead@gmail.com</a>>; 'Sabrina Fraser' <<a href="mailto:sabrina.teamvision@gmail.com">sabrina.teamvision@gmail.com</a>>; margo Downey <<a href="mailto:margo.downey@roadrunner.com">margo.downey@roadrunner.com</a>>; <a href="mailto:maurakutnyak@gmail.com">maurakutnyak@gmail.com</a>; Nina Marranca <<a href="mailto:nina.l.marranca@gmail.com">nina.l.marranca@gmail.com</a>>; <a href="mailto:chancey.fleet@gmail.com">chancey.fleet@gmail.com</a>; <a href="mailto:second.vp@nfbny.org">second.vp@nfbny.org</a>; agard1 tiffany. <<a href="mailto:tiffany.agard1@gmail.com">tiffany.agard1@gmail.com</a>>; 'candice Attrill' <<a href="mailto:candice.attrill@gmail.com">candice.attrill@gmail.com</a>>; <a href="mailto:kjedynak@exartim.com">kjedynak@exartim.com</a>; <a href="mailto:mindyjoy313@gmail.com">mindyjoy313@gmail.com</a>; <a href="mailto:rashetabunting@gmail.com">rashetabunting@gmail.com</a>; Yvonne Blachmore <<a href="mailto:bds2016@aol.com">bds2016@aol.com</a>><br><b>Subject:</b> RE: Speaker Information<o:p></o:p></p></div></div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;border-collapse:collapse'><tr><td style='border:solid #CBCBCB 3.0pt;background:#E35205;padding:0in 3.75pt 0in 3.75pt'><p align=center style='text-align:center;line-height:105%'><i><span style='font-size:10.0pt;line-height:105%;color:yellow'>ATTENTION: This email came from an external source. Do not open attachments or click on links from unknown senders or unexpected emails.</span></i><o:p></o:p></p></td></tr></table><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div><h1><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-weight:normal'>A few corrections had to be made to the agenda. The final agenda is below. The agenda is also available on the local information channel on Newsline.<o:p></o:p></span></h1><h1><o:p> </o:p></h1><h1>National Federation of the Blind of New York State<o:p></o:p></h1><h1>65th Annual Convention<o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoSubtitleCxSpFirst>October 18 - 24, 2021 | Anywhere and Everywhere<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoSubtitleCxSpLast>This year’s Theme: “Rejuvenate”<o:p></o:p></p><h2>The NFB Pledge<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>I pledge to participate actively in the effort of the National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution.<o:p></o:p></p><h2>NFB One Minute Message<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams.<o:p></o:p></p><h2>The NFB Brand Promise<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Together with love, hope, and determination, we transform dreams into reality.<o:p></o:p></p><h2>The NFB Tag Line<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Live the Life You Want <o:p></o:p></p><h2>Thank You to our 2021 Sponsor<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:27.0pt;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l5 level4 lfo2;layout-grid-mode:char'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]> Rockland Independent Living Center, Inc. dba BRIDGES <o:p></o:p></p><h2><span class=field><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Our National Representative</span></span><span class=field><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></h2><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>The National Federation of the Blind of New York State is proud to welcome Pam Allen</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>Pam Dubel was born in 1970 and grew up in Lancaster, New York. She became blind when she was approximately two years old as a result of retinal blastoma, a type of cancer. Although her parents were shocked by her loss of sight, they fortunately realized that she was still the same child except that she could no longer see. Through love and high expectations, they instilled in Pam a sense of pride and confidence in her ability to succeed. They constantly taught her that her blindness was not a limitation to achieving her goals and dreams. Growing up as the youngest of six children also helped her learn to be independent. Since she was the youngest, nobody, especially the brother a year older than she, let her get away with anything. Pam attended a private Catholic school, where she was the only blind student. Her itinerant teacher provided a sound foundation in Braille, which helped her excel in academics. Her parents expected her to do her best and to engage in activities that would make her a confident and well-rounded person. She participated in horseback riding, skiing, and cheerleading during elementary school. During high school her interests shifted to performing in chorus, doing community service, and having fun with her friends.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>While growing up, Pam had limited contact with other blind people her age. In general, she had no desire to associate with other blind people. She understood that every high school senior experience some trepidation about the transition to adulthood and independence. However, as high school graduation approached, she began to grapple with questions that her sighted peers couldn't answer. She planned to attend college, and she hoped that she would eventually find a job, but she secretly wondered if she would truly be able to obtain employment. After all, she had had difficulty finding part-time work during high school. Her loving family and friends encouraged her, but she had questions that went unanswered. Although she entered college with some apprehension, she was determined to achieve her best. Her small liberal arts college provided an exciting environment in which to learn and grow. But those unanswered questions continued to nag at her. If people were amazed that she could accomplish the most insignificant tasks, would they ever treat her as an equal? She realized that she had to meet other blind people with more experience than she who could serve as role models.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>Her search exposed her to a wide variety of groups and organizations of and for the blind. However, not until she attended a student seminar hosted by the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio did she begin to find the answers for which she had been searching. Although she didn't realize it at the time, that seminar marked the beginning of a new chapter of her life. She met Barbara Pierce, president of the NFB of Ohio, who told Pam about the Louisiana Center for the Blind. More than that, she spoke with Joanne Wilson, its director, who arranged for Pam to complete an internship at the center the following May. As soon as that was completed, Joanne invited her to work as a counselor in the children's summer program that year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>Pam was a 1991 National Federation of the Blind scholarship winner when she was a senior at Denison University, where she majored in psychology and minored in women's studies. She served as vice president of the Ohio Association of Blind Students and as secretary of the National Association of Blind Students, and throughout college she worked summers for Joanne Wilson at the Louisiana Center for the Blind with the Children's Program.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>After graduation from college Pam decided to become a student at the Louisiana Center for the Blind. She recognized that she still needed to gain some confidence in her skills and in her ability to be a successful blind person.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>Since 2001 Pam Allen has served as the director of the Louisiana Center for the Blind, one of three </span><span style='color:black'><a href="https://protect2.fireeye.com/v1/url?k=0c6ee0d6-53f5d9b4-0c6c19e3-000babd9069e-1b7d92f111159a8e&q=1&e=3b376c75-2142-4777-bf72-df437d2df8b8&u=https%3A%2F%2Fnfb.org%2Fabout-us%2Ftraining-centers"><span style='color:#005AA3'>NFB adult rehabilitation centers</span></a></span><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>. Prior to becoming the director, she served as the director of youth services, working with blind infants and toddlers and their parents, supervising the training of classroom aides to teach Braille throughout Louisiana, coordinating summer camps, and developing innovative programs for blind children and teenagers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>People often ask her what makes the Louisiana Center for the Blind such a special place. She responds, "What sets our alumni apart from those of other kinds of rehabilitation facilities? The answer is that, by attending our center and the other centers conducted by Federationists, students are exposed to the National Federation of the Blind and its philosophy. The NFB is more than an organization; it is a loving family. Regardless of where you are, you can find members of the NFB who can give you support and encouragement when you need it. The NFB also provides a constant supply of mentors and role models who challenge you to set goals for yourself. Lives are positively changed every day at the Center because of the philosophy of the NFB."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>Allen recalls that she used to believe that she did not need other blind people. She thought that being independent meant succeeding without the help of others. Her involvement with the National Federation of the Blind has taught her that this is not true. She has learned that she needs reinforcement from her blind colleagues and friends.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15.0pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'>Pam lives in Ruston, Louisiana, with her husband Roland Allen, a dedicated Federation leader and a gifted orientation and mobility instructor at the center. She is currently the president of the </span><span style='color:black'><a href="https://protect2.fireeye.com/v1/url?k=c6131383-99882ae1-c611eab6-000babd9069e-2cf5b4d5589d7d0c&q=1&e=3b376c75-2142-4777-bf72-df437d2df8b8&u=https%3A%2F%2Fnfb.org%2Fabout-us%2Fstate-affiliates%2Flouisiana"><span style='color:#005AA3'>NFB of Louisiana</span></a></span><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif;color:black'> and secretary of the National Association of Blind Rehabilitation Professionals. In July of 2002 she was elected to the National Federation of the Blind board of directors. Four years later, in 2006, she was elected to serve as treasurer of the National Federation of the Blind. In 2012, Pam and Roland received the prestigious Jacobus tenBroek Award in recognition of their distinguished service in the Federation. In 2015, Pam was elected as first vice president of the National Federation of the Blind. Allen is also involved in a variety of community and professional organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce and as a gubernatorial appointee to the Louisiana Rehabilitation Council. She says, "Being elected to the national board has allowed me to give back and to spread the message of our movement. It is an incredible honor and privilege to serve!"</span><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span></b><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'>Registration<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal>Registration can be done up until Friday October 22<sup>nd</sup> at midnight. You may register at <a href="https://protect2.fireeye.com/v1/url?k=f3434667-acd87f05-f341bf52-000babd9069e-75c31071a6182fe1&q=1&e=3b376c75-2142-4777-bf72-df437d2df8b8&u=https%3A%2F%2Fnfbny.org%2Fconvention%2Fregister-virtual.">https://nfbny.org/convention/register-virtual.</a> All who registered will have their name placed for drawings of door prizes on Saturday, October 23<sup>rd</sup> & Sunday, October 24<sup>th</sup>. When you register, you may also purchase tickets for our Gift Card Drawing to be held at the banquet.<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><h2>Door Prizes<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>During the General Sessions and Banquet door prizes will be drawn. You must be present to win! If your name is drawn, raise your hand and we’ll acknowledge your receipt of a prize. To raise your hand: if dialed in, press *9; if on a windows computer, press ALT + Y; or, if on a Mac, press <span style='color:black'>Option + Y. Door prizes will be mailed at the conclusion of the convention.</span><o:p></o:p></p><h2><span class=field><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Affiliate Fundraiser</span></span><span class=field><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal>We are selling chances to win one of at least 8 gift cards for a variety of state-wide or national companies. Chances are $10 each or 3/$25. Drawing will be held during the Banquet on Sunday afternoon. Tickets can be purchased at <a name="_Hlk85141334"></a><a href="https://protect2.fireeye.com/v1/url?k=316b2392-6ef01af0-3169daa7-000babd9069e-3082fe054ae4e59e&q=1&e=3b376c75-2142-4777-bf72-df437d2df8b8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfbny.org%2Fraffle"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85141334'>nfbny.org/raffle</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85141334'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85141334'>.</span> Tickets for a chance to win a $100 Independence Market Gift Certificate can also be purchased at <a href="https://protect2.fireeye.com/v1/url?k=69fd9d63-3666a401-69ff6456-000babd9069e-1eec36f0e1d11218&q=1&e=3b376c75-2142-4777-bf72-df437d2df8b8&u=https%3A%2F%2Fnfbny.org%2Fnode%2F193">https://nfbny.org/node/193</a>. Proceeds from this drawing will benefit the New York State Chapter-at-Large.<o:p></o:p></p><h2><span class=field><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Resolutions</span></span><span class=field><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal>NFB policy, at the state and national level, is made by writing resolutions, discussing them in committee, and passing them to the general membership for a final vote. Any NFBNY member can submit a resolution for consideration by the convention of the NFB of New York, and any interested member may join the resolutions committee. If you have an idea for a resolution but need some support in formatting it correctly, or if you have questions about the process, please contact Resolutions Chair Chancey Fleet at <a href="mailto:chancey.fleet@gmail.com">chancey.fleet@gmail.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><h2><span class=field><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'>Zoom Information</span></span><o:p></o:p></h2><h3>Accessing the Zoom Platform<o:p></o:p></h3><p class=MsoNormal>Those wishing to join the convention via Zoom can do so in one of three ways:<o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo5;layout-grid-mode:char'>By using the Windows or macOS desktop application, found at <a href="http://www.zoom.us">zoom.us</a><o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo5;layout-grid-mode:char'>By using the mobile app found in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo5;layout-grid-mode:char'>By dialing in to the provided phone number and using the Meeting ID and Password given. <b>*Please note:</b> Make sure to dial the local number to ensure you will not be charged long distance fees.<o:p></o:p></li></ul><h3 style='margin-top:48.0pt'>Practicing Zoom Etiquette<o:p></o:p></h3><p class=MsoNormal>To help things run smoothly, please keep the following in mind:<o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'>When not speaking, please be sure you are muted so that your background noise isn’t audible to everyone. To mute or unmute yourself:<o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.75in;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level3 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Wingdings'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>§<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]>Dial *6 on the telephone<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.75in;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level3 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Wingdings'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>§<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]>Press ALT + A on a Windows computer while inside the Zoom window<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.75in;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level4 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]>Press OPTION + COMMAND + A on a Mac computer<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.75in;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level3 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Wingdings'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>§<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]>Tap the microphone icon on your phone app<o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:6.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'>We will be conducting business by raised hands. For those wishing to seek the floor, please do the following:<o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.75in;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level3 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Wingdings'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>§<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]>Raise your hand<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.75in;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]>Wait to be recognized<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.75in;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:115%;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo8;layout-grid-mode:char'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-family:Symbol'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>·<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]>Mute yourself when done speaking<o:p></o:p></p><h3>Phone and Keyboard Shortcuts<o:p></o:p></h3><h4>Phone (Dial-In) Shortcuts<o:p></o:p></h4><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>*6: Toggle mute/unmute<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>*9: Raise hand<o:p></o:p></p><h4>Windows Keyboard Shortcuts<o:p></o:p></h4><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Alt + A: Mute/unmute audio<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Space: Push to talk<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Alt + V: Start/stop video<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Alt + Y: Raise/lower hand<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Ctrl + T: Jump to chat with someone<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Ctrl + W: Close current chat session<o:p></o:p></p><h4>Mac Keyboard Shortcuts<o:p></o:p></h4><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Command + Shift + A: Mute/unmute audio<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Space: Push to talk<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Command + Shift + V: Start/stop video<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Option + Y: Raise hand/lower hand<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:.25in'>Command + K: Jump to chat with someone<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-top:12.0pt'>*A <a href="https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/205683899-Hot-Keys-and-Keyboard-Shortcuts-for-Zoom" target="_blank">full list of keyboard shortcuts</a> can be found on the Zoom website.<o:p></o:p></p><h3>U.S. Dial-In Numbers<o:p></o:p></h3><p class=MsoNormal>(Check with your telephone carrier to ensure the number will not incur charges for you.)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'>646-876-9923 (New York) 669-900-6833 (San Jose) 253-215-8782 (Tacoma)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'>346-248-7799 (Houston) 408-638-0968 (San Jose) 312-626-6799 (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>301-715-8592 (Germantown)<o:p></o:p></p><h2>Code of Conduct<o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Please note, the NFB’s code of conduct will be in effect during this event. Have questions? Contact any member of the board.<o:p></o:p></p><h2>About Us <o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>The National Federation of the Blind Of New York knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day, we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>For more information about the National Federation of the Blind of New York, visit our website at <a href="https://protect2.fireeye.com/v1/url?k=239841fa-7c037898-239ab8cf-000babd9069e-7c90b06b152b2a18&q=1&e=3b376c75-2142-4777-bf72-df437d2df8b8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfbny.org%2F">nfbny.org</a>, or call us at 716-222-3632.<o:p></o:p></p><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk84767669"><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></a></p><h2><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'>NFB-NEWSLINE</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'>NFB-NEWSLINE provides access to hundreds of general and special interest publications such as newspapers, magazines, TV listings, retail ads, and job search platforms. It was proudly developed and maintained by the National Federation of the Blind. NFB-NEWSLINE is made available to New Yorkers who are blind or have other print-related disabilities through funds provided by the New York State Commission for the Blind and the NY Legislature.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'>Newsline content can be accessed via a traditional landline telephone, a mobile telephone, on Amazon Alexa devices using the National Federation skill, with the NEWSLINE Smartphone app, by email, and on the web.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'>During the 2021 New York State NFB Convention, your Newsline team will be available to provide tips and information on the various ways to access Newsline content. We will also be available to answer any questions that you may have about the service and to assist you in obtaining and filling out an application for the service.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'>Constitution<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'>We will be discussing changes to our affiliate constitution. The proposed constitution has been uploaded to our website, </span><a href="https://protect2.fireeye.com/v1/url?k=f63573c0-a9ae4aa2-f6378af5-000babd9069e-6e951cbe6a3e23ee&q=1&e=3b376c75-2142-4777-bf72-df437d2df8b8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfbny.org%2F"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'>www.nfbny.org</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'> for your viewing. We will also cover it several times during the convention.</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767669'></span><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><h2 style='margin-top:1.0in'>Schedule<b><span style='font-size:16.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></h2><h3>Monday, October 18, 2020<o:p></o:p></h3><p class=EventTitle><a name="_Hlk84767143">7:00 pm - New York Parents of Blind Children: Maura Kutnyak, President<o:p></o:p></a></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767143'>The New York Parents of Blind Children have designed a program that will rejuvenate and heighten expectations for the futures of our blind children! Join us for discussion of foundational elements for setting up our blind children for success. Casey West-Robertson will challenge us to think differently about Braille, Chester Smalley will remind us to keep our kids moving and independent, and Katy Olsen will describe her experience in upper-level athletics as a blind young person.<o:p></o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767143'></span><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk84766931"></a><a href="https://buffalo.zoom.us/j/94405630913?pwd=Znh1NWRPQjFodWZDR1ZoU3NOTCtIUT09"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'>POBC on Zoom</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'>: | Meeting ID: 944 0563 0913 | Passcode: 823009<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'>One tap mobile: </span><a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/Desktop/tel%20+16465588656,,94405630913#,,,,*823009"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'>+16465588656,,94405630913#,,,,*823009#</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'> US (New York)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84766931'></span><p class=EventTitle>7:00 pm - Seniors Group: Carl Jacobsen, Moderator<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Our seniors will gather this evening to discuss their journeys and their plans for the coming years. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207?pwd=SWZDRTdtMU0wUUFGT2l0c05WQjJMUT09">Seniors Meeting on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> US (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:24.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:4.0pt;margin-left:0in'><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>Tuesday, October 19, 2020<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=EventTitle><a name="_Hlk84767865">6:15 pm – 8:00 pm: The New York Association of Guide Dog Users: Heather Bird, President<o:p></o:p></a></p><p class=EventTitle style='margin-bottom:12.0pt'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'><span style='font-weight:normal'>NYAGDU presents a seminar to explore access issues, advocacy strategies, the contributing factors to such issues, and the options for preventing, addressing, in the moment, and responding to, after the fact, difficulties related to access for handlers of guide and other types of service dogs. There will be elements of lecture, discussion, a Q and A segment, and opportunities to practice advocacy skills in interactive scenarios. This seminar is hosted by NYAGDU; however the content is relevant to handlers of any type of service dog, and also to professionals in the community who work with specifically, or encounter, generally, service dog teams.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=EventTitle style='margin:0in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'></span><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85164708468?pwd=QlVPWlJodmNEMjV1SzVibnlaN1VZZz09"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'>NYAGDU on Zoom</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'><span style='font-weight:normal'> | Meeting ID: 851 6470 8468 | Passcode: nyagdu<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=EventTitle style='margin:0in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'><span style='font-weight:normal'>One tap mobile: </span></span><a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/OneDrive/NFB%20Office/NFB%20Work/Conventions,%20State/2020%20Virtual%20state%20convention/tel++13462487799,,85164708468"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'>+13462487799,,85164708468#</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767865'> US (Houston)</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:0in'><b>7:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Diversity and Inclusion Group: Rasheta Bunting, Moderator<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal>Once again it is convention time! What a wonderful time to rebuild and rejuvenate our affiliate. The NYS Diversity & Inclusion group Will be exemplifying this during our meeting on Tuesday, October 19 at 7 PM. We will be having two special guest speakers, Shawn Callaway, president of the D.C. affiliate an the Diversity Equity & Inclusion committee and Ronza Othman, President of the Maryland affiliate they were grace us with their words of positivity and encouragement surrounding rebuilding and rejuvenation. We will also be holding a round table on these issues. All are welcome!!! Rasheta Bunting is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82613573938">Diversity and Inclusion on Zoom</a> | Meeting ID: 826 1357 3938<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile: <a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/OneDrive/NFB%20Office/NFB%20Work/Conventions,%20State/2020%20Virtual%20state%20convention/tel+16465588656,,82613573938">+16465588656,,82613573938#</a> US (New York) <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:0in'><b>Judaism Discussion: Rachel Bodek<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal>This session will include a discussion of current issues and resources for Jewish individuals who are visually impaired. We will also assess the need for any type of advocacy in terms of issues related to our community.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">Judaism Discussion on Zoom</a> | Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile: <a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/Y6QWAZA8/tel%20+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> US (New York)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h3>Wednesday, October 20, 2020<o:p></o:p></h3><h3 style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:0in'>Blind Parents Group: Candice Attrill, Moderator<o:p></o:p></h3><h3 style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:0in'><b>The Blind Parents of NY is a group of blind parents, caregivers, grandparents, and other blind individuals who care for children, theirs or those of others. Come and join them for a collaborative discussion covering the topics of shared resources, genuine peer support, and understanding the child protective system, to be prepared if your life and such an agency intersect. The BPNY group would like to welcome their guest speaker, Angela Campbell, a retired ACS worker, with over 20 years of experience.</b><o:p></o:p></h3><h3 style='margin-top:.25in'><a href="https://buffalo.zoom.us/j/94405630913?pwd=Znh1NWRPQjFodWZDR1ZoU3NOTCtIUT09">Blind Parents on Zoom</a><b> | Meeting ID: 944 0563 0913 | Passcode: 823009<o:p></o:p></b></h3><h3 style='margin-top:0in'><a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/Desktop/tel%20+16465588656,,94405630913#,,,,*823009">+16465588656,,94405630913#,,,,*823009#</a><b> US (New York)<o:p></o:p></b></h3><h3 style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:0in'>7:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Sports and Recreation Group: Kathryn Jedynak, Moderator<b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></h3><p class=MsoNormal>Are you wondering what sports programs are available in the New York City and western New York area? Join us during the National Federation of the Blind of New York State Convention when Alex Barrera will talk about sports programs available in the New York city area. Kathryn Jedynak will be talking about the current sports programs available in the Western New York area. We will also be discussing creating an e-mail list for the Sports and Rec group for questions and announcements. I hope you can join us. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:0in'><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82054835857?pwd=b2JrczBZQVpKTUJmZjl4d2pXa0ZOQT09">Sports and Rec on Zoom</a>: | Meeting ID: 820 5483 5857 | Passcode: 561337<span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile: <a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/OneDrive/NFB%20Office/NFB%20Work/Conventions,%20State/2020%20Virtual%20state%20convention/tel+19294362866,,82054835857#,,,,*561337">+19294362866,,82054835857#,,,,*561337#</a> US (New York)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>7:00 pm – 9:00 pm: “Straight off the Canvas”: Anthony Saldana, Director and Moderator <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:10.0pt;color:#333333;background:#FBFBFB'>Straight Off The Canvas is an award-winning audio described documentary about visually impaired artists in New York City. Art is not just a visual medium. Blind people can enjoy, create and teach art as a creative expression. The film profiles Elizabeth Castallano, a visually impaired art teacher and artist. It also tells the story of blind art teacher Jessica Jones and her students at Lavelle School for the Blind in Bronx, NY.</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><h3 style='margin-top:0in'><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">Straight off the Canvas on Zoom</a><b> | Meeting ID: 528 850 6207</b><o:p></o:p></h3><h3 style='margin-top:0in'><b>One tap mobile: </b><a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/OneDrive/NFB%20Office/NFB%20Work/Conventions,%20State/2020%20Virtual%20state%20convention/tel+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a><b> US (New York)<o:p></o:p></b></h3><h3>Thursday, October 21, 2020<b><o:p></o:p></b></h3><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>6:30 pm – Mini BELL: Heather Bird, BELL Coordinator<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>The Mini-BELL lecture series continues this year, with a workshop on, why observational learning just doesn’t cut it for blind children. We will explore the importance of recognizing when and why observational learning is considered the default, the alternatives that benefit all students, especially blind students, the major barriers to this type of learning, and techniques to be used in place of observational learning. This workshop is presented by our NYS BELL Academy Coordinator, in conjunction with our NYPBC division. All are welcome, but content will be most relevant to parents of blind children and blindness professionals such as TVI, O and M, AT, and other professionals serving blind students.<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:.25in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:3.0pt;margin-left:0in'><a href="https://buffalo.zoom.us/j/95618802892?pwd=TjRHWFVNVzF5UEtEaHhuekY0ZnhjUT09">Mini BELL on Zoom</a> | Meeting ID: 956 1880 2892 | Passcode: 602779<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile: <a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/OneDrive/NFB%20Office/NFB%20Work/Conventions,%20State/2020%20Virtual%20state%20convention/tel+16465588656,,95618802892#,,,,*602779">+16465588656,,95618802892#,,,,*602779#</a> US (New York)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>7:00 pm – 9:00 pm - New York Association of Blind Students: Nina Marranca, President<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Please join the New York Association of Blind Students as we are excited to host our division meeting Thursday October 21<sup>st</sup> from 7-9pm. We are looking forward to hearing from a representative with the National Association of Blind Students (NABS), our NFBNY 2021 scholarship finalists, and others. The NYABS E-Board will reflect on what we have accomplished over this past year and discuss plans for the upcoming future. Last, but not least, we will also be holding our 2022elections.</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84255963096?pwd=RlRrMTRNQk1UY3NCMHZRcHl1cHFOZz09">NYABS on Zoom</a> Meeting ID: 842 5596 3096 | Passcode: 966279<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile: <a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/Desktop/tel+16465588656,,84255963096#,,,,*966279">+16465588656,,84255963096#,,,,*966279#</a> US (New York)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>8:00 pm - Diabetics Group: Mindy Jacobsen, Moderator<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText>Are you a diabetic or the friend or loved one of someone who is? Come and join us as we welcome members of the Diabetic Action Network who will answer questions about our good health and of course, good food! <span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207?pwd=SWZDRTdtMU0wUUFGT2l0c05WQjJMUT09">Diabetics Meeting on Zoom</a> | Meeting ID: 528 850 6207 <span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>One-Tap Dial: <a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) <o:p></o:p></p><h3><o:p> </o:p></h3><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><h3>Friday, October 22, 2020<b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></h3><p class=EventTitle>9:00 am - <span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>New York State Commission for the Blind Town Hall Meeting:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'><b>Julie Hovey, Associate Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor</b><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'><b>Peter Herrig, Regional Coordinator</b><b><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'><b>Julie Venneman, Associate Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:.5in;text-indent:.5in'><b>Lauren Corp, Associate Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">NYSCB Town Hall on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/Desktop/tel%20+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<o:p></o:p></p><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>11:00 am – 1:00 pm: Board of Director’s Meeting, Mike Robinson, President<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">Board of Directors Meeting on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/Desktop/tel%20+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=EventTitle><a name="_Hlk84767749"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>2:00-4:00 pm - NEWSLINE Open House<o:p></o:p></span></a></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'></span><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'>NEWSLINE Open House on Zoom</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'> | One-Tap Dial: </span><a href="file:///C:/Users/buffn/Desktop/tel%20+16468769923,,5288506207"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'>+16468769923,,5288506207#</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'><span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84767749'></span><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>7:00 pm - Hospitality: Valeria Jacobs, Coordinator<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>Unwind with us after a day of convention programming. Spend your Friday night with us at an informal gathering of members. We will chat and get to know one another. Some activities include facilitated conversations through ice breakers, story telling for those who feel courageous, playing word games, and more. This Zoom meeting will end when you’re ready for bed. So, bring your favorite drink or snack and come kickoff the 2020 NFB of New York virtual convention with us.<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">Hospitality on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<o:p></o:p></p><h3><o:p> </o:p></h3><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><h3>Saturday, October 23, 2020<b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></h3><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>Morning General Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">General Session on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 9:00 am: Call to Order<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 9:05 am: Welcome, Invocation, NFB Pledge<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 9:10 am: Zoom Logistics<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 9:15 am: Introduction of the Scholarship Class, Cayte Mendez, Scholarship Chair and NFB of NYS 2nd Vice President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 9:35 am: Presidential Report, Mike Robinson, President. National Federation of the Blind of New York State<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 10:00 am: National Report, Pam Allen, National Vice-President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 10:25 am: NYSCB, Nathaniel Beyer, Assistant Commissioner<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 10:45 am: Constitutional amendment and discussions<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 11:35 am: Living Instinctively: Finding My Way Back: Regina Mitchell, Nevada <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:1.5in;text-indent:-1.5in'> 12:00 pm: Adjournment<o:p></o:p></p><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>Afternoon General Session<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">General Session on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:-1.5in'> 1:00 pm: Call to Order<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:-1.5in'> 1:05 pm: Rejuvenating the Centers: What’s happening at the Louisiana Center for the Blind: Pam Allen, Director<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:-1.5in'> 1:20 pm: NFB-NEWSLINE – What’s new on Newsline? Luis Mendez, NYS NEWSLINE Director<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> 1:35 pm: “Straight off the Canvas”: Anthony Saldana, Director<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> 1:55 pm: Your role in emergency planning and preparedness: New York Style; David Whalen, Project Director, Niagara University Disability Awareness Training<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:white'><span style='color:black'> 2:10 pm: Update on SSI and SSDI: John G. Paré, Jr., Executive Director, Advocacy and Policy<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;text-autospace:none'> 2:25 pm: All things legislation – We’re getting it done: <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;background:white'><span style='color:black'> Ray Wayne, NFB, Brooklyn</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:.5in;background:white'><span style='color:black'>Arthur Jacobs, New York City Chapter</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:1.5in;background:white'><span style='color:black'>Justin Young, NFB of NYS Treasurer</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:6.0pt;margin-left:1.0in;text-indent:.5in;background:white'><span style='color:black'>John G. Paré, Jr., Executive Director, Advocacy and Policy<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-autospace:none'><span style='color:#31849B'> </span>2:50 pm: <span style='color:#31849B'>Update on Libraries: Shawn Lemieux, Associate Librarian / Director, Talking Book and Braille Library, Cultural and Education Center<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left:0in'><span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'> 3:05 pm: Bridges/AVI: <span style='color:#222222'>Carlos Martinez, LMSW, CEO/Executive Director</span><span style='color:#500050'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:-1.5in'> 3:25 pm: Diversity and Inclusion: What is it and why is it so important? Shawn Callaway, President, President, NFB, District of Colombia<span style='font-family:"Verdana",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:-1.5in'> 3:40 pm: Why Can’t we be friends: Karen Blachowicz, President, American Council of the Blind<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:-1.5in'> 3:55 pm: Arrangements and Announcements<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:-1.5in'> 4:00 pm: Adjournment<o:p></o:p></p><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>4:15 – 5:15 pm An Informal Discussion About NFB<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Mike Robinson, President, NFB of NYS<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Pam Allen, NFB National Vice-President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Get your questions answered, find a local chapter, and discuss the day’s sessions. Open to all.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">About NFB on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="Tel:+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<o:p></o:p></p><p class=EventTitle><a name="_Hlk84771156"><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>5:15 pm - Resolutions Committee<o:p></o:p></span></a></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'></span><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'>Resolutions on Zoom</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'> | One-Tap Dial: </span><a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'>+16468769923,,5288506207#</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207 </span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'><span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=EventTitle><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>7:00 pm - Hospitality: Valeria Jacobs, Coordinator<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'>Unwind with us after a day of convention programming. Spend your evening with us at an informal gathering of members. We will chat and get to know one another. Some activities include facilitated conversations through ice breakers, story telling for those who feel courageous, playing word games, and more. This Zoom meeting will end when you’re ready for bed. So, bring your favorite drink or snack and come kickoff the 2020 NFB of New York virtual convention with us.</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'><span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'></span><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'>Hospitality on Zoom</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'> | One-Tap Dial: </span><a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'>+16468769923,,5288506207#</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<o:p></o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84771156'></span><h3><o:p> </o:p></h3><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><h3>Sunday, October 24, 2020<b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></h3><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:14.0pt'>9:00 am: Business Meeting. All are welcome.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">Business Meeting on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Resolutions<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Constitution Amendments<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt;text-indent:.5in'>Elections<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Chapter and Division Reports<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Supporting the Affiliate<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Planning for the Year Ahead<o:p></o:p></p><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>2:00 pm - Banquet <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">Banquet on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207#,,">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Valeria Jacobs, Mistress of Ceremonies <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Keynote Address, Pam Allen, NFB National Vice President, Executive Director, Louisiana Center for the Blind, President, NFB of Louisiana<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Scholarship Presentations, Cayte Mendez<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Door Prizes<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Drawings<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:6.0pt'> Special Presentations<o:p></o:p></p><p class=EventTitle><span style='font-size:14.0pt;line-height:115%'>7:00 pm - Hospitality: Valeria Jacobs, Coordinator<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>Unwind with us after a day of convention programming. Spend your evening with us at an informal gathering of members. We will chat and get to know one another. Some activities include facilitated conversations through ice breakers, story telling for those who feel courageous, playing word games, and more. This Zoom meeting will end when you’re ready for bed. So, bring your favorite drink or snack and come kickoff the 2020 NFB of New York virtual convention with us.<span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/5288506207">Hospitality on Zoom</a> | One-Tap Dial: <a href="tel:+16468769923,,5288506207">+16468769923,,5288506207#</a> (New York) Meeting ID: 528 850 6207<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:24.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></p><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:24.0pt'><img border=0 width=720 height=932 style='width:7.5in;height:9.7083in' id="Picture_x0020_1" src="cid:image001.jpg@01D7C73C.4618BAF0" alt="Text
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