[NFBNJ] Sounding Board Spring 2020 Pasted and Attached

[joe ruffalo]

Forwarded to Brian Mackey, affiliate webmaster to post on the state website.
Forwarded to Jane Degenshein, to forward to the library to post to Newsline 
whenever it is made possible to post.

Greetings to all!
Please read and share with family, neighbors, co-workers and friends.
A huge thanks toKathy Gabry, editor and to the staff of the Sounding Board, 
the publication of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey.
Kathy has provided her comments and I have provided for your reading 
pleasure.
The issue is pasted and attached.
Warmly,
Joe

___

Subject: Sounding Board Spring 2020

Below and attached please find the Spring 2020 edition of The Sounding 
Board, the magazine of the NFBNJ. Even with all we're facing these days, 
more than 20 of us pooled our time and talents to complete this issue. I 
hope you find the stories in this edition as powerful and meaningful as I 
do. My sincere thanks to the editorial team and to each of our contributors 
who made this issue possible.

Wishing you all peace and good health,

Kathy Gabry
Editor

----


SPRING 2020

The Sounding Board
The Publication of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey


In This Issue



NFBNJ’s 2019 First Timers
Discuss their First National Convention

Scott Stoffel
Shares His Thoughts on Social Distancing

Monique Coleman
Reflects on the 2nd Annual
NJ Regional Braille Challenge

Carol Castellano, Pat McKenna
and Amy Albin
Share Memories of Barbara Shalit


Live the Life You Want


THE SOUNDING BOARD
Spring 2020

Katherine Gabry, Editor
Co-Editors: Annemarie Cooke, Mark Gasaway, Jerilyn Higgins & Mary Jo Partyka

Published by e-mail and on the Web through Newsline by
The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
wwwnfbnj.org

Joseph Ruffalo, President
State Affiliate Office   254 Spruce Street   Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Email: nfbnj1 at verizon.net

Articles should be submitted to the State Affiliate Office at 
nfbnj1 at verizon.net
and to the editor at specialk38 at aol.com.

Advertising rates are $25 for a half page and $40 for a full page.
Ads should be sent to specialk38 at aol.com.

The editorial staff reserves the right to edit all articles and advertising
for space and/or clarity considerations.

Please Note: The deadline for the Fall issue is September 15, 2020.

Donations should be made payable to the
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
and sent to the State Affiliate office.

To subscribe via Newsline: Jane Degenshein 973-736-5785 or 
Jdegen16 at comcast.net

DREAM MAKERS CIRCLEYou can help build a future of opportunity for the blind 
by becoming a member of our Dream Makers Circle. It is easier than you 
think. You can visit your bank and convert an account to a P.O.D. (payable 
on death) bank account which is payable after your passing to the National 
Federation of the Blind or one of our affiliates. Your legacy gift to the 
National Federation of the Blind or the National Federation of the Blind of 
New Jersey can be made in the form of a will or living trust, an income 
generating gift, or by naming us as the beneficiary of a retirement plan, 
IRA, pension or a life insurance policy. You can designate a specific 
amount, a percentage, or list the NFB as one of several beneficiaries. For 
additional information, please contact Patti Chang at 410-659-9314, 
extension 2422 or at pchang at nfb.org.
Mission StatementThe National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey, Inc. is 
an organization of blind and interested sighted people who plan and carry 
out programs; work to improve the quality of life of the blind; provide a 
means of collective action for parents of blind children; promote the 
vocational, cultural and social advancement of the blind; achieve the 
integration of the blind into society on a basis of equality with the 
sighted; and take action that will improve the overall condition and 
standard of living of the blind.

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. You can live the life you want; 
blindness is not what holds you back.


The National Federation of the Blind Pledge
I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation 
of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity and security for the blind; to 
support the programs and policies of the Federation; and to abide by its 
constitution.


The Sounding Board
The Sounding Board is the magazine of the National Federation of the Blind 
of New Jersey. It is published twice a year. Through The Sounding Board, we 
aspire to provide a source of hope, inspiration, pride and camaraderie 
through the personal stories featured in our publication.
Hundreds of readers receive our publication via email and Newsline. The 
Sounding Board is also available for download in its entirety from our 
website at www.nfbnj.org. We encourage our readers to share The Sounding 
Board with family members, teachers, professionals, neighbors, friends and 
any other interested parties. We estimate our circulation to be in the 
thousands, as readers from across the country regularly report that The 
Sounding Board influences their lives.
Twenty-two people contributed to this issue by sharing stories, editing, 
interviewing and proofreading. It is truly a collaborative effort. We hope 
you enjoy the fruits of our labor.


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Presidential Message, by Joe Ruffalo
>From the Editor, by Katherine Gabry
The 2020 Washington Seminar Issues: Success on the Rise, by Ryan Stevens
2019 Raising Expectations Award Presented to Rick Fox, by Carol Castellano
The 2019 State Scholarship Awards, by Lia Stone
Lessons from My First National Convention: Thoughts from New Jersey’s First 
Timers Scholarship Winners – Joanna Mallard Bentall, Ada Crandle, Anne Marie 
Harris and Tony Santiago
Be Counted … Because You Count!
The Social Distancing Dilemma: A Perspective, by Scott Stoffel
Ski for Light Week Filled with Adventures, by Linda Melendez
All Roads Led to Rome – Even Livingston Avenue! By Annemarie Cooke
BELL® in a Nutshell, by Mary Jo Partyka and Ellen Sullivan
All Good Things, by C.P. McKenna
>From the Archives: A Tribute to Someone Else
Reflections on the 2nd Annual New Jersey Regional Braille Challenge, by 
Monique Coleman
Flying with a Real ID
In Memory of Barbara Shalit by Carol Castellano
Clear Skies, by Pat McKenna
The Love You Share Will Always Be There, by Amy Albin
An Invitation to Join the Diabetic Committee, by Ed Godfrey and Angela 
Perrone
Spring Cleaning? Consider the NFB for Your Discards & Vehicles
Tech Talk Tidbits: Did You Know? By Jane Degenshein
Recipe: Aunt Marie’s Chicken & Sausage, submitted by Carol Castellano
NFBNJ Contact Info


PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE
Greetings Fellow Federationists,
When a person is tested for visual acuity, 20/20 is the standard for 
 “normal” eyesight.  In the year 2020, we are all being tested in another 
way: to determine if we can weather the challenges of the novel coronavirus. 
How will we approach this battle? Are we able to prepare, plan and 
participate with others in showing that we will continue to care, share and 
grow and that each of us can make a difference as we collectively wage this 
battle? Will life as we know it ever return to “normal”?
I’m proud to say that our Federation family is using their ingenuity and 
strength of purpose to provide the love, hope and determination to win this 
invisible war.  Zoom, Skype and phone calls, emails and messaging allow us 
to continue to make personal contacts and continue to conduct trainings and 
chapter and division meetings. From this outpouring of commitment and 
creativity, I’ve developed the following tips that I think can be useful in 
overpowering some of the painful effects we’ve been feeling as a result of 
COVID-19:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.    <!--[endif]-->Conquer each day with a plan, 
purpose and goal
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.    <!--[endif]-->Obstacles need to become 
opportunities
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.    <!--[endif]-->Volunteers will lead us to 
victory
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.    <!--[endif]-->Imagination, innovation and 
inspiration are the keys
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.    <!--[endif]-->Determination and desire make a 
difference!

I want to thank those who have participated in outreach calls and messages 
during this time of need as we strive to live the life we want. Educational, 
motivational and inspirational materials are forwarded through email for 
your interest. Every seven to 10 days, I will distribute Notes From 
President Ruffalo that will include items of interest such as websites, 
phone numbers and upcoming Zoom calls for training on various subjects as 
well as upcoming conference calls.
A few days ago, President Riccobono announced that the Federation will 
conduct its 80th anniversary national convention Tuesday, July 14 through 
Sunday, July 19.  With COVID-19 upon us, a decision was made to conduct the 
national convention virtually via the Zoom platform. Keep a watchful eye out 
for emails and please read the upcoming Braille Monitors for additional 
information.
As we enter spring, the season of growth, let us continue to provide our 
love, hope and determination to transform dreams into reality!

With Much Respect,
Joe Ruffalo, President
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey


Next Article
FROM THE EDITOR
THIS ROLLER COASTER AINT NO FUN
I’m on a roller coaster flying through some unprecedented, unbelievable 
territory called COVID-19. I’m not enjoying the ride. There are moments when 
I’ve got it together, and then some news breaks, and I crash into an 
agonizing despair that renders me incapable of anything but excruciating 
depression and tears.
Yeah, yeah, I know this is normal and totally justified given the 
circumstances. But hey – anxiety and panic attacks are no fun. I want – 
need – to get my head straight and move on in a more positive way. Following 
these sensible tips adopted from the Veterans Administration is giving me 
some peace and perspective, so I’d like to share them with you:

<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.    <!--[endif]-->Pause. Just stop. Stop what you’re 
doing. Do not feel you have to be doing something productive every minute. 
Please, for the time being, forget what your mother always told you about 
using time wisely. Take breaks. Pause … and do #2 …
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.    <!--[endif]-->Breathe. Inhale for the count 
of 5, hold your breath for 3, exhale for 5. This slows your breathing which 
helps to lower your heart rate and calm your nervous system. Repeat every 
time you feel on edge.
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.    <!--[endif]-->Exercise every day, even if it’s 
only a few minutes. Getting your blood flowing refreshes your brain and your 
body. Get in the habit of exercising every day – a 10-minute walk, squats, 
dancing, go up and down the stairs, just move.
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.    <!--[endif]-->Practice Healthy Sleeping 
Habits. If possible, make your bedroom a stress-free zone. Do not read or 
watch any stressful information while in bed. Your bed needs to be preserved 
as a safe, peaceful place for rest and relaxation.
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.    <!--[endif]-->Eat Healthy and on a regular 
schedule – fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean protein and dairy (as you 
can). Stay hydrated. And keep those hands clean before cooking or eating.

By following these tips, I’ve been able to overcome the sense of 
powerlessness, worry and loss I’ve been feeling. You know your own 
challenges. To manage them (because they probably will not go away any time 
soon), begin by trying to take care of yourself with kindness and compassion 
and then extend the same to others. A friend recently reminded me of these 
words from Helen Keller that seem so very appropriate right now: “Alone we 
can do so little. Together we can do so much.” For me, reaching out to my 
family and friends makes every day brighter. Each of them makes me smile and 
know there’s a reason to keep finding the light every day. I hope you, too, 
will find people, moments and stories to lift your spirits and give you 
strength, peace, determination and hope. Each of us can use – and share – a 
powerful dose of that medicine, which certainly has an exponential effect. 
As an eternal optimist who is also exceedingly patient, I’ll be able to wait 
this storm out. Please join me. We will get off this roller coaster. Share 
the medicine. Stay safe. Stay in. Stay well.


Next Article

THE 2020 WASHINGTON SEMINAR ISSUES: Success on the Rise
By Ryan Stevens, NFBNJ Legislative Director
Greetings, once more, my fellow New Jersey Federationists. Yet again, over 
600 NFB members converged on the City by the Potomac to meet with our 
congressional representatives and senators to discuss issues which affect 
the daily lives of blind Americans. This year, the Washington Seminar was 
held February 10 to 13, and a dozen of the attendees were from the Garden 
State. We presented three pieces of legislation during our meetings on 
Capitol Hill. All three address concerns that the Federation has been 
pursuing for quite a number of years:
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.    <!--[endif]-->Access Technology Affordability 
Act (HR2086/S815)
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.    <!--[endif]-->Greater Access and Independence 
through Nonvisual Access Technology Act (HR3929)
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.    <!--[endif]-->Accessible Instructional 
Materials in Higher Education, or AIM-HIGH, Act (HR5312/S3095).
Below are descriptions of these bills in detail, including information on 
how the New Jersey affiliate is faring in getting support from our state’s 
congressional delegation.
The first legislative issue we brought to the attention of Congress was the 
Access Technology Affordability Act (HR2086/S815). Access technology enables 
blind people to participate in today’s connected world and to perform tasks 
that they were once unable to accomplish themselves. Today, the blind most 
often acquire this technology through their state blindness agency. The 
problem with this is the length of time it takes to receive the equipment. 
Quite often, this waiting period causes blind people to miss out on 
employment opportunities. Unfortunately, the cost of access technology also 
prevents most blind people from purchasing it themselves. The Access 
Technology Affordability Act helps to alleviate this burden by providing the 
individual with a $2,000 refundable tax credit over a three-year period when 
buying such equipment. The legislation will also sunset after five years. As 
of March 15, New Jersey Congressmen Bill Pascrell, Albio Sires and Chris 
Smith have co-sponsored HR2086, and Senator Cory Booker has signed onto 
S815.
The second bill on our agenda was the Greater Access and Independence 
through Nonvisual Access Technology (GAIN) Act (HR3929). The rapid 
proliferation of advanced technology is undeniable. Most new stoves, glucose 
monitors and treadmills now require that consumers interact with digital 
displays, flat panels and other user interfaces which are inaccessible to 
blind individuals. Inaccessibility is not a mere inconvenience; it can 
threaten the safety, health and independence of blind Americans. 
Advancements in technology have the potential to transform how people live 
in a society, but are designed for those with no functional limitations. 
Nonvisual access is achievable, as demonstrated by a number of mainstream 
products such as Apple's iPhone and iPad with voiceover. Virtually all ATMs 
and voting machines are also accessible using simple fixes. Although the 
Americans with Disabilities Act and other laws require physical 
accessibility for people with disabilities (e.g, wheelchair ramps and 
Braille in public buildings), no laws protect a blind consumer’s right to 
access technology. The GAIN Act would call on the Access Board, an 
independent federal agency and leading source of information on accessible 
design, to conduct a nonvisual access standard review and issue a report 
with findings and recommendations for a minimum nonvisual access standard 
for home use medical devices, home appliances and fitness equipment. The US 
Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission would then be 
tasked with enforcing the rules established by the Access Board. Even though 
we are in the second year of the current congressional term, there is still 
no bill in the Senate to accompany House Bill HR3929.
The final piece of legislation we addressed was the Accessible Instructional 
Materials in Higher Education, or AIM-HIGH, Act (HR5312/S3095). Much of the 
material used by university and college faculty to teach their courses is 
available to students only electronically or online, and a good portion of 
these tools are not accessible to blind and print disabled students. While 
the Americans with Disabilities Act and other laws mandate full 
accessibility in the classroom, there are no guidelines for institutions of 
higher education and manufacturers of these materials to follow to ensure 
compliance. AIM HIGH would establish these guidelines for users and creators 
of such software. This bill got a late start, not being introduced until 
December of 2019, but it is gathering steam. It also has support from the 
other major stakeholders, such as the organization that represents most 
colleges and universities and the publishers of the actual materials. This 
is helping to minimize the resistance against this legislation.
For more details and the full fact sheets for each of the issues described 
above, go to https://nfb.org/washington-seminar
The fact that we now have three New Jersey members of Congress and Senator 
Booker signing onto the Access Technology Affordability Act shows that we 
are making progress on continuing to turn our legislative priorities into 
reality. Of course, the only reason we make any progress at all is because 
of the hard work all of us in the National Federation of the Blind, 
including our own New Jersey affiliate, do. Throughout the year, we will be 
sent legislative alerts that we need to act upon to maintain and increase 
the momentum. Let’s give the effort asked of us to ensure that blind people 
can live the lives we want!
To contact your member in the House of Representatives or the US senators 
from New Jersey, call the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121. To find your 
House member, you can either contact your local public library or go to 
www.house.gov and enter your zip code.

Next Article

2019 Raising Expectations Award PRESENTED TO RICK FOX
By Carol Castellano
The Raising Expectations Award was created to honor the work of 
extraordinary members of our affiliate.  It is presented at the state 
convention, and this is only the fourth time we have presented it.
Rick Fox, the recipient of this special award, is someone who has worked on 
behalf of the blind of New Jersey—and the nation—for almost 50 years!  And, 
believe it or not, he is still young!
Rick has been a long-term member, officer and leader not only in our state 
affiliate, but also in three others. The list of Rick’s accomplishments is 
long and remarkable. During his term as president of the Connecticut 
Affiliate, he helped to raise $150,000 from corporations and foundations for 
the establishment of Newsline. In our own state, he has held many positions, 
most notably as a member of the affiliate board of directors and as board 
member and president of the Northeast Chapter, as a knowledgeable 
representative and team leader at the NFB’s annual Washington Seminar, and 
as an active and valuable member of many committees.  Rick also represents 
NFBNJ on the State Rehabilitation Council, currently serving as chair. His 
exemplary career includes technology and administrative positions at IBM, 
DeWitt & Associates, iCanConnect at The College of New Jersey, The Computer 
Center for Visually Impaired People at Baruch College and as technology 
consultant in B&F Teaching & Technology.
Rick grew up in Ocean Township with his brother and sister. He was educated 
in public school, with services from the New Jersey Commission for the 
Blind. Rick has a plethora of school, community, church and leisure time 
activities—wrestling, cross country track, skiing, biking, watching the 
Yankees, reading, hanging out at the beach, serving in many roles at his 
church, including, of course, singing in the choir, and playing keyboard in 
a rock band. Along with his lovely wife Debbie Bloomer, Rick loves spending 
time with family and friends, hosting a monthly church book club in their 
home and traveling.
My first memories of meeting Rick involve gathering around the piano at 
national conventions and then harmonizing our unofficial state affiliate 
song, Under the Boardwalk, at state conventions. Over the years, Rick became 
an inspiration, a role model, a trusted mentor and a friend to our family, 
always willing to share his experience, expertise and thoughtful advice.
Rick is a remarkable person and my guess is that virtually everyone in the 
NFBNJ has been a beneficiary of his generous spirit, his thoughtful analysis 
of issues and his wonderful laugh. I can’t remember one time he ever said no 
to anything we’ve asked of him, including when we—well, I—asked him to 
appear onstage in a grass skirt and coconuts!  It would be impossible to 
count the number of people he has assisted and we are all enriched by his 
presence in our lives. The words on the plaque presented to Rick read:
The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
—live the life you want—YOU make it happen!
Presents the Raising Expectations Award to
RICK FOX
In Recognition of Invaluable Contributions
to the Quality of Life of the Blind of New Jersey and the Nation
Your contribution is measured not in steps, but in miles;
Not by individual experiences, but by the impact you have had on the lives 
of the blind.
Whenever we have asked, you have answered.
We call you our colleague with respect.
We call you our friend with love.
Together, with love, hope and determination we transform dreams into 
reality.
November 9, 2019
>From the grateful members of the NFBNJ


Next Article
THE 2019 STATE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
By Lia Stone, State Scholarship Committee Chair
The NFBNJ State Scholarship Committee proudly announced the following five 
state scholarship recipients during the 43rd State Convention of the NFBNJ. 
Thanks to all who contributed funds to this educational and leadership 
program and to all who serve on the committee. Congratulations to each of 
our 2019 scholarship recipients!
Amy Albin is a junior at Montclair State University studying psychology. She 
is interested in a career in human services where she can make a difference. 
She is also the winner of one of this year’s national NFB scholarships.
Mary Fernandez is in her final year of her MBA studies at Duke University. 
She has completed an internship at Cisco in their marketing department. 
After graduation she hopes to work in management, sales or marketing at a 
Fortune 100 company.
Natasha Ishaq is a freshman at The College of New Jersey majoring in physics 
with a minor in law, politics and philosophy. She is interested in doing 
work that helps people in either the government or nonprofit sector.
Henry Young is a freshman at Drew University. He is double majoring in 
computer science and political science and hopes to continue on to a master’s 
degree in software engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology. His 
ultimate goal is to work for a large tech corporation or the federal 
government.
Jonathan Zobek is a senior at The College of New Jersey where he is majoring 
in communications.  He is interested in pursuing a career in the blindness 
field either as a vocational rehabilitation counselor or as an O&M 
instructor.


Next Article

LESSONS FROM MY FIRST NATIONAL CONVENTION
THOUGHTS FROM NEW JERSEY’S FIRST TIMERS SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
Editor’s Note: Joanne Mallard Bentall, Ada Crandle, Anne Marie Harris and 
Tony Santiago were New Jersey’s 2019 recipients of the Kenneth Jernigan 
First Timers Scholarship, which provided funding for their attendance at the 
NFB National Convention in Las Vegas. Each recipient expresses gratitude for 
the opportunity to attend and below shares their personal reflections.
Joanna Mallard Bentall is a member of the Northeast and At Large chapters, 
the Technology and Sports & Recreation divisions and a leader in the BELL 
program.
Since joining the NFBNJ several years ago, I’ve always hoped to be part of 
an NFB National Convention. Thanks to this scholarship award, my dream 
became a reality – and I had the privilege of addressing my fellow 
Federationists on the first day of the General Session. As I made my way to 
the stage to make my presentation, I was a little nervous but I managed just 
fine. I was sharing topics not only familiar to me personally, but to most 
of the people there, as well. I spoke about how I lost my eyesight and the 
steps I took to get to where I am now. Is it a day-to-day decision to live 
the life you want? Yes! You may have lost your eyesight, but you didn’t lose 
your vision. Continue to keep your vision at the forefront and anything is 
possible!
Encouraging others to live beyond limitations is something I strive to do. I 
will continue to live the life I want because with the Federation family by 
my side and God as my shepherd, I will always be able to make those 
mountains be stepping stones. You can do the same.
Was it a challenge navigating a hotel that was huge? Yes! And it was all 
worth it. In the future, I hope to serve as a source of encouragement to 
others to live the life they want regardless of statistics, judgments and 
seemingly insurmountable hurdles.
Ada Crandle is a member of the Central Jersey Chapter as well as the Senior, 
Sports & Recreation and Technology divisions.
I was extremely excited to be part of the 2019 National Convention, but for 
a short while, due to storms and high winds in Newark, it seemed we might 
not get to our Las Vegas destination at all. My husband and I had boarded 
our flight and then waited five hours before we were told it was cancelled. 
I immediately felt disappointed and frustrated that I wouldn’t arrive on 
time for the Rookie Round-Up for first timers on Sunday. Fortunately, my 
daughter, who had already landed in Las Vegas, was able to book us a flight 
for the next day. Upon arriving at Mandalay Bay, I admit to being 
overwhelmed, as I had never been in a place with so many people moving 
around.
The most important and profound moment of the convention was having my 
family with me to experience the opening ceremony. Joanna Mallard’s speech 
was icing on the cake. The banquet was beautiful, and it was gratifying to 
see people receiving scholarships to further their education. I was also in 
awe of the various vendors in the exhibit hall and proud to see so many 
blind and visually impaired people involved.
I left Las Vegas feeling more empowered than I have ever felt throughout my 
journey.
Editor’s Note: Anne Marie Harris is a board member of the Garden State 
Chapter and a member of the Senior and Technology divisions. She has been in 
charge of ordering and selling our affiliate T-shirts.
As my travel date approached, I became a bit nervous. This was only my third 
time traveling alone. Leaving New Jersey wasn’t easy. There were delays, a 
cancellation, rebooking and luggage that arrived late to Nevada. I learned 
with each inconvenience that I can travel independently and address things 
as they happen. What a confidence builder!
The convention was chock-full of information and activity. It was amazing to 
see over 2,500 blind individuals – including me! – living the life we want. 
The enormous General Session room was filled with the positive energy and 
unity of NFB members from 49 states, Canada and Puerto Rico. Each speaker 
shared something new. It was awesome to be in the room each time President 
Riccobono addressed the crowd.
I went to a sports and recreation seminar where I learned how blind people 
in other countries play cricket. I attended a seminar for seniors where the 
main speaker was Dan Frye. At the General Session, I was impressed to 
witness how issues are addressed and decisions made at a national level. The 
exhibit room was filled with vendors from the US and Canada. Many state 
affiliates had items for sale to eat and to wear. There were all kinds of 
raffles offering amazing prizes. I had as much fun working our New Jersey 
table as visiting other tables and shopping.
I had a great time sharing rides, shopping and meals with all my New Jersey 
friends, and I had wonderful roommates. Our bedtime laughs were the best. I 
can’t wait for Texas later this year.
Editor’s Note: Tony Santiago is a member of the Sports & Recreation and 
Technology divisions, and a member of the Capital Chapter.
I have never been to a gathering of the blind where there were so many 
nationalities and ethnic groups represented, and it was a beautiful thing to 
experience. There were so many interesting sessions going on that I had to 
prioritize and carefully schedule my time. There are only 24 hours in a day, 
after all. It worked out well because I learned something from every session 
that I attended.
The exhibit hall was exciting but huge, and for a technology lover like 
myself, it was like tech sensory overload. I enjoyed meeting some of the 
leaders in the blind technology field and shaking their hands in thanks for 
all the great work that they have done over the years to improve the lives 
of the blind.
One topic I was eager to learn more about was the future of autonomous 
vehicles. There were two speakers on the subject, and it was exciting to 
know that it is a reality that will happen in my lifetime. I truly believe 
that autonomous vehicles will bring us a new level of independence.
I also had the honor of meeting President Riccobono in his own suite, and I 
found his speeches at the General Sessions to be inspirational
Although there were many great speakers, many sessions where I could learn 
so much and awesome technology that I could check out, the thing that 
impressed me the most was observing our blind youth in action. This hotel 
was immense, and to hear our youth walking with their canes and making their 
way with such confidence was amazing. It goes to show what an influence the 
NFB has on their lives. It seems to me that the future of our organization 
and the blind community as a whole will be in competent, confident hands.
Finally, I want to thank my wonderful wife Jocelyn for helping me navigate 
through this convention and putting up with me and all of my interests.

Next Article
BE COUNTED … BECAUSE YOU COUNT!
Adapted from Email Received from NJ 2-1-1
 Every 10 years, the US Constitution requires the federal government to 
perform a census to count all persons living in the US – citizens and 
non-citizens. You can respond to the census in any one of three ways: 
online, by phone or by mail. Answering the questions takes about 10 minutes.
Our representation in Congress is based on the census, as are federal funds 
for vital programs and services that address homelessness, provide utility 
assistance, SNAP benefits, healthcare and more. These are resources that 
many of our communities desperately need and deserve.
“Participating in the census count is one of the most powerful things you 
can do for yourself, your family and your community,” says Melissa Acree, 
Executive Director of NJ 211.
The 2020 US Census will NEVER ask for your social security information or 
other personal information like your bank account numbers or political 
information. Under the law, census data can only be used for statistical 
purposes and is confidential.
You can expect to be asked about: how many people are living/staying at your 
home on April 1, 2020; whether you own or rent your home; the age, race and 
sex of each person in the household; whether a person in the household is of 
Hispanic, Latino or Spanish origin; and the relationships of each person in 
the household to one central person (usually the person completing the form 
for the household).
The Census is safe, easy and important. Be Counted … Because You Count! If 
you need more information dial 211 or visit nj211.org.


Next Article

THE SOCIAL DISTANCING DILEMMA: A PERSPECTIVE
By Scott Stoffel, Editor of DB Touch of Everything, Reprinted with 
Permission
Editor’s Note: Scott is a retired systems engineer and freelance writer in 
Southeast Pennsylvania. He’s also the creative genius who built the Tactile 
Carnival, more than 50 original carnival-style games that have been featured 
at DeafBlind camps/retreats, Helen Keller National Center, schools for the 
blind and twice in New Jersey at Merck Pharmaceuticals in Rahway. Scott is 
believed to be the first deafblind person to earn an engineering degree. He 
is the editor of the book Deaf-Blind Reality: Living the Life.
I work part-time for a nonprofit as coordinator of their DeafBlind services. 
We offer 10 hours per month of free Support Service Providers (SSPs) to 
DeafBlind consumers in southeast Pennsylvania. Many of you already know what 
an SSP does. For those who don’t, an SSP helps a DeafBlind adult access the 
community by serving as a human guide, assisting with communication and 
providing information the consumer can’t see or hear.
One of the main things our consumers use SSPs for is shopping. Many 
DeafBlind need help navigating stores, finding items, reading labels, 
communicating with store clerks and so on. It works quite well for this 
purpose. It not only enables the consumers to take care of their shopping 
needs, but many of them enjoy the shopping trips with their SSPs.
Then along came COVID-19, like a monstrous spider, and frightened Miss 
Muffet’s SSP services away.
Health officials stress the need for “social distancing” – putting 6 feet of 
space between people and limiting the number of people allowed in one place, 
like your local grocery store. Given the way the virus spreads, this is a 
good idea, of course. But it definitely throws a monkey wrench into the 
equation for many DeafBlind shoppers.

Little Miss Muffet got off her tuffet,
Because she needed to go shopping today;
But with no one to guide her, no SSP beside her,
How could she go shopping at Safeway?

Forgive the mangled nursery rhyme, but you get the point. Human guiding and 
tactile sign language require two people to be close together and constantly 
touching each other. That’s a bigger problem than you might think at a 
glance. Bear in mind that shopping involves touching things at the store. 
Going back and forth between touching store items and touching each other 
for communication increases the risk of picking up the virus. It’s almost 
impossible to avoid touching the face occasionally while doing tactile sign 
or tracking. Both the consumer and the SSP are at greater risk of picking up 
the virus as they work together this way. Facial masks can help reduce the 
risk, but they aren’t foolproof.
Also, an SSP and DeafBlind consumer shopping together usually takes much 
longer to shop than the average person shopping alone. Did you just get 
angry and say, “So what?” Calm down! The whole reason I work for an SSP 
service is because I want DeafBlind consumers to be able to go out and do 
things like everyone else. But the virus crisis shakes things up. The longer 
you stay in a store or other public place, the greater the risk of 
encountering the virus. Safety has to come first.
In short, COVID-19 absolutely sucks!
SSP services around the country are struggling with these safety concerns. 
How the heck can an SSP practice social distancing, work faster and still 
provide adequate service to a DeafBlind consumer? Use a leash for guiding 
and telepathic communication? Get serious. Some services let the consumer 
and SSP decide if they’re willing to take the risk or not. Some services are 
pretty much prohibiting assignments that aren’t deemed emergencies. With all 
the hoarding going on, maybe shopping for toilet paper should qualify as an 
emergency.
Is there a better approach? That’s arguable, of course. One thing about this 
virus business is that it’s showed us all that SSP services might need to 
consider emergency protocols during unusual circumstances – like now, for 
instance.
In southeast Pennsylvania, we’ve had some intellectual discussions on this 
subject and have formulated equitable solutions. That is to say we’ve argued 
like crazy, and nobody agrees on anything but the toilet paper. I’ve 
discovered that being a human service coordinator is a lot like being a 
stick of gum: I get chewed out a lot.
We are allowing SSPs to communicate with consumers remotely, acquire 
shopping and errand lists from the consumers and do the shopping/errands 
alone. You might think that’s a simple and obvious solution, but in truth, 
it’s totally against the fundamental purpose of an SSP service. This is one 
of the ways SSPs and professional caregivers are very different. Caregivers 
can do things for their clients without taking the clients with them. SSPs 
are supposed to become the eyes and ears for DeafBlind consumers and help 
them do things, not do things for them. There’s a big difference. 
Unfortunately, the safety hazards caused by the pandemic create a dilemma 
for standard SSP service. So we’re implementing a compromise that enables 
our consumers to get the items they need from the store, while minimizing 
the health risk to both consumer and SSP.
Fair enough? Not everyone thinks so. As I said before, going out into the 
community with an SSP is an important part of some DeafBlind consumers’ 
social activities. I don’t get mad when they chew me out over the emergency 
protocols. I understand how they feel. This is a case of safety versus 
satisfaction – and I’m the chewing gum.
One very important question the virus crisis has unearthed is whether SSP 
services and other services for the DeafBlind should modify standard 
procedures during times of unusual circumstances or just deny service. It’s 
not as easy as it sounds, especially with all of the liability issues 
associated with interpersonal service providers. Now seems like a very good 
time to give this matter some serious thought.


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SKI FOR LIGHT WEEK FILLED WITH ADVENTURES!
By Linda Melendez
Editor's note: Linda Melendez serves on the National Sports & Recreation 
Division board and is president of the NFBNJ’s Sports & Recreation Division. 
She is also first vice president of the NFBNJ, a member of the Central 
Jersey and At Large chapters, and the Senior and Technology divisions. In 
this article Linda talks about her first cross country skiing experience.
A bucket list is a collection of goals, dreams and aspirations that you’d 
like to accomplish within your lifetime. At the top of my list this year was 
to participate in the Ski for Light International week with Annemarie Cooke, 
a veteran of 13 such events.
Ski for Light was founded in 1975 for blind/visually impaired and mobility 
impaired individuals to learn how to cross country ski.  Skiers and their 
non-disabled guides move along in groomed parallel tracks in the snow. Some 
downhill ski techniques also are used, depending on the terrain.
The 2020 Ski for Light week took place February 9 to16 with our home base at 
the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Casper, Wyoming. The 250 
participants – some, like me who were first-timers – came from the US, 
Canada and five other countries. The event consisted of skiing Monday 
through Friday at Wyoming Mountain at an altitude of 7,900 feet. It seems 
that all the snow New Jersey didn’t have this year settled in Wyoming!
The daily skiing prepares participants for a 10K race, a 5K rally where 
participants try to match their own best time on the shorter course, and the 
Challenge Loop, a mini course mainly for first-timers or recreational 
(rather than competitive) skiers like me.
I had no idea the week would be filled with so many adventures, and they 
were about to begin! Prior to our arrival, Casper, Wyoming had a huge 
blizzard which made for rough road conditions. On Monday, some of our buses 
made it up the steep and snow-covered road to the ski area where we were 
able to get a hot lunch and shelter from the wind (in the 10 degree 
temperature). We had an amazing time skiing; however, the weather conditions 
changed abruptly and drastically, and we ended up stranded and not able to 
make our way back down the mountain.
Making lemonade out of lemons, I took the opportunity to mingle with the 
other participants and get to know them better. Local residents and guides 
who had personal vehicles were able to take us halfway down the mountain to 
the Nordic Center where staff and volunteers from the local visitors’ bureau 
provided us with food, snacks and water in a warm and safe environment. That 
evening the local school district’s buses brought all of us safely to the 
hotel – hours later than usual, and just in time for dinner … and with more 
stories to share!
On Tuesday, even though the winds were whipping at 30 miles an hour, we 
skied again. The wind at my back steadied my balance, and I was able to 
successfully ski on some hilly terrain. Encouragement from my guide was also 
helpful.  Due to the blowing snow and high winds, the buses headed back to 
the hotel early for everyone’s safety. The hotel hot tub was the best!
The severe weather conditions continued through Wednesday and the fun of 
skiing in a blizzard was cut short as we again left earlier than usual for 
the warmth and safety of the hotel.
I thoroughly enjoyed being challenged in this environment to push past my 
comfort zone. Where else could this Jersey girl be stranded on a mountain 
and rescued, ski in 30-mile-an-hour winds and blizzard-like conditions with 
friends, and still be safe at the same time?
Thursday’s weather was beautiful, and so I thought that certainly my 
adventures would be over. The snow was prime for skiing. My guide and I 
decided to be daring and take a shortcut over the fresh snow to meet the 
bus. Well, needless to say, another adventure found me: I fell and couldn’t 
get back up on my skis. The only way to get out was to take off our skis and 
walk about 30 feet through hip deep snow to get to the bus. Fortunately, 
there were two other guides nearby who assisted my guide in getting me out. 
Instead of panicking, I made light of the situation. They trudged through 
the snow first to create a flat path, which I was then able to follow easily 
while using my ski poles for support.
The weather remained unfriendly on Friday, so in small groups we explored 
downtown Casper, a location important in 19th century American pioneer 
history because the Oregon, California, Mormon and other trails intersected 
there.
Saturday dawned clear and sunny, and my guide and I opted to participate in 
the Challenge Loop because of my limited ski experience. I am happy to 
report that I achieved my goal of successfully completing the Challenge Loop 
without falling! We all enjoyed the banquet that evening and headed to our 
homes on Sunday.
I always like to come home after a vacation and get back to my normal 
routine, but more adventures were waiting for me. I came down with Influenza 
A and spent the next five days in the hospital due to complications with 
asthma and bronchitis. I was then quarantined at home for another 10 days.
I’m happy to say that I am back to my healthy, energetic and enthusiastic 
self. Some of you may be saying you would never do this or survive in these 
conditions. I’m here to tell you that you can do this and yes, you would 
survive in these conditions because you are a Federationist! To find out 
more about cross country skiing, check out this link to a YouTube video: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjC96E7cyzg
Despite all the challenges, I thoroughly enjoyed myself and plan to 
participate in a future Ski for Light event because I had the time of my 
life.


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ALL ROADS LED TO ROME – EVEN LIVINGSTON AVENUE!
By Annemarie Cooke
Editor’s Note: Annemarie is an active long-time member of the New Jersey 
Affiliate. She serves on the state board and as vice president of the Sports 
& Recreation Division, board member of the Garden State Chapter, treasurer 
of the Technology Division, and as a member of the At Large Chapter and the 
Scholarship and Sounding Board committees. She is a mentor and cooking coach 
with students in the EDGE program, and her hobbies include international and 
domestic travel.
The basement conference room at the Joseph Kohn Training Center in New 
Brunswick became a time machine last September 28. Twenty NFBNJ members and 
friends were treated to a multi-sensory trip to ancient Rome by Philly Touch 
Tours, a company that specializes in making art and history museums 
accessible to blind and visually impaired people.
Tour guides for the day were Philly Touch Tours Director Trish Maunder, a 
professional museum educator and parent of a blind daughter, and Katherine 
Allen, a Touch Tours program manager as well as someone who is personally 
experiencing vision loss.
The NFBNJ Sports & Recreation Division hosted the event and provided snacks 
and lunch. Philly Touch Tours offers a tour of the ancient Roman collection 
at the Penn Museum in Philadelphia. For today, they prepared a special 
travelling program.
Trish and Katherine passed around replicas from the museum’s collection of 
everyday objects used in the daily life of ancient Rome. Participants also 
had the option of donning toga-style draped tops to add to their experience 
of being in another time.
Participants seemed to very much enjoy the total accessibility of the 
presentation. In the photo above, Tony Santiago and his wife Jocelyn explore 
a raised line drawing. In addition, items related to ancient history were 
touchable, producing some sound, taste-able or sniff-able. Examples of the 
latter were cotton balls stored in airtight film cans and sprayed with 
lavender essence (used in personal bathing) and garum, a powerfully-scented 
condiment made of rotted fish and a precursor of today’s Worcestershire 
sauce.
Katherine focused on the lifestyle of Roman soldiers who expanded the Roman 
Empire as far north as Scotland and as far east as modern-day Saudi Arabia. 
Each soldier was issued an expansive red cloak called a sagum. It was a 
multipurpose item, used for protection against weather, a sleeping blanket 
or even a cover for an injury.
Among its programs, Philly Touch Tours offers a hands-on visit to the 
historic Italian Market in South Philly with plenty of opportunities for 
tasting Italian ingredients and learning about the development of the market 
neighborhood. Customized tours also are available in the Philadelphia-New 
Jersey area.


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BELL® IN A NUTSHELL
by Mary Jo Partyka and Ellen Sullivan
The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey is preparing to launch 
its seventh Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning (BELL®) Academy. 
This year’s Academy is in honor of Barbara Shalit, a teacher of the visually 
impaired for many years who was devoted to the establishment and growth of 
New Jersey’s BELL Academy and served as its teacher for the first three 
years. Barbara passed away in 2019.
The goal of the BELL Academy is to provide children with instruction in 
Braille and nonvisual skills through fun, hands-on learning activities and 
adventures. This year, we will encourage our students to cultivate their 
knowledge of music, engage in physical activity, interact in their 
communities and exceed their expectations of their arithmetic abilities.
Due to the efforts of Linda Melendez, President Ruffalo and First Lady Judy, 
we have a new venue for this year’s BELL Academy:

Where:      Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 357 New Brunswick Ave, Perth Amboy 08861
When:       June 29 through July 10, 2020
Time:         9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This new location will offer the children access to many of the wonderful 
facilities of the YMCA including a pool. We do want to make a shout out of 
thanks to Dr. Ruiz and the Puerto Rican Association of Human Development 
(PRAHD) who welcomed us at their facilities in Perth Amboy for six years and 
even helped us identify this new facility.
We have applied for three grants and are optimistic that things will work 
out in our favor. In addition, when our dear friend and fellow Federationist 
Jerry Fontenelli passed away in December 2019, his family asked that, in 
lieu of flowers, donations be made to NFBNJ in his memory. Jerry was an avid 
fund raiser himself and an ardent supporter of the BELL Academy. The funds 
raised in Jerry’s honor are dedicated with pride in support of the BELL 
Academy and will be used to fund the Jerry Fontenelli “Day at the Keansburg 
Beach” (with a water park activity!).
Mary Jo Partyka is our BELL coordinator again this year and will work 
diligently with our Braille teacher to plan fun and exciting lessons for the 
children. As for our students … yes, we are busy recruiting and expect many 
of those who participated last year to attend again.
So, help us to get the word out: NFBNJ BELL Academy 2020 ROCKS! All blind 
and vision impaired children in New Jersey (ages 4 through 12) are welcome 
to participate for FREE!
To learn more about the NFB New Jersey BELL Academy, visit 
https://nfb.org/bell-academy or contact the New Jersey BELL Academy 
Coordinator Mary Jo Partyka at 609-888-5459 or at choirnfb at gmail.com.


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ALL GOOD THINGS
By C. P. McKenna
Editor’s Note: Pat McKenna, Esq., is the Director of Employment Services for 
the Family Resource Network. As such, he is responsible for the Employment 
Development Guidance and Engagement (EDGE) program, which supports 
transition-age youth.
I sit on the floor, my mind and heart racing. I wait. I sit, and I wait, and 
I try not to think. Try not to think of my beautiful dog, my wonderful dog, 
my dog who has so loyally guided me for nearly nine years My partner and 
companion, with me nearly every moment, of every day for all that time. He 
was with me when my wife and I were married, and with me when we brought our 
first son home from the hospital. I try not to think of his devotion, and 
his hard work, and the number of times he's navigated me through new and 
sometimes intimidating environments. Subway systems, new airports and 
cities, through the snow, and thunderstorms. Traveling independently, 
safely, with such confidence and peace of mind has been such a gift.
I try not to think of his fur, and his ears, and how he’s been such a 
reassuring presence, by my side, or at my feet. Because it’s over, and too 
much thinking might be more than I can handle right now, sitting here, on 
the floor, without him.
It’s nearly nine years since I first met him.  Since the several week 
required residency at The Seeing Eye, an essential step in learning to 
travel with a new dog. During that stay, we were trained to work together 
and so began a new partnership, a partnership that lasted nearly nine years. 
Nine very fast years.
Then, he got old, and slow. He was quick to lie down, and not quick to get 
back up. The vet said there was a heart thing, “I don't want you to worry, 
it’s not really a big deal. We’ll keep an eye on it. But, this dog should be 
retired. And he is 10, going on 11. It’s time.”
I was devastated. And yet, this was a moment I always knew would come.
At home I apologized that I was retiring him, and thanked him for all his 
love and hard work.
Hugging him close, reminiscing, “Remember that time we got locked out of our 
hotel in Rochester in a thunder storm? Or in LA, when you reversed course 
and got us back to the curb when that emergency vehicle ran the red? Or when 
the train stopped and the doors opened onto nothing, and I told you forward 
and you refused? Or when we met that clown at the bus stop? Or at that fried 
chicken place in Louisville when the counter guy spilled 32 ounces of soda 
on your head?”
He sat and listened. He was a great listener. But he didn't understand when 
I left, left without him. “I’m sorry,” I said, “You aren’t my guide dog any 
more. I’m so sorry.”
Sitting on that floor, not having him there, feeling like part of me was 
missing.
And then, finally, a soft knock on my dorm room door. The instructor enters, 
and not alone.
“So I want to introduce you to your new friend…”
Words continue to happen, something about size and weight, breed and color, 
and I’m hearing none of it because my new Seeing Eye dog is licking my face.
A few parting somethings, and the instructor leaves. And not a moment too 
soon as this is a powerful moment, an emotional moment, meeting the dog that 
might actually save my life one day. The dog that will guide me to work, and 
guide me as I take my kids to school. The dog that will sleep by my bed, and 
be by my side no matter what the weather.
The fur is soft, the ears perfect. We sit on the floor together.
“Hello. Am I going to love you the way I loved your predecessor?
“Can I trust you with my life?
“We're going to be together a lot you and me. All the time, every day. And 
there's a lot of guiding work to do. You up for this? Are you and I going to 
be best friends?”
I’m licked once, twice, tail thumping the floor.
“I think so, too.”

Next Article
>From the Archives – Fall 2013
A TRIBUTE TO SOMEONE ELSE
Author Unknown
     We were saddened to learn recently of the death of one of our most 
valued acquaintances, Someone Else.  Someone’s passing created a vacancy 
that will indeed be difficult to fill.
Else was with us for many years and for every one of those years did far 
more than a normal person’s share of work. Whenever leadership was needed,
this wonderful person was looked to to bring results. “Someone Else can work 
with that group,” we all said.
Whenever there was a job to do, one name was on every list: Someone Else! 
And it was common knowledge that Someone Else was generous toward volunteer 
organizations. If there was a financial need, everyone just assumed that
Someone Else would make up the difference.
Were the truth known, we all expected far too much of Someone Else. Now 
Someone Else is gone! We wonder what we are going to do. Someone Else left a 
model to follow, but we wonder WHO is going to do all those things that 
Someone Else did?


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Reflections on the 2nd Annual New Jersey Regional Braille Challenge
By Monique Coleman
Editor’s Note: Monique has been a teacher of the visually impaired in both 
private and public school settings for more than 18 years. In 2016, she 
started VISTAS Education Partners in an effort to reach more students in 
need of 21st Century, learner-centered instruction. Monique holds a National 
Library Service literary braille transcribing certification and is currently 
a doctoral candidate at Rutgers University. She lives in Highland Park, NJ 
with her husband and three sons. She is an active member of her community 
serving on the Board of Education and several community organizations.
The NFBNJ and VISTAS Education Partners teamed up to host the 2nd Annual New 
Jersey Regional Braille Challenge February 22 in Highland Park. Over several 
months, our team of blind and sighted educators, advocates and mentors 
planned a full day of education, information and inspiration for young 
braille readers and their families.
Thanks to promotional support from the NJ Commission for the Blind and 
Visually Impaired and the Talking Book & Braille Center, the number of 
participants doubled from last year to 15 braille readers, pictured below, 
ranging in age from 8-16 and hailing from various public schools across the 
state and St. Joseph’s School for the Blind.
On the day of the event, as the young scholars began arriving at 9 a.m., 
their youthful energy filled the building with excitement and set the tone 
for a lively day. After a brief opening ceremony, the contestants split into 
grade-level groups and began their morning contests. They were tested on 
fundamental braille skills such as reading comprehension, spelling, speed 
and accuracy, proofreading, and charts and graphs. The two youngest groups 
took three contests, while the older groups completed four. All contests 
were proctored by volunteer teachers of the visually impaired.
Meanwhile, parents attended workshops presented by Charles McKenna and 
Connor Mullin of the EDGE program (orientation and mobility) and Carol 
Castellano, a founding member of Parents of Blind Children-NJ (fostering 
independence). After a festive lunch and social hour, afternoon workshops 
were presented by Joe Ruffalo (collaboration) and Elisa Dahill (parental 
advocacy). Elisa is a blind parent of a high school junior who is visually 
impaired.
Braille, art and science also converged at the event. An artist drew tactile 
portraits, DJ Blind Wonder provided musical entertainment, and an 
interactive, accessible drum circle was offered. Hands-on science activities 
were provided by Dr. Dan Steinberg and students from Princeton University.
Meanwhile, volunteers were busy scoring the contests in a separate room. 
Scoring is based on national guidelines and requires prior training. Most of 
the contests are multiple choice answers, but the writing contest require a 
meticulous, symbol-by-symbol review. In each grade level, a top scorer is 
determined and all scores are entered into a score sheet for review by the 
National Braille Challenge.
Once scoring was complete, the stage was set for the closing ceremony. A 
musical selection by Naquela Wright, vice president of Eyes Like Mine, was 
followed by inspirational words from Ida Behrini, a software engineer at JP 
Morgan Chase, and Dr. Bernice Davis, executive director of NJ CBVI. Peter 
Walters, a nuclear physicist, delivered the keynote address, describing his 
adjustment to blindness as a teenager and how he forged ahead with his 
college and career goals. The awards presentation followed, with former and 
current Braille Challenge national finalists Breanna Murray and Kaleigh 
Brendle joining me in presenting each participant with a certificate and 
prizes.
Special thanks to Annemarie Cooke who, via social media, asked for funds in 
honor of her birthday and raised $740 for this program. Another $1,200 was 
raised through a GoFundMe page, and additional contributions came from the 
WaWa Foundation, Target Foundation and a local Dunkin Donuts.
By all accounts shared by those in attendance, the day demonstrated the 
power of successful collaboration. The NFBNJ-VISTAS partnership accomplished 
our goal of creating a special experience that promoted braille literacy, 
independence and life success for blind/visually impaired youth and that 
also provided a memorable event for all who attended: the children, 
families, volunteers and NFB members. I look forward to an even more 
incredible experience in future NJ Regional Braille Challenge events!


Next Article

Flying with a REAL ID
REAL ID start date extended to 10/1/2021
Due to circumstances resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the national 
emergency declaration, the Department of Homeland Security has extended the 
REAL ID enforcement start date to October 1, 2021.
Beginning October 1, 2021, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will 
need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license/ID, passport or another federally 
approved form of identification to fly within the United States. Real ID 
compliant cards have a star in the upper right of the card.
How to get a Real ID
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->If your license/ID is 
expiring in less than 3 months, go to Motor Vehicle with your required 
documents between the 5th and 20th of any month before it expires.
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->If your license/ID is not 
expiring in 3 months, make an appointment.
To validate your identity, you must bring the following: proof of your 
social security number, proof of your residential address and proof of your 
identification. For detailed information on these proofs, go to 
https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/realid/


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In Memory of Barbara Shalit
By Carol Castellano
Editor’s Note: When my dear friend Barbara Shalit passed away last November, 
the world lost a bright light. Barbara came into my life 24 years ago when 
she and several other teachers and blind people evaluated my son Jon for 
braille education. Over the many years since then, our relationship evolved 
into a friendship. Barbara was one of the most thoughtfully inquisitive 
people I know. She and I would brainstorm “outside the box” for hours, 
fueled by each step of our creativity. Several years ago, she, Jon and I 
developed an introductory braille curriculum for deafblind. We were 
considering remote teaching options when she became ill two years ago. Now, 
I think of her often, missing her creativity, quick wit, sensitivity to 
humanity, her warmth and kindness. In the next two articles and poem, Carol 
Castellano, Pat McKenna and Amy Albin share their memories of Barbara.
On November 5, 2019 our good friend Barbara Shalit passed away. Barbara was 
a Braille teacher extraordinaire. She made sure her students learned not 
only the Braille code, but also how to type, how to read charts and graphs, 
and how to examine illustrations in order to gain full tactile literacy. 
Barbara’s article on how to develop these skills in children appears in a 
recent edition of Future Reflections magazine.
Barbara was the first person my family met from the New Jersey Commission 
for the Blind and Visually Impaired when our daughter Serena was just an 
infant over 30 years ago, so she’s been in our lives for Serena’s whole 
lifetime. Over the years Barbara and I became colleagues and friends, as so 
many other Federationists have, too. In the early years, she would photocopy 
articles from journals she thought we would be interested in and bring them 
to us to read. In the later years, we would meet at the diner once a month 
or so to discuss ideas, inventions and issues in the blindness field. 
Another NJ family who benefited immeasurably from Barbara’s creativity and 
dedication were the Gabrys. Their son Jon is both blind and deaf. When he 
was a young student, Barbara learned sign language so that she could 
directly communicate with him. She worked with mom Kathy to actually create 
a curriculum which would provide true literacy for young Jon. Later when our 
kids were grown, my family, Barbara and her husband Skipp Tullen and the 
Gabry family would have dinner together and watch with love and pride as our 
children communicated with each other using refreshable Braille.
Barbara was a true friend of the Federation, of parents and of blind 
children. She presented workshops at the state and national levels, helped 
plan Parents of Blind Children-NJ events, taught at our NFB BELL Academy, 
co-edited our state newsletter, The Sounding Board, for years, taught the 
Braille classes for our future teachers of blind students, and volunteered 
in countless ways to assist blind children and adults.  She will be 
profoundly missed.


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CLEAR SKIES
By Charles Pat McKenna
Editor’s Note: Charles Pat McKenna lives in central New Jersey with his wife 
and two sons. Pat is an attorney, and is currently working with his fourth 
Seeing Eye dog.
I was four. Happy and inquisitive. And four. Playing in the woods near my 
home, the sun bright, the sky clear. Then, something happened. Something 
bad. I was sick. There was a hospital room, and machines, very serious 
doctors, and very sad relatives. I never thought I’d be able to go home 
again. A view, I learned years later, that was unanimously shared.
But I did. Weak and compromised. Thin and fragile. But finally able to go 
home. Happy to be better, but not unscathed. Something had changed. The sun 
wasn’t so bright. The sky wasn’t so clear. I was blind.
What does a blind kid do?
Five. And blind. Kindergarten to start in the fall.
We lived in a wooded part of New Jersey. Me. Single mom. Kid brother. Unsure 
what would come next. Uncertain if I would even be able to go to school.
What does a blind kid do?
“Pat,” my mom calls. “She’s here.”
I join my mom at the front door. Outside, the sound of a gentle, late summer 
rain. Our guest is tall and polite. She has a soft, pleasant voice and seems 
very kind. She sounds smart, and wise, and elegant, and reassuring.
“My name is Ms. Shalit,” she says. “I’m going to be your braille teacher.”
She was part of something called the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and 
Visually Impaired, and she would teach me braille, as well as the other 
essential skills I would need to succeed. Skills that would build my 
independence, my confidence. We would work together at home, and at school, 
and she told me, “Yes, of course you’ll be going to kindergarten.”
I sit at my mom’s dining room table and we talk. Ms. Shalit works with other 
kids who can’t see, too, and she likes to travel, and she has a big dog 
named Clyde. “Here,” she says. I recognize the sound of paper. “Feel this.” 
A sheet of thick paper is on the cool, smooth surface before me. “It’s the 
braille alphabet.” A gentle touch guides my left hand to the paper’s top 
left corner. “Start here and move right.” I do, encountering small clusters 
of bumps. I feel and explore each grouping.
“How did you make these bumps?” I ask.
“Dots,” she corrects. “And I’ll show you. There are two ways we can make 
braille letters.”
Fascinated and utterly absorbed, I run my fingers over the dots again and 
again. Ms. Shalit quietly steps back and has a conversation with my mom that 
I’m not supposed to overhear, but I interrupt, because I’m curious, and I’m 
five.
“Is this letter a T?” indicating a grouping of 3 dots, two side by side over 
a third.
“No,” she says. “That’s an M. Here, this one is a T.”
My hand is gently guided to a different character. She shows me braille 
numbers 1 through 10. Mom makes her tea, and we talk long into the 
afternoon, before, ultimately, “Well,” she says, “we should probably wrap up 
for today. I’ll be seeing you again in a week. Do you have any last 
questions for me?”
I do, the first of what would be so, so many questions. Ms. Shalit didn’t 
just teach me braille, but how to be independent, how to be confident.
Over the months and years that followed, we would sit together at home, or 
in an unused room in my elementary school, and cover a multitude of 
different subjects. We would practice writing and reading braille, and 
orientation and mobility, and discuss the planets in the solar system, and 
the impact of the last ice age. We studied basic arithmetic using paper 
clips as props, and talked about France, and why leaves changed their color. 
I learned how to use a Perkins braille writer, and a slate and stylus, and 
how to figure out the answers to questions like, “How do I know when a word 
starts with a silent K?”
She showed me how to order books from Recording for the Blind (RFB, which 
has since been renamed Learning Ally), and we read about the giant pacific 
octopus, the function of chloroplasts and the contributions of founding 
fathers such as John Hancock. She taught me how to use a manual typewriter, 
and a talking calculator, and the difference between an atom and a molecule.
Sometimes we met in an empty classroom, smelling of chalk dust, art supplies 
and sneakers, and other times at my house, sitting for long and fascinating 
hours at my mom’s dining room table, Clyde waiting patiently in her car. 
Once she came to the house for a lesson with her leg in a complicated cast, 
the result of a bad skiing accident.
And the lessons continued. Through hot summer days, winter snow storms and 
even a power outage, we would meet to review Grade 2 braille and the Nemeth 
Code and to practice the multiplication tables. Wooden models, raised line 
drawings and a tactile globe made it possible for me to learn about the 
geography of each of the 50 states and the locations of the Tropics of 
Cancer and Capricorn, and to discern, “How big is the Amazon?” Using sets of 
3D models, we studied geometric shapes like the rhombus, the cone and the 
octahedron, which was my favorite. And I always had more questions.
“Why do the days grow shorter in the fall and longer in the spring?”
“Do all birds migrate?”
“For a word like (other): Do I write that in braille using the (the) 
contraction followed by (R), or by using the (TH) contraction followed by 
the (ER) contraction?”
Ms. Shalit was my teacher of the blind and visually impaired (TVI) through 
the end of fourth grade. A guide, a mentor, a light that came at a time in 
my life when one was needed most. She was the definitive force, teaching me 
the skills I needed to be independent, to be confident.
That first visit is still fresh in my mind … a good visit, but my 
unaccustomed fingers are numb from having been run over the same braille 
characters so many times. A few dots are a little flatter than they were 
before. Outside, it’s clearing, the rain having moved on. She finishes her 
tea, returns the cup to the kitchen counter and collects her things.
She stands in the open front doorway. Outside the air smells clean.
“I’ll be seeing you again in a week. Any last questions for me before I go?”
“Yes,” I say. “What can a blind kid do?”
“Anything,” she says. “Anything.”

Next Article
THE LOVE YOU SHARE WILL ALWAYS BE THERE
By Amy Albin
Editor’s Note: Amy Albin, a junior at Montclair State University majoring in 
psychology, was a 2019 national scholarship finalist at the NFB’s National 
Convention Amy wrote this poem in honor of Barbara, her longtime teacher and 
friend. It was sung by the Harmonium Choir at Barbara’s memorial service.
You are my earth,
Like solid ground,
Your character firm,
Your wisdom sound.
My feet are planted on this earth,
Ready to walk to a new destination.

You are my fire,
Whose heart burns bright,
Your knowledge guides me
To know what’s right.
I light a candle in your name,
Filled with admiration.

You are my air,
Who gives me room,
Like a flower
To bud and bloom.
And when I’m lost I stop and breathe,
Then I know where I’m going.

My earth, fire, water and air,
The love you share will always be there.

Next Article
AN INVITATION TO JOIN THE DIABETIC COMMITTEE
By Ed Godfrey & Angela Perone, Chair & Co-Chair of the NFBNJ Diabetic 
Committee
The NFBNJ’s Diabetic Committee invites anyone with an interest in diabetes 
to join us. Our goals are to share and educate, motivate, teach and learn 
from each other. Guest speakers at our monthly conference call meetings 
discuss topics like managing your diabetes, diet, exercise, motivation, 
accessible glucose meters, insulin pumps, glucose control monitoring 
systems, medication, legislative issues and more. You’re also invited to 
join our listserv: http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/njabs-talk_nfbnet.org 
or the NFB’s diabetes talk listserv: 
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org
At the state convention in November we will have a special event for our 
blind diabetic participants. To receive the date and time of our meetings or 
for more information, contact Ed Godfrey at 856-628-3657 or 
edgodfrey1957 at gmail.com or Angela Perone at 848-209-9465 or 
ang345x at gmail.com

Next Article
SPRING CLEANING? CONSIDER THE NFB FOR YOUR DISCARDS & VEHICLES
For many, springtime means cleaning out closets and cupboards. What to do 
with all that good stuff that still has lots of life? Donate it to the NFB! 
Call GreenDrop for a pickup, and your treasures will gain a new life. The 
funds raised through GreenDrop go to the NFB’s general fund to support 
programs for blind STEM students, veterans and seniors, as well as our 
ongoing efforts to improve equality for the blind.
In apartment complexes or condos, GreenDrop will, with management approval, 
place a large blue plastic box in the lobby, community room or club house 
where residents can drop off gently used items. As with all donations, “NFB” 
must be written on all your donated bags and boxes to be sure we get credit 
for your donation.
A listing of accepted items can be found at www.gogreendrop.org. To schedule 
a pickup, call 1-888-944-DROP (3767) or visit www.gogreendrop.org. To drop 
off in person, check the website locations in Cherry Hill, Metuchen or 
Springfield. For an apartment building or condo program, contact NFBNJ’s 
GreenDrop coordinator Linda DeBerardinis at 856-735-5559 or 
ljdeber3 at comcast.net. Questions may also be directed to NFB GreenDrop 
coordinator Bridget Burke at 410-659-9314, x2271 or GreenDrop at nfb.org.

Vehicle Donation Program
Vehicles donated to the NFB are sold through Vehicles for Charity. The funds 
raised are then used to distribute free white canes, help blind children 
access educational services and more. To donate, call 855-659-9314 or visit 
www.nfb.org/get-involved/ways-give/vehicle-donations. New Jersey’s Vehicle 
Donations coordinator is Andrew Rees: 908-616-3477 or amrees567 at gmailcom. 
You can also contact the NFB Vehicle Donations coordinator Pattie Chang at 
410-659-9314 x2422 or pchang at nfb.org.


Next Article

TECH TALK TIDBITS: DID YOU KNOW?
By Jane Degenshein
Podcasts are audio presentations that can be downloaded or streamed from the 
Internet to devices from which people can listen at their leisure. It’s kind 
of like Talk Radio: tune in and listen to something of interest.
Podcasts are available on almost any subject and can be heard on any device 
that connects to the Internet. A podcatcher app is used for searching and 
listening to podcasts. The podcatcher app can also automatically download 
podcasts that are regularly broadcasted (daily, weekly or monthly). Here’s 
where to find a podcatcher:
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->In iOS: It’s a built-in app 
simply called Podcast. It should be on the home screen, or ask Siri to "Open 
Podcast."
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->In the App Store: Overcast or 
Downcast
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->In windows: An accessible 
podcatcher can be found at:
https://www.webbie.org.uk/accessiblepodcatcher/
There are thousands of podcasts, but here are a few that are blindness and 
tech related:
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->AppleVis Apple Accessibility
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->FSCast is Freedom Scientific’s 
official podcast
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->Hadley Presents offers a 
variety of blindness-related podcasts
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->iSee David Woodbridge Blind 
Technology blog
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->Dot-to-Dot Amazon Echo
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->Mosen At Large, with Jonathan 
MosenTTJ Talk (The Tech Juggernaut)
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->9to5Mac, the latest Apple 
news
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->Apple WatchCast, all the news 
on the Apple watch
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->Blind Bargains
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->Mystic Access, also offers 
subscribers free and paid classes
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->the Stiritup podcast hosted 
by Cliff Miller where subjects like technology and sports are discussed and 
guest speakers are featured
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->Braille Monitor
<!--[if !supportLists]-->·       <!--[endif]-->National Federation of the 
Blind Presidential Releases
If you find your iPhone battery is draining too quickly, you may want to 
check out some of the 17 tips and tricks in this article to improve the 
situation: 
https://geeksmodo.com/how-to-improve-ios-13-battery-life-on-iphone-17-tips-a
nd-tricks-you-need-to-know/

Next Article

RECIPES
AUNT MARIE’S CHICKEN & SAUSAGE
Submitted by Carol Castellano
This recipe is a favorite in my husband’s family.  Amounts do not need to be 
precise and can be easily raised or lowered according to the size of your 
crowd. Serves 6 – 8.
Ingredients:

6 chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless
3 Italian sausage links, cut into thirds
3 large potatoes, cut into small chunks
3 large green peppers, cut into wide slices
1 large onion, each half cut into fourths
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
4 garlic cloves diced, or garlic powder
Basil
Oregano
 Method:
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.    <!--[endif]-->Preheat oven to 350 degrees
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.    <!--[endif]-->Spray an oven pan with cooking 
spray
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.    <!--[endif]-->Partially cook potato chunks by 
boiling or microwaving for about 5 minutes (they should be a little soft)
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.    <!--[endif]-->Place chicken and sausage 
pieces into pan. Use a large enough pan to leave a little space between 
chicken and sausages pieces.  Add potato, pepper and onion pieces between 
and around chicken and sausage pieces.  Make only one layer; do not pile up.
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.    <!--[endif]-->Drizzle generously with olive 
oil
<!--[if !supportLists]-->6.    <!--[endif]-->Sprinkle on salt, pepper, 
garlic pieces or powder, basil and oregano
<!--[if !supportLists]-->7.    <!--[endif]-->Place in oven and bake for 
approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (less time for boneless thighs) or till 
chicken and sausage are thoroughly cooked
<!--[if !supportLists]-->8.    <!--[endif]-->Serve with a green salad and 
Italian bread


Next Article
NFBNJ CONTACT INFORMATION
National Federation of the Blind National Office
   President                              Mark Riccobono   410-659-9314 
officeofthepresident at nfb.org
NFB State Affiliate
   President                              Joseph Ruffalo      973-743-0075 
nfbnj1 at verizon.net
   1st Vice President                Linda Melendez    732-421-7063 
lindamelendez220 at gmail.com


   2nd Vice President               Mary Jo Partyka   609-888-5459 
choirnfb at gmail.com
Secretary                              Ellen Sullivan         302-658-2268 
ems553 at comcast.net
   Treasurer                              Andrew Rees         908-616-3477 
amrees567 at gmail.com
Board Members                  Annemarie Cooke   609-859-4084 
aec732 at gmail.com
                                                   Linda DeBerardinis 
856-735-5559   ljdeber3 at comcast.net
                                                   Jane Degenshein 
973-736-5785      jdegen16 at comcast.net 
Mary Fernandez      732-857-7004 
mailto:mary.fernandez at dukeedu
                                                   Veronica Gaspa 
434-989-1868      vee.gaspa at gmail.com
                                                                Zoraida 
Krell                201-439-0120               krellbz at gmail.com


NFBNJ Chapters – Meeting dates, times & available at www.nfbnj.org
   At Large                                Joe Ruffalo 
973-743-0075   Nfbnj1 at verizon.net
   Capital                                   Mary Jo Partyka   609-888-5459 
choirnfb at gmail.com
   Central Jersey                      Mac Biggers          801-916-9753 
macbiggers at yahoo.com
   Garden State                       Ryan Stevens        856-520-0016 
RYSteve at comcast.net
   Northeast                             Dan Facchini         201-906-8655 
danfb at verizon.net
   Northern                               Rick Fox 
973-743-6107   richardfox1 at comcast.net
   South Jersey Shore                     Phil Harrison         609-788-0890 
pbharrison39 at comcast.net
NFBNJ Divisions
Blind Students                     Jonathan Zobek    609-216-0181 
jrzobek at gmail.com
Parents of Blind Children  Carol Castellano   973-377-0976 
blindchildren at verizon.net
Senior Blind                          Jane Degenshein  973-736-5785 
Jdegen16 at comcast.net
Sports & Recreation                  Linda Melendez    732-421-7063 
lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
   Technology                           Jane Degenshein  973-736-5785 
Jdegen16 at comcast.net
Programs, Projects & Committees


Adopt Adaptive Equipment       Joe Ruffalo             973-743-0075 
Nfbnj1 at verizon.net
BELL Academy                     Mary Jo Partyka   609-888-5459 
choirnfb at gmail.com
Blind Children’s Resource Center   Carol Castellano   973-377-0976 
blindchildren at verizon.net
Blind Merchants                      Dan Facchini          201-906-8655 
danfb at verizon.net
Blind Parents                             Joanna Mallard       201-354-0098 
joannmallard at gmail.com
Braille Mentoring Program   Mary Jo Partyka   609-888-5459 
choirnfb at gmail.com
Diabetic Committee              Ed Godfrey              862-628-3657 
edgodfrey1957 at gmail.com
Fundraising/Grant Writing   Ellen Sullivan         302-658-2268 
ems553 at comcast.net
GreenDrop                           Linda DeBerardinis  856-735-5559 
Ljdeber3 at comcast.net
Guide Dog Committee         Dan Facchini          201-906-8655 
danfb at verizon.net
Legislative Director            Ryan Stevens        856-520-0016 
RYSteve at comcast.net
                                                   Anthony Lanzilotti 
609-361-3038         Tti777 at gmail.com
Liability Insurance              Joe Ruffalo             973-743-0075 
Nfbnj1 at verizon.net
                                                Linda Melendez 
732-421-7063   lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
Membership Engagement Linda Melendez  732-421-7063 
lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
NFB-NEWSLINE®                 Jane Degenshein  973-736-5785 
Jdegen16 at comcast.net
PAC Plan Coordinator        Mac Biggers          801-916-9753 
macbiggers at yahoo.com
Parliamentarian                  Ryan Stevens        856-520-0016 
RYSteve at comcast.net
Public Relations/Press Corps      Annemarie Cooke   609-859-4084 
aec732 at gmail.com
                                                Mary Jo Partyka 
609-888-5459   choirnfb at gmail.com
Resolutions Committee     Ryan Stevens        856-520-0016 
RYSteve at comcast.net
Scholarship Committee     Evangelia Stone    917-570-3166 
EvangeliaStone at gmail.com
Social Media Coordinator Zoraida Krell          201-638-3418 
krellbz at gmail.com
Sounding Board                  Kathy Gabry          201-998-9427 
Specialk38 at aol.com
                                                Annemarie Cooke 
609-859-4084   aec732 at gmail.com
                                                Mary Jo Partyka 
609-888-5459   choirnfb at gmail.com
Spanish Committee                   Rose Santiago            201-892-6946 
mailto:rosa.santiago901 at gmailcom
Transit Committee             Linda Melendez    732-421-7063 
lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
Vehicle Donation Program     Andrew Rees             908-616-3477 
amrees567 at gmail.com
Webmaster                          Brian Mackey        610-750-6765 
mailto:Bmackey88 at gmail.com
White Cane Committee     Jane Degenshein  973-736-5785 
Jdegen16 at comcast.net
                                              Ann Marie Harris  856-589-8747 
Lovey1160 at gmail.com
Deadline for the Fall 2020 issue: September 15, 2020
CHECK US OUT ON THE WEB AT
www.nfbnj.org        www.blindchildren.org
To receive The Sounding Board and other information via e-mail,
please contact Ellen Sullivan at ems553 at comcast.net

End of Magazine - Thank you for reading!

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