[NFBNJ] Convention Agenda posted in the body of this email
Linda Melendez
lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
Fri Oct 20 17:00:00 UTC 2023
For your convenience the convention agenda is posted in the body of the
email; formatting may not be correct.
*The 47th Annual State Convention*
*National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey*
*IT BEGINS WITH US!*
Thursday through Sunday November 9, 10, 11, & 12, 2023
*Crowne Plaza Edison*
2055 Lincoln Highway
Edison, NJ 08817
*Linda Melendez, President*
908-590-1747
*president at nfbnj.org* <president at nfbnj.org> *www.nfbnj.org*
<http://www.nfbnj.org/>
Who We Are & What We Do
The National Federation of the Blind, the oldest and largest organization
of and for the blind in the US, is made up of blind/visually impaired
people of all ages, and their families and friends. We help newly blind
people adjust to eyesight loss, assist parents and teachers of blind
children, and promote the full participation and integration of blind
people in our communities.
Our activities include:
· Assisting blind persons in acquiring the skills of independence
and developing confidence in themselves
· Supporting parents and teachers of blind children with information,
mentoring, role modeling, and training
· Preparing blind students for careers and self-sufficiency through
mentoring, training, and academic scholarships
· Encouraging blind seniors to continue to live active, meaningful
lives
· Advocating for policies that eliminate discrimination, promote
civil rights, and guarantee equal access to high quality educational and
rehabilitation programs
· Sponsoring information campaigns and legislative action at the state
and national levels
· Educating the public through community activities and publications
Spotlight on the NFB of New Jersey
Since 1976, the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey, an
affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, has been providing
invaluable information and resources to blind/visually impaired people
throughout the state. Our members work together for a brighter tomorrow by
raising expectations for blind people everywhere so that blind people can
live the life they want. Our six chapters meet monthly; committees and
groups meet at various times throughout the year. Please join us — we would
welcome your participation and membership. For more information on the
affiliate, chapters, committees, programs, and projects, visit www.nfbnj.org
Live the Life You Want
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. Together with love, hope, and
determination, we transform dreams into reality.
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 policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its
constitution.
Integrity and Respect
To allow all attendees the chance to benefit from all aspects of the
convention, we are committed to providing a harassment-free environment for
everyone. We appreciate your assistance in cultivating an atmosphere in
which participants from diverse backgrounds can learn, network, and share
with each other in an environment of mutual respect. Thank you for doing
your part to contribute to our community and the high expectations we
strive to maintain. To read the NFB Code of Conduct, visit
www.nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
*Become a Convention Sponsor*
Companies and individuals can support the programs and projects of the NFB
of NJ by becoming a convention sponsor. There are four levels of
sponsorship. Get details by clicking the link below. You can use PayPal or
a credit/debit card online or write a check to NFBNJ and mail to Affiliate
Treasurer Annemarie Cooke, 7 Mayfair Road, Southampton, NJ 08088; please
write “Convention Sponsor” in the memo section.
https://nfbnj.org/state-convention/sponsor-registration
Pre-registration Pick-Up and On-Site Registration Studio Room
Thursday, November 9: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Thursday, November 9: 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Friday, November 10: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday, November 11: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
*Special Note: *Linda & Lucas Melendez will be handing out pre-registration
packets from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM on Thursday, November 9 at the back of the
Technology Seminar in the Windsor Ballroom.
Bagged Continental Breakfast Garden Ballroom
You will receive your breakfast coupons when you register at the hotel
(2 coupons per room per day registered). Bagged breakfasts will be the
chef’s choice to include bread, fruit, juice and hot beverages, and will be
available from 7:15 AM – 8:30 AM. Bring your coupon to exchange for a
bagged breakfast. Contact Linda DeBerardinis at 667-256-5131 if you have
extra coupons or need more coupons.
Pre-Paid Box Lunch—Friday and Saturday Garden Ballroom
You will receive your pre-purchased lunch tickets when you pick up your
registration packet. Lunch tickets will be marked for Friday or Saturday.
Pre-paid boxed lunches will be available beginning at noon. Bring the
correct day’s ticket with you to exchange for a pre-paid meal!
Banquet Ticket Exchange Windsor Ballroom
For a smooth seating process, we use a Banquet Ticket Exchange. Bring your
pre-purchased ticket to the ticket exchange table, where you will trade it
in for a ticket with a table number. If you would like to sit with friends,
gather ALL tickets and exchange them together (you must have everyone’s
ticket when you go to the exchange).
Banquet Ticket Exchange Hours
Friday 4:30 - 5:00 PM; Saturday 8:00 AM - 8:25 AM, 12:00 - 12:15 PM, and
5:10 - 5:25 PM. If you do not exchange your ticket, you will be seated
where space is available.
Exhibit Hall—On-Site & Virtual Talmadge Ballroom
Visit our array of vendors to view the many fine products and services
available for those with vision loss. Speak to representatives directly to
have all your questions answered.
You can also view their products online and hear from vendors unable to
attend in person by clicking on the link below from Nov. 1 through Dec. 30.
https://www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/exhibitors-and-sponsors
Pay Affiliate Membership Dues & Participate! Windsor Ballroom
Would you like to become a member of a committee, group, program or project
but are not yet a member of a chapter? Then come pay your dues and become a
member of the NFBNJ affiliate. 8:00 AM – 8:25 AM on Friday. Annual dues are
$10.
Guide Dog Relief Instructions
The guide dog relief area can be found in the courtyard at the back of the
hotel. Beginning from the front desk, facing away from the desk take a left
to find the double doors to get outside. You will be walking on tile, but
when you reach a carpeted texture again, you are at the outside doors.
Please note that if you tell your dog to target the door outside, there is
another set of double doors directly across the lobby leading to the front
exit that your dog may try to find. The front exit has a large covering
over it, so if you see this covering or cars, you are on the wrong side of
the hotel.
When exiting the hotel on the courtyard side, you will encounter two sets
of doors to get outside. Both sets are double doors, so you do not have to
switch sides with your dog unless you want to. When you are heading out of
these doors to go outside, the elevators to get to your room are on your
left side, while the entrance to the Exhibit Hall is on your right side.
Once exiting the doors, one of the 3 trash cans can be found immediately to
your right. If you keep walking straight, you will feel a brick pathway
under your feet. When you feel the brick change to a flat surface, you know
it is time to take a left to find the grass. This is located approximately
40 steps away from the doors. If the flat concrete turns back into a brick
texture, you missed your left and have gone too far. After taking a left on
the sidewalk, you will reach a large grassy area approximately 32 steps to
the light post.
There will be a light post with trash cans on either end of this grassy
courtyard. The courtyard is shaped like a diamond, and there are bushes
around the perimeter. Once you are finished relieving your dog, if you tell
your dog to target the door inside, the double doors are the only option
available. When heading back inside, if you did not locate either trash can
by a light post, there will be a final trash can directly on your left
before entering the hotel again.
Host Chapter & Affiliate 50/50 Raffle
Support the Host Chapter and the Affiliate by purchasing 50/50 tickets, 1
for $10; 3 for $20.
Door Prizes
Door prizes will be drawn for pre-registered conventioneers and announced
throughout the convention; you must be present to win. Donated door prizes
are welcomed and can be given to Ellen Sullivan in the Studio Room during
registration hours.
*Kustom Canes “Your Cane Give” Program *
Studio Room
Wondering what to do with your old cane or tips: “You Cane Give” program
allows you to help us give your used cane to a person far away who needs
it! We need canes in all sizes. Bring them with you to the convention and
drop them off in the Studio Room during registration hours.
Recording and Streaming
We will be recording and streaming the Thursday, November 9, 7:30 PM hybrid
segment, Saturday, Nov. 11 morning and afternoon sessions, and the banquet.
Join sessions virtually with this Zoom link:
https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=MUl1dnZQU1JxMkhUemdCSHZUM21H
<https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=MUl1dnZQU1JxMkhUemdCSHZUM21HUT09> UT09
<https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=MUl1dnZQU1JxMkhUemdCSHZUM21HUT09>
One tap mobile
+13126266799,,6477660103#,,,,*460994# US (Chicago)
+16468769923,,6477660103#,,,,*460994# US (New York)
Dial by your location
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Meeting ID: 647 766 0103
Passcode: 460994
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9
*10:00 AM to 12:30 PM—Pre-registration Pick-Up and On-Site Registration*
*Studio Room*
*10:00 AM to 9:00 PM—Exhibit Hall—On-Site & Virtual **Talmadge Ballroom*
Visit our array of vendors to view the many fine products and services
available for those with vision loss. Speak to representatives directly to
have all your questions answered.
You can also view their products online and hear from vendors unable to
attend in person by clicking on the link below from Nov. 1 through Dec. 30.
https://www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/exhibitors-and-sponsors
1:00 PM to 5:00 PM—Technology Seminar Windsor Ballroom
1:00 PM *Opening Remarks, *Jane Degenshein, Board Member and Technology
Committee Chair
1:10 PM *Resource Panel: A Trove of Gems on the Hadley Website*, Rick
Fox; *Somebody
Out There Has the Answer--the Value of Listservs*, Mary Jo Partyka; *Talk
to Me Using the VO Starter App*, Jane Degenshein
1:55 PM *The Blind User’s Guide to Ridesharing with Uber*, Tracy Carcione
and Ed Godfrey
2:25 PM The Latest on Seeing AI and Envision AI, Andy Smith
2:45 PM* Be My Eyes and the AI Option, *Tony Santiago 3:10 PM* Shopping
with Amazon, *Anne Marie Harris 3:30 PM* Braille Screen Input /Jaws Help, *Rick
Fox
3:55 PM* New Accessibility Features in IOS 17, *Tony Santiago
4:20 PM* Shortcuts, Quick Tips, How-To’s, More*, Tech Team Panel
5:30 PM–Membership & Friendship Appreciation Pizza Party Sponsored by the
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey Windsor Ballroom
Let the NFBNJ show how much you are valued as a member and friend. Join us
for a FREE Pizza Party with beverages sponsored by our affiliate.
6:30 PM to 8:00 PM—Pre-registration Pick-Up and On-Site Registration
*Studio Room*
*7:30 PM–Navigating and Understanding Social Security Basics for the
Blind—Hybrid Session*
*Windsor Ballroom*
Daniel B. Frye, JD., Director of Employment and Professional Development
Programs—Blindness Initiatives—National Federation of the Blind, Concord,
New Hampshire
See Zoom link next page to join virtually.
Join the Social Security Basics session virtually with this Zoom link:
https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=MUl1dnZQU1JxMkhUemdCSHZUM21H
<https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=MUl1dnZQU1JxMkhUemdCSHZUM21HUT09> UT09
<https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=MUl1dnZQU1JxMkhUemdCSHZUM21HUT09>
One tap mobile
+13126266799,,6477660103#,,,,*460994# US (Chicago)
+16468769923,,6477660103#,,,,*460994# US (New York)
Dial by your location
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Meeting ID: 647 766 0103
Passcode: 460994
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10
*7:15 AM to 8:30 AM—Bagged Breakfast Pick-Up **Garden Ballroom*
*8:00 AM to 5:00 PM—Pre-registration Pick-Up & On-Site Registration **Studio
Room*
*8:00 AM to Noon—Exhibit Hall—On-Site & Virtual **Talmadge Ballroom*
Visit our array of vendors to view the many fine products and services
available for those with vision loss. Speak to representatives directly to
have all your questions answered.
You can also view their products online and hear from vendors unable to
attend in person by clicking on the link below from Nov. 1 through Dec. 30.
https://www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/exhibitors-and-sponsors
8:00 AM to 8:25 AM Pay Affiliate Membership Dues & Participate! Windsor
Ballroom
Would you like to become a member of a committee, group, program or project
but are not yet a member of a chapter? Then come pay your dues and become a
member of the NFBNJ affiliate. Annual dues are $10; place your dues in an
envelope with your name and best contact number.
NFBNJ Committee Meetings Windsor Ballroom
*9:00 AM–Diabetic Group*
Clarke King, Board Member
9:40 AM–NJ Association of Senior Blind (NJASB)
Jane Degenshein, Chair
10:20 AM–NJ Association of Blind Technology Users
Jane Degenshein, Chair
11:00 AM–Braille Group
Mary Jo Partyka, Facilitator
11:40 AM–NFBNJ General Membership Meeting
Linda Melendez, NFBNJ President
All are welcome to learn more about affiliate and chapter membership.
Noon to 12:20 PM–Pre-paid Lunch Pick-Up Garden Ballroom
Pick up your pre-paid boxed lunch. YOU MUST BRING YOUR LUNCH TICKET FOR
FRIDAY WITH YOU TO EXCHANGE FOR MEAL!
1:30 PM–Job Seekers Seminar Lincoln Ballroom
Job seekers, attend this seminar! We’ll give you a brief orientation to the
Job Fair, go over logistics and last-minute details, and leave you with the
finishing touches you’ll need to succeed at the Job Fair.
2:30 PM–Job Fair Talmadge Ballroom
Blind and low vision job seekers will have the opportunity to present
themselves to employers who are looking for qualified individuals to hire.
YOU MUST BE PRE-REGISTERED FOR THE JOB FAIR TO ATTEND.
Concurrent Sessions
1:30 PM to 2:45 PM–The Stage for Your Story Windsor Ballroom
Melissa Lomax, Board Member; Employment & Transition Manager, Family
Resource Network
In this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the power of
their own story and how blindness fits in it. We will explore ways to
incorporate their blindness that showcase their talents and dreams.
1:30 PM to 2:45 PM–Find Your Space in the NFB and the NFBNJ! Lincoln
Ballroom
Linda Melendez & Anil Lewis
3:00 PM to 4:30 PM–Voice Over: A New Era of Empowerment Windsor Ballroom
Matt Vollbrecht, Certified Apple Trainer, Owner of the Tech Juggernaut and
long-time friend of our Tech Committee, will demonstrate the Voice Over
capability of our Apple smart devices in new ways. You will
be thrilled at the possibilities, as we explore together, how you can be
empowered to perform tasks you never before thought possible.
3:00 PM to 4:30 PM–Cooking Without Looking Lincoln Ballroom
Carol Castellano, Facilitator, Parents of Blind Children-NJ, & Blind Cooks
Are you afraid to let your blind child get anywhere near the stove? Come
learn about the simple tools and techniques blind people use to cook safely
and deliciously! We'll have demo's and try-it’s if the space allows.
4:30 PM to 5:00 PM–Banquet Exchange Windsor Ballroom
*5:30 PM–Federation Family Meal **Talmadge Ballroom*
Conventioneers who purchased their meal ticket will reconnect and meet new
members and friends to dine and socialize with. YOU MUST BRING A DINNER
TICKET WITH YOU TO RECEIVE YOUR PRE-PURCHASED MEAL!
7:00 PM–Resolutions Committee Meeting Lincoln Ballroom
Ryan Stevens, Chair
Come witness the development of resolutions, which become the policy
statements of NFBNJ. This meeting is open to all, however only committee
members are eligible to vote. Membership voting takes place during Sunday,
Nov 12 Affiliate Business Meeting.
8:15 PM to 11:00 PM–Blind Parent Gift Shower & Federation Fun
Windsor Ballroom
Join us to celebrate our blind parent winner Mary Rose NFBNJ Garden State
Chapter member, then stick around for fellow- ship, music, and cash bar!
Join a team and compete for weekend bragging rights during our Federation
Fun Time! Teams will work fast to answer trivia questions, perform tasks,
and produce songs for one round of a sing down! No need to join a team in
advance—just show up and jump right in!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11
*8:00 AM to 1:00 PM Pre-registration Pick-Up & On-Site Registration **Studio
Room*
*8:00 AM to 8:25 AM–Banquet Exchange **Windsor Ballroom*
*Morning General Session **Windsor Ballroom*
*8:30 AM–Traditional Pre-Convention Music 9:00 AM–Welcome, Call to Order*
Linda Melendez, President, National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
9:05 AM–Opening Ceremonies
Jane Degenshein, NFBNJ Board Member
Pledge of Allegiance
National Federation of the Blind Pledge
Invocation—Jane Degenshein Temple Ner Tamid Moment of Silence
Honoring Veterans
9:20 AM–Introduction of the Scholarship Class of 2023
Lia Stone, Director of Youth Programs, NFBNJ
9:30 AM–Nominating Committee Report
Ryan Stevens, Chair, and Affiliate Parliamentarian
9:40 AM–Presidential Report
Linda Melendez, President, National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
*10:10 AM–National Representative’s Report: It Begins with Us! *Anil Lewis,
Executive Director for Blindness Initiatives, National Federation of the
Blind
10:40 AM–Fishing, Floundering, and Finding One’s Way: Examining When
Blindness Matters
Daniel B. Frye, J.D., Director of Employment and Professional Development
Programs, Blindness Initiatives, National Federation of the Blind
11:00 AM–Fit Break
Nena Chadwick, President NFB of Arkansas
*11:10 AM–National Association of Blind Students Report*
Logan Stenzel, National Association of Blind Students Representative
11:20 AM–NJ Moving Forward Together
Kaylee McGuire, Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services, NJ
Department of Human Services and Dr. Bernice Davis, Executive Director, NJ
Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
11:45 AM–Announcements
*12:00 PM–Adjourn*
*12:00 PM to 12:20 PM– Pre-Paid Lunch Pick-Up **Garden Ballroom*
Pick up your pre-paid boxed lunch. YOU MUST BRING YOUR LUNCH TICKET FOR
SATURDAY WITH YOU TO EXCHANGE FOR MEAL!
12:10 PM to 1:10 PM–NJ Association of Blind Students Gathering
Stelton Board Room–3rd Floor
*12:15 PM–NJ Parents of Blind Children Meet & Talk Session **Windsor
Ballroom*
Carol Castellano, Facilitator
Come meet new people & see old friends at this informal session. We can
talk about your child's education and development, ways to deal with
challenges, and any other things that may be on your mind. This is a safe
zone where you can feel free to complain about problems and brag about
triumphs! Hope to see you there!
12:15 PM–Open Chat Lunch Session
Lincoln Ballroom
Jane Degenshein, Facilitator Grab your lunch and join us!
12:00 PM to 12:15 PM–Banquet Exchange Windsor Ballroom
*Afternoon General Session **Windsor Ballroom*
*1:15 PM–Call to Order & Announcements*
Linda Melendez, President, NFBNJ
1:30 PM–What’s New at the TBBC?
Adam Szczepaniak, Deputy State Librarian & Director, NJ State Library
Talking Book and Braille Center
1:40 PM–Redefining the Possible
Steven McCoy, First Black Deafblind Journalist, Founder, Spoken
Entertainment
2:00 PM-Canes, Guide Dogs & Tech-Tools for Traveling While Blind
Brianna Murray, Tony Santiago, Members and National Rep Anil Lewis, Executive
Director for Blindness Initiatives, NFB
2:40 PM—Get on the PAC Plan, Sign Up Today!
Anil Lewis, Executive Director for Blindness Initiatives, NFB
2:50 PM–Fit Break
Logan Stenzel, National Association of Blind Students Representative
*3:00 PM–Know Your Rights: The First Step in Advocacy*
Melissa Lomax, Board Member, NFBNJ
3:20 PM–Taking Off in Houston
Valarie Frink and Ed Garcia, Members; Lia Stone, Facilitator
3:55 PM-Finding My Footing in the Blindness Community
Mary Rose, Member
4:10 PM-Breaking Out of the Comfort Zone
Elisha Johnson, Member
4:30 PM-Washington Seminar and the NFBNJ Washington Seminar Delegation
Linda Melendez, President NFBNJ
4:45 PM-Announcements and Closing Remarks
Linda Melendez and Anil Lewis
5:00 PM–Adjourn
*5:10 PM to 5:25 PM–Final Banquet Ticket Exchange **Windsor Ballroom*
*7:00 PM–Banquet **Talmadge Ballroom*
YOU MUST BRING YOUR BANQUET EXCHANGE TICKET WITH YOU TO RECEIVE A MEAL!
*Maestra of Ceremonies*—Jane Degenshein, Board Member, NFBNJ; Chair, Senior
and Technology Committees
*Invocation*—Daniel B. Frye, JD., Director, Employment and Professional
Development Programs, Blindness Initiatives, National Federation of the
Blind
*Keynote Address*—Anil Lewis, Executive Director for Blindness Initiatives,
National Federation of the Blind; NFB National Representative
*Recognition of Contributors *to State Scholarships Presentation of State
*Scholarship Awards *— Lia Stone, Director of Youth Programs, NFBNJ
Door prizes & Auction
* SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12*
*8:30 AM–Affiliate Business Meeting—Open to All **Talmadge Ballroom*
Linda Melendez, President, NFBNJ
What We’ve Accomplished & What’s Ahead Chapter Reports
Resolutions Elections Closing Remarks
*Agenda subject to change*
The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey expresses appreciation
to all members and non-members who attended our 47th annual state
convention.
Thank you for coming.
Linda Melendez, President
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey 908-590-1747
president at nfbnj.org
For the list of affiliate board members, chapters, committees, groups, and
programs, please visit the state website at: www.nfbnj.org
Meet our National Representative:
Anil Lewis serves as the Executive Director of Blindness Initiatives for
the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) in Baltimore. He has held many
positions within the Federation, including Director of Advocacy and Policy
and Director of Strategic Communications. In all his work, he seeks to
positively affect the education, employment, and quality of life of all
blind people.
Anil was born in 1964 in Atlanta, Georgia, the third of four children. Both
his older brother and sister became legally blind at an early age from
retinitis pigmentosa. Although he was diagnosed at age nine with retinitis
pigmentosa, his vision was fairly unaffected until age twenty-five. Anil
faced adversity in his childhood education, but eventually became the first
member of his family to graduate from college.
Before he became blind, Anil fairly easily found respectable employment
with wages high above the minimum wage. Then in 1989, while pursuing his
Bachelor of Business Administration in Computer Information Systems at
Georgia State University, he became blind from retinitis pigmentosa. "All
of a sudden a door that had been open to me slammed shut," he recalls.
He became personally acquainted with actual social injustice and
discrimination and committed himself to take action and make a difference.
Anil received blindness skills training while completing his course
requirements for his degree at GSU, quickly learning the alternative skills
of blindness, including Braille, activities of daily living, assistive
technology, and use of the long white cane. Armed with these new skills and
this new determination, he quickly became committed to ensuring that others
in similar situations could get appropriate training and unlimited
opportunities, work he continues to this day.
Anil attended his first NFB convention in Chicago in 1995 and became aware
of the empowering philosophy and tremendous resources of the National
Federation of the Blind. He immediately began to infuse NFB philosophy into
the assistance he provided to others, enabling him to motivate, educate,
and encourage other blind people.
An active member of the NFB, Anil became president of the Atlanta
Metropolitan Chapter of the NFB of Georgia in 2000 and was elected
president of the NFB of Georgia in 2002. In that year he also received the
Kenneth Jernigan Memorial Scholarship, the NFB’s most prestigious award
presented to a blind student, which he used to obtain his Master of Public
Administration from GSU in 2003. That year he was also elected as a member
of the board of directors of the National Federation of the Blind.
In addition to the many awards and commendations he has received for his
work, Anil has also been appointed by governors and a president to
committees which worked to reduce barriers by encouraging the
implementation of public policy securing the rights and promoting the
responsible participation of the disabled as productive citizens.
Anil volunteers as a teacher and mentor for blind students who, due to
limited resources and lack of trained professionals to teach them, are not
empowered with the skills and positive self-concept to pursue their dreams.
In his personal life, Anil says that his proudest accomplishment is his
bright, ambitious son Amari, born in 1997.
National Scholarship Program–Call for Applications Begins Nov. 1
Every year, the National Federation of the Blind awards more than
$120,000 to blind scholars across the fifty states, the District of
Columbia, and Puerto Rico, in recognition of their achievements and
professional aspirations. The scholarship program is our commitment to
academic excellence and leadership among blind students, and each winner is
awarded based on academic excellence, community service, and leadership.
The application process opens November 1. To learn about eligibility and
requirements of the 2023 scholarship program visit this link:
https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-
<https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program>
awards/scholarship-
<https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program>
program
<https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program>
Review the online scholarship application checklist and program FAQs. Let
others know about this program that invests in the future of blind people.
Pre-Authorized Contribution Plan (PAC Plan)
PAC stands for Pre-Authorized Contribution. Each month, the amount you have
designated is automatically deducted from your checking or savings account.
That sum, which may be as little as five dollars, helps fund projects like
the NFB Free White Cane program, and is also used to take care of “rainy
day” expenditures that may arise unexpectedly.
To arrange for PAC Plan contributions, go to www.nfb.org/pac and fill out
the form. The National Center will call you to get payment information. You
can also call 877-635-2711 or email pac at nfb.org to enroll. Donations can be
direct withdrawals from a checking account or charges to a credit card.
For additional information or assistance, contact Annemarie Cooke,
Treasurer, National Federation of the Blind of NJ, at 609-859- 4084, or
aec732 at gmail.com.
Exhibitors and Sponsors
The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey thanks all our
exhibitors and sponsors for your continued support. You help us raise
expectations so that we can live the life we want. Please visit our website
and view the list of this year’s exhibitors and sponsors.
https://www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/exhibitors-and-sponsors
Sponsors: It Begins with Us:
Bestwork Industries for the Blind
Jon Katz, President & CEO
1940 Olney Ave., Suite 200 Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08003
Phone: 856-424-2510 Website: https://bestworkindustries.org
Bestwork Industries for the Blind, Inc. is a private not-for-profit
corporation dedicated to improving the quality of life for people who are
blind by providing training and employment opportunities in a supportive
work environment.
Live The Life You Want:
Melendez Family
NFBNJ Chapters: At Large, Capital, Central Jersey, Garden State, Northern,
Northeast and South Jersey Chapter
NFBNJ Committee: Senor and Technology
Ellen Sullivan
Raising Expectations:
Annemarie Cooke & Doug McCray
Rick Fox and Debbie Bloomer
Mary Jo Partyka
Exhibitors Access Link
1 Penn Plaza East Newark, NJ 07105
Phone: 973-491-4424 Email:
adaservices at njtransit.com Website: Access Link Opens Doors for People with
Disabilities | NJ TRANSIT | New Jersey Transit Corporation | New Jersey
<https://www.njtransit.com/first-run/access-link-opens-doors-people-disabilities>
NJ TRANSIT’s Access Link paratransit service is an important lifeline for
customers with disabilities who travel to work, medical appointments,
recreational and entertainment destinations, shopping, and more. Access
Link provides public transportation for people with disabilities who are
unable to use our existing local bus service.
<https://www.njtransit.com/contact/customer-service>
C-TECH
Charles Cohen, President
2 N. William Street Pearl river, New York 10965
Phone: 845-735-7907 Email: chuck at magnifyit.com
Website: https://www.ctechlowvision.com
C TECH has been providing products and services for the blind & visually
impaired community for over 40 years. We provide a range of products from
hand-held magnifiers to 24" desktop units with speech. C TECH represents
Optelec and OrCam, just to name a few. We also have a selection of
head-mount units. C TECH offers free in-home demonstrations on most
products.
Click here to view C-TECH’s audio/video clip!
<https://nfbnj.org/StateConventionExhibitors_Audio-VideoRecordings/C-TECH.mp4>
JW.org
Steven and Susan Shepard, Representatives
210 Mount Pleasant Ave. Stratford, Connecticut 06615
Phone: 203-450-1670 Email: sshepard487 at gmail.com
Website: http://www.jw.org
We provide Free spiritual materials in formats such as braille, large
print, videos and audio files.
NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Krystal Allen, Representative
153 Halsey Street, 6th Fl. Newark, New Jersey 07101
Phone: 973-648-2821 Email: susan.vanino at dhs.nj.gov
This agency’s mission is to promote and provide services in the areas of
education, employment, independent living and eye health through informed
choice and partnership with persons who are blind or visually impaired,
their families and the community.
New Jersey Division of Disability Services
Cristine Chickadel, NJ ABLE Program Representative
11A Quakerbridge Plaza Hamilton, New Jersey 08625
Phone: 609-438-6666 Email: cristine.chickadel at dhs.nj.gov
The Division of Disability Services (DDS) provides a single point-of-entry
for people seeking disability related information in New Jersey. DDS serves
individuals with all disabilities, statewide. DDS works to streamline
access to services and information that promote and enhance independent
living for individuals with disabilities by facilitating coordination and
cooperation among local, county and state government agencies.
New Jersey State Library Talking Book and Braille Center
Stephen Felle, Outreach Librarian
2300 Stuyvensant Avenue Trenton, New Jersey 08618
Phone: 800-792-8322 Email: tbbc at njstatelib.org
Website: https://www.njstatelib.org/tbbc
The New Jersey State Library Talking Book and Braille Center provides books
in audio and braille to those who need them. Our library has several
benefits. These include things like having no waitlists, or books that you
cannot buy or find at your local library. Besides books in audio and
braille, we also have large print books for kids and teens. All these
services are provided at no cost to those who qualify.
The College of New Jersey - Center for Sensory & Complex Disabilities
Kathleen Spata, Program Coordinator, SSP-NJ
2000 Pennington Road P.O. Box 7718 Ewing, New Jersey 08628
Phone: 609-771-2795 Email: sspnj at tcnj.edu
Website: https://njcscd.tcnj.edu
The iCanConnect, provides the equipment needed to make telecommunications,
advanced communications, and the Internet accessible to low-income
individuals who have both significant vision loss and significant hearing
loss. The SSP-NJ program provides trained professionals with skills
directly related to providing access to individuals who experience a
combined vision and hearing loss to access their community and enhance
their independence.
The Seeing Eye Institute
Chelsea White, Outreach Specialist
P.O. Box 375 Morristown, New Jersey 07963
973-539-4425 Email: whitec at seeingeye.org
Website: https://seeingeye.org
The Seeing Eye located in Morristown NJ is the oldest dog guide school in
the world. If you are interested in partnering with a dog guide come and
see what we have to offer.
Click here to view The Seeing Eye Institute’s audio/video clip!
<https://nfbnj.org/StateConventionExhibitors_Audio-VideoRecordings/TheSeeingEye.mp4>
Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Vicki Preddy, Nurse Educator
2200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW,
Suite 300 Washington, DC 20037
Phone: 202-579-8035 Email:vicki.preddy at vandapharma.com
Website: https://vandapharma.com
Vanda Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to raising awareness of Non-24-Hour
Sleep-Wake Disorder (Non-24) and supporting the blindness community. Non-24
is a rare circadian rhythm disorder affecting people who are totally blind.
People living with Non-24 experience excessive daytime sleepiness and
nighttime sleeplessness, which leads to impaired social and occupational
functioning.
Click here to view Vanda’s audio/video clip!
<https://nfbnj.org/StateConventionExhibitors_Audio-VideoRecordings/VandaPharmaceuticals.m4a>
We are grateful to all those who contributed time, effort, and suggestions
to show that *It Begins with Us*!
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