<HTML><HEAD></HEAD>
<BODY dir=ltr>
<DIV dir=ltr>
<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Greetings to all!</DIV>
<DIV>I am proud to present the spring, 2019 issue of the Sounding Board, the
publication of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey.</DIV>
<DIV>I want to thank the editors, those that submitted articles and to all
for
your well wishes to raise expectations to live the life we want to transform
dreams into reality!</DIV>
<DIV>Please read and share this issue with family, friends, neighbors and
co-workers.</DIV>
<DIV>The issue will be posted on newsline and on the state website
shortly.</DIV>
<DIV>Again, thanks to all who had a part in the issue, great teamwork!</DIV>
<DIV>Warmly </DIV>
<DIV>Joe </DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">We
care. We
share. We grow. We make a difference<BR>Joe Ruffalo, President <BR>National
Federation of the Blind of New Jersey <BR>973 743
0075<BR>nfbnj1@verizon.net<BR><A
href="http://www.nfbnj.org">www.nfbnj.org</A></DIV>
<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">Raising
Expectations To Live The Life You Want!</DIV>
<DIV style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri'; COLOR: #000000">Your
old
car keys can be keys to literacy for the blind.<BR>Donate your unwanted
vehicle
to us by clicking <BR>www.carshelpingtheblind.org <BR>or call 855 659
9314<BR></DIV>
<DIV
style='FONT-SIZE: small; TEXT-DECORATION: none; FONT-FAMILY: "Calibri";
FONT-WEIGHT: normal; COLOR: #000000; FONT-STYLE: normal; DISPLAY: inline'>
<DIV style="FONT: 10pt tahoma">
<DIV><FONT size=3 face=Calibri>**</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=3 face=Calibri></FONT> </DIV></DIV>
<DIV class=gmail_default>
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection1 style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt"
align=right><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt"
align=right><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
16pt">SPRING
2019</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt"
align=right><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face="Plantagenet Cherokee"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 52pt">The Sounding
Board</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 6pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 1pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 6pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">The
Publication of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><B><U><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt"
color=#e36c0a>
</FONT></SPAN></U></B><B><U><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></U></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 6pt"> </FONT></SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 24pt">In This Issue</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in; TEXT-INDENT: 40.5pt"
align=center><U><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><SPAN
style="text-decoration-line: none"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 4pt"
color=#365f91></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></U> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">Annemarie Cooke </FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">& Ryan Stevens</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><FONT face=Calibri><TT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Share news and
reflections of the Washington Seminar</FONT></SPAN></I></TT><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></I></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">Joe Ruffalo </FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 243pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Introduces the new NFBNJ Board</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">Maurice Peret</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Describes the NFB Career Mentoring
Program</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">Rose Santiago</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 243pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Is
hosting a book signing April 12 in Lyndhurst</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
10pt"></FONT></SPAN></I> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian:
normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">NJ Students Natasha Ishaq, Sami Ishaq & Ethan
Morrobel</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Reflect on the 2018 NFB EQ
Program</FONT></SPAN></I><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt 3.5in"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 24pt"></FONT></SPAN></I> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt
22.5pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face="Bradley Hand ITC"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt">Live the Life You
Want</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR
style="break-before: page" clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">THE
SOUNDING BOARD</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Spring
2019</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Katherine Gabry, Editor</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Annemarie Cooke, Mary Jo Partyka & Barbara
Shalit,
Co-editors</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Mark
Gasaway, Guest Editor</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Barbara Shalit, Advertising
Manager</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Published by e-mail and
on
the Web through Newsline by</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">The
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" align=center><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><B><SPAN lang=IT
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: none"><A style="COLOR:
"
href="http://www.nfbnj.org/"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>www.nfbnj.org</FONT></A></SPAN></B></SPAN><B><SPAN lang=IT
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></B></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" align=center><B><SPAN lang=IT
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
lang=IT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Joseph Ruffalo,
President</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">State Affiliate
Office 254 Spruce Street Bloomfield, NJ
07003</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Email: </FONT><A
style='href: "mailto:nfbnj1@verizonnet"'><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">nfbnj1@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">All articles should be
submitted<SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"> to the State Affiliate Office
at
<SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><B><SPAN
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: none"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:nfbnj1@verizon.net"><FONT
color=#0000ff>nfbnj1@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></B></SPAN> and
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><A
style='href:
"mailto:specialk38@aol.com"'>specialk38@aol.com</A>.</SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"> </SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">Advertising rates are $25 for a half page and
$40
for a full page. </SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">Ads
should be sent to <SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><B><SPAN
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: none"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:barbart@tullensound.com"><FONT
color=#0000ff>barbart@tullensound.com</FONT></A></SPAN></B></SPAN><B>.</B>
The
editorial staff reserves the right to edit all articles and advertising for
space and/or clarity considerations.</SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Please Note: The deadline for the Fall issue is
September 15, 2019.</FONT></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Donations should be made
payable to the </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">National Federation of the Blind of New
Jersey</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">and sent to the State
affiliate office.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">To subscribe via Newsline: Jane Degenshein
</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">973-736-5785 or </FONT><A
style='href: "mailto:Jdegen16@comcast.net"'><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Jdegen16@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P><PRE style="FONT-FAMILY: ;
TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><TT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Calibri><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">DREAM MAKERS CIRCLE</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></TT></PRE><PRE
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT:
0.25in"><FONT face=Calibri><TT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Help build a
future full of opportunity for the blind by becoming a member of the Dream
Makers Circle. Your legacy gift to the National Federation of the Blind can
be made in the form of a will or a living trust, an income-generating gift,
or by naming the NFB as a beneficiary of a retirement plan or life insurance
policy. You can also become a member of the Dream Makers Circle by making a
legacy gift to your state affiliate. By committing to support an NFB
affiliate, your gift will benefit both local and national programs, since
all bequests made to affiliates are split evenly with the NFB national
treasury. In addition to having the satisfaction of contributing to the
future success of the NFB's mission, Dream Makers Circle members also
receive a specially designed thank you gift and other benefits. For
additional information, please contact Patti Chang at the NFB Jernigan
Institute by email at </FONT></SPAN></TT><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:pchang@nfb.org"><FONT
color=#0000ff>pchang@nfb.org</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><TT
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">, or by telephone at 410-659-9314, extension
2221.</FONT></SPAN></TT></FONT></PRE><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before: page"
clear=all></SPAN></I><PRE style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN:
0in 0in 0pt"><FONT face=Calibri><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Mission Statement</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></FONT></PRE>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt;
TEXT-INDENT: 25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 15pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The 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.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt;
TEXT-INDENT: 25in"
align=justify><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 15pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">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.</FONT></SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 15pt"></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 17pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 17pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 17pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The National Federation of the Blind
Pledge</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 17pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt;
TEXT-INDENT: 25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 15pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">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.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 17pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 17pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 14pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 17pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The Sounding Board</FONT></SPAN></I></B><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 17pt"></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 15pt; TEXT-INDENT:
0.25in"
align=justify><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">The
Sounding Board </FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">is the magazine of the National Federation of the
Blind of
New Jersey. It is published<I> </I>twice a year. </SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Our hope is that through
<I>The Sounding Board</I>, we aspire to provide a source of hope,
inspiration,
pride and camaraderie through the personal stories in our publication.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt;
TEXT-INDENT: 25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 15pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Hundreds of readers receive our publication via
email
and <I>Newsline</I>. <I>The Sounding Board </I>is also available for
download in
its entirety from our website at <A
style='href: "http://www.nfbnj.org/"'>www.nfbnj.org</A>. We encourage our
readers to share <I>The Sounding Board</I> 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 <I>The Sounding Board</I> influences their
lives.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt;
TEXT-INDENT: 25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 15pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Twenty-six 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. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-BasicParagraph
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt;
TEXT-INDENT: 25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 15pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><BR
style="break-before: page" clear=all></SPAN>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><A
style="name: ole_link1"></A><A style="name: ole_link4"></A><A
style="name: ole_link3"><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">TABLE OF CONTENTS</FONT></SPAN></B></A></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 0pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Comedy & Musical
Entertainment Night Fundraiser</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Presidential Message, by
Joe
Ruffalo </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">From the Editor’s Desk:
Why
am I an NFB member for all these years?? by Katherine Gabry</FONT><U><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></U></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Washington Seminar: The
Big
Picture, by Annemarie Cooke</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The 2019 Washington
Seminar
Issues: Updates and New Pursuits, by Ryan Stevens</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Reflections from
First-Timers at the Washington Seminar, compiled by Annemarie
Cooke</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Pursuing Equal Rights
for
Blind Parents, by Ryan Stevens</FONT><U><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></U></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The Agnes Allen
Distinguished Service Award, by Carol Castellano</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Raising Expectations Award: Congratulations Brian
Mackey!</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Introducing the New
Members
of the NFBNJ Board, by Katherine Gabry</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Building on NJ’s
Trailblazing Legacy for the Blind & Visually Impaired, by Dr. Bernice
Davis</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Why get involved? by
Rose
Santiago</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFB Career Mentoring
Program: Looking for Mentors & Mentees, by Maurice Peret
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Rose Santiago to Host
Book
Signing for <I>Live Your True Essence </I>April 12</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">From Seed to Harvest, by
Gerald Moreno</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">BELLS Ready to Ring for
a
Sixth Summer</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFBNJ Scholarship
Winners
Announced at 2018 State Convention</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Reflections from the
2018
NFB Engineering Quotient Program, by Natasha Ishaq, Sami Ishaq & Ethan
Morrobel</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">SSPNJ and iCanConnect/NJ
(advertisement)</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Sports & Recreation
Line
Up, by Linda Melendez</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Live Your True
Essence</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> (advertisement)</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0.1in 8pt 0in; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFBNJ Contact
Info</FONT></SPAN></P><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before:
page"
clear=all></SPAN>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><IMG border=0
alt="National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
Live the life you
want"
width=367 height=154></SPAN><SPAN style="COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 12pt 0in 0pt"><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN><B><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt">NATIONAL FEDERATION of the
BLIND
of NEW JERSEY</FONT></SPAN></B><B><SPAN style="COLOR: "></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 2pt 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">and</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 2pt 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
18pt">BLOOMFIELD
UNICO</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 6pt 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">announce</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 22pt">COMEDY</FONT></SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 20pt">
</FONT></SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">and</FONT></SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 20pt">
</FONT></SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 22pt">MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT
NIGHT</FONT></SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
18pt">Saturday,
April 13, 2019</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">7:00 to 11:00
p.m.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">Belleville Knights of
Columbus</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">94 Bridge Street, Belleville,
NJ</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
20pt">Buffet
Dinner, Desserts, Soda, Cash Bar</FONT></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 20pt">Entertainment, Auction &
Raffle</FONT></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 20pt">Enjoy
our
local talent</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 4pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">The
<B>comedy</B> of <B>Robert Ruffalo</B> of Cedar Grove</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 4pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">&
<B>musical entertainment</B> from </FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 4pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
16pt">Richard
Fox</FONT></SPAN></I></B><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
16pt">
of Bloomfield on keyboard</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 4pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">Jane
Ruffalo Degenshein</FONT></SPAN></I></B><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt"> of West Orange on flute</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 4pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">Joe
Baccan</FONT></SPAN></I></B><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt"> of Mahwah, vocalist</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT:
13pt"
align=center><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 6pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13pt"><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11.5pt">Proceeds will benefit each
organization’s Joe and Rose Ruffalo Scholarship Fund, supporting deserving
blind
and sighted students. Joe and Rose were loyal supporters of Bloomfield
UNICO and NFBNJ. Pay via PayPal or credit card at </FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 11.5pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="http://www.nfbnj.org/Comedy-Musical-Night/registration"
target=_blank><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT
color=#1155cc>www.nfbnj.org/Comedy-Musical-Night/registration</FONT></SPAN></A></FONT><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 11.5pt"> or make your check payable
to
NFBNJ and mail to NFBNJ, 254 Spruce Street, Bloomfield, NJ 07003. Please
write
NFBNJ/UNICO in the memo. You also can reserve a table of eight.
If
you are unable to attend, please consider making a donation. For additional
information, call NFBNJ President Joe Ruffalo at
973-743-0075.</FONT></SPAN></P></DIV><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">
<DIV class=gmail_default style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR></SPAN></DIV><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 11.5pt">next story</FONT></SPAN>
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection2 style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE</FONT></SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Dear Fellow
Federationists,</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv5100988928msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The songs of birds, the planting of flowers and the
fresh air of spring bring renewed and continued growth to us as individuals
and
to the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey as an
organization.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt"> </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Since the last issue of <I>The Sounding Board</I>,
the
organization has continued to provide the philosophy and expectations to
live
the lives we want. The New Jersey State Convention continues to nourish the
seeds of our rising expectations, while the chapter and division meetings
provide growth in each member, the activities and outreach programs provide
the
gift of the Federation to others, and the scholarships awarded provide
financial
support to the next generation of leaders. Congratulations to our newly
elected
affiliate board members and huge thanks to those who have served on the
affiliate board. A well-deserved shout out goes to Ellen Sullivan and to all
who
have contributed their time and resources to make our fundraising efforts
successful. Whether you helped out on a grant application, or on the
opportunities at Boscov’s Department Stores, Barnes & Noble or at a
grocery
store, please know that your efforts are appreciated, and that they
ultimately
support the programs and projects of the NFB and the NFBNJ.
</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv5100988928msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The affiliate’s 10th Annual After the Holidays party
was
held in January with music, dancing, great fellowship and terrific
food.
On April 13, together with the Bloomfield UNICO, we will host a comedy and
musical entertainment fun- and fund-raiser at the Knights of Columbus in
Belleville to benefit the Joe and Rose Ruffalo Memorial Scholarship
Fund.
All the details can be found on the state website at </FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><A
style="COLOR: " href="http://www.nfbnj.org/"><FONT
color=#0000ff>www.nfbnj.org</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv5100988928msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.8pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">On a special note, I want to personally thank
all
who conspired behind my back to honor me at the State Convention for my 25
years
as your state president. I was touched by your presentation of the joke book
in
large print, Braille and also on a thumb drive. The proceeds – which
have
exceeded $2,300 – are earmarked for the Joe and Rose Memorial Scholarship
Fund.
To purchase a copy, please contact Linda Melendez at 732-421-7063 or by
email at
</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><A
style='href:
"mailto:lindamelendez220@gmail.com"'>lindamelendez220@gmail.com</A></SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt"> </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv5100988928msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I was once again reminded that life is a
never-ending
learning process, as Judy and I represented the NFB at the Tennessee State
Convention in March. While on the plane, I reflected that this
convention
would be my 94<SUP>th</SUP> national, inter-state convention or state
convention
sharing – and learning – how I continue to live the life I
want.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv5100988928msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I hope you enjoy this issue of our publication.
Thanks
to all who have shared their stories – you inspire our faith and
appreciation in
each other. Please share the magazine with others you know so that they,
too,
will see that although we may have lost, or are losing, our eyesight, we
will
never lose our vision.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 3in"
align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Sincerely,</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 3in"
align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Joe Ruffalo,
President</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 3in"
align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">National
Federation
of the Blind of New Jersey</FONT></SPAN></P><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection2 style="page: wordsection2"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR></SPAN></B></DIV>next story<BR
style="break-before: page" clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><B><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">FROM THE EDITOR’S
DESK:</FONT></SPAN></I></B></P><PRE style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-ALIGN:
center; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
face=Calibri><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">WHY AM I AN NFB MEMBER FOR ALL
THESE YEARS??</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></PRE><PRE style="FONT-FAMILY: ;
TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ;
COLOR: "><FONT face=Calibri><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By Katherine
Gabry</FONT><I></I></FONT></SPAN></B></PRE>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 6pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Recently, people have been asking me why I’ve been
involved with the National Federation of the Blind for so long. It
<I>has</I>
been a long time – 27 years this spring. Nonetheless, these queries have
given
me cause to reflect on what it is about the NFB that I find meaningful.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">As editor of this publication for more than 15
years,
almost every time I ask members why they’re involved with the NFB, the reply
is
the same: The camaraderie, finding others in the same situation. The
connections
are euphoric, life changing, a revelation.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.4pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">I’ve not yet met anyone in the NFB who travels in
shoes similar to mine. My life is in the DeafBlind community, not an area of
expertise for the NFB. And long-ago hopes that my son would find people like
himself through the NFB haven’t panned out. Even at national conventions,
the
number of profoundly deaf, ASL-using, braille-reading attendees is in the
low
single digits.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">So, what’s the attraction for me? In 1992, my son
was
transitioning from early intervention to the school system. At that time, I
was
introduced to Carol Castellano, mom of a young daughter born fully blind. I
had
never heard of the NFB, so Carol introduced me and willingly shared her NFB
knowledge, contacts and information. While our children were very different,
Carol and I were kindred spirits, believing that all children deserve the
opportunity for an education, that our expectations for them should be high,
that thinking “outside of the box” works, and that we had every right to be
respected members of the IEP team. Carol was an understanding friend and
educated advisor as my son and I navigated many difficult educational
situations. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Reflecting now, the Federation gave credence to my
requests for necessary educational accommodations that created a level
playing
field for my son. Everything I was asking for was completely within his
legal
rights. That confidence booster was invaluable and life changing. By high
school, he was able to advocate for himself, requesting accommodations and
understanding how the law protected him. As he graduates from college this
spring, I believe that in these ways, the NFB has shaped his self-image and
understanding of his place as a deserving and productive member of a larger
community. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Thus, in my view, the great service the Federation
performs has been to alert its members and Congress to legal inequities in
providing services for the blind and visually impaired, and to rectify those
inequities. Through the annual Washington Seminar, hundreds of NFB members
share
their personal stories, insights and concerns with their representatives in
Congress, an essential stepping stone in getting laws passed or changed. If
your
child has the chance to read in his preferred medium, if you’ve been a
college
student who used accessible textbooks, if you’ve been able to vote with an
accessible voting machine, then the NFB has made a mark on your life. The
NFB
continues to work toward basic, equal civil rights for those who are blind
and
visually impaired. Legislative action based on equal opportunity regardless
of
the ability to see changes life for the better for thousands of blind
Americans.
That’s why I have maintained my long, and much appreciated, affiliation with
the
NFB. </FONT></SPAN></P><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next
story</SPAN></B><FONT face=Verdana> </FONT><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR style="break-before: page"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">WASHINGTON SEMINAR: THE BIG
PICTURE</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By
Annemarie Cooke</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note:</FONT></SPAN></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">Annemarie is an
active
long-time member of the NJ Affiliate, having recently been elected to the
state
board, and serving as vice president of the Sports and Recreation Division,
board member of the Garden State Chapter and the Technology Division, and a
member of the At-Large Chapter and the Scholarship and
</SPAN></I></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Sounding Board</FONT><I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
committees. She also enjoys her role as a mentor and cooking coach with
students
in the EDGE program. Her hobbies include international and domestic
travel.</FONT></I></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Ever
wonder why an accessible voting machine must, by law, be at every polling
place?
Or how the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
made it to fast-track distribution of digital content and playback machines
after decades of vinyl discs and audiotape?</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Those
are just two major results of the National Federation of the Blind’s
lobbying
efforts, particularly through the Washington Seminar, an annual event since
the
1970s, according to John Pare, the NFB’s executive director for advocacy and
policy.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">This
past January, some 600 Federationists – 16 of them from New Jersey – came
together in Washington, DC to visit their Congressional representatives in
both
Houses and advocate for three issues: the Access Technology Affordability
Act,
GAIN and DEA. The specifics on these issues are in the next article, <I>The
2019
Washington Seminar Issues: Updates and New Pursuits</I>, by Ryan Stevens,
NFBNJ
Legislative Director.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The
NFB’s advocacy efforts take place all year round on the national, state and
local levels. But, says Pare, there is a unique power created when teams of
blind people, with white canes or service dogs, and dressed in business
attire,
fan out over Capitol Hill to visit their own elected officials. And it’s the
personal story shared by the visiting Federationists that makes the occasion
memorable and eventually, in many cases, effective.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">There is
a strategy in the scheduling of the Washington Seminar during the last week
of
January. According to Pare, by this time, freshmen legislators have been
sworn
in and are getting settled in their offices, and the House and the year’s
first
Senate sessions have just gotten underway, so there is a window of
opportunity
for NFB’s personal advocacy.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">At
this
year’s Great Gathering-In, the kickoff on Monday afternoon of Washington
Seminar
week, there was special drama and excitement. President Mark Riccobono took
the
microphone to announce that the Marrakesh Treaty was in the final stages
leading
to approval. The treaty, in negotiation for more than a decade, is the
product
of a global agreement that facilitates distribution and use of books in
alternative formats by blind people and others with print-related
disabilities
all over the world. The NFB has been instrumental in bringing this
treaty
to fruition.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Ryan
Stevens, who has been attending the Washington Seminar for decades, recalls
another major success of the NFB’s efforts: Braille became the default
format
for blind and visually impaired school children who expressed a desire to
learn
it. The student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) must provide for
instruction in Braille unless two adults on the IEP team (such as a school
psychologist and parent) decide that such instruction is not appropriate,
Stevens said.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">And
of
course, there were efforts by the NFB and its members to get the Help
America
Vote Act on the books more than a decade ago so that blind voters could have
an
accessible machine in which to cast ballots. In addition, the NFB also
lobbied
hard for funding for the NLS to launch its digital conversion in relatively
short time.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The
2019
Washington Seminar marked the 25<SUP>th</SUP> for Stevens, who attended his
first in 1995 as president of the Keystone Chapter in Pennsylvania. “I fell
in
love with the process, and I’ve been coming ever since,” he says. “Being
able to
present myself in a calm, professional manner to a member of Congress or a
legislative aide, and knowing there is real importance in what I was saying,
is
really powerful.”</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT:
25in"
align=justify><B style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR:
">next
story</SPAN></B><B style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">THE
2019 WASHINGTON SEMINAR ISSUES: </FONT><SPAN
style="TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Updates and
New
Pursuits</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By
Ryan Stevens, NFBNJ Legislative Director</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.1pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Greetings, fellow New Jersey Federationists! From
January 28 – 31, the NFB held another successful Washington Seminar in our
nation’s capital. Over 600 members from around the country, including 16
from
our own affiliate, went to Capitol Hill to talk about the most pressing
legislation concerning the blind with our Congressional representatives.
This
time, we addressed three issues: One is carried over from last year, and the
other two are revamped ideas on concerns we have had for some time. While we
were in DC, we received two pieces of good news which I will detail after
the
rundown of what we discussed with our legislators.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The legislative issue from 2018 which we again
brought
to the attention of Congress this year is the Access Technology
Affordability
Act. 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 or through their employer as a reasonable accommodation.
The
problem with going through the state agency is the length of time it takes
to
receive the equipment. The drawback of receiving it from an employer is that
such requests can make the company wary of hiring blind people because of
the
expense. 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 a tax credit to the blind person
when he or she purchases equipment. We have changed the elements of the bill
we
are asking to have introduced. This new version would set the tax credit at
$2,000, which is usable over a 3-year period. We have also agreed to allow
the
legislation to expire after five years. As of March 15, Bill S815 has been
introduced in the Senate.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The
second issue we brought to the attention of Congress is the Greater Access
and
Independence through Nonvisual Technology (GAIN) Act. 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 (for example,
wheelchair </FONT><SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.1pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">ramps and Braille signage in public buildings), no
laws
protect blind consumers’ 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 Federal Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission
would then be tasked with enforcing the rules established by the Access
Board.
There is no bill in either the House or Senate at this
time.</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Our
third topic was the Disabled Employment (DEA) Act. The Javits-Wagner-O’Day
Act
(JWOD), originally enacted in 1938 and expanded in 1971, is a
well-intentioned
but obsolete law intended to provide employment for people with disabilities
through specialized government contracts. However, the work experience
provided
by the recipients of these contracts, such as the AbilityOne Program, does
not
utilize or teach the skills required for today’s fast-paced digital work
environment. Many workers with disabilities employed under AbilityOne are
assigned menial, repetitive tasks, which do nothing to equip them with the
skills needed to succeed and advance in a 21st century workplace. As a
result,
many of these individuals find themselves trapped in these jobs for years,
if
not decades, with no real hope of advancement or finding new employment
opportunities elsewhere. These workers are also segregated and paid
subminimum
wages. The DEA will allow for-profit as well as nonprofit entities to bid on
contracts through a newly created commission, will ensure that workers earn
at
least the prevailing wage, will equip employers with the necessary tools and
supports to integrate workers with disabilities, and will establish an
Employment Integration Trust Fund to assist employers in meeting reasonable
accommodation requirements under Title I of the Americans with Disabilities
Act.
While this legislative goal is still in its infancy, there is some good news
on
the workers with disabilities front.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">At
the
Great Gathering-In Meeting held the evening prior to going to Capitol Hill,
President Riccobono announced the introduction of the Transformation to
Competitive Employment Act. It follows the model set by the Transitioning to
Integrated and Meaningful Employment (TIME) Act of the past two
Congressional
terms. Over a 6-year period, it would phase out the special wage
certificates
that allow disabled workers to be paid subminimum wages. The bill numbers
are
HR873 in the House and S260 in the Senate. We have been encouraging all of
you
to contact Senators Corey Booker and Robert Menendez, as well as your
individual
member of Congress to ask them to support these bills. The way to do that is
explained at the end of this article.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The
best
news of all that came out of the 2019 Washington Seminar is the ratification
of
the Marrakesh Treaty and signing of its implementation legislation by
President
Trump. The treaty was also transmitted to the World Intellectual Property
Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, Switzerland on February 8. Once WIPO’s 90-day
review period is complete, blind and print disabled people throughout the
world
can get textbooks and other printed materials in accessible formats directly
from other countries, including works in other languages. It took almost six
years of hard work and advocacy by us, the National Federation of the Blind
to
have this come to fruition, but indeed it has!</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">For
more
details and the full fact sheets for each of the issues we are pursuing, go
to
</FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="https://nfb.org/washington-seminar"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>https://nfb.org/washington-seminar</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">As I
have said in the past, while going to DC and addressing these important
issues
directly with our elected officials is vital, it is only the beginning of
our
legislative agenda. Also, there will be other concerns that will arise
during
the year. We cannot ignore any of these until next January. All of us need
to
make an effort to help all blind Americans live the lives we want, and I
appreciate the work you have done.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">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,
contact your local public library or go to <SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="http://www.house.gov/"><FONT
color=#0000ff>www.house.gov</FONT></A></SPAN>
and enter your zip code.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next
story</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">REFLECTIONS FROM FIRST-TIMERS AT THE WASHINGTON
SEMINAR</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Compiled by Annemarie Cooke</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note:</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT><I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">For Northern Chapter members Joanna Mallard of
Jersey
City and Connor Mullin, a graduate student at Louisiana Tech, attending the
Washington Seminar was a first-time experience. Here are snapshots of their
DC
visit:</FONT></I></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Joanna Mallard</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I
felt
anxious! I felt nervous! I felt excited! Actually, I Never Felt Better!!!!
During the Great Gathering-In on Monday afternoon, in a ballroom filled with
several hundred fellow Federationists, my anxiety and nervousness began to
fade,
and a feeling of empowerment began to seal the cracks within my foundation.
I
was proud to know that I am one of many to make a difference in the world
for
blind Americans </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The
next
day visiting our New Jersey congressmen and senators, presenting the issues
at
hand became very personal for me. I can only speak from my own life
experiences,
and that’s what was given. Hope begins to build! Faith began to
increase
knowing that my children, your children and the children to come won’t have
to
feel “less than” because they are blind or have a visual impairment.
We
told our stories to our representatives in Congress. We can live lives we
dream!
I am a member of the NFB, and we can’t be stopped! </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Connor Mullin</FONT></SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">My
first
legislative appointment was with Representative Bill Pascrell's office. We
spoke
with one of his legislative aides, Alex. My job was to tell him about the
Access
Technology and Affordability Act (ATAA). As I described the bill, he
listened
politely, but when I brought in my personal story of why access technology
was
so important to my college success, his demeanor changed. It seemed to reach
him
in a genuine way, as he broke his relative silence to say that he could only
imagine how not being able to afford this kind of technology would make the
already challenging endeavor of college so much more
daunting.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I
think
Alex was listening from start to finish, but I think he understood after I
made
our proposal real through my experience. This is why it is so important that
we
have the Washington Seminar each year. Although it is true that year-round
relationship management is probably the most crucial piece that drives our
legislative agenda, blind people presenting our initiatives with real-life
accounts at this event every year reaches lawmakers and their staff in a way
that statistics, facts and footnotes cannot. Put simply, therefore, to
contribute to this critical component is why I show up.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note:</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT><I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The New Jersey Affiliate provided the cost of
airfare to
DC for Connor; here is his note of thanks:</FONT></I></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I
wanted
to write to thank each and every one of you for helping to make it possible
for
me to attend this year's Washington Seminar. It was truly amazing to be able
to
travel to DC and advocate for our policies on the Hill. As someone who got
their
undergraduate degree in political science, being at the Capitol was a
thrill,
but it was equally empowering to know that we were changing the attitudes of
some of the nation's most important people (and that includes the
legislative
staff) about what blind people can do.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Thank
you all so much once again. I hope to repay you through my involvement in
the
NFB and work as a future rehab professional.</FONT></SPAN></P><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT
face=Verdana>
</FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before: page"
clear=all></SPAN>
<P class=gmail-yiv0252351648msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">PURSUING EQUAL RIGHTS FOR BLIND
PARENTS</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv0252351648msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By Ryan Stevens, Chair of the NFBNJ Resolutions
Committee</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv0252351648msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv6734914658msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Hello, fellow New Jersey Federationists. Ordinarily,
I
would be providing you with an overview of the resolutions passed at our
most
recent State convention. This time, however, I will be highlighting the
actions
that members of the affiliate are taking to bring the goal of one of them to
fruition. What we are hoping to accomplish is so important, this resolution
was
the only one presented last November in Woodbridge.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv6734914658msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">During the past few years, a number of state
affiliates
throughout NFB have been introducing bills into their legislatures which
would
give equal rights to parents and guardians who are blind in adoption, foster
parenting and custody disputes. It has been a long-held and mistaken belief
in
society and in law that blindness prevents a person from properly caring for
children. Blind people throughout time have shown their ability to be
caregivers
who are as competent as sighted persons, yet have had their children taken
away
without their capabilities even being considered. To date, 10 of these bills
have been passed and signed into law, with four others currently working
their
way through state houses.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv6734914658msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
is
putting in significant effort to join this growing list of states. At the
2018
State Convention, one of our speakers was Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez from
the
19<SUP>th</SUP> Legislative District. At the end of her presentation, we
discussed parental rights with her at the podium, and provided her with a
copy
of the resolution. She offered to support our endeavor in any way she could.
Since then, our Parental Rights Committee, led by Chairperson Joanna
Mallard,
President Joe Ruffalo and First Vice President Linda Melendez, have met with
her
and her staff on multiple occasions. At the last meeting in early February,
they
brought copies of the 10 bills signed into law. The Assemblywoman is using
these
to make a template for what she hopes to bring to the New Jersey Assembly
floor.
There may be some changes to her proposed bill, and it will be reviewed by
the
Parental Rights Committee and by the NFB National Center. Once there is
consensus that the language is correct, Assemblywoman Lopez will present it
to
her colleagues. We are also seeking an advocate in the State
Senate.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv6734914658msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The timetable for all of this is obviously
uncertain,
but this vital pursuit <I>is</I> moving forward. President Ruffalo and I
will
keep you posted on the progress of this bill. As it begins its journey
through
the legislative halls in Trenton, we will be counting on your voices to turn
it
into law so that blind parents and guardians are afforded the same level of
respect and protection as all others. To read the resolution from the 2018
State
Convention, go to </FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><A style="COLOR: "
href="http://www.nfbnj.org/"
target=_blank><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT
color=#800080>www.nfbnj.org</FONT></SPAN></A></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-INDENT: 0px"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT face=""><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></FONT><BR></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The Agnes Allen Distinguished Service
Award</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Presented at
the
2018 NFBNJ State Convention</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By Carol
Castellano</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The Agnes Allen Distinguished Service Award is
presented
to organizations or individuals who are not members of our organization, who
have made substantial contributions to improve the quality of life for the
blind
of New Jersey. It is the highest honor that we give as an affiliate, and we
regard the recipients of this award as true friends of the blind,
instrumental
in championing programs that will benefit the blind community and dedicated
to
initiatives that will generate hope and promise in innumerable
ways.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">This
award honors the life and work of Agnes Allen who was born in 1924 and who
continues to be an</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> independent, confident, capable and optimistic
blind
woman with a life-long love of learning and education, and a commitment to
living a life of service.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">In
her
career, Agnes instructed blind and DeafBlind students, and encouraged them
to
tackle any obstacle that stood in the way of achieving independence. Her
commitment to Braille literacy is evidenced by the fact that she was still
tutoring blind students in Braille after her 90th birthday.
</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">A
long-standing and active member of the National Federation of the Blind,
Agnes
served as an officer of both the New Jersey and Connecticut affiliates,
helped
to found chapters, participated in state and national conventions, and was a
long-time volunteer in our Braille mentoring
program. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Her
example of generosity, love of neighbor and joyful, positive attitude has
been a
great blessing to her family, friends and colleagues. She is deeply
respected
and dearly loved, and we are very happy to give an award in her
honor.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The recipient of this year’s Agnes Allen
Distinguished
Service Award is: The Middle Atlantic Blind <SPAN
class=gmail-il>Golf</SPAN> </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-il><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Association.</FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
class=gmail-il><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The story of the Middle Atlantic Blind <SPAN
class=gmail-il>Golf</SPAN> <SPAN class=gmail-il>Association—or
MABGA—b</SPAN>egins in 1948, when Robert Allman, blind since age 4, created
a
plan to share the joys of <SPAN class=gmail-il>golf</SPAN> with blind
friends
and to organize a competitive blind <SPAN class=gmail-il>golf</SPAN> program
in
the local blind community and beyond. I imagine Bob was a fine
organizer—he had already excelled in many areas of life, including as a
wrestling champion and Phi Beta Kappa recipient at the University of
Pennsylvania, a husband in a successful marriage, a father of four sons and
the
principle of a busy law practice. </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Over the past 70 years, the organization has grown
and
thrived due to the enthusiasm of its many volunteer coaches, and the
cooperation
and generosity of the many <SPAN class=gmail-il>golf </SPAN>clubs that
sponsor
outings. The coaches, so generous with their time and talents, say that they
enjoy seeing their blind <SPAN class=gmail-il>golfer</SPAN> hit a good shot
more
than hitting one themselves. </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">In 1993, MABGA, along with the Philadelphia Section
of
the PGA and many local golf professionals, launched its Junior <SPAN
class=gmail-il>Golf</SPAN> Program for blind and visually impaired boys and
girls ages 5 – 21. Each young golfer receives individual lessons and
equipment,
not to mention pizza and soft drinks at each event. This program is the
first
known joint effort between a PGA Section and a regional blind golf <SPAN
class=gmail-il>association</SPAN>. MABGA’s goal is to extend this program to
blind children across the entire country. Events are held at the pitch and
putt
course and practice green at the Overbrook School for the Blind in
Philadelphia,
spearheaded by our friend Norman Kritz. Norman unfortunately could not be
with
us tonight.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Today, MABGA has almost 200 blind junior and senior
golfers and volunteer coaches. The Junior Golf program has expanded to
North Jersey, and additional sites in Georgia and New
York.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">So it is with great pleasure that we bestow the
Agnes
Allen Distinguished Service award to the Middle Atlantic Blind <SPAN
class=gmail-il>Golf</SPAN> </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-il><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Association. Accepting on behalf of the organization
is
Mario Tobia. The plaque reads:</FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
class=gmail-il><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN
class=gmail-il><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
class=gmail-il><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The National Federation of the Blind of New
Jersey</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Presents the</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> <B>Agnes Allen Distinguished Service Award</B>
</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">to the</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Middle Atlantic Blind Golf
Association</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">In Recognition of Invaluable Contributions to the
Quality of Life of the Blind of NJ</FONT></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Through the
efforts
and dedication of volunteers over the past 70 years, </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">MABGA has
enabled
blind children and adults </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">To learn the
skills
of golf, experience the pleasure of the sport, </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">And enjoy one
more
opportunity to be included in the mainstream of society. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">This award
recognizes MABGA’s efforts to raise expectations, increase opportunity and
Facilitate integration of the blind into society on the basis of equality.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Together with
love,
hope and determination, we transform dreams into reality.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT:
14pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">November 3, 2018<BR><I>From the grateful members of
the
NFBNJ</I></FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 4pt 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<DIV align=center><IMG style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px" alt="Agnes Allen Photo.jpg"
src="file:///C:/Users/Joe/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary Internet
Files/Content.IE5/RS48HY1Y/"
width=404 height=303><BR></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 4pt 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Photo above: Joe Ruffalo, left, presents the Agnes
Allen
Distinguished Service Award to Mario Tobia and Marty Jensen, from the Middle
Atlantic Blind Golfers Association.</FONT></SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt"
face=Georgia> </FONT></SPAN></I></B><B><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT:
14pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></I> </P><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT
face=Verdana>
</FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before: page"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">RAISING EXPECTATIONS AWARD 2018: CONGRATULATIONS
BRIAN
MACKEY!</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><IMG hspace=12
alt="NFBNJ President Joe Ruffalo, left, presents the Raising Expectations
award to Brian Mackey, right."
width=204 align=left height=288></P>
<DIV><IMG style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px" alt="Brian Photo.jpg"
src="file:///C:/Users/Joe/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary Internet
Files/Content.IE5/RS48HY1Y/"
width=204 height=293><BR></DIV>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">NFBNJ
President Joe Ruffalo presented the Raising Expectations Award to Brian
Mackey
at the 2018 New Jersey State Convention in November (see picture at left).
Brian
began his NFB life as a POBC kid. As the years went on and he grew up, he
took
his own place in the Federation and began his years of service to the
affiliate.
Many adjectives can be used to describe Brian—he is dedicated and reliable,
spending many hours working on affiliate projects, researching things for
us,
and finding out the answers to questions. He keeps us all on the straight
and
narrow, sending out reminder messages whenever we need them. He also has the
fastest fingers in the East—just as you’re hanging up the phone, his reply
is in
your email box! </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Brian
serves as the webmaster for NFBNJ and also for other affiliates. He has held
positions on the chapter, division and affiliate levels, most recently
serving
as affiliate Secretary and then Treasurer. Outside his many NFB activities,
Brian enjoys golf and karate, and he’s participated in the surfing
adventures.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Brian
was presented with a plaque that read:</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">National
Federation of the Blind of New Jersey</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT:
19pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Presents the <B>RAISING EXPECTATIONS AWARD</B>
to</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT:
19pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></I> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Brian Mackey</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">In Recognition of Your Commitment, Dedication and
Hours
of Hard Work </FONT></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT:
18pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">on Behalf of the Blind of NJ and the
Nation</FONT></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT:
18pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></I></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Your invaluable
contributions have enhanced each of our lives. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Whenever we
have
asked, you have answered. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">We call you our
colleague with respect. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">We call you our
friend with love.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Together, with
love, hope and determination we transform dreams into
reality.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT:
14pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">November 3, 2018<BR></FONT><I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">From the grateful members of the
NFBNJ</FONT></I></SPAN><I><SPAN style="COLOR: "></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><FONT
face=""><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></FONT> </P><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT
face=Verdana>
</FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR style="break-before:
page"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">INTRODUCING THE NEW MEMBERS OF THE NFBNJ
BOARD</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By Katherine Gabry</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFBNJ President Joe Ruffalo and members of the
National
Federation of the Blind of New Jersey have welcomed a new State Board, voted
into office at the State convention in November. New board members are:
Linda
Melendez, 1<SUP>st</SUP> Vice President; Ellen Sullivan, Secretary; Andrew
Rees,
Treasurer; and board members Annemarie Cooke and Zoraida Krell.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">We’re grateful for the combined 25 years of service
of
our retirees – Brian Mackey, Alice Eaddy and Dan Facchini – and wish them
well
in their future endeavors. Brian served as Secretary for two years and
Treasurer
for six years; Alice was a board member for four years and Secretary for two
years; and Dan was a board member for 10 years and one year as
2<SUP>nd</SUP>
Vice President. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">And now, please meet the new members of the State
Board
of the NFBNJ:</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Linda Melendez, 1<SUP>st</SUP> Vice
President</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">A native of Brooklyn, New York, Linda now lives in
Keyport, along the northern New Jersey coast. She describes herself as
confident, strong and goal oriented. She has worked as a secretary, word
processor, IT technician and a coordinator of new hire training for major
corporations. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Linda brings commitment, dedication, determination
and
time, as well as a passion for the members of the NFBNJ, to her service on
the
board. “I want to see the success of the NFBNJ’s chapters, divisions,
programs
and projects continue, and to be a part of the continued growth of our
affiliate,” she states. Further, she believes that moving out of one’s
comfort
zone can provide a sense of accomplishment and empowerment.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Linda has attended New Jersey State Conventions
regularly since 2015, at which time she made a decision to not just attend,
but
to commit to the NFBNJ with her ideas, energy and time. This decision also
motivated her to attend a national convention, and in 2016, she was a
recipient
of the Jernigan First Timers Scholarship Award at that convention. In 2018,
she
had the privilege of being the NFBNJ Alternate Delegate.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Linda is passionate about getting to the gym at
least
three times a week. She also enjoys spending time in the kitchen making
homemade
chocolate lollipops, and chocolate covered pretzels, Oreos and
walnuts.
She used to make the sweet treats for the children in her son’s classes, as
well
as for the holidays and parties. “Now that I’m going to be a grandmother,”
she
says, “I am coming out of retirement and will be making them for my
grandbaby
and NFBNJ auction baskets.”</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Ellen Sullivan, Secretary</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Ellen lives in Maplewood (Essex County). She grew up
in
Washington Township, NJ, in Bergen County. She describes herself as
energetic,
enthusiastic and persistent. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Ellen was a pharmacologist and worked in the
pharmaceutical industry for almost 18 years. She has also done volunteer
work
since she was 12 years old, including working with children, seniors,
children
with disabilities, fundraising, peer support and the National Federation of
the
Blind (both in Delaware and New Jersey).</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">When asked what she brings to the NFBNJ board and
why
she wants to serve, Ellen replied, “I think I compliment this very
energizing
organization by a willingness to help my fellow colleagues any way I can. I
have
good listening skills (needed for a secretary) and am very goal oriented. I
like
the NFBNJ leadership and enjoy working with them. It is a pleasure to have
the
opportunity to work with so many gifted individuals.”</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Ellen has attended one New Jersey State Convention
and
two national conventions. The conventions have been life changing for her
because she no longer sees blindness as a limitation. “I’ve enjoyed many new
friendships and have learned innumerable ways to manage my life to make it
meaningful to me and those around me,” she says. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Some of Ellen’s favorite pastimes include
r</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt" color=#333333>eading, walking and exploring with her
cane, walking dogs with her sister, and the treadmill. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#333333></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">ANDREW REES, TREASURER</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">A native of Long Island, NY, Andrew and his family
moved
to Somerset (Somerset County), New Jersey more than 40 years ago. He
describes
himself as diligent, detail oriented and committed. He has a master’s degree
in
social work, and has worked at the Office on Aging and Disability Services
for
more than 16 years. </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "> </SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">“I am honored to be on the NFBNJ board and am
devoted to
doing my very best,” Andrew says. He has been a member of NFBNJ for 20
years,
and brings both a commitment and a passion to serve the members of the
affiliate. He finds, “The power of this movement on national and global
levels
is felt after attending both state and national conventions.” He’s attended
six
or seven state conventions and two national conventions. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">On a personal note, Andrew likes sports, mostly
baseball, and he’s an “avid Yankees fan.” He also listens to a lot of music,
with classic rock as a favorite, although his tastes range from classical to
heavy metal, and include jazz. He also enjoys a variety of ethnic foods.
</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8910379861msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Annemarie Cooke, BOARD MEMBER</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Annemarie has lived in Southampton, in the South
Jersey
Pinelands, since her semi-retirement in 2015. She was born in Elizabeth and
spent 45 years in the New Brunswick area going to school and working. She
describes herself as compassionate, curious and a wordsmith.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Annemarie was a reporter for a daily newspaper for
17
years, and then became the “public face” of Recording for the Blind, where
she
also spent 17 years. On the conference circuit for that organization, she
first
became involved with the organized blind community, which allowed her to
attend,
altogether, more than 50 national and state conventions. Through these
conventions, she’s met fellow Federationists with whom she feels a strong
desire
to work on NFB activities and projects. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">After Recording for the Blind, she worked for a
small
assistive technology company, attended culinary school, worked for the
Commission for the Blind under a short-term government program and is now
completing her third year as a mentor to blind/VI high school students in
the
EDGE program.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">When asked what she brings to the NFBNJ board,
Annemarie
replied, “Organizational skills; the ability to write clearly, concisely and
under deadline; an intense belief in the abilities of blind people; a sense
of
adventure; and the consideration of how to find a way to accomplish just
about
anything I want to do and the desire to help other blind folks gain the
confidence and competence to do the same.” As a semi-retiree, she also now
has
the time to devote to the NFBNJ, making phone calls, writing letters,
advocating, or lending an ear or a helping hand whenever
needed.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Annemarie classifies herself as a lifelong learner
and
someone with a wide range of interests. She enjoys exploring the world
around
her, traveling, reading, taking classes and cooking. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">ZORAIDA KRELL, BOARD MEMBER</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Zoraida has been a resident of Bergen County all her
life. She currently resides in Bergenfield with her husband of 23 years,
Brian.
She grew up in New Milford. She describes herself as caring, kind and
honest.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Zoraida is the senior executive director of
franchise
development at Brain Balance Achievement Centers, which educate children
with
different learning abilities. She describes her work as a wonderful mix of
education and business. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Zoraida is the secretary of the NFBNJ’s Northeast
Chapter, and believes that the insights she’s gained from this membership
will
serve her well as a board member. She believes that serving on the state
board
will provide her with a broader understanding and appreciation of the needs
of
those who are blind and visually impaired throughout the state, and the
opportunity to serve NFB members in a more personal way. She also cites
Northeast Chapter President Dan Facchini as a model example of
service.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The November 2018 state convention was Zoraida’s
first
NFB-related convention. She enjoyed the camaraderie of those she met, and
found
meaning in their shared stories, meals, meetings and fun. She also
appreciated not being the only “blind person in the room,” and the trust and
caring from fellow Northeast Chapter members who made it a point to keep
track
of each other. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Zoraida cites music, concerts and plays, and meeting
up
with friends, as among her favorite pastimes. She also says that she doesn’t
mind housework, with the main goal of keeping her home neat, in
consideration of
safety issues. She also knits and crochets, and is looking forward to
learning
how to use a hand loom. </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT
face=Verdana>
</FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before: page"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">BUILDING ON NJ’S TRAILBLAZING LEGACY FOR THE BLIND
&
VISUALLY IMPAIRED</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By
Dr.
Bernice Davis, Executive Director</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">New
Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">In
1908,
a then 27-year-old Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan visited the
home
of Montclair resident Sarah Churchill, a philanthropist and music teacher
who
was also blind. Churchill had invited several community leaders and elected
officials to her home, including Governor Franklin Fort, to talk about the
need
for New Jersey to have a state agency dedicated to addressing the needs of
blind
children and adults. Following that meeting, Keller was invited to give
testimony before the State Legislature, and in April 1910, with New Jersey
ranking third in the nation for population density, the Commission for the
Blind
began providing education and training for blind residents under the
leadership
of its first Executive Director, Lydia Hayes Young.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">It’s
now
my honor to have been named the eighth executive director of CBVI. In this
role,
I’m responsible for the administration and operations of the single state
authority charged with providing education, vocational rehabilitation,
independent living, eye-health services and assistive technology for the
300,000
residents of New Jersey who are blind, visually impaired or deafblind.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">For
nearly 110 years, the Commission has been at the forefront of the blindness
services movement and continues to strive for the realization of new levels
of
achievement for consumers of all ages. We will expand upon this rich history
by
facilitating opportunities for people living in New Jersey who are blind,
visually impaired and deafblind.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I am
a
doctor of psychology and have more than 20 years of administrative
experience,
having held several leadership roles in both the private and public sectors.
Since joining the Commission’s staff 13 years ago, I’ve been very fortunate
to
have had the opportunity to augment that experience with vital information
and
experiences shared with me by colleagues and many consumers – all
individuals
willing to invest in CBVI’s success in meeting the current and future needs
of
the people we serve.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Our
community stakeholders also serve as a valued resource that enables us to
maintain awareness of the expectations of our consumers and the importance
of
the Commission’s fulfillment of the same. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Upon
reflecting on my tenure at the Commission, I’ve witnessed many advancements
in
the field of blindness services. The tremendous strides in technology alone
have
achieved great gains in facilitating independence and an environment of
inclusion, but most importantly it has been the dedicated work of CBVI
staff,
consumers, advocates and other partners to promote positive attitudes about
people who live with blindness and vision impairments that have made the
greatest impact. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">NFBNJ
has, for many years, been instrumental in conveying the needs and concerns
of
blind, visually impaired and deafblind persons across New Jersey. Please
know
that ensuring that individuals who are blind and visually impaired have
access
to opportunity is among the top priorities of Governor Murphy and everyone
that
works in his administration. <SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">This – in
no
small part – is</SPAN> the result of your effective advocacy, done not only
for
your members, but also on behalf of all blind and visually impaired
residents.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I
wholeheartedly agree that together we can make a difference, and I look
forward
to working with the leadership of the NFBNJ on our shared commitment to
ensure
that people who are blind, visually impaired and deafblind have the chance
to
live the life they want. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">We’ve
been busy, and I would like to share a few highlights from the past 12
months:
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">We celebrated with two groups of age 55+ consumers
and
their companions upon their completion of the Senior Hands-On Retreat
Experience
(SHORE) program. The program participants received training and resource
information with the goal of enabling them to acquire the necessary skills
and
confidence to maintain independence with vision loss. </FONT><B><SPAN
style="COLOR: "></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">We held a ceremony to mark the launching of the
Library
Equal Access Program (LEAP) at the Newark Public Library with Lieutenant
Governor Sheila Oliver, Department of Human Services Commissioner Carole
Johnson, and Newark City Council President and CBVI retiree Mildred Crump.
LEAP
provides assistive technology training for people 55 years of age and
older.</FONT><B><SPAN style="COLOR: "></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">More than 60 high school students participated in a
CBVI-sponsored summer transitional services program geared towards preparing
them for life after high school and adulthood. </FONT><B><SPAN
style="COLOR: "></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Our Project BEST provided eye screenings to nearly
35,000 people. Of that number, nearly 4,000 people were referred for further
medical eye care.</FONT><B><SPAN style="COLOR: "></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The Commission is also focused on jobs. Last year,
it
provided pre-employment transition services, transition services and
vocational
rehabilitation services to 921 students in secondary or post-secondary
education. It also helped 373 Individuals pursue post-secondary education,
while
204 Individuals exited the vocational rehabilitation system after
successfully
obtaining, maintaining or advancing in their careers in competitive
integrated
employment. </FONT><B><SPAN style="COLOR: "></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">We
are
also implementing strategies to significantly expand our community education
and
outreach with the goals of making sure that people who need CBVI services
are
aware of what we do and for the general public to gain a greater awareness
of
the abilities and potential of people who are blind, visually impaired and
deafblind. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">We
have
more to come, and I look forward to working in partnership with NFBNJ on our
shared priorities. I understand the trust that’s been placed in our agency
and
take it seriously. Please be assured that the Commission for the Blind and
Visually Impaired will continue to build upon its trailblazing
legacy.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><B style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-INDENT: 0px"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT face=""><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">WHY
GET INVOLVED? </FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By
Rose Santiago</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note</FONT></SPAN></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">: <I>Rose is a board
member
of the Northeast Chapter and chair of the Spanish Committee, as well as a
volunteer in the Braille Enrichment through Literacy and Learning (BELL)
program. She is a business owner of Mariposa Essence and the author of
</I>Live
Your True Essence<I> and </I>Organic Recipes for Your Personal and Spiritual
Pleasure<I>.</I></SPAN></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Comments from NFBNJ President Joe
Ruffalo:</FONT></SPAN></B><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN></FONT><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I’ve known Rose for several years. She’s a
friend,
colleague and role model. She’s also someone who identifies a goal, outlines
the
steps and works her plan to achieve her goal. Once she achieves her
goal
and crosses the finish line, the finish line becomes her next starting
line. It is rewarding for me to witness the ways she transforms her
dreams
into reality!</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN><FONT face=""><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Here
is Rose’s story: </FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The
most
outstanding accomplishment in my life has been to be the proud mother of my
son,
Gabriel. Raising him as a single mom, while also managing a business and
taking
care of my own home and personal responsibilities, was often quite
challenging.
Nonetheless, during those years, I endeavored to care for my son and
established
a housekeeping business for 14 years, which allowed me to support my child
and
secure a home for the both of us.</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">Throughout my life, I have always believed that having
a
positive mindset and knowing that everything would work out fine despite
setbacks was the determining factor in growing as a person and business
owner
who was blind since birth. I always felt that I could do more, thus I
decided to
become an author and start a new business, Mariposa Essence. The opportunity
to
help others break through their limiting beliefs and disempowering thoughts
that
inevitably lead to living a life of pain and discontentment is what led me
to
write the book, <I>Live Your True Essence</I>, <U><SPAN style="COLOR: "><A
style="COLOR: " href="http://www.liveyourtrueessence.com/"><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT
color=#386eff>http://www.LiveYourTrueEssence.com</FONT></SPAN></A></SPAN></U>.
</SPAN></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">In
March
2016, I became a member of the National Federation of the Blind. Here, I
discovered that there were other blind individuals who had also traversed
seemingly insurmountable barriers as I had, and yet were able to become a
powerful force in motivating others and demonstrating through life
experiences
that they, too, could live the life they wanted. “What a coup!” I thought
with
relief. I knew I would fit right in.</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">A year later, I became chair of the Spanish Committee,
and
in January of 2018, I was elected board member of the Northeast Chapter In
all,
I am extremely grateful and proud of the woman I am today. To serve in any
capacity where I can make a difference in someone else’s life is what
absolutely
brings me true joy and satisfaction.</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
">
</SPAN></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT
face=Verdana>
</FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR style="break-before:
page"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFB CAREER MENTORING PROGRAM: LOOKING FOR MENTORS
&
MENTEES</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By Maurice Peret</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note:</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> <I>Maurice Peret is the coordinator of career
mentoring
programs for the National Federation of the Blind, a national program that
provides pre-employment transition services to blind and low-vision
students.
Before joining the NFB staff, Mr. Peret, among other things, worked with,
trained, and educated blind youth and adults as a lead O&M instructor
and
rehabilitation projects coordinator and, before that, as a rehabilitation
outreach coordinator for Blind Industries and Services of Maryland
Rehabilitation Department. He is National Orientation & Mobility
Certified (NOMC) and is a member of the National Orientation and Mobility
Certification Training Committee under the direction of the National
Blindness
Professional Certification Board. He also serves as a peer reviewer for the
</I>Journal of Blindness Innovation and Research</FONT><I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">. In addition, Mr. Peret served as NFB’s base camp
communications manager for the 2001 NFB/Allegra Mt. Everest expedition which
featured Erik Weihenmayer, the world’s first blind mountaineer to summit the
highest peak on Earth Along with his wife, Lou Ann Blake, Mr. Peret has
hiked
the Maryland portion of the Appalachian Trail, part of which was done during
their honeymoon.</FONT></I></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13.5pt; TEXT-INDENT:
0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">In 2014, President Barack Obama signed into law the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act which mandated that state agencies
serving blind and low vision consumers allocate at least 15 percent of their
Federal funds to transition age youth, a historically underserved
population.
The NFB Career Mentoring Program is an innovative program that makes
available a
nationwide network of successful blind professionals in as many careers and
personal interests as can be imagined by young blind people hoping someday
to
live the lives they want. The program centers around five essential elements
of
success. They include:</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">1.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">the notion that it is okay to be
blind;</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">2.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">that mastery of the alternative skills of blindness
leads to greater confidence and independence;</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">3.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">dealing gracefully yet assuredly with public
attitudes
about blindness helps dispel outdated myths about
blindness;</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">4.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">that blending in adds up to fuller integration and
inclusion in the best that society has to offer, and </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">5.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">that giving back is the full measure of success as a
blind person.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 13.5pt; TEXT-INDENT:
0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Without the competitive advantage of shared
experiences
of blind men and women who have negotiated the labyrinth of educational,
vocational and employment systems, youth who are blind or have low vision
can
become discouraged by the low expectations held by society. A matrix
mentoring
model insures that mentees in the NFB Career Mentoring Program are matched
with
not just one, but in many cases two or even three successful blind mentors.
The
program includes monthly interactions between mentors and mentees, regularly
scheduled monthly teleconferences to gauge and measure progress in the
program,
and quarterly mentoring retreats focusing on essential aspects of career
exploration, work-based learning experiences, enrollment in postsecondary
education and training, job readiness skills and
self-advocacy.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Currently, the NFB is under agreements with three
state
agencies – Maryland, Mississippi and Nebraska – to provide career
mentoring-based, pre-employment transition services. If you are a young
person
not looking to reinvent the wheel, you are encouraged to sign up to become a
mentee by completing the online application at: </FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="https://nfb.org/menteeapplication" target=_blank><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT
color=#954f72>https://nfb.org/menteeapplication</FONT></SPAN></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">. If you are a
successful
blind working adult or student, perhaps your talents can be put to work
helping
the next generation of successful blind people. If so, please complete the
online mentor application at: </SPAN><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="https://nfb.org/mentorapplication" target=_blank><SPAN
style="COLOR: "><FONT
color=#954f72>https://nfb.org/mentorapplication</FONT></SPAN></A></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Remember 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!</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">For further information, please contact Maurice
Peret,
Coordinator of Career Mentoring Programs, 200 East Wells Street, Baltimore,
MD
21230, (410) 659-9314, extension 2350, or by email at: </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:MPeret@nfb.org"><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#954f72>MPeret@nfb.org</FONT></SPAN></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv8126439861msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" align=left><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next
story</SPAN></B><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Rose Santiago TO HOST BOOK SIGNING FOR <I>LIVE YOUR
TRUE
ESSENCE </I>APRIL 12</FONT><I></I></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Join NFBNJ member and author
</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">Rose
Santiago in an evening of great conversation and a chance to own your
personal
copy of her recently published book, <I>Live Your True Essence: Learn 12
Secrets
That Will Empower Your</I></SPAN><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"> </SPAN></I><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">Mind, Balance Your Body and
Enlighten Your Spirit.</SPAN></I></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
The
event will take place Friday, April 12, at 7 p.m., at the Trattoria Il
Cafone
Italian restaurant, 7 Ridge Road, in Lyndhurst. </FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Rose has studied and practiced essential oils that
support holistic healing for almost 20 years.</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">
</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">In addition,
for</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"> </SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">over two decades, she has
researched and studied business, philosophy and</SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"> </SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">the connection between
scientific
study and spiritual enlightenment. Throughout her journey, she has
uncovered</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">
</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">a spiritual path
based on a higher way of thinking, using practical</SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"> </SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">principles to help others live their authentic and
divine essence. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Her</FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">online business,
Mariposa Essence, provides organic and natural products</SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">that assist in
bringing overall balance and well-being to the mind, body</SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">and spirit. Rose
volunteers her time with the NFB and the Lion's Club, organizations that
open
doors</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
">to a
life of independence for many. Rose’s passion for</SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">helping others to
master a lifestyle that reflects their true essence is</SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">the driving force behind what she writes about.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Rose
enjoys reading, relaxing at the beach, and cooking healthful dishes. You can
learn more about all that Rose offers at</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">her website: <U><SPAN style="COLOR: "><A style="COLOR:
"
href="http://www.rosesantiago.com/"><SPAN style="COLOR: "><FONT
color=#386eff>www.RoseSantiago.com</FONT></SPAN></A></SPAN></U>.</SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></B></P><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT
face=Verdana>
</FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR style="break-before:
page"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">FROM SEED TO HARVEST</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By Gerald Moreno</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.7pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note: </FONT></SPAN></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.7pt">In his long tenure as
a
member of the NFBNJ, Jerry served as affiliate secretary, board member and
chapter president. He now resides in North Carolina with his wife of nearly
46
years, Madeline. Jerry was recently elected chapter president in North
Carolina,
and the members “down yonder” enjoy his New Jersey accent.</SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.7pt"> </SPAN></FONT><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.7pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">His essay below was written in February 1997; he
revised
it in January 2019. Its meaning today is as relevant as it was in 1997.
</FONT></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></I> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
13.5pt">WHY
NOT WORK? This question is asked by many blind people. However, some other
blind
folk ask … WHY work? They ask this question because of a lack of
understanding,
for if they only realized that inside themselves is the potential to
succeed –
that the possibility already exists within them – they would not even think
of
failure.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.4pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Consider a tomato seed. It has all the potential,
given the proper set of conditions, to become a fruit-bearing plant. All
that is
necessary to become a tomato is already in the seed. Contemplate that for a
while. Think of yourself as a seed. Are you planted in fertile ground, or
are
you on the shelf? A seed on a shelf is useless. It cannot produce anything.
Until planted, it will never bear fruit. However, with the proper set of
conditions – prepared soil, sufficient water and nutrients, sunlight and
heat,
and a weed- and obstacle-free environment – the seed can grow and
flourish.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.4pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Like that seed, what you need to succeed is
already
within you, and you, too, need the proper conditions to grow and flourish.
Seeds
need prepared ground so that the seedlings can pierce the top soil, and the
roots can absorb sufficient water or nutrients. Without water and nutrients,
the
plant will shrivel up and die. Likewise, your mind must be prepared; you
must
understand and believe in yourself, that you can make it. If you don’t have
this
belief in yourself, you will never rise above your own expectations. You’ll
exist, but you won’t prosper. Believing that you <B><I>can</I></B><I>
</I>begins
the process of growth. Break up the hard ground in your mind and allow your
victory to grow! </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.6pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Once the ground is prepared, the seed can be
planted.
Roots actively seek the life-sustaining forces of water and nutrients at
this
level of growth. You, too, must vigorously explore your “water and
nutrients”:
Education and training to strengthen your abilities and allow you to grow
into
the marketable employee that is inherent in you. After you receive
sufficient
education and training, you can enter the job market knowing that you have
something to offer, a fruit worthy of harvest!</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.4pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Sunlight and heat to a plant are like networking
and
camaraderie to us. The sun's rays shed light on the plant, thus enabling it
to
produce fruit. Networking's illuminating effect sheds light on available
services, training and assistive technology, and leads to job opportunities
As a
sprouting leaf gravitates toward the sun and turns toward it, you also must
seek
out those who are presently employed and learn from them. The only way you
can
find out about these things is by taking the initiative. Without networking,
you
run the risk of no harvest, that is, no job! To learn about job
opportunities,
you must be in contact with those who know. Turn to people who already are
working and ask them how they got their jobs. Associating with successfully
employed people will lift up your attitude; it’s always better to identify
with
positive people than negative. Do not allow yourself to be dragged down.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Throughout the United States, there are meetings
of
chapters of the NFB that you can attend, as well as conventions and events.
Email <SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:jobs@nfbnet.org"><FONT
color=#0000ff>jobs@nfbnet.org</FONT></A></SPAN> to join the NFB’s Jobs
listserv.
The warmth of camaraderie will nurture you and give you companionship.
Knowing
that there are others who have already traveled the road you are about to
take
may alleviate your fears.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Weeds can choke a plant to death. There are those
in
society who have hindered the opportunities of blind people to succeed. Most
are
unintentional, due to a lack of education or information; nonetheless, the
result is the same. The choking effect of misconception and ignorance needs
to
be pulled up, as a weed from the root, and destroyed. Given a weed-free
environment, the blind can be just as fruitful as their sighted
peers.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
13.5pt">Some
obstacles to plant growth may have nothing to do with soil or climatic
conditions. Improperly planted seeds may become food for the birds. Shallow
planted seeds will not survive. If you are not prepared for employment, or
even
greater, for life, you run the risk of being devoured while on your
path.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">To
be
fruitful, you must first learn what the obstacles are and then how to avoid
or
remove them. Knowledge and wisdom help to expose and extract any obstacle in
your way. <SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt">Maintain perception of your
situation; what seems at first to be a Mount Everest in your path may in
fact be
just an anthill. The rich history of the NFB is replete with examples of
dislodged Mount Everests. Floyd Matson's “Walking Alone and Marching
Together”
chronicles many a mountain turned anthill. It’s essential reading for all
blind
persons.</SPAN> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Do
not
be weighted down with excess baggage. Life has enough of its own. Learn
efficient travel from those who are or have been on the
path.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
13.5pt">The
position in which a seed is planted has no effect on the harvest; it is the
proper preparation and care of the field that ensures a harvest worth the
labor
involved. Like the seed, no matter what position you find yourself in, you
have
the potential to be fruitful. It might take some effort on your part, but it
can
be done. If you give up and stay at home, like a seed on a shelf, you will
not
be fruitful.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Some time must elapse between the sowing of the
seed
and the time you enjoy the fruit of your labor. Yet, some people who have
planted themselves in the employment field lose hope when they do not see
instantaneous results. Just like there is a growing season for tomato
plants,
there is a growing season for you. If you do not realize this, you can
become
discouraged and quit. Quitting interrupts the growth cycle and never leads
to
fruit.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">A farmer would never dig up a seed to see if it is
growing! Knowing that he has done all that he could, he has enough
confidence in
the idea of seedtime and harvest to wait with anticipation. If you have been
diligent and set the growth process into motion, you can wait patiently and
with
expectation. The farmer looks at his planted field and pictures the
prospective
harvest. Do the same for yourself. Picture yourself employed and successful.
Be
just as expectant of success as that farmer is of a bountiful
crop.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13.5pt">Why not work? The choice is yours. You decide
whether
there will be an employment harvest. It starts with a decision. Make the
right
choice and the growth process is set in motion. Remember: A seed on the
shelf
bears no fruit. By following the aforementioned principles, you can learn to
overcome any obstacles. Plant yourself and produce a plentiful harvest!
</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next story</SPAN></B><FONT
face=Verdana>
</FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before: page"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">BELLS
READY TO RING FOR A SIXTH SUMMER!</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=gmail-Body
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; border-image:
none"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-Body
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in;
border-image: none"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The BELLs will be ringing again as the NFBNJ
sponsors
its sixth Braille Enrichment through Literacy and Learning (BELL) Academy
weekdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 22 – August 2, 2019, at the Puerto Rican
Association for Human Development (PRAHD) in Perth Amboy. Parents must
transport
their children to and from the facility each day, and provide them with
lunch,
unless otherwise specified. There is no cost or registration fee for
children to
attend this program. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> The BELL Academy helps blind and
low-vision children ages 4 – 12 develop the literacy skills that will
empower
them to achieve their academic goals and live the lives they want. The NFBNJ
is
especially grateful to the Allergan Foundation for their generous grant this
year. Also, this year, with the assistance of our Wells Fargo partners, we
will
provide opportunities for students to imagine, create, and touch their
future
and dreams not only through Braille instruction, but also by nurturing their
development of tactile arts and graphics. Through the generous support of
the
American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults, each student participant
in
the 2019 NFB BELL Academies will be provided with an inTACT Sketchpad.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The NFB provides an overview of the program at
</FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="https://nfb.org/bell-academy" target=_blank><FONT
color=#0000ff>https://nfb.org/bell-academy</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">. The <I>Frequently
Asked
Questions</I> brochure for New Jersey is available at </SPAN><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="https://nfb.org/bellacademy-faqs-affiliate/nj"><FONT
color=#0000ff>https://nfb.org/bellacademy-faqs-affiliate/nj</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">. For additional
information, please contact Mary Jo Partyka, NJ BELL coordinator, at
</SPAN><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:choirnfb@gmail.com"><FONT
color=#0000ff>choirnfb@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
class=gmail-apple-converted-space><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"> </SPAN></SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">or by phone at 609-888-5459. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; TEXT-TRANSFORM: uppercase; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">From Ice Cream to T-Shirts, Braille Paper to
Pizza</FONT></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">YOU CAN HELP SPONSOR THIS SUMMER’S BELL
ACADEMY</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></I> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The following sponsorship opportunities are
available
for the BELL Academy this summer: </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$200 T-shirts for all
participants
$20 Dark-lined paper</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$200 Arts and crafts
supplies
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$150 Christmas party in
July </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$100 Louis Braille birthday
party
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LETTER-SPACING:
0px"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$100 Games: Twister,
Bingo</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt"> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LETTER-SPACING:
0px"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$50 Ice cream at the beach </FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt" face=""> </FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LETTER-SPACING:
0px"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$30 Mid-week pizza party
</FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt" face=""> </FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LETTER-SPACING:
0px"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$30 Braille paper
</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt" face=""> </FONT><BR></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LETTER-SPACING:
0px"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$20 Dark-lined paper</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt" face=""> </FONT><BR></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LETTER-SPACING:
0px"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$15 20/20 pens</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt" face=""> </FONT><BR></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LETTER-SPACING:
0px"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$10 Daily snacks</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt" face=""> </FONT><BR></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LETTER-SPACING:
0px"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">$5 Water each day</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt" face=""> </FONT><BR></P></DIV><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR style="break-before: auto"
clear=all></SPAN>
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection3 style="page: wordsection3">
<H3 style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 2pt 0in 0pt; break-after: avoid"
align=center><SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><FONT
style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal">Sponsorship for Tactile Graphics
Products</FONT></FONT></SPAN></H3>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 30pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">1.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">4 or more Sensational Graphics Blackboards at $49.95
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 30pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">2.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">3D Doodler Pens, $100 each with ink strands. Extra
ink
strands, $12 for a 25-pack</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 30pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">3.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">InTact Sketch Pad electric eraser,
$150</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 30pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">4.</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">InTact Sketch Pad paper: 100 sheets for
$24</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Make your check payable to NFBNJ and send it to Joe
Ruffalo, NFBNJ President, 254 Spruce Street, Bloomfield, NJ 07003. In
the
memo, please write “BELL.” Sponsorship in any amount is appreciated. Thank
you
for your interest and support in driving the BELL Academy vehicle along the
road
to literacy and learning for blind children.</FONT></SPAN></P><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next
story</SPAN></B><FONT style='face: "verdana,' sans-serif?>
</FONT><B style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR
style="break-before: page" clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 1pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFBNJ SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT 2018 STATE
CONVENTION</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Mary Fernandez, chair of the State Scholarship
Committee, has announced the winners of the 2018 NFBNJ State Scholarships.
Congratulations to each of the following:</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></I></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Jonathan Zobek: Tom& Gail Ferry Memorial
Scholarship</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">This
scholarship will go a long way in helping offset my college education
expenses.
I am currently studying communications at The College of New Jersey, and one
day
hope to give back to the blindness community, either as a certified
rehabilitation counselor or orientation and mobility instructor. Either way,
I
am so thankful for your generous contribution to my future. Thank you for
believing in me and investing in my education and future employment. I
will continue to try my best and maintain academic
success.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Connor Mullin: Louise& Pete Facchini
Scholarship</FONT><SPAN style="COLOR: "></SPAN></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note:</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT><I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Connor wrote the following letter to Louise and Pete’s
son, Dan Facchini:</FONT></I></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I am
writing to express my sincere gratitude for selecting me as the recipient of
the
2018 Louise and Pete Facchini Memorial Scholarship. After getting back
involved
in the NFB in 2017, you have been a wonderful mentor and friend to me, and I
consider your friendship a major reason why I have remained as engaged as I
have
been. With the financial support that this scholarship will provide, I
intend to
continue to be an active member in the National Federation of the Blind, to
become a competent, confident travel instructor, and to keep your friendship
close to my heart. Thank you once again for believing in me and being a
tremendous friend.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Alba Milla: Klaus & Michelle Zechner STEM
Scholarship Award</FONT></SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">I
would
like to thank you for awarding me this scholarship. It means a lot to me
that
there are people like you in this world who are generous and are willing to
lend
a helping hand to those who need it. My journey is not easy, being a single
mother and a full-time college student. People as kind as you make it
possible for people like me to continue to strive and put our best foot
forward
every single day. Please know that this scholarship is very much appreciated
and
will be put to good use. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Lauryn Boyle: Tara Carty Memorial
Scholarship</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">It was such an honor to receive this special
scholarship
in memory of Tara Carty, and I will do my best to live up to her legacy,
sharing
my smile and my music with the world! I am grateful to receive this generous
scholarship because it gives me the ability to continue studying vocal
performance at James Madison University. My dream is to perform on Broadway
or
at The Metropolitan Opera in New York City, or perhaps even in Germany.
After my
performing experiences, I hope to open an art school to include music,
dance,
theater and music therapy so that all children, including those who are
differently abled, can come to learn and experience the beauty of the
arts.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Before the NFBNJ State Convention, I knew only one
other
person who was visually impaired, aside from my brother. It was comforting
to
meet others, especially some my own age, and this helped me to feel less
alone
knowing that there are many others who are similar to me, who are also
confident
and successful. The attendees and speakers at the convention taught me that
everyone has gone through plenty of struggles, but are still able to
triumph. I
learned that people may lose their eyesight, but no one will ever truly lose
their vision for success. Each and every person at the NFBNJ was extremely
warm,
welcoming, supportive and positive. Thank you for awarding me this
scholarship
and I look forward to attending more NFBNJ events in the future! If
you
would like to hear me sing, you can go to my YouTube channel <B><I>LMB
Vocalist</I></B>. </FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR:
"></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Deryn
Hespos: Annemarie Cooke & Douglas McCray
Scholarship</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The NFB is a great organization that provides
support to
blind and visually impaired people across the United States. I am honored to
be
one of the recipients of NFB’s assistance. This scholarship will be
immensely
helpful in enabling me to complete my schooling to become a future educator
of
the blind and visually impaired. I have not had very much involvement with
the
NFB prior to being awarded this scholarship, but I enjoyed the state
convention
and am looking forward to continuing to be a part of the NFB, hopefully as a
Student Division member. One last gigantic thank you to Joe Ruffalo and all
the
NFBNJ members, board members and Scholarship Committee members, and everyone
else involved in selecting and awarding me this great honor. I can’t wait to
see
and work with you all more in the future!</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">next
story</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT color=#222222
face=Verdana> </FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">REFLECTIONS FROM THE 2018 NFB ENGINEERING QUOTIENT
PROGRAM</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By
Natasha Ishaq, Sami Ishaq & Ethan Morrobel</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note:</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT><I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Both
</FONT><SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Natasha and Sami are AP and
honors
students at Franklin High School in Somerset County. Natasha, a senior, is a
high-ranking cadet in the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps, and a
member
of the National Honor Society, the Hispanic Honor Society and Amnesty
International. During the past two summers she has interned with the NJCBVI.
She
has volunteered for the Family Resource Network and the Holy Cross Church
Thrift
Store in North Plainfield. Additionally, she takes piano and vocal lessons.
Sami, a junior, has recently explored the programs and experiences the NFB
has
to offer. He’s a member of the school’s Robotics Team, where he was recently
elected finance manager, and the Thespians. Sami has mentored blind and
visually
impaired students through the SHARP program in Freehold. Both Natasha and
Sami
plan to continue their studies on the college level. Here is what Natasha
and
Sami had to say about the program:</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The NFB Engineering Quotient (EQ) program was an
experience that we will never forget. NFB EQ is a week-long summer
engineering
program for blind and low-vision teens from across the United States. Our
week
in Baltimore consisted of daily classes focused primarily on the science and
math involved in structural engineering, group discussions, and evening
activities and outings. Our exposure to tactile learning tools and resources
allowed us to complete tasks that otherwise would have been challenging due
to
visual barriers. The program instilled a sense of understanding as to how it
is
possible for blind individuals to obtain careers in the STEM – science,
technology, engineering and math – fields. By communicating with blind
engineers
who work for large corporations or government organizations and agencies,
such
as the FBI, we learned that there already are a number of blind and visually
impaired individuals defying the odds. Not only did the program instill in
us
the belief that it is possible for blind and visually impaired engineers to
prosper, but it also provided us with the opportunity to represent
ourselves.
There was staff on hand when we needed, yet the program encouraged us to be
independent in our daily routines. For instance, we were presented with the
responsibility to be at certain places at certain times. We were trusted
with
our own mobility skills and were required to use a white cane or guide dog
as
tools of mobility in order to ensure independent travel.</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Not only did we acquire knowledge pertaining to
various
skill sets, but we also were presented with the opportunity to meet and
socialize with blind and visually impaired students in our age group from
all
around the country. It was truly inspiring hearing the experiences of
students
who may live so far from us who have overcome similar adversity.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ;
LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">The NFB EQ program presented an amazing opportunity
to
construct career goals, practice daily living skills and meet some truly
extraordinary individuals. The program reinforced that it is always possible
to
live the life you want and transform your dreams into
reality.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note:</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
</FONT><I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Ethan, a junior at Scotch Plains Fanwood High
School, is
on the school’s cross country and swim teams, as well as the Lightening
Wheels
Paralympic Club swim team. In 2018, he was inducted into the school’s
National
Honor Society. He is a member of the Civil Air Patrol and has been a junior
counselor for his town’s Annual Leadership Training Conference for four
years.
Ethan enjoys flying airplanes, golfing and participating in leadership
camps/activities. He is a lifeguard at a local gym. </FONT></I></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Attending the
NFB
Engineering Quotient engineering program was a great experience for me. I
enjoyed making friends, learning about engineering and learning more about
the
blind community. Meeting blind engineers and architects inspired me to be at
peace with the fact that one day I may lose all my sight. The staff
and
students were friendly and engaging, and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at the
National Center in Baltimore. The field trips to the Old Mill Farm Museum
and to
a river where we went swimming were especially memorable In our classes, we
learned about the STEM fields and participated in a number of practical
hands-on
activities. The week’s experiences have led me to consider a future career
in
architecture or engineering, specifically, aerospace engineering. I wish to
thank everyone who contributed to the success of this
program.</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></P><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><FONT
style="COLOR: #000000"
face="Calibri, sans-serif"><B>advertisement</B></FONT></SPAN><SPAN
class=gmail-yiv7296260230 style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Verdana>
</FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR style="break-before: page"
clear=all></SPAN></SPAN>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN
class=gmail-yiv7296260230><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN
style="HEIGHT: 1px; WIDTH: 533px; MARGIN-LEFT: 275px; MARGIN-TOP:
1330px"><IMG
alt="iCanConnect logo" width=426 height=1></SPAN><SPAN
class=gmail-yiv7296260230><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
</FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><IMG border=0 alt="SSPNJ logo" width=160
height=130> </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt"></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 24pt">Support Service Providers of
NJ</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 24pt">(SSPNJ)</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 24pt">&</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 24pt">iCanConnect
(iCCNJ)</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 20pt">serve individuals throughout the State of New
Jersey</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 20pt">with combined hearing and vision loss.
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt"></FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"
align=center><SPAN
class=gmail-yiv7296260230><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 34pt"><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 26pt">Do you have trouble
with</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"
align=center><SPAN
class=gmail-yiv7296260230><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 34pt"><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 26pt">your hearing and
vision?</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 16pt"
align=center><SPAN
class=gmail-yiv7296260230><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; LINE-HEIGHT: 34pt"><FONT face=Georgia><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 26pt">Or know someone who
does?</FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "> </SPAN></P><BR clear=all>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><IMG border=0
alt='black box with an over-size blue checkmark and the words "Independence
Achieved"
Below this graphic is the logo for The College of New Jersey'
width=624 height=187></SPAN><SPAN class=gmail-yiv7296260230><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></SPAN></P><SPAN
class=gmail-yiv7296260230
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR
style="break-before: page" clear=all></SPAN></SPAN>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=left><B style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR:
">next
story</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Verdana>
</FONT></SPAN><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">SPORTS & RECREATION LINE
UP</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">By Linda Melendez</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=justify><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Editor’s Note:</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
</FONT><I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Linda currently serves as the affiliate’s 1st Vice
President, as well as president of the NFBNJ’s Sports & Recreation
Division,
and a member of the At Large Chapter, and the Senior and Technology
divisions.
</FONT></I></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">As we enter our second year as a thriving division,
here’s what’s happening in 2019:</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=gmail-yiv7493229201msonormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Winter Challenge:</FONT></SPAN></I></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Participants
were
encouraged to download and complete BlindAlive podcasts. Blind Alive has
created
dozens of audio described exercise videos for all levels of personal fitness
geared for the blind and visually impaired. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Spring Personal
Challenge:</FONT></SPAN></I></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Push yourself
to
obtain a personal goal. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Walking:</FONT></SPAN></I></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Join us at
mall
and park walks, as well as summer Boardwalk Beach Days. </FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Bowling League:</FONT></SPAN></I></B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> In North
Jersey,
our bowling league meets in Belleville for an 8-week commitment.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Third Annual Step
Challenge</FONT></SPAN></I></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">:</SPAN></B></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Participants
are
encouraged to walk at least 7,500 steps a day throughout the month of
October.
All must register before October 1 and complete a survey at the end of the
challenge.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" align=justify><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;
font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFBNJ Book Club</FONT></SPAN></I></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">:</SPAN></B></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> This club
meets
quarterly by conference call. The goal is to learn about the Federation and
our
members through reading and sharing. The books are chosen by moderator Janie
Degenshein. This quarter’s book was “Outside Myself,” written by past NFB
National and NFBNJ State Scholarship winner Kristen Witucki. Participants
must
register online, and all discussions are held on the NFBNJ technology
conference
call line. </FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">All are welcome to join our monthly conference
calls;
call in information is available at </FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><A
style="COLOR: " href="http://www.nfbnj.org/" target=_blank><FONT
color=#0000ff>www.nfbnj.org</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "> under Chapters and Divisions. For our
exciting
events, activities and challenges, use the direct link </SPAN><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><A style="COLOR: "
href="http://www.nfbnj.org/sports-and-recreation-calendar"
target=_blank><FONT
color=#0000ff>www.nfbnj.org/sports-and-recreation-calendar</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Special thanks to each member for your participation
and
engagement. You are the reason the Sports & Recreation Division is so
successful. Congratulations to Vee Gaspa, newly elected division secretary,
and
Trish Ebel, newly elected board member.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Be on the lookout for more exciting events,
activities,
challenges and a possible autumn state event from the NFBNJ Sports and
Recreation Division! </FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">Please remember that N</SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">ew Jersey is a
big
state when using paratransit or public transportation. Our members and
friends
organize events directed to participants in a specific region of the state
so
that we spend less time travelling and more time enjoying the
event.</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P><FONT style="COLOR: #000000"
face="Calibri, sans-serif"><SPAN><B>advertisement</B></SPAN></FONT><FONT
style='face: "verdana,' sans-serif?> </FONT><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><BR
style="break-before: page" clear=all></SPAN></B>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="Z-INDEX: 251657216"><SPAN
style="HEIGHT: 6px; WIDTH: 840px"></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<TABLE style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: #000000" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0>
<TBODY>
<TR>
<TD
style="BORDER-TOP: black 0.75pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT: black 0.75pt solid;
VERTICAL-ALIGN: top; BORDER-BOTTOM: black 0.75pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: black
0.75pt solid; border-image: none"
bgColor=white height=6 width=840><SPAN
style="LEFT: 0pt; Z-INDEX: 251657216">
<TABLE style="COLOR: #000000" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0
width="100%">
<TBODY>
<TR>
<TD>
<DIV class=gmail-shape
style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 4.35pt; PADDING-TOP: 4.35pt;
PADDING-LEFT: 7.95pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 7.95pt">
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT:
0.25in"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 22pt">Live Your True
Essence</FONT></SPAN></B><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13pt">Learn 12 Secrets That Will Empower
Your</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 13pt"><I><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT face="">
</FONT></SPAN></I></FONT><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 13pt">Mind, Balance Your Body and Enlighten
Your
Spirit</FONT></SPAN></I><I><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"></SPAN></I></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">A Book by Rose
Santiago</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
face="Bradley Hand ITC"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">BOOK
SIGNING: April 12
Trattoria Il Cafone, Lyndhurst 7
PM</FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><FONT face="Arial Narrow"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt">Rose’s
incredible journey</FONT></SPAN></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt"><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "> takes us
</SPAN></B></FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt">along the winding roads and uneven
plains</FONT></SPAN></B></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><FONT face="Arial Narrow"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt">of the life
experiences and</FONT></SPAN></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt"><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
</SPAN></B></FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt">physical challenges she
overcame</FONT></SPAN></B></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><FONT face="Arial Narrow"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt">to discover
the
true essence of who she</FONT></SPAN></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt"><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
</SPAN></B></FONT><B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt">is in mind, body and
spirit.</FONT></SPAN></B></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">After more
than
20 years of research and</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><FONT face=""> </FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">education in spirituality, and nearly two
decades of study and practice in</SPAN><FONT face="">
</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">the world of essential oils and
aromatherapy,
Rose has created an extraordinary</SPAN><FONT face="">
</FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">and unique essence that inspired her to
write
this book. Her passion for</SPAN><FONT face=""> </FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">knowledge, and her wish to help others who
struggle with disempowering</SPAN><FONT face=""> </FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">thoughts, limiting beliefs and health
imbalances has moved her to share her personal stories, ideas
and
philosophies with the world.</SPAN><FONT face="">
</FONT></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in
0pt"><FONT
face=""><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"></FONT></FONT> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><FONT face="Arial Narrow"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt">Step into the divine
essence</FONT></SPAN></B><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">
</SPAN></B></FONT><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 15pt">that makes you
you!</FONT></SPAN></B></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">In <I>Live Your True Essence</I>, you’ll
learn to:</FONT></SPAN><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt"></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 16.55pt 6pt 0.75in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric:
normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Tap into the higher part of yourself
that
can create limitless</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><FONT face=""> </FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">possibilities</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 16.55pt 6pt 0.75in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric:
normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Develop behaviors and beliefs that can
serve
you instead of limit you from being, doing, having and giving
more
of yourself.</FONT></SPAN><FONT face=""><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 16.55pt 6pt 0.75in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric:
normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Understand how to have a positive
mindset,
learn the value of appreciation, discover the powerful and
transformative qualities you hold</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><FONT face=""> </FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">within your
grasp, and learn ways you can grow and expand in thought,
despite
setbacks so you can live a purpose driven life.
</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 16.55pt 6pt 0.75in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric:
normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Learn the harmful effects toxic
chemicals
can reap on your body and</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><FONT face=""> </FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">begin to explore the world of essential
oils
and aromatherapy, as well as</SPAN><FONT face=""> </FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">plant ingredients to enhance your mood,
manage
pain and discomfort, and</SPAN><FONT face=""> </FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">improve physical, emotional, mental, and
spiritual imbalances.</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=""><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 16.55pt 6pt 0.75in"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT face=Symbol><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">·</FONT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; font-variant-numeric:
normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-stretch: normal"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 7pt">
</FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Discover how to express your most
authentic
and powerful true essence,</FONT></SPAN><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><FONT face=""> </FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">which you will master with practiced tools
such as meditations, affirmations and visualizations to create
magic
in your life.</SPAN></FONT><FONT face=""><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN><FONT
face=""><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 6pt"></FONT></FONT></SPAN> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Find<I> Live Your Essence</I> at
Amazon.com,
<A style='href:
"http://barnesandnoble.com/"'>barnesandnoble.com</A>
and
Goodreads.com</FONT></SPAN></P></DIV></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></SPAN><FONT
face=Verdana> </FONT></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><FONT
style='face: "verdana,' sans-serif?> </FONT>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: "></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.25in"
align=justify><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT></SPAN><B style="TEXT-ALIGN:
center"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">NFBNJ CONTACT
INFORMATION</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=gmail-aolmailmsonormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 8pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P></DIV><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before:
auto"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection4 style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 8pt 0in 0pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">National Federation of
the
Blind National
Office
</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> President</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Mark Riccobono 410-659-9314 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:officeofthepresident@nfb.org"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>officeofthepresident@nfb.org</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 8pt 0in 0pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFB State
Affiliate
</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
President
</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Joseph Ruffalo
973-743-0075 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:nfbnj1@verizon.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>nfbnj1@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> <I>1<SUP>st</SUP>
Vice
President</I>
Linda Melendez
<SPAN>732-421-7063</SPAN> </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:lindamelendez220@gmail.com"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>lindamelendez220@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN><B></B></SPAN></P></DIV><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before:
auto"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection5 style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> <I>2<SUP>nd</SUP>
Vice
President</I>
Mary Jo Partyka 609-888-5459
</FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:choirnfb@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>choirnfb@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Secretary</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Ellen Sullivan
302-658-2268
</FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:ems553@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>ems553@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
<I>Treasurer</I>
Andrew Rees
732-659-6002 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:amrees567@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>amrees567@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Board
Members</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
<SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">Annemarie Cooke</SPAN>
609-859-4084 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:aec732@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>aec732@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
<SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.6pt">Linda DeBerardinis</SPAN>
856-735-5559 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:ljdeber3@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>ljdeber3@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Jane Degenshein <A style="name: ole_link74"></A><A
style="name: ole_link73">973-736-5785</A>
<SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:jdegen16@comcast.net"><FONT
color=#0000ff>jdegen16@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN>
Mary Fernandez
732-857-7004
</FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:mary.fernandez@duke.edu"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>mary.fernandez@duke.edu</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Veronica Gaspa 434-989-1868
</FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Veronica.gaspa@student.shu.edu"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Veronica.gaspa@student.shu.edu</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Zoraida
Krell
201-439-0120
</FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:krellbz@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>krellbz@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P></DIV><B
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before:
auto"
clear=all></SPAN></B>
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection6 style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFBNJ
Chapters –
Meeting dates, times & available at </FONT></SPAN></B><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; text-decoration-line: none"><A style="COLOR: "
href="http://www.nfbnj.org/"><FONT
color=#0000ff>www.nfbnj.org</FONT></A></SPAN></B></SPAN></FONT><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
</FONT></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.1pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> At
Large
</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Joe
Ruffalo
973-743-0075<I><SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.1pt">
</SPAN></I></FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Nfbnj1@verizon.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Nfbnj1@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN><I><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.1pt"></SPAN></I></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Capital</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Mary Jo Partyka 609-888-5459 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:choirnfb@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>choirnfb@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Central
Jersey
</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Mac
Biggers <SPAN
style="COLOR: ">801-916-9753</SPAN> </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:macbiggers@yahoo.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>macbiggers@yahoo.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Garden
State
</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Ryan
Stevens 856-240-1497
</FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:RYSteve@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>RYSteve@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Northeast</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Dan Facchini
201-906-8655 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:danfb@verizon.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>danfb@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Northern</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Rick
Fox
973-743-6107 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:richardfox1@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>richardfox1@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> <SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">South
Jersey
Shore
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Phil
Harrison
609-788-0890 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:pbharrison39@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>pbharrison39@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 8pt 0in 0pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFBNJ
Divisions
</FONT></SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Blind Students</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Jonathan Zobek
609-216-0181 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:jrzobek@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>jrzobek@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Parents of Blind Children</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Carol
Castellano 973-377-0976 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:blindchildren@verizon.net"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>blindchildren@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 3pt
9.35pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Senior
Blind</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Jane Degenshein 973-736-5785 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:Jdegen16@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>Jdegen16@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Sports &
Recreation
</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Linda Melendez
732-421-7063</FONT><SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:lindamelendez220@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>lindamelendez220@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 3pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
Technology</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Jane Degenshein 973-736-5785 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:Jdegen16@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>Jdegen16@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 8pt 0in 0pt"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt">Programs, Projects &
Committees
</FONT></SPAN></B></P></DIV><I style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before: auto" clear=all></SPAN></I>
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection7 style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -1pt"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Adopt
Adaptive Equipment</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Joe
Ruffalo
973-743-0075 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Nfbnj1@verizon.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Nfbnj1@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">BELL
Academy</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Mary Jo Partyka 609-888-5459 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:choirnfb@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>choirnfb@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -1pt"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Blind
Children’s Resource Center</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Carol Castellano
973-377-0976 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:blindchildren@verizon.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>blindchildren@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Blind Merchants<SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">Dan</SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
Facchini
201-906-8655 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:danfb@verizon.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>danfb@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Blind Parents<SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">Joanna
Mallard</SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
201-354-0098 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:joannmallard@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>joannmallard@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN><I></I></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Braille Mentoring Program</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Mary Jo
Partyka 609-888-5459 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:choirnfb@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>choirnfb@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">DeafBlind Committee<SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">Andrew Rees</SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
732-659-6002 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:amrees567@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>amrees567@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Diabetic Committee<SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">Ed Godfrey</SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
862-628-3657 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:edgodfrey1957@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>edgodfrey1957@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.4pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Fundraising/Grant Writing</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
</SPAN></I></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Ellen
Sullivan
302-658-2268 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:ems553@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>ems553@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">GreenDrop</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
<SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.6pt">Linda DeBerardinis
856</SPAN>-735-5559 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Ljdeber3@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Ljdeber3@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Guide Dog Committee<SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.3pt">Dan</SPAN></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
Facchini
201-906-8655 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:danfb@verizon.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>danfb@verizon.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">HAVA: Help
America</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
Ryan Stevens </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Calibri><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><TT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">856-240-1497</SPAN></TT><TT
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
</SPAN></TT></FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:RYSteve@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>RYSteve@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
<I> Vote Act
Liaisons</I>
</FONT></SPAN><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">Anthony
Lanzilotti</SPAN></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
609-361-3038 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:Tti777@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Tti777@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Andrew Rees
732-659-6002 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:amrees567@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>amrees567@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">KNFB Reader Liaison</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
Rick
Fox
973-743-6107 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Richardfox1@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Richardfox1@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Legislative
Director</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY:
">
Ryan Stevens </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Calibri><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><TT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">856-240-1497
</SPAN></TT></FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:RYSteve@comcast.net"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>RYSteve@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><TT
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></TT></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
<SPAN style="LETTER-SPACING: -1pt">Anthony
Lanzilotti</SPAN>
609-361-3038 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:Tti777@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Tti777@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Liability Insurance </FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Phil Harrison
609-545-8575 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:pbharrison39@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>pbharrison39@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.2pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Membership Engagement</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
</SPAN></I></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Rick
Fox
973-743-6107 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Richardfox1@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Richardfox1@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">NFB-NEWSLINE®</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Jane Degenshein 973-736-5785 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:Jdegen16@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>Jdegen16@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">PAC Plan Coordinator</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Mac
Biggers <SPAN
style="COLOR:
">801-916-9753</SPAN>
</FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:macbiggers@yahoo.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>macbiggers@yahoo.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Parliamentarian</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY:
">
Ryan Stevens </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Calibri><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><TT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">856-240-1497</SPAN></TT><TT
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ">
</SPAN></TT></FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:RYSteve@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>RYSteve@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><TT
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></TT></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -1pt"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Public
Relations/Press Corps</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN></I></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> <SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">Annemarie Cooke</SPAN>
609-859-4084 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:aec732@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>aec732@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Mary
Jo Partyka 609-888-5459 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:choirnfb@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>choirnfb@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Resolutions
Committee</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> Ryan
Stevens </SPAN></FONT><FONT
face=Calibri><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><TT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">856-240-1497</SPAN></TT></FONT><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
</FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:RYSteve@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>RYSteve@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Scholarship Committee</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">
Mary Fernandez 732-857-7004 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:mary.fernandez@duke.edu"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>mary.fernandez@duke.edu</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Social Media Coordinator</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Zoraida
Krell
201-638-3418 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:krellbz@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>krellbz@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Sounding Board</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Kathy Gabry
201-998-9427 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Specialk38@aol.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Specialk38@aol.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">Annemarie Cooke</SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "> </SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">609-859-4084 </SPAN></FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:aec732@gmail.com"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>aec732@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Mary Jo Partyka 609-888-5459 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:choirnfb@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#0000ff>choirnfb@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Barbara Shalit </FONT></SPAN><FONT
face=Calibri><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><TT style="FONT-FAMILY: "><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">201-213-2885
</SPAN></TT></FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:barbart@tullensound.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>barbart@tullensound.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Spanish
Committee
</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">Rose
Santiago
</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ">201-892-6946
</SPAN></FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><A
style="COLOR: " href="mailto:rosa.santiago901@gmail.com"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>rosasantiago901@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: "><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Transit Committee</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Linda Melendez 732-421-7063 </FONT><SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:lindamelendez220@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>lindamelendez220@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Vehicle Donation Program</FONT></SPAN></I><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt">
</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; LETTER-SPACING: -1pt">Andrew
Rees</SPAN></FONT><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
732-659-6002 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:amrees567@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>amrees567@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN><SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.5pt"></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Webmaster
</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">Brian
Mackey
610-750-6765<I> </I></FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Bmackey88@gmail.com"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>webmaster@nfbnj.org</FONT></A></SPAN><I></I></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><I><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">White Cane
Committee</FONT></SPAN></I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> Jane Degenshein
973-736-5785 </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:Jdegen16@comcast.net"><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>Jdegen16@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">
Ann Marie Harris
856-589-8747
</FONT><U><SPAN style="COLOR: "><A
style='href: "mailto:Lovey1160@gmail.com"'><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">Lovey1160@gmail.com</FONT></A></SPAN></U></SPAN></P></DIV><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before: auto" clear=all></SPAN>
<DIV class=gmail-WordSection8 style="FONT-FAMILY: "></DIV><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><BR style="break-before: auto" clear=all></SPAN>
<H1 style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; break-after: avoid"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
22pt">Deadline
for the Fall 2019 issue: September 15, 2019</FONT></SPAN></H1>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: " align=center><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY:
"><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 18pt">CHECK US OUT ON THE WEB AT
</FONT></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: " align=center><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: none"><A style="COLOR:
"
href="http://www.nfbnj.org/"><FONT color=#0000ff><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt">www.nfbnj.org</FONT></FONT></A></SPAN></B></SPAN><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT
style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"> <SPAN
class=gmail-MsoHyperlink style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line:
underline"><SPAN
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: none"><A style="COLOR: "
href="http://www.blindchildren.org/"><FONT
color=#0000ff>www.blindchildren.org</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN>
</FONT></SPAN></B><B><I><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: "></SPAN></I></B></P>
<P style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" align=center><B><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
2pt"></FONT></SPAN></B> </P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">To receive <I>The
Sounding
Board</I> and other information via e-mail,</FONT></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"
align=center><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt">please contact Ellen
Sullivan at </FONT><SPAN class=gmail-MsoHyperlink
style="COLOR: ; text-decoration-line: underline"><SPAN><A style="COLOR: "
href="mailto:ems553@comcast.net" target=_blank><FONT style="FONT-SIZE: 14pt"
color=#0000ff>ems553@comcast.net</FONT></A></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="COLOR: "></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="FONT-FAMILY: ; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 9pt"
align=center><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: ; COLOR: "><FONT style="FONT-SIZE:
14pt"
color=#171717></FONT></SPAN> </P></DIV>
<DIV> </DIV><FONT face="Times New Roman">-- </FONT><BR>
<DIV class=gmail_signature dir=ltr data-smartmail="gmail_signature">
<DIV dir=ltr><FONT style='face: "trebuchet' sans-serif?
ms,></FONT> </DIV></DIV></DIV></DIV></DIV></BODY></HTML>