[NFBofSC] Fwd: National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey 44th State Convention: Agenda for Day 3--All are welcome

Fri Nov 20 11:18:37 UTC 2020

This evening is the beginners yoga class that we spoke about in the sports and rec interest meeting on Wednesday.

Thanks all and happy Friday!

Steve Cook

Begin forwarded message:

> From: Linda Melendez <lindamelendez220 at gmail.com>
> Date: November 19, 2020 at 10:25:39 PM EST
> To: undisclosed-recipients:;
> Subject: National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey 44th State Convention: Agenda for Day 3--All are welcome
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> Greetings registered conventioneers, 
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> I hope you enjoyed our second day of the 44th State Convention of the NFBNJ.  On Friday, November 20, 2020 we will celebrate our traditional “Opening Ceremony” and hear from our National Representative, Julie Deden, and SO MUCH MORE! In the evening we will have our business meeting with voting for Affiliate Officers and Board Members. Did I mention DOOR PRIZES?  Time, Zoom, and conference call details are included below. We will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. with a call to order by Joe Ruffalo, President, NFBNJ who will share with us the Presidential Report.
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> Thank you for joining us and for your support. All are welcome!
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> Wondering why you may have received this email twice today. Some registered participants may not be on our NFBNJ listserv therefore, we are sending all those who registered  the agenda. 
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> Warmly,
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> Linda Melendez
> National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
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> First Vice President,
> Chair, Convention Activities
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> The 44th Annual State Convention
> National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
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> LIVE THE LIFE YOU WANT—
> We Care. We Share. We Grow. We make a difference!
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> Anywhere and Everywhere
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> Wednesday, November 18 through Saturday November 21, 2020
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> Joseph Ruffalo, President
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> 973 743 0075
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> nfbnj1 at verizon.net
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> Linda Melendez, Chair of State Convention Activities
> 732 421 7063
> lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
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> www.nfbnj.org
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> www.blindchildren.org
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> Who We Are & What We Do
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> The National Federation of the Blind, the oldest and largest organization of and for the blind in the US, is made up of blind/visually impaired people of all ages, and their families and friends. We help newly blind people adjust to vision loss, assist parents and teachers of blind children, and promote the full participation and integration of blind people in our communities. Our activities include:
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> • Assisting blind persons in acquiring the skills of independence and developing confidence in themselves
> • Supporting parents and teachers of blind children with information, mentoring, role modeling, information, and training
> • Preparing blind students for careers and self-sufficiency through mentoring, training, and academic scholarships
> • Encouraging blind seniors to continue to live active and meaningful lives
> • Advocating for policies that eliminate discrimination, promote civil rights, and guarantee equal access to high quality educational and rehabilitation programs
> • Sponsoring information campaigns and legislative action at the state and national levels
> • Educating the public through community activities and publications
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> Spotlight on NFB of New Jersey
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> Since 1976, the National Federation of the Blind of NJ, an affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, has been providing invaluable information and resources to blind/visually impaired people throughout the state. Our members work together for a brighter tomorrow by raising expectations for blind people everywhere so that blind persons can live the life they want.  Our seven chapters meet monthly; our five divisions hold events at various times throughout the year. For more information on the affiliate, chapters, divisions, committees, programs, and projects, visit www.nfbnj.org. Please join us— we would welcome your participation.
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> Live the Life You Want
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> The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back. Together with love, hope, and determination, we transform dreams into reality.
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> The National Federation of the Blind Pledge
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> I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution.
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> ANNOUNCEMENTS:
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> IT’S NOT TOO LATE!! You still can register for the 44th State Convention of the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey. This event, the major gathering of our state’s blindness community, will be held virtually via the Zoom platform from Wednesday, November 18 through Saturday, November 21.
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> Registration is FREE!!
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> Click here to register
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> https://www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/registration
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> Integrity and Respect
> To allow all attendees the chance to benefit from all aspects of the convention, we are committed to providing a harassment-free environment for everyone. We appreciate your assistance in cultivating an atmosphere in which participants from diverse backgrounds may learn, network, and share with each other in an environment of mutual respect. Thank you for doing your part to contribute to our community and the high expectations we strive to maintain.
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> Please visit the following link for the code of conduct
> www.nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct
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> All state convention activities will be held at Eastern Standard Time via the Zoom platform unless otherwise indicated. And we will be recording the convention.
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> Convention Zoom participation details
> Join Zoom Meeting
> https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=Qkw0RGxYdGc5TjVBdVZmUnFYYnlCQT09
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> Meeting ID: 647 766 0103
> Passcode: 460 994
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> One tap mobile
> +16468769923,,6477660103# US (New York)
> +13017158592,,6477660103# US (Germantown)
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> Dial by your location
> +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
> +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
> +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
> +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
> +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
> +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
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> Meeting ID: 647 766 0103
> Passcode: 460 994
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> Instructions for listening on an Echo device
> Wake word Alexa: call 646 876 9923
> Just like calling on the phone, you will hear "welcome to Zoom."
> Meeting ID when prompted, then say wake word Alexa: Press 647 766 0103 pound sign
> Then say Alexa Press pound to enter the meeting
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> Door Prize Details
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> Door prize raffles will be drawn and announced throughout the convention. Winners must be present to win. If you hear your name you can claim your prize one of three ways; by emailing nfb.newjersey at gmail.com calling or texting Linda Melendez at 732-421-7063. Winners must give their convention registration name, best contact number and prize code word or phrase. Code must be in the email subject line.
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> NFBNJ Eligible Voters
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> Current 2020 dues paying members who registered and enrolled to vote have received an email and will receive another one with instructions and the phone number to cast their votes when announced.
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> ****
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> Friday, November 20, 2020
> Convention Zoom participation details
> Join Zoom Meeting
> https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=Qkw0RGxYdGc5TjVBdVZmUnFYYnlCQT09
> 
> Meeting ID: 647 766 0103
> Passcode: 460 994
> 
> One tap mobile
> +16468769923,,6477660103# US (New York)
> +13017158592,,6477660103# US (Germantown)
> 
> Dial by your location
> +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
> +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
> +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
> +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
> +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
> +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
> 
> Meeting ID: 647 766 0103
> Passcode: 460 994
> 
> Instructions for listening on an Echo device
> Wake word Alexa: call 646 876 9923
> Just like calling on the phone, you will hear "welcome to Zoom."
> Meeting ID when prompted, then say wake word Alexa: Press 647 766 0103 pound sign
> Then say Alexa Press pound to enter the meeting
> 
> 9:00 A.M.–Welcome, Call to Order
> Joseph Ruffalo, President, National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
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> 9:05 A.M.–Invocation & Opening Ceremonies
> Jane Degenshein, President, Senior and Technology Divisions
> Pledge of Allegiance
> The National Federation of the Blind Pledge
> I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind; to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its constitution.
> Honoring Veterans, God Bless America Joseph Ruffalo, President, NFB of New Jersey
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> 9:20 A.M.–Introduction of the Scholarship Class of 2020
> Lia Stone, Scholarship Committee Chair
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> 9:25 A.M–Nomination Committee
> Ryan Stevens, Chair
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> 9:30 A.M.–Presidential Report
> Joseph Ruffalo, President, NFBNJ
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> 10:00 A.M.–We Care. We Share. We Grow. We Make a Difference!
> The National Representative’s Report Julie Deden, Executive Director, Colorado Center for the Blind, Littleton, Colorado
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> 10:35 A.M.–The Rights of Blind Parents: Are They Safe?
> Ryan Stevens, Legislative Director, NFBNJ
> Working Together for the Rights of the Blind Yvonne Lopez, New Jersey Assemblywoman, 19th Legislative District.
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> 10:55 A.M.–Together We Make a Difference!
> Elisa Neira; Deputy Commissioner, New Jersey Department of Human Services
> Dr. Bernice Davis, Executive Director, New Jersey Comm. for the Blind & Visually Impaired
> Looking forward to continuing services, programs, and interactions in 2021.
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> 11:20 A.M.–The BELL Ringers Braille Enrichment Learning & Literacy
> Joseph Ruffalo, President, NFBNJ; Mary Jo Partyka, NFB BELL Academy Coordinator; Joanna Benthall; NFB BELL Academy Coordinator; Parents, Students, and Volunteers
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> 11:40 A.M.–Pre Authorized Contributions
> Mac Biggers, Chair
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> 11:50 A.M.–Announcements
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> 12:00 P.M.–Adjourn
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> 1:00 P.M.–Afternoon Announcements
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> 1:05 P.M.– New Jersey State Library - Talking Book & Braille Center
> Adam Szczepaniak, Deputy State Librarian and Director
> Adam will highlight this past year and then outline plans for 2021.
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> Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey, Denville
> Elsa Zavoda, Program Director
> Elsa will share all of the free virtual programs that will raise your expectations to educate, motivate and inspire all to live the life you want!
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> Fit break
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> 1:40 P.M.–Our First National Convention Experience
> Zooming to Houston, Texas Vincent Elorza and Jennifer Uchanow, members.
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> 2:00 P.M.–Learning Skills and Tricks at the Senior Retreat
> Jane Degenshein, Board Member, National Association of the Senior Blind
> Sharing a week of their experiences; Linda DeBerardinis, Ruth Williams, participants.
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> 2:40 P.M.–September 11 and Beyond: You Never Know Where the World Will Take You”.
> Linda Melendez, Former Deloitte & Touche; Information Technology New Hire Specialist, 2 WFC New York City
> Michael Hingson, President, The Michael Hingson Group, Inc. and consultant to Independence Science
> Meet survivors of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. You will hear some incredible and heroic stories of survival, perseverance and how these Federationists used their life philosophies to move forward from that trying day.
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> 3:10 P.M.–Possibilities/Opportunities
> National Overview, as we continue to provide information to all members that they are members in the chapters/divisions, affiliate and the national organization, we encourage all to participate and plan for possibilities/opportunities.
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> Anil Lewis, Executive Director Blindness Initiatives for the National Federation of the Blind; Overview of the Jernigan Institute
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> Rachel Kuntz, Blindness Learning In New Dimensions BLIND Inc., Resource Development Coordinator Minnesota
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> Anny Safier, a state scholarship winner in 2020, will provide her experience as a student at BLIND Inc. She will also provide an overview as a student and how she is implementing her skills at college and in the community
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> 4:00 P.M.–Panel on Careers Come and Learn the Steps to Transform Dreams into Reality
> Richard Early, Paradox Comics and Cards, Entrepreneur North Dakota
> Evelyn Valdez, Department of Veterans Affairs, Logistics Management Specialist, Washington D.C.,
> Tracy Carcione, IT Tech Specialist, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York City
> Titus G. Massey Manager, Financial Services Port Department, The Port authority of New York & New Jersey, New York City
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> 5:30 to 6:15 P.M. –Beginners Yoga Class
> Veronica Stocker, Certified Yoga Instructor, 2020 State Scholarship Winner & Member
> Join Veronica as she offers a beginners yoga class for all participants. Bring your chair or towel and a pillow to experience a relaxing way to unwind. This class will offer gentle stretching, as well as meditation and breathing techniques.
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> 7:00 P.M.–Business Meeting of the NFBNJ 2020 Convention
> This meeting is the supreme legislative authority of the NFBNJ affiliate.
> All are welcome; NFBNJ President, Joseph Ruffalo will provide an overview of the past years activities and plans for the future. Also, elections for the affiliate officers and board will be held.
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> ****
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> The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey expresses appreciation to all members and non members who attended the 44th virtual state convention.
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> Joseph Ruffalo, President
> National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
> 973 743 0075
> Nfbnj1 at verizon.net
> www.nfbnj.org
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> Linda Melendez, First Vice-President
> National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
> Chair of State Convention Activities
> 732 421 7063
> lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
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> For the list of affiliate board members, chapter/division, Committees, projects and programs, please visit the state website at
> www.nfbnj.org
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> Special Announcements
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> Meet our National Rep Julie Deden
> I am honored to be the national representative at our New Jersey convention and I am looking forward to meeting as many of you as possible in our new virtual space. I have always been blind but truly did not feel good about being a blind person until I became involved in the National Federation of the blind at age 18. Even when I joined the NFB it took a few years for me to feel proud of being a blind person. The National Federation of the Blind has given me the opportunity to participate in so many activities where I have met positive blind role models who have taken their time to mentor me.
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> I have lived in Colorado for most of my life. Diane and Ray McGeorge are two of the first people I met through the NFB. They spent so much time with me teaching me about life and the NFB. Today, Diane serves as the chair of the Colorado Center Board of Directors and is still teaching me. She is not only a mentor but is like my mom as I feel that I grew up with her influence.
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> I have a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Lesley University and always knew from a young age that I wanted to work with people. I enjoyed working as a rehabilitation counselor for 14 years, because I had an opportunity to provide support and mentor my clients. In 1997 I left the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation to work at the Colorado Center for the Blind. Once again, Diane mentored me to prepare me to become the director of the center in March of 1999.
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> I have held countless offices in the NFB. I currently serve as Second Vice President of the National Federation of the Blind of Colorado. I am humbled to be the Vice President of the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults.
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> I am married to Dan Burke and have a grown-up son named Robert. Every day is a gift and I wonder what I may learn from the day! I treasure my involvement in the NFB and know that we can do anything, with love hope and determination.
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> National Scholarship Program–Call for Applications Started November 1
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> Every year, the National Federation of the Blind awards more than $120,000 to blind scholars across the fifty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico in recognition of their achievements and professional aspirations. The scholarship program is our commitment to academic excellence and leadership among blind students, and each winner is awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The application process opened November 1. Review the scholarship application checklist and the scholarship program FAQs. Share this opportunity that invests in the future of blind people. To learn about the eligibility and requirements of the 2021 scholarship program visit
> https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program
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> Braille Readers Are Leaders Contest
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> Join the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults and the National Federation of the Blind in this upcoming contest to promote Braille. K-12 students and adults learning Braille across the U.S. compete to read the most Braille pages, going against other participants in similar contest categories for seven weeks. What books are on your reading list?
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> Encourage more Braille. Improve reading skills. Win prizes.
> Registration is opened on November 1. Learn more about the Braille Readers Are Leaders contest
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> NFB T-Shirts for Sale
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> Maybe some of your chapter members are new, maybe some members haven’t yet purchased one for their wardrobe, and maybe some members and non members are looking for a spare.
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> They are heather red with white print. The top left on the front has our logo and in 2 lines beneath, The National Federation of the Blind. The back in 2 lines says, Live the Life You Want and are available in sizes small, medium, large, and X Large;. Prices are $18. If interested contact Anne Marie Harris at lovey1160 at gmail.com or 856 589 8747.
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> PRE-AUTHORIZED CONTRIBUTION PROGRAM (PAC Plan)
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> We encourage all members and conventioneers to join the PAC Plan. This plan raises funds for the National Federation of the Blind by automatically debiting your checking account or charging your credit/debit card the specified monthly amount you designate; as little as $5 a month. Individuals already enrolled are encouraged to raise their monthly contributions.
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> To arrange for PAC Plan contributions go to nfb.org/pac and fill out the form. The National Center will call you to take payment information. You can also call 877 635 2711 or email pac at nfb.org to enroll.
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> The National Center will contact individuals for financial and banking information following the convention. For additional assistance contact Mac Biggers, NFBNJ PAC Plan Coordinator at 801 916 9753
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> The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey thanks the following sponsor and vendors for their continued support with raising expectations to live the life we want.
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> Sponsor:
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> T-Mobile Accessibility
> Hannah DeFelice
> Blind/Low Vision Customer Relationship Manager
> 513-501-5459
> Hannah.defelice at t-mobile.com
> https://www.sprintrelay.com/
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> 3D PhotoWorks
> John Olson, Co founder
> 124 Hudson Avenue
> Chatham, New York 12037
> 518 392 8161
> john at 3dphotoworks.com
> www.3dphotoworks.com
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> Vendors:
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> C-TECH
> Chuck Cohen, President
> 2 N. William St.
> Pearl River, NY 10965
> 845 735 7907
> chuck at magnifyit.com
> www.ctechlowvision.com
> 
> Independence Science
> Jasodhara Bhattacharya
> Director of Strategic Global Projects
> 3000 Kent Ave
> Suite 1303
> West Lafayette, IN 47906
> 866 862 9665
> jas at independencescience.com
> http://independencescience.com
> 
> 
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