[NFBofSC] FW: [NFBNJ] National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey 44th State Convention: Agenda for Day 4 (Our last day)--All are welcome
Steve Cook
cookcafe at sc.rr.com
Sat Nov 21 04:16:45 UTC 2020
From: NFBNJ <nfbnj-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Ellen Sullivan via NFBNJ
Sent: Friday, November 20, 2020 9:48 PM
To: nfbnj at nfbnet.org
Subject: [NFBNJ] National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey 44th State
Convention: Agenda for Day 4 (Our last day)--All are welcome
>From the desk of Linda Melendez, First Vice President and Chair of
Convention Activities, National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
Submitted by Ellen Sullivan, Affiliate Secretary
Greetings all,
I hope you enjoyed our "Opening Ceremony" and day three of the
44th State Convention of the NFBNJ. On Saturday, November 21, 2020 we will
start our General Session at 9:00 a.m. In the evening we will celebrate our
"Traditional Banquet" and so much more. YES, THERE WILL BE DOOR PRIZES!
Time, Zoom, and conference call details are included below.
Thank you for joining us and for your support. All are welcome!
Warmly,
Linda Melendez
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
First Vice President,
Chair, Convention Activities
The 44th Annual State Convention
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
LIVE THE LIFE YOU WANT-
We Care. We Share. We Grow. We make a difference!
Anywhere and Everywhere
Wednesday, November 18 through Saturday November 21, 2020
Joseph Ruffalo, President
973 743 0075
<mailto:nfbnj1 at verizon.net> nfbnj1 at verizon.net
Linda Melendez, Chair of State Convention Activities
732 421 7063
<mailto:lindamelendez220 at gmail.com> lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
<http://www.nfbnj.org/> www.nfbnj.org
<http://www.blindchildren.org/> www.blindchildren.org
Who We Are & What We Do
The National Federation of the Blind, the oldest and largest organization of
and for the blind in the US, is made up of blind/visually impaired people of
all ages, and their families and friends. We help newly blind people adjust
to 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:
. 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
Spotlight on NFB of New Jersey
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
<http://www.nfbnj.org/> www.nfbnj.org. Please join us- we would welcome your
participation.
Live the Life You Want
The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back. Together with love, hope, and
determination, we transform dreams into reality.
The National Federation of the Blind Pledge
I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation
of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind;
to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its
constitution.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
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.
Registration is FREE!!
Click here to register
<https://www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/registration>
https://www.nfbnj.org/state-convention/registration
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.
Please visit the following link for the code of conduct
<http://www.nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct>
www.nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct
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.
Convention Zoom participation details
Join Zoom Meeting
<https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=Qkw0RGxYdGc5TjVBdVZmUnFYYnlCQT09>
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
Door Prize Details
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 <mailto:nfb.newjersey at gmail.com>
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.
NFBNJ Eligible Voters
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.
****
Friday, November 20, 2020
Convention Zoom participation details
Join Zoom Meeting
<https://zoom.us/j/6477660103?pwd=Qkw0RGxYdGc5TjVBdVZmUnFYYnlCQT09>
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
Saturday, November 21, 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. to 5:00 P.M.-General Session and two Break out Opportunities!
9:00 A.M.-Opening Remarks
Joseph Ruffalo, President NFBNJ
9:15 A.M.- Cyber Security
Brian Keene, Member Technology Division
Tips on how to protect yourself in an increasingly dangerous online world.
9:40 P.M.-Was Your Accessible Voting Experience Accessible?
Lou Ann Blake, J.D. Director of Research Programs, Blindness Initiatives,
NFB, Baltimore will provide the path for accessible voting that began with
the NFB
Mary Ciccone, Director of Policy Disability Rights of New Jersey will
provide the history of voting in 2020 and the future. Tracy Carcione and
Linda Melendez, members will share their past and current voting
experiences.
Fit break
10:20 A.M. Explore Supersense the Android and iOS App
Jane Degenshein, President, NFBNJ Technology Division, Facilitator
Shane Lowe, Mediate, Community Manager
Supersense can be described as the most efficient and effective scanning app
on the market for android and iOS. Shane will discuss the development and
will demo this app.
10:50 A.M.-Establishing a Path to Independence by Raising Expectations
Highlighting Braille, mobility and technology, the three basic steps to
raise expectations to live the life you want.
Debbie Bloomer, Retired Teacher of the Blind
Carley Mullin, Louisiana Tech University, Discovery Method, Orientation and
Mobility
Richard Fox, Assistive Technology Instructor and owner B & F Teaching &
Technology.
Fit break
11:30 A.M.-Morning Session Adjourns
Special Note: The General Session resumes at 1:00 pm. There is also a
concurrent session from 1:00 PM to 2:50 PM for "Parents of Blind Children
Division".
Please feel welcome to join the session you will benefit the most from.
Thank you!
12:10 P.M.-Open Chat Session
Jane Degenshein, Facilitator
Grab your lunch; get ready to share your experiences in a year that is
different than in the past. Discuss how you have journeyed through a year of
challenges.
11:00 A.M. to 12:50 P.M.-Student Division Business Meeting
Join Zoom Meeting
<https://zoom.us/j/3570118237?pwd=cldMKzNETmtyWGVVeGo1a1lrU09Xdz09>
https://zoom.us/j/3570118237?pwd=cldMKzNETmtyWGVVeGo1a1lrU09Xdz09
Meeting ID: 357 011 8237
Passcode: 460994
One tap mobile
+16468769923,,3570118237# US (New York)
+13017158592,,3570118237# 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)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 357 011 8237
Passcode 460 994
Next Generation of Federation Leaders
Jonathan Zobek, President New Jersey Association of Blind Students
To provide an overview of this past years programs and projects and to
discuss 2021
Next steps
Dues and Elections
Lia Stone, NFBNJ Chair State Scholarship Committee
National and State Scholarship Opportunities will provide the many reasons
to apply.
Veronica Gaspa, NFBNJ Board Member and Liaison to the Students Division will
provide the connection of the state affiliate board to the students.
Johna Wright, Liaison National Association of Blind Students
Johna will provide the National division connection to our New Jersey
students.
Opening and Walking Through the Door into the World of Science
Cary Supalo, Chemist; and Michael Hingson, Physicist
Come and learn how to open up doors to the wondrous world of science for
blind students. There are many questions scientists ask about natural
phenomenon in the world. We as blind people ask similar questions about how
I travel from my house to work, or how do I make that awesome new pasta
salad. This all relates to problem solving skills. Come and learn how
fundamental problem solving can open up doors of possibilities into the
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics professions.
1:00 to 2:50 P.M.-Parents of Blind Children Division
Join Zoom Meeting
<https://zoom.us/j/2442502241?pwd=WDZ3Nzh4M2QxNTFDMnA2Z3dpQ2tCUT09>
https://zoom.us/j/2442502241?pwd=WDZ3Nzh4M2QxNTFDMnA2Z3dpQ2tCUT09
Meeting ID: 244 250 2241
Passcode: 460 994
One tap mobile
+13126266799,,2442502241# US (Chicago)
+16468769923,,2442502241# US (New York)
Dial by your location
+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 244 250 2241
Passcode 460 994
Parents of Blind Children,
Carlton Walker, President, National Organization of Blind Children, Attorney
Carol Castellano, Secretary, National Organization of Parents of Blind
Children, Founder, Parents of Blind Children-New Jersey, Author
1:00 to 2:50 pm: Tools for Adapting to New Environments
1:00 to 1:50 P.M.-Individualized Education Plans: What has changed and what
hasn't
The world is a very different place than it was last year. The school
environment has changed, but our blind/low vision child's educational rights
have not.
Join us as we review special education law and explore its purposes so that
we may protect our children's rights in every school environment.
2:00 to 2:50 P.M.-Social Skills: From fist bumps to face masks and
everything in between
Our "new normal" doesn't change the need for social skills; it just adds
more needs to the list. Join us as we explore identifying and meeting our
blind/low vision children's social skill needs as we head into the holiday
season during a pandemic.
Saturday Afternoon General Session
1:00 to 2:50 P.M.-Technology on the Move
1:00 to 1:50 P.M.-NFB Newsline
Scott White, NFB Director of Sponsored Technology Programs
In this workshop Scott will share how Newsline is accessed and demo the
latest NFB Newsline App 3.0.
2:00 to 2:50 P.M.-TTJ The Tech Juggernaut
Matt Vollbrecht, Certified Apple Instructor, Owner of the Tech Juggernaut
A Delicious Apple Demo exploring Apple Maps, Apple Books and more.
3:00 to 3:50 P.M.-Advocate or Disintegrate!
David DeNotaris, CIO Chief Inspiration Officer Sky's the Limit
Communications & Associates
Kaleigh Brendle, Student
Advocate or Disintegrate, you must participate! Participants will learn the
importance of showing up, speaking up, then shutting up and being an active
listener and notetaker. Many communicate, but few really connect. If you are
a student, someone looking for a job, or someone interested in being
promoted, advocacy skills are essential for success at home, school, the
community and work! Excellent communicators, advocacy, listening and
notetaking skills are keys that can unlock doors, opportunities and your
potential!
Special Note: Kaleigh has provided one of her international presentations.
Link: https://youtu.be/Z4L2m7ODKY8
4:00 to 5:00 P.M.-Why I Am A Federationist:
Joseph Ruffalo, President NFBNJ
Thirty-two years as a Federationist
Joseph will share his experiences, growing the national, state, and local
organization. What is the secret of a successful Federation; Why are you
here? What is a leader?
7:00 P.M.-Banquet
Master of Ceremonies: Nicky Gacos, President National Association of Blind
Merchants
Invocation, Fr. Maximilian Buonocore, Monk of Newark Abbey
Keynote Address Julie Deden, Executive Director, Colorado Center for the
Blind, Littleton, Colorado
Presentation of Awards
Recognition of sponsors
Recognition of contributors to the state scholarships
Presentation of State Scholarship Awards
Door prizes
****
The National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey expresses appreciation to
all members and non members who attended the 44th virtual state convention.
Joseph Ruffalo, President
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
973 743 0075
<mailto:Nfbnj1 at verizon.net> Nfbnj1 at verizon.net
<http://www.nfbnj.org/> www.nfbnj.org
Linda Melendez, First Vice-President
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey
Chair of State Convention Activities
732 421 7063
<mailto:lindamelendez220 at gmail.com> lindamelendez220 at gmail.com
For the list of affiliate board members, chapter/division, Committees,
projects and programs, please visit the state website at
<http://www.nfbnj.org/> www.nfbnj.org
Special Announcements
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
National Scholarship Program-Call for Applications Started November 1
Every year, the National Federation of the Blind awards more than $120,000
to blind scholars across the fifty states, the District of Columbia, and
Puerto Rico in recognition of their achievements and professional
aspirations. The scholarship program is our commitment to academic
excellence and leadership among blind students, and each winner is awarded
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-p
rogram>
https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-pr
ogram
Braille Readers Are Leaders Contest
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?
Encourage more Braille. Improve reading skills. Win prizes.
Registration is opened on November 1. Learn more about the
<https://www.nfb.org/libraries/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=18832&qid=4372187>
Braille Readers Are Leaders contest
NFB T-Shirts for Sale
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.
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 <mailto:lovey1160 at gmail.com> lovey1160 at gmail.com or 856 589
8747.
PRE-AUTHORIZED CONTRIBUTION PROGRAM (PAC Plan)
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.
To arrange for PAC Plan contributions go to <http://nfb.org/pac>
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
<mailto:pac at nfb.org> pac at nfb.org to enroll.
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
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.
Sponsor:
T-Mobile Accessibility
Hannah DeFelice
Blind/Low Vision Customer Relationship Manager
513-501-5459
<mailto:Hannah.defelice at t-mobile.com> Hannah.defelice at t-mobile.com
<https://www.sprintrelay.com/> https://www.sprintrelay.com/
3D PhotoWorks
John Olson, Co founder
124 Hudson Avenue
Chatham, New York 12037
518 392 8161
<mailto:john at 3dphotoworks.com> john at 3dphotoworks.com
<http://www.3dphotoworks.com/> www.3dphotoworks.com
Vendors:
C-TECH
Chuck Cohen, President
2 N. William St.
Pearl River, NY 10965
845 735 7907
<mailto:chuck at magnifyit.com> chuck at magnifyit.com
<http://www.ctechlowvision.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
<mailto:jas at independencescience.com> jas at independencescience.com
<http://independencescience.com/> http://independencescience.com
OrCam
Eve Posner/Get OrCam
25 Luth Terrace
West Orange, NJ 07052
973 820 5090
<mailto:Eve at Amit-Group.com> Eve at Amit-Group.com
<http://www.getorcam.com/> www.getOrCam.com
SW Unlimited, LLC
Sherlock Washington, President
81 Ortley Court
Matawan, New Jersey 07747
732 290 1677
<mailto:sherlock at swunlimited.com> sherlock at swunlimited.com
We are grateful to those who contributed time, effort and suggestions to
care, share, and grow as we continue to make a difference by raising
expectations to live the life we want!
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