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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72"><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>Dear NJAGDU members and friends,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>It’s hard to believe, but the next scheduled NJAGDU conference call is right around the corner. It will be held on Thursday, October 5 at 8 pm. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Here’s the conference call number:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>712-432-0180. Access code: 460994.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>We have a lot to discuss, including preparations for our upcoming state convention.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>I’ve pasted Alice Eaddy’s minutes from our April 21 meeting below. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>See you there!<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey<br>New Jersey Association of Guide Dog Users<br>April 21, 2017<br><br>1. Roll Call:<br>Dan Facchini NFBNJ NJAGDU President<br>Trisha Ebel, Treasurer<br>Anna DeSantis, Board member<br>Rosa Santiago <br>Jonathan Goodman <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Alice Eaddy<br>Marion Gwizdala, NAGDU President <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br>2. Call to order by President Dan Facchini <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://22">at 7:36 PM</a>. Trisha reminded those on the call that *6 can mute and unmute you so that background noise can be eliminated. It was stated that if you have not paid your 2016 dues you cannot participate in making motions. <br>3. The Minutes were sent out by Rick Fox:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Anna moved to accept the minutes as sent Trisha seconded. All were in favor, motion carried unanimously.<br>4. Trish provided the Treasures report: the ending balance as of November last year was $1,500. There has been nothing going in or out. There were no PAC deductions. No additional deposits have been made at this time. Lynn's and Vincent name's names are still on the account. We have no copy of the EIN number associated with the account. She and Dan have called the IRS requesting a copy of it. The worst case scenario would be to close the account totally and sent money temporarily to the state affiliate for an undisclosed period of time. Dan mentioned that by the end of the month Lynn was returning for a visit with Trisha and Dan. Maybe after November they'll be able to start the process over or his name would've been swapped out. Alice moved to accept the treasurer’s report Anna seconded, all were in favor.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br>a. Update regarding ease of access for persons with guide dogs. It's been tabled until the next call. Does Newark Airport have an indoor guide dog relief area? answer no. <a href="http://www.dogjaunt.com/2012/06/pet-relief-area-at-new-yorks-newark-liberty-international-airport-ewr-terminal-a/">http://www.dogjaunt.com/2012/06/pet-relief-area-at-new-yorks-newark-liberty-international-airport-ewr-terminal-a/</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>the <a href="http://www.panynj.gov/airports/ewr-travel-information.html" target="_blank"><span style='text-decoration:none'>website for Newark</span></a> merely states that pet relief areas are available. It’s up to you to “[follow the signs in the baggage claim areas or ask a Customer Care Representative for information.”<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Dan mentioned that there used to be a NAGDU Charles Law related to access. This is what I found:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://www.google.com/amp/www.phillyvoice.com/charlies-law-block-access-for-service-dogs-in-nj-and-face-minimum-250-fine/amp/">https://www.google.com/amp/www.phillyvoice.com/charlies-law-block-access-for-service-dogs-in-nj-and-face-minimum-250-fine/amp/</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Charlie's Law," as it has been dubbed, emerged after Cherry Hill High School East prevented 16-year-old Ben Shore, who is on the autism spectrum, from bringing his Goldendoodle Charlie with him to class. In a little bit of Statehouse theater, Assembly co-sponsor Pamela Lampitt (D-Camden) allowed Charlie to press the "yes" button when the legislation unanimously passed the Assembly in January. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>This past Monday's (June 19) 38-0 approval in the Senate, which sends "Charlie's Law" to the governor, is a credit to Shore, his persistence, and his willingness to know his rights under state and federal law. That's a lot more than Cherry Hill school district officials knew when they enacted a boneheaded policy that clearly conflicts with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The local policy, since reversed, denied Charlie admittance because the dog was not provided by a recognized agency, and was trained at home to respond to Shore's panic attacks. Such discrimination against "home-schooled" service animals is strictly illegal under the ADA.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Governor Christie has signed “Charlie’s Law,” legislation sponsored by Senator Diane Allen (R-Burlington) that creates civil penalties for preventing a person with a service animal from accessing a public facility. Effective July 24, 17.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>5. The accessibility resolution was tabled until next call. <br>6. Old Business <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Ginger is coordinator of NJAGDU ride share testing.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Below was her last report on NJ efforts. There was further discussion on this issue see update below.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>A. All – I received an update from the NFB National Office regarding the New Jersey rideshare testing program. So far this month (July), 3 tests were completed. Last month (June) 8 tests were completed. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Remember, when you ride with Uber or Lyft, please fill out the questionnaire at:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'><a href="http://www.nfb.org/rideshare">www.nfb.org/rideshare</a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>If you report a negative experience, be sure to also report the incident to the rideshare company. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>As a reminder, here’s info about the rideshare testing program: <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:start'>The Uber and Lyft testing program is open to all NFB members and nonmembers nationwide. Riders with service animals or individuals traveling with riders with service animals are asked to complete the following online questionnaire promptly after requesting and/or completing a ride with Uber or Lyft: <a href="https://nfb.org/rideshare-test">https://nfb.org/rideshare-test</a>. This testing tool will be used to measure not only ride cancellations and denials, but also whether a driver appeared to understand his or her obligations to provide equal access and to not discriminate as per the protections provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Specifically, testers will provide the following information via the online questionnaire. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:start'><b>Uber and Lyft Testing Questions</b><o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Rider’s name<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Email <o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Date ride was ordered<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Time ride was ordered<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Address for pick up<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Driver’s name<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Did the rider alert the driver of his/her service animal prior to the ride?<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Did the driver appear to be unaware of his/her responsibility to transport riders with service animals? <o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Was the ride denied? <o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>How was a complaint filed regarding the denial (e.g., using website, app, or complaint hotline)?<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Was the rider treated disrespectfully during the ride (e.g., threatened, harassed, ridiculed, or provided inferior service because of the presence of a service animal)?<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>How was a complaint filed regarding the driver’s disrespectful behavior (e.g., using website, app, or complaint hotline)?<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Was the rider charged a cleaning fee because of his/her service animal?<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1;text-align:start'>Did the rider encounter any accessibility barriers with the rideshare service’s app or website?<o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Anna explained how she's used gogograndparent see link below: <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://gogograndparent.com/">https://gogograndparent.com/</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>7. Alice announced for Jane Degenshein <span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>The Second National Technology Seminar with Anil Lewis this Thursday night at 8 PM </span>Join us on Thursday, June 29 at 8 PM Eastern, <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://5">7 PM Central</a>, <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://6">6 PM Mountain</a>, and <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://7">5 PM Pacific</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br>Dial: <a href="tel:1%20515%20604%209570">1 515 604 9570</a><br><br>Code: 612068 Pound<br>If you have any specific questions for Anil Lewis, kindly email Janie Degenshein at:<br><a href="mailto:jdegen16@comcast.net">jdegen16@comcast.net</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:#007AFF'><br></span>8. First timer scholarship program was discussed. <br>12.New Business<br>A. National Convention<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>In case you didn’t get this information concerning the NAGDU seminar at National Convention, here it is.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <br> The National Association of Guide Dog Users dedicates its 2017 Seminar & Annual Meeting <br> <br>In Memoria<br><b>Richard Michael “Mike” Sergeant<br>March 18, 1951 - September 12, 2016<br></b> <br> The National Association of Guide Dog Users, a strong & proud division of the National Federation of the Blind, is excited to offer the most dynamic, informative events in the nation for guide dog users at our national convention in Orlando. Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors<br> <br>Alpha Dog Sponsor<br>Yellow Cab of Tampa<br> <br>Harness Up Sponsors<br>Mobile Vet Clinic of Brandon<br>On the Go by Julie Johnson<br>Texas Association of Guide Dog Users<br> <br>NAGDU is offering some incredible programs for convention attendees and the world through a live stream!<br> <br>Monday, July 10 <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://7">1:00</a> <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://8">10:00 p.m.</a> <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://9">1:00 - 1:45 p.m.</a> Registration. Registration is free & required to be eligible for door prizes! <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://10">2:00</a> <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://11">3:30 p.m.</a> (Rehab Professionals) Guide Dogs and O&M: Concepts and Misconceptions<br>Wikiwa 9<br> <br>Lucas Frank, The Seeing Eye<br>Mike Goehering, Guiding Eyes for the Blind<br>Michael Hingson, National Association of Guide Dog Users<br>Derick Williams, Louisiana Center for the blind<br> <br> A panel presentation featuring orientation & mobility professionals from guide dog training programs, cane travel instructors, and consumers. This seminar is a part of the Rehabilitation Professionals Workshop and qualifies for continuing education units.<br> <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://16">2:15</a> <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://17">3:30 p.m.</a> Guide Dog Health & Wellness<br>Panzacola F-2<br> A veterinarian shares information about maintaining optimal health throughout your dog’s life, including wellness, preventive care, grooming tips, and first aid.<br> <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://18">3:45</a> <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://19">5:00 p.m.</a> Advocacy and Access: Everyone has a Part to Play<br>Panzacola F-2<br>Facilitator: Marion Gwizdala, President, National Association of Guide Dog Users <br> <br>Combining realistic skits of guide dog access challenges with practical guidance to handle the challenges, guide dog users and businesses alike will learn about the rights, responsibilities, and limitations of those rights. This interactive program is a must for all guide dog users, those wishing to become better advocates for guide dog users and other disabled individuals, and public and private entities wanting to know their rights. <br> <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://21">5:00 – 6:00 p.m.</a> Dinner break<br> <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://22">6:00</a> <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://23">6:45 p.m.</a> Registration – Registration is free & required to be eligible for door prizes!<br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://24">7:00</a> <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://25">10:00 p.m.</a> Living the Guide Dog User Life you want! <br>Panzacola F-2<br>Part 1: Teaching the Guide Dog Team New Tricks<br> <br>Lucas Frank, The Seeing Eye <br>Mike Goehering, Guiding Eyes for the Blind<br>John Byfield, Freedom Guide Dogs<br> <br>Current training Methods and innovations in dog training that will keep your guide dog sharp and happy. Featuring veteran trainers from several guide dog training programs, guide dog users will learn new techniques to enhance their dog’s work and teach new skills.<br> <br>Part 2: Harness Up: The process of getting a guide dog and beyond<br> <br>Various guide dog training programs & consumers<br> <br>If you are interested in getting a guide dog, want to find out how they really work, get to know what is involved in the application and training process, and learn about the guide Dog User Lifestyle, this session is for you! Guide dog training programs will share information about their programs and guide dog users will help you understand what is required when you come home.<br> <br>Part 3: Guide Dog Show and Tail <br> <br> Guide dog users share their favorite gear, grooming tools, and toys. If you have a favorite item to share, bring it with you for others to learn about! Some of them will be yours to take home for you and your dog to enjoy!<br>Wednesday, July 12; <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://30">7:00 – 10:00 p.m.</a><br>Annual Meeting<br>Panzacola F-2<br> <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://31">6:00 – 6:45 p.m.</a> – Registration. (Registration is free & required to be eligible for door prizes.)<br> <br><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://32">7:00 p.m.</a> Call to Order<br> <br>Join NAGDU for the most exciting and important meeting of guide dog users in the United States. Here are some of the highlights you will experience<br> <br>Celebrate the life and work of R. Michael Sergeant<br> <br>Elect our 2017 – 2019 leadership<br> <br>Supporting the NFB’s national ridesharing testing initiative <br>Valerie Yingling & Michael Nunez<br> <br>Download & tour the newest version of the NAGDU Mobile App for iOS & Android<br>Raul Gallegos<br> <br>Energizing reports from our affiliate divisions<br> <br>Updates & advances of Aira: A visual interpreter for the blind Michael Hingson<br> <br>Marion Gwizdala, President<br>National Association of Guide Dog Users Inc. (NAGDU)<br>National Federation of the Blind<br><a href="tel:(813)%20626-2789">(813) 626-2789</a><br><a href="mailto:President@NAGDU.ORG">President@NAGDU.ORG</a><br> <br> <br>The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise expectations because low expectations create barriers between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want! Blindness is not what holds you back.<br>*** <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Please circulate the following message as widely as appropriate.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Dear All,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> The National Association of Guide Dog Users, a strong and proud division of the National Federation of the Blind and the most dynamic, influential voice for the nation’s guide dog users, is enrolled to receive a percentage of all qualified purchases made through the Amazon Smile program. With every purchase you make on <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'><a href="http://www.smile.amazon.com/">www.smile.amazon.com</a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>NAGDU receives .5% of the purchase price as a donation from the Amazon Smile Foundation.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> On Thursday, March 16, Amazon will generously increase their donation amount to 5%. In order to make this donation, buyers must login to the Amazon Smiles website using their usual Amazon user name and password, selecting the National Association of Guide Dog Users as their preferred charity. This is an easy, painless way of supporting the valuable work of the National Association of Guide Dog Users, so please be sure to use the Amazon Smile program whenever you shop on Amazon and encourage your friends and family to do the same.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. Our contact information is below my signature.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Fraternally yours,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Marion Gwizdala, President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>National Association of Guide Dog Users Inc. (NAGDU)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>National Federation of the Blind<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'><a href="tel:(813)%20626-2789">(813) 626-2789</a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'><a href="mailto:President@NAGDU.ORG">President@NAGDU.ORG</a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>B. The items of interest follows.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>1. Rosen Center Info </b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'>With this second notice pertaining to hotel arrangements for the 75th national convention in Orlando, Florida from July 5 through July 10, 2015, this will provide four months until the start of the national convention. Hopefully, this will provide time to plan for travel, make hotel arrangements and to purchase that new bathing suit! There will be information in the upcoming issues of the Braille Monitor featuring the national convention, restaurants in the area, agenda items, special activities, etc. Please review the following information.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'>Please share with others. If you locate good flight costs, please share.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><b>National Federation of the Blind National Convention 2015</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><b>When:</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'>Sunday, July 5—Friday, July 10, 2015<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><b>Where:</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'>Rosen Centre Hotel<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='color:black'><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://2/1">9840 International Drive</a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='color:black'><a href="x-apple-data-detectors://2/1">Orlando, Florida 32819</a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><b>Reservations:</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'>For 2015 convention room reservations you should write directly to the Rosen Centre Hotel, <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://3">9840 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819</a>. You can call the hotel at <a href="tel:(800)%20204-7234">(800) 204-7234</a> after January 1.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'>Preregistration is now open. When purchased online by May 31st, the preregistration fee for convention is $25 ($30 on-site) and the cost of a banquet ticket is $55 ($60 on-site).<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'><span style='color:black'><a href="http://lx-web.nfb.org/convention/preregistration.php" target="_blank"><span style='text-decoration:none'>Preregister online</span></a> now or use the <a href="https://nfb.org/images/nfb/documents/pdf/2015_national_convention_preregistration_form.pdf"><span style='text-decoration:none'>mail-in PDF form.</span></a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'> <b>Hotel Information and Room Rates:</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'>The 2015 convention of the National Federation of the Blind will take place in Orlando, Florida, July 5-10, at the Rosen Centre Hotel at <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://12">9840 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819</a>. The 2015 room rates are singles and doubles, $82; and triples and quads, $89. In addition to the room rates there will be a tax, which at present is 13.5 percent. Make your room reservation as soon as possible with Rosen Centre staff by calling <a href="tel:(800)%20204-7234">(800) 204-7234</a>. At the time you make a reservation, a $95 deposit is required for each room reserved. If you use a credit card, the deposit will be charged against your card immediately, just as would be the case with a $95 check. If a reservation is cancelled before Monday, June 1, 2015, half of the deposit will be returned. Otherwise refunds will not be made.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:18.0pt'>Guest-room amenities include cable television; in-room safe; coffeemaker; hairdryer; and high-speed Internet access. Guests can also enjoy a swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site spa. The Rosen Centre Hotel offers fine dining at Executive Chef Michael Rumplik’s award-winning Everglades Restaurant. In addition, there is an array of dining options from sushi to tapas to a 24-hour deli. The hotel has first-rate amenities.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:7.5pt'><b>Schedule:</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'><b>Sunday, July 5 Seminar Day </b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'><b>Monday, July 6 Registration Day</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'><b>Tuesday, July 7 Board Meeting and Division Day</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'><b>Wednesday, July 8 Opening Session</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'><b>Thursday, July 9 Business Session</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'><b>Friday, July 10 Banquet Day and Adjournment</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'> <b>First Timer's Guide to the NFB National Convention:</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'>View our beginner's guide to the NFB National Convention, intended to give the first-time convention attendee some important information about national conventions of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB).<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:24.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'>· <a href="https://nfb.org/convention-first-timers"><span style='text-decoration:none'>First Timer's Guide to the National Convention</span></a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:24.0pt;line-height:18.0pt'>· <a href="https://nfb.org/Images/nfb/Audio/Misc%202010/First_Timers_Guide_To_The_NFB_National_Convention.mp3"><span style='text-decoration:none'>First-Timer's Guide to the National Convention (Audio)</span></a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> C. State Convention: State Convention updates: <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'>The 41st state convention will take place <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://59">November 9th through 12th</a> at the Manahawkin Holiday Inn. Hotel rooms are now available for reservation. To reserve, dial <a href="tel:609-481-6100">609-481-6100</a> and use group code NFB. Our room block is available until mid-October, after that point the rooms are released to the general public. Nothing will be charged on your credit card until you check into your room unless you cancel less than 24 hours in advance. If you reserve and can’t attend, inform Joe Ruffalo at <a href="tel:973-743-0075">973-743-0075</a>or <a href="mailto:nfbnj1@verizon.net">nfbnj1@verizon.net</a> so that he can find a substitute for your room.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><h2><span style='font-size:11.5pt'>Lyft and NFB – Coupon Discount Code</span><o:p></o:p></h2><p>We are pleased to announce that Lyft is offering a promotional discount to new users who are National Federation of the Blind members.<o:p></o:p></p><p>New Lyft users enter their phone number at this link <a href="https://nfb.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=8846&qid=1848788">https://www.lyft.com/invited/nfb17</a>; then they receive a download link for the Lyft app with our promo code pre-populated.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Or a new Lyft user can enter the code NFB17 in the 'promos' section of the app to receive the coupon. The offer is good for seven days after activation.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Generally the offer is two rides at $5 off a ride. Not all markets offer the same coupons. If Lyft is trying to increase ridership in your market, you will get a better offer than you would in other market areas.<o:p></o:p></p><p>The coupon can be used in Orlando during convention if you wish to do so. Lyft will donate ten dollars to NFB for each new user who signs up with this promotional code.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Mears Shuttle to Area Hotels<o:p></o:p></p><p>The Mears Airport Shuttle coupon has been revised to include all over-flow hotels, including the Rosen Plaza, as well as Rosen Shingle Creek. <a href="https://nfb.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=8851&qid=1848788">The revised coupon can be downloaded here</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Old Business<br>A. Marion Gwizdala NAGDU President did an informational presentation including providing statistics on the <span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif'>NAGDU Guide & Service Dog Advocacy App</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><br><br><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>B.<br> Round the phone: Discussion on handler and guide dog performance expectations preparing for convent and flights. Bring and use gentle leader if you have it to eliminate unwanted aggression in your guide dog from impacting on the Convention experience. Limit and water intake while flying is helpful depending on the length of the flight. No feeding before a morning flight. This too depends on your dog who may be more calm after being fed rather traveling on an empty stomach.<br>16. Adjournment: Anna made a motion, Rosa seconded it and all was in favor <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://32">at 8:</a>42p m.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Next meeting with be either September or October. <br><br>Submitted by:<br>Alice Eaddy<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>