[Ohio-Talk] NJ

Sat Nov 21 18:49:39 UTC 2020

Greetings to all!

Yes, the final day for the NFBNJ's state convention.

I stepped down as president and Linda Melendez, at close of the banquet will
take the gavel and begin her term as president.

Hope you can join us for all or part of the day. 

Agenda pasted below.

Talk soon!

Joe 

We care. We share. We grow. We make a difference
Joe Ruffalo, President 
National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey 
973 743 0075
nfbnj1 at verizon.net <mailto:nfbnj1 at verizon.net> 
www.nfbnj.org <http://www.nfbnj.org> 

Raising Expectations to Live The Life You Want!

Your old car keys can be keys to literacy for the blind.
Donate your unwanted vehicle to us by clicking 
www.carshelpingtheblind.org <http://www.carshelpingtheblind.org>  
or call 855 659 9314

From: Linda Melendez <mailto:lindamelendez220 at gmail.com>  

Sent: Friday, November 20, 2020 11:10 PM

To: undisclosed-recipients:

Subject: National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey 44th State
Convention: Agenda for Day 4 (Our last day)--All are welcome

Greetings Registered Conventioneers.

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

nfbnj1 at verizon.net <mailto:nfbnj1 at verizon.net> 

Linda Melendez, Chair of State Convention Activities
732 421 7063
lindamelendez220 at gmail.com <mailto:lindamelendez220 at gmail.com> 

www.nfbnj.org <http://www.nfbnj.org/> 

www.blindchildren.org <http://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 www.nfbnj.org
<http://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

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
www.nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct
<http://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

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 nfb.newjersey at gmail.com
<mailto: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

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

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

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
Nfbnj1 at verizon.net <mailto:Nfbnj1 at verizon.net> 
www.nfbnj.org <http://www.nfbnj.org/> 

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 <mailto:lindamelendez220 at gmail.com> 

For the list of affiliate board members, chapter/division, Committees,
projects and programs, please visit the state website at
wwwnfbnj.org <http://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.nfborg/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-pro
gram
<https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-p
rogram> 

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 Braille Readers
Are Leaders contest
<https://wwwnfb.org/libraries/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=18832&qid=4372187> 

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 lovey1160 at gmail.com <mailto: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 nfb.org/pac <http://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
<mailto: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
Hannah.defelice at t-mobile.com <mailto:Hannah.defelice at t-mobile.com> 
https://www.sprintrelaycom/ <https://www.sprintrelay.com/> 

3D PhotoWorks
John Olson, Co founder
124 Hudson Avenue
Chatham, New York 12037
518 392 8161
john at 3dphotoworks.com <mailto:john at 3dphotoworks.com> 
www.3dphotoworks.com <http://www.3dphotoworks.com/> 

Vendors:

C-TECH
Chuck Cohen, President
2 N. William St.
Pearl River, NY 10965
845 735 7907
chuck at magnifyit.com <mailto:chuck at magnifyit.com> 
www.ctechlowvision.com <http://www.ctechlowvision.com/> 

Independence Science

Richard Payne,  President

National Federation of the Blind of Ohio

937/829/3368

 <mailto:Rchpay7 at gmail.com> Rchpay7 at gmail.com

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.