White Canes Connect

In episode 102 of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and Simon Bonenfant explore web accessibility for the visually impaired. Their guests, Bob Moran from Accessibility Shield and Dennis Zehner from Sites for Hope, discuss their organizations' efforts to improve website usability for people with visual impairments.

Sites for Hope, serving the Greater Lehigh Valley and Monroe County since 1928, aims to foster independence for the visually impaired in Eastern Pennsylvania. Bob Moran highlights how most websites currently fail to accommodate disabled users, and his firm, Accessibility Shield, provides tools to diagnose and correct these oversights.

The discussion underscores ongoing challenges and advances in making digital spaces accessible, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in web development. This episode sheds light on the technical aspects. It connects them to personal stories and the broader mission of enhancing digital accessibility for all.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/102

Connect with Accessibility Shield

Learn more about website accessibility and the services Accessibility Shield has to offer at https://www.accessibilityshield.com. Reach out to Bob Moran via email at [email protected].

Connect with Sights for Hope

Learn more about Sights for Hope at https://sightsforhope.org/. Reach out to Dennis Zehner via email at [email protected]. Give them a call: Lehigh Valley - (610) 433-6018 and Monroe County - (570) 992-7787.

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

We Want to Hear Your Story

Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at [email protected].

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

In Episode 101 of "White Canes Connect," hosts David Goldstein and Lisa Bryant engage with Rabbi Lenny Sarko to discuss his pioneering work on the Braille Torah. Rabbi Sarko, who is visually impaired himself due to complications from diabetes, shares his unique journey of adapting the Torah into Braille to facilitate inclusive religious participation for the blind and visually impaired within the Jewish community.

The episode delves into Rabbi Sarko's motivation, which stemmed from his fear of losing complete sight and realizing that no Hebrew Braille Torahs existed globally. This led him to innovate and create the first Braille Sefer Torah, overcoming significant technical challenges such as ensuring the durability of Braille on parchment and complying with the Torah's stringent production standards.

Rabbi Sarko's work is not only a technical achievement but also a profound contribution to inclusivity. It allows blind individuals to receive an "aliyah" and participate fully in services. His initiative extends beyond the creation of the Torah, as he also provides resources and training in Hebrew Braille and has authored accessible religious texts.

The discussion highlights the broader implications of Rabbi Sarko's work for community inclusion and preserving religious practices. His story is a testament to overcoming adversity through faith, innovation, and community support, aiming to ensure that no one is left behind in spiritual practices due to disabilities.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/101

Connect with Rabbi Sarko

The Rabbi's 501(c)(3) organization: https://www.devarim.org. Email the Rabbi if you are interested in any of the books and lessons he mentioned at [email protected]. You can also call the Rabbi at (724) 963-0789.

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

We Want to Hear Your Story

Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at [email protected].

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

In this 100th episode of White Canes Connect, Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the Blind, joins Lisa and David for a celebratory and insightful discussion. President Riccobono reflects on the podcast's journey, emphasizing its role in amplifying the voices of the blind community and fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. He shares his journey with blindness, highlighting the transformative impact of finding mentorship and a supportive community within the Federation.

President Riccobono discusses the significance of advocacy, the evolution of technology for the blind, and the importance of challenging societal misconceptions about blindness. Through his narrative, listeners understand the Federation's mission, the value of resilience, and the collective effort to build a more inclusive society.

President Riccobono's passion for baseball shines through his unique experiences with the sport, notably his achievement of throwing out the first pitch at two Major League Baseball games in two different stadiums. As a lifelong baseball fan, this opportunity was more than just a ceremonial gesture; it was a moment of pride and representation for the blind community. He even tells us his choice: Brewers or Orioles.

President Riccobono's achievement as the first blind person certified to independently sail a Badger Tech at the University of Wisconsin showcases his pioneering spirit. He explains that one of the tasks to get certified was to capsize the sailboat and then right the boat himself.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/100

Links Mentioned

• Article written by President Riccobono on the Presidential Release and customary endings: https://web.nfbcal.org/pipermail/brl-monitor/2018/000071.html
• Apply for a Jernigan Scholarship to the National Convention in Orlando: https://www.nfbofpa.org/jernigan/
• National Convention in Orlando July 3-8. Book it: https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention-prep

Connect with President Riccobono

On Mastodon: @[email protected], Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.a.riccobono, on Personal.ai: https://riccobono.personal.ai/messaging/profile. You can also email him at [email protected].

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

We Want to Hear Your Story

Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at [email protected].

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

While educating a child with a disability can be challenging, the Delaware County Intermediate Unit, or DCIU, offers many tools and supports to meet that challenge head-on, preparing every student for a successful future!

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Simon Bonenfant speaks with Jason Gonzalez, DCIU Professional Development Specialist, and Holly Short, DCIU Orientation and Mobility instructor, as they discuss the wide range of service offerings the DCIU provides, each unique to every student.

The DCIU will hold two upcoming transition fairs for parents and students in Delaware County to learn more about helpful resources after graduating high school and moving into college or employment. The parent fair will take place on Tuesday, April 9, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, and the student fair will take place the next day, Wednesday, April 10, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM.

It all happens at the DCIU headquarters at 200 Yale Avenue in Morton, PA. Parents and students can meet and network with 43 organizations serving those with disabilities. The NFB of Pennsylvania's Keystone Chapter will be there as well!

Learn more about services that can help you live a more independent life. Contact the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services of Pennsylvania at https://www.dli.pa.gov/Individuals/Disability-Services/bbvs/Pages/default.aspx or the Intermediate Unit in your county to see what they can do for you!

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/099

More About the DCIU

Visit their website at https://www.dciu.org/. Watch the DCIU video featuring students who are now succeeding in fulfilling careers and college educations at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O59QagsAjE0. You can also follow them on your preferred social media at @dciu_at.

More About the Fairs

If you have particular questions about the upcoming transition fairs, contact Jason at [email protected]. You can also find more information on the Student Events page at https://www.dciu.org/TransitionFair.

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

We Want to Hear Your Story

Have you benefited from the DCIU or a similar service? We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or email us at [email protected].

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

In this episode of White Canes Connect, presented by the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania and hosted by Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein, listeners are treated to an enlightening conversation on living with low vision, commemorating February as Low Vision Awareness Month. The episode featured insights from Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapists Lachelle Smith from Salus University and Steve Kelley from Hadley, alongside Pam Baquaro, a blind vendor and President of the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants.

The discussion highlighted the challenges and misconceptions those with low vision face, particularly the spectrum of visual impairment that often goes unrecognized by the sighted community. The guests shared their personal and professional experiences, emphasizing the importance of awareness, education, and tools and technologies to navigate life with low vision.

Key takeaways included the critical role of early and regular eye examinations, the value of connecting with vocational rehabilitation services, and the empowering impact of assistive technology. The conversation also underscored the importance of advocacy and support networks. Pam Baquaro shared her journey as a visually impaired entrepreneur, demonstrating that vision loss is not a barrier to achieving one's goals.

This episode of White Canes Connect sheds light on the realities of living with low vision. It celebrates the resilience and capabilities of the low-vision community, encouraging listeners to seek support, embrace adaptive solutions, and live fully despite visual challenges.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/098

Links & Phone Numbers Mentioned

• Foundation Fighting Blindness website: https://www.fightingblindness.org/
• White Canes Connect Episode 057 about Foundation Fighting Blindness: https://whitecanesconnect.libsyn.com/a-conversation-with-michelle-glaze-eric-bennardo-from-the-foundation-fighting-blindness
• Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services: https://www.dli.pa.gov/Individuals/Disability-Services/bbvs/Pages/default.aspx
• APH Connect Center Phone Number: (800) 232-5463
• Webinars from Freedom Scientific: https://www.freedomscientific.com/training/

Contact Lachelle Smith

Lachelle Smith is a Professor at Salus University and operates a non-profit called Blind Blessings Inc. Contact Lachelle via email at [email protected] or (215) 266-5020 via phone.

Contact Steve Kelley

Steve Kelley has been at Hadley for five years. Contact him via email at [email protected]. Call him at (800) 323-4238. Check out Steve's website at https://hadleyhelps.org/. Learn more about Hadley at https://www.hadleyhelps.org.

Contact Pam Baquero

Pam Baquero is a vendor in the Business Enterprise Program and President of the Pennsylvania Association Of Blind Merchants. Contact Pam via email at [email protected]. Call or text her at (215) 200-3696.

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, go to https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, hosts Lisa Bryant and David Goldstein explore the Diabetes Prevention Program with special guests Joani Schmeling from the Health Promotion Council and NFB of PA President Lynn Heights, a diabetes coach. The program, developed by the CDC, is designed to support individuals with prediabetes through lifestyle changes over a year, emphasizing the importance of diet, exercise, and stress management.

Lisa shares her commitment to participating in the program, highlighting its potential to prevent the progression from prediabetes to diabetes, a leading cause of blindness. The episode also addresses the flexibility and accessibility of the program, including virtual options and support for a wide range of participants.

Success stories from the program illustrate its effectiveness in improving health outcomes, such as significant A1C reductions. The discussion emphasizes that while the commitment may seem daunting, the potential health benefits far outweigh the perceived challenges, encouraging listeners to consider joining the program to take control of their health.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/097

Join the Program

If you are interested in joining a Diabetes Prevention Program, reach out to Alexandra at [email protected].

More on Health Promotion Council

Call or text the Referral Hub at (215) 608-1477. You can also email [email protected].

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you would like to make a monetary donation to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, go to https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Lisa and David speak with Dr. Carolyn Peters and Sabrina Rice from the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders. They discuss the importance of the organization and when it became a division of the National Federation of the Blind.

They review all the planned Black History Month events the organization presents (see the listing below, along with the Zoom links.) The ladies also explain how important it is to simply show up and the difference that it makes.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/096

Links Mentioned

Learn more about Eye Learn at https://www.eyelearnmi.com. Purchase Dr. Peters's book at Amazon: https://amzn.to/49mYAXw. This is an affiliate link. The NFB of PA participates in the Amazon Associates Program and may earn a small commission from your quilting purchases. Share this general link with your friends: https://www.nfbofpa.org/amazon/.

Black History Month Events

February 12 – Black Women's Group

Time: 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Eastern

This meeting will feature a presentation entitled "Voting Matters About Voting Rights and Accessibility." The presenters will be Joann Kingsley, Delaware Disability Law Program, and Carol King-Ries, National Federation of the Blind of Delaware Legislative Director.

Join the meeting: https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/8204086286?omn=97771117625

February 15 – HBCU Committee

Time: 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Eastern

The meeting will feature a panel discussion on blind students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The four panelists are graduates or current students of HBCUs, and they will share their experiences attending these prestigious academic institutions. The facilitator Will be Sabrina Rice, 2nd Vice President of the National Federation of the Blind of Michigan and a North Carolina A&T University graduate.

Join the meeting: https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/8204086286?omn=97771117625

February 19 – Black Elected Leaders Group

Time: 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Eastern

The presenter for this meeting will be Ever Lee Hairston, former board member of the National Federation of the Blind and civil rights advocate. This meeting will be facilitated by Chairwoman Denise Avant.

Join the meeting: https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/8204086286?omn=97771117625

Time: 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Eastern

The presenter for this meeting will be Janice Bright, President of the NFB of South Carolina's Association of Black Leaders Division, and Kenneth Jernigan, a participant in the In-Service Leadership Program. The title of the presentation will be "Overcoming Naysayers, Shifting Your Mind Set." The facilitator for this presentation will be Dr. Lashawna Fant, President of the National Federation of the Blind of Mississippi, Jackson Chapter, and board member of the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders.

Join the meeting: https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/8204086286?omn=97771117625

February 27 – Seniors Group Chat and Chew

Time: 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. eastern

This meeting will feature a panel discussion on being a senior in leadership. The panelists will be Denise Avant, 1st Vice President of the National Federation of the Blind of Illinois and 1st Vice President of the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders, Barbara Manuel, President of the National Federation of the Blind of Alabama and National Federation of the Blind board member and Ever Lee Hairston, former national board member of the National Federation of the Blind.

Join the meeting: https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/8204086286?omn=97771117625

For more information

For information on joining the National Organization of Blind Black Leaders, Please contact Denice Brown at [email protected]. Expanded Zoom information is available at https://nfb.org/national-organization-blind-black-leaders-black-history-month-events.

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Simon Bonenfant speaks with ADLN program coordinator Lee Etzold and newly trained audio describer Gina Pisasale as they discuss how the program was formed, how the training was conducted, and who was selected to participate. They also discuss the strong support team of blind and visually impaired coaches, other audio describer mentors, and audio description trainees.

While audio-described performances in the Philadelphia area have been available for quite some time, there is a need for more audio describers, particularly from diverse backgrounds. Recently, a group of local theatres have come together to make this dream a reality—calling the initiative the Audio Description Learning Network or ADLN.

Simon and Gina discuss their journey working together to facilitate an audio-described A Christmas Carol Comedy performance. The show took place at Hedgerow in early December.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/095

Participating Theaters

The four Philadelphia theatres that participated include The Hedgerow Theatre Company, People's Light, 1812 Productions, and The Wilma Theatre. Each site included a preview performance and a public show, giving the audio describers multiple chances to practice their work. Describers were also required to produce pre-show notes to provide blind and visually impaired patrons access to more detailed visual information.

Small at the People's Light

Join audio describer trainee Beth Feldman Brandt as she describes a production called Small. The production will occur on Sunday, January 28, at 2:00 PM. More details can be found at https://www.peopleslight.org/whats-on/20232024-season/small/.

My Mama and the Full Scale Invasion at the Wilma Theater

There will be an audio-described production of My Mamma and the Full-Scale Invasion on February 18 at 2:00 PM at the Wilma Theatre. More details about that performance can be found at https://wilmatheater.org/event/my-mama-and-the-full-scale-invasion/.

Connect with the Audio Description Learning Network

Interested in contacting the ADLN directly? Visit https://www.helloartscollective.com/adln.html, or send Lee an email at [email protected]

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Lisa and David speak with Christine Palmer, the organizer of the NFB of PA's Diabetes Support Group, Debbie Wunder, the President of the NFB's Diabetes Action Network, and Anil Lewis, NFB Executive Director and DAN Second Vice President about diabetes. Christine tells us why she wanted to start the group here in Pennsylvania. Debbie explains that one in four people don't even know that they are diabetic. She also mentions that diabetes is the number one cause of blindness.

Anil discusses the structure of the NFB and its Divisions and the differences between divisions and groups. He also talks about a live, in-person event in St. Louis this spring.

Christine invites everyone to the NFB of PA Diabetes Support Group's first virtual meeting via Zoom on January 15 at 7:00 PM EST. Here is the link: https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/91010106648?pwd=TUJvdHJ2YVpRY0UxM3BuSExvNzJXZz09. She mentions that you don't have to be a member of the NFB or live in Pennsylvania to participate in the meeting.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/094

Learn More About DAN

If you want more information about the Diabetes Action Network, email Debbie Wunder at [email protected]. You can also call Debbie at (573) 268-6989.

Contact Christine Palmer

To learn more about the NFB of PA Diabetes Support Group, reach out to Christine via email at [email protected] and by phone at (267) 582-4803.

Learn More About the NFB

The best way to learn about the National Federation of the Blind is by visiting their website at https://www.nfb.org. If you have general questions about the Federation, email at [email protected]. If you've got questions for Anil, email him at [email protected].

Christine Palmer's First Time on White Canes Connect

Christine's first appearance on White Canes Connect came in December 2021 after attending her first NFB of PA State Convention. Listen to the emotional and powerful episode: https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/Christine_Palmer_On_Her_First_NFB_Of_PA_Convention.mp3.

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Give Us A Call

We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "Hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | YouTube

Connect With Us

If you've got questions, comments, or ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at [email protected].

Welcome to our January 2024 monthly Digest: a monthly newsletter of the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania!

The events and information listed below will be within the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania and any pertinent information from the National Federation of the Blind and the Pennsylvania blind community.

If you or anyone you know have any upcoming events or information that can pertain to the blind community in Pennsylvania, please send them to Stacie Leap at [email protected] by the 27th of the month so it can be added to our calendar for the following month.

Editor's Note

Hello all:

I do apologize that December 2023's edition never came out. I was experiencing some hardships and had to remove myself from certain obligations. Thank you to those who checked on me and kept me in their thoughts and prayers.

On a happier note, the Monthly Digest is one year old! We started this monthly newsletter in January 2023, and it was a pleasure sharing all of this information with everybody! I have received many emails with positive feedback and am glad people are reading this newsletter. That was a fear of mine: that people would not read this newsletter and delete it. However, I am happy that people are engaging with the newsletter. Thank you all!

- Stacie Leap

A Message from our State Affiliate President

Dear Members and Friends,

Happy New Year! It was wonderful spending time with you at our recent State Convention in November 2023. We had record registration, record attendance at the Banquet and the Possibilities Fair, and an overflowing Exhibit Hall. The feedback I have received about the programming has been overwhelmingly positive.

Thank you to the many hands, hearts, and minds that went into putting this together!!!

Looking forward to wonderful things in 2024!

Sincerely,

Lynn Heitz

President, National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania

[email protected]

Google Calendar Links

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania also has a Google Calendar that can be viewed either through the web or subscribed to your calendar apps.

You can view the calendar at www.NFBofPA.org/calendar.

However, if you wish to subscribe to the calendar and get the events on your calendar apps, please Subscribe and go through the steps to subscribe:

Member Spotlight: David Goldstein

Each month, we will highlight someone within our affiliate. The goal is to allow us to learn about other members within the affiliate. We hope you enjoy this little spotlight!

David Goldstein was recently elected as the First Vice President of our state affiliate during our 2023 State Convention! He is also the Treasurer of the Keystone Chapter and Treasurer of the Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants. He is also one of the hosts of White Canes Connect, our official state affiliate podcast. In addition, he is also our web coordinator of our new affiliate website: www.nfbofpa.org. If you do not think that is enough, he is the President of Digital Graphics Design, LLC. David is a father of two adult children and a dog dad to Ziggy, a golden retriever. He is into technology and has his own podcast, iCantCU, where he chronicles his life and the different activities he is involved in. In his own words, "iCantCU sounds like a sentence, but it is only 7 letters long. It is like blind people for dummies." If you ever get a chance to meet David, do not forget to say, "Hello!"

Calendar of Events

The following events are also on our Google calendar with the Zoom information or meeting location. If anyone within a chapter, division, or group sees any errors or misinformation, please contact Stacie Leap at [email protected]

The below information is correct as of the first week of the month. The information is most up-to-date on the Google Calendar. Please check back periodically to ensure the correct information is correct.

Coffee with the State President and Board

This monthly discussion meeting brings everybody together to get to know the state affiliate board members and the happenings within the state's divisions, chapters, and advocacy efforts. This meeting is typically held on the 1st Wednesday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with State President Lynn Heitz at [email protected]

Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at 7:30 PM.

Jigsaw Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who do not have a local chapter in their geographical area. This is our at-large chapter Meetings. This meeting is typically held on the first Saturday of the month.

Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 10 AM

Deaf Blind Division Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who consider themselves Deaf Blind and their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the second Monday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Division President Chris Westbrook at [email protected]

Monday, January 8, 2024 at 6 PM.

Pennsylvania Association of Blind Merchants (PABM) Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who are or wish to be involved with the Business Enterprise Program, entrepreneurship, and their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the second Wednesday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Division President Pamela Baquero at [email protected]

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at 6 PM.

Greater Berks Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Berks County of Pennsylvania. This meeting is typically held on the second Friday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Chapter President Rosemary Freedman at [email protected]

Friday, January 12, 2024 at 10 AM.

Greater Lehigh Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania. This includes Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and the surrounding areas. This meeting is typically held on the second Saturday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Chapter President Cheryl Frazier at [email protected]

Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 10 AM.

Keystone Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Philadelphia area. This is one of two local chapters in the Philadelphia area. The other chapter is the Greater Philadelphia Chapter. This meeting is typically held on the second Saturday of the month at the Penn Museum. For more information, please get in touch with Chapter President Harriet Go at [email protected]

Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 10:15 AM.

Happy Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in or surrounding State College, Pennsylvania. This meeting is typically held on the second Saturday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Chapter President Michelle McManus at [email protected]

Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 1 PM.

Diabetes Action Network (DAN) Group Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who have diabetes, pre-diabetes, or are at risk for developing diabetes. This group typically meets on the third Monday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Group Chair Christine Palmer at [email protected]

Monday, January 15, 2024, at 7 PM.

Pennsylvania Organization of Parents of Blind Children (PAOPBC) Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for parents of blind children and their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the third Tuesday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Division President Emily Gindlesperger at [email protected]

Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 1 PM.

Pittsburgh Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Pittsburgh area. This meeting is typically held on the third Wednesday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Chapter Revitalizing Team Members Emily Gindlesperger at [email protected] or Denice Brown at [email protected]

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 6 PM.

Capital Area Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Harrisburg area. This meeting is typically held on the third Saturday of the month. For More Information, please get in touch with Chapter President Jason Polanski at [email protected]

Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 10 AM.

Erie County Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in Erie County, Pennsylvania. This meeting is typically held on the third Saturday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Connie Scheu at [email protected]

Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 2 PM.

Blind Parents Group Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for blind parents, grandparents, and their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the third Saturday of the month. For more information, please contact Group Chair Stacie Leap at [email protected].

Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 7 PM.

Pennsylvania Association of Blind Students (PABS) Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for blind students of all ages and their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the fourth Monday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Division President Simon Bonenfant at [email protected]

Monday, January 22, 2024 at 7 PM.

Blind Seniors Group Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who are seniors or almost seniors as well as their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the fourth Wednesday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Group Chair Connie Scheu at [email protected]

Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 7:30 PM.

Brandywine Valley Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Brandywine Valley area of PA. This meeting is typically held on the fourth Saturday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Chapter President Lynn Heitz at [email protected]

Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 10 AM.

Greater Philadelphia Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Philadelphia area. This is one of two local chapters in the Philadelphia area. The other chapter is the Keystone Chapter. This meeting is typically held on the fourth Saturday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Chapter President Denice Brown at [email protected]

Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 10 AM.

Pennsylvania Association of Guide Dog Users (PAGDU) Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who have or are considering getting a guide dog and their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the fourth Saturday of the month. For more information, please get in touch with Division President Becca Weber at [email protected]

Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 4 PM.

White Canes Connect Podcast

Did you know the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania has a podcast? It is hosted by members David Goldstein and Lisa Bryant, as well as some guest hosts. It features interviews with our PA members and interviews and resources for the blind community. The monthly Digest is also on the podcast for those who wish to hear a human's voice instead of a screen reader. You can listen to it wherever you listen to podcasts.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, IHeartRadio, and YouTube @PABlindPodcast. Contact White Canes Connect at [email protected] if you have any show ideas or wish to be on the podcast.

State Convention 2023

We had our state convention in November 2023 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Here are some highlights!

• We had 28 people register for our Senior Possibilities Fair. This was our 2nd year having it at the convention, and this was our highest number of registrants!
• 10 people attended the state convention as a first-timer! Welcome to our NFB of pA family!
• A total of 125 people registered for the convention!
• We had our state board elections, and the following people have been elected:
• President: Lynn Heitz
• First Vice President: David Goldstein
• Second Vice President: Emily Gindlesperger
• Secretary: Harriet Go
• Treasurer: Brian Mackey
• Board Director: Denice Brown
• Board Director: Kirk Hunger
• Board Director: Michelle McManus

Diabetes Action Network (DAN) Group formed in Pennsylvania!

We are delighted to have a new group join our NFB of PA family! This group, Diabetes Action Network (DAN), aims to educate and provide peer support for those living with diabetes or for those who are at risk for developing diabetes. The group plans to meet quarterly on the second Monday of the month at 7 PM. For more information, please get in touch with the Group Chair, Christine Palmer, at [email protected]

Washington Seminar 2024

At our Washington Seminar, members of the National Federation of the Blind convene to learn about and advocate for legislative initiatives that will improve the lives of blind Americans.

Dates: Monday, January 29 through Thursday, February 1, 2024

Location: Holiday Inn Washington Capitol – National Mall

550 C Street, SW

Washington, DC 20024

If you want more information on what the NFB of PA is doing regarding Washington Seminar, please get in touch with our Legislative Director, Emily Gindlesperger, at [email protected]

For more information on Washington Seminar, please visit www.nfbofpa.org/washington-seminar.

Shout-Outs and Announcements!

Birthday Wishes

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania wishes all those born in December & January a very happy birthday!

Fundraisers

Blind Parents Group T-Shirts Fundraiser

The T-shirts come in either black with white lettering or white with black lettering. Both shirts say "I Support #BlindParents" with the NFB of PA Logo and "Blind Parents Group" at the bottom. Funds raised will start a financial fund to assist blind or visually impaired parents and their families through financial life hardships. To purchase a t-shirt, please contact Stacie Leap at [email protected]

NFB 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.

NFB Message

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.

Many thanks to everybody for all they do within the Federation!

Thanks!

the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania team

www.nfbofpa.org