White Canes Connect

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Lisa and David look back at the 2023 NFB of PA State Convention with emails and a voicemail from attendees. The emails were read using AI, so let us know your thoughts. We also talk about the 2024 State Convention in Erie coming in November.

We share some audio clips with holiday messages from previous guests of the podcast, like Suzy Wilburn from Southeastern Guide Dogs (ep 060,) Sue Brasel, The Blind Angel Gardener (ep 080,) and Juliette Warren from Philly Achilles (ep 082) to name a few. We discuss some of our favorite episodes of the year and look at what will be coming in 2024. We'd love to know your favorites! Call, email, or comment on YouTube.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/092

Links to Previous Episodes Mentioned

• Episode 058 - Sam Seavey from The Blind Life YouTube Channel: https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_058_post.mp3
• Episode 060 - Suzy Wilburn from Southeastern Guide Dogs: https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_060_post.mp3
• Episode 080 - Sue Brasel The Blind Angel Gardener: https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_080_post.mp3
• Episode 081 - Chef Debra Erickson from The Blind Kitchen: https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_081_post.mp3
• Episode 082 - Running with Purpose - How Philly Achilles Empowers All: https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_082_post.mp3
• Episode 089 - Interview with Andrew Leland, Author of The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight: https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_089_post.mp3
• Episode 091 - Beyond the Curtain: Inclusivity and Joy in 'A Christmas Carol' at People's Light: https://traffic.libsyn.com/whitecanesconnect/white_canes_connect_091_post.mp3

Other Links Mentioned

• The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight by Andrew Leland: https://amzn.to/49Gabln
• The Blind Kitchen: https://www.theblindkitchen.com
• Carol Sexton on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBXpa7OPrX0enhGH4yRETTw
• 2024 NFB of PA State Convention Info: https://nfbofpa.org/2024-state-convention/
• Lisa's Website: https://www.byLisaBryant.com
• David's website: https://www.iCantCU.com
• iCantCU Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/icantcu-podcast/id1445801370

Empower the Blind Community in Pennsylvania

As the leaves turn golden and the season of giving embraces us, we reach out to you. This year, we invite you to participate in a movement that lights up lives: supporting the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. Contributing is easy. Please visit http://www.nfbofpa.org/give to make your donation. Your generosity today can transform a life tomorrow.

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 Leigh Jackson, Natanya Sortland, and Carol Sexton about A Christmas Carol at People's Light in Malvern on December 10. Leigh, Director of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Programming People's Light, explained that there was more than a relaxed performance that afternoon. There will be a sensory tour starting at 12:45 PM, Christmas favorites sung by Carol at 1:15 PM, the audio-described performance at 2 PM, and a discussion following the show.

Natanya tells us about VisionCorps and how she got started as an Ambassador for the organization. She also explains her vision loss journey and her desire to bring the blind community into the theater.

A recording artist, Carol, reveals how she got connected with this performance. She also gives a sneak peek at what you'll hear before the show as she sings a part of a familiar Christmas song.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/091

Get Tickets for A Christmas Carol

To purchase tickets for the audio-described performance on December 10, contact Leigh Jackson at (610) 647-1900 Ext 181. Let her know that you need the audio description equipment for the performance. To learn more about People's Light, go to https://peopleslight.org/. Call the box office at (610) 644-3500.

Other Links Mentioned

• Carol Sexton on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4kRVhxKNhxnC3MJxU0mMnQ
• Carol Sexton on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBXpa7OPrX0enhGH4yRETTw
• VisionCorps: https://visioncorps.net/

Empower the Blind Community in Pennsylvania

As the leaves turn golden and the season of giving embraces us, we reach out to you. This year, we invite you to participate in a movement that lights up lives: supporting the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. Contributing is easy. Please visit http://www.nfbofpa.org/give to make your donation. Your generosity today can transform a life tomorrow.

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, in association with our friends at Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind, we hear from experts from the American Diabetes Association, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Be My Eyes, Kaiser Permanente, and Accessible Pharmacy discuss accessible diabetes management, diabetes medication, living with diabetes with blindness or low vision, and more.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/090

Blind Health Expo 2023 December 1 from 10 AM to 4 PM

Register now for Accessible Pharmacy Services' 2nd annual Blind Health Expo! The Blind Health Expo is the largest virtual expo of healthcare information, products, services, and medication for individuals in the blind, low vision, and disabled communities. The information to register for FREE and to check out the growing list of exhibitors is available at https://accessiblepharmacy.com/blind-health-expo-2023/.

Empower the Blind Community in Pennsylvania

As the leaves turn golden and the season of giving embraces us, we reach out to you. This year, we invite you to participate in a movement that lights up lives: supporting the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. Contributing is easy. Please visit http://www.nfbofpa.org/give to make your donation. Your generosity today can transform a life tomorrow.

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 talk with Andrew Leland, author of The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight. Andrew tells us the story behind the title. He discusses his personal journey of vision loss from Retinitis Pigmentosa. He explains why he included some history of the organized blind movement and assistive technology interwoven with his journey.

Andrew details how he was the one to read the book for the audio version. He mentions tools he uses daily and that he is learning Braille. Andrew talks about some of his other work, including stories in The New Yorker and Radiolab.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/089

About Andrew Leland

Learn more about Andrew and sign up for his newsletter at https://www.andrewleland.org/. Andrew hosted a podcast called The Organist. Listen at https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-organist or your favorite podcast player. Read Andrew's articles in The Believer magazine at https://www.thebeliever.net/?s=leland.

Links Mentioned In the Episode

• The Country of the Blind (audiobook): https://amzn.to/3R4erDZ
• The Country of the Blind (hardcover): https://amzn.to/49Gabln
• Walking Alone and Marching Together: https://amzn.to/3G49iW7
• Braille Institute Atkinson Hyperlegible font: https://brailleinstitute.org/freefont

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, we relive the tactile astronomy presentation for the 2022 NFB of PA State Convention in Pittsburgh. With Dr. David Hurd, Professor of Geosciences at PennWest University, Dr. Matt Marone, Professor of Physics at Mercer University, and Dan Gardner from ViewPlus, the tactile graphics company. They show the audience how they teach tactile astronomy to blind and visually impaired students.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/088

Dr. David Hurd

Besides being a Professor of Geosciences, Dr Hurd is also a Planetarium Director at PennWest University. Read more about him at https://www.edinboro.edu/academics/schools-and-departments/cshp/departments/geosciences/planetarium/director.php.

Dr. Matt Marone

Learn more about Dr. Marone at https://liberalarts.mercer.edu/faculty-and-staff/matthew-marone/. He is not just a Professor at Mercer University; Dr. Marone also does work for NASA.

We spoke to Dr. Hurd and Dr. Marone on episode 051. Listen here.

Links Mentioned In Episode 051

SpaceWeather.com, mentioned by Dr. Marone

A Smile As Big As The Moon by Mike Kersjes, cited by Dr. Hurd

Dan Gardner

Learn more about Dan at https://viewplus.com/author/dan/. What is ViewPlus? Learn more here: https://viewplus.com/.

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 speaks with Greater Philly Chapter member Lyvette Byrd, CEO of For the Byrds Consulting, about her Women Healed for a Purpose Conference on October 28. One of the conference's presenters, Dr. Kevin Aiken, the Senior Pastor of Heart of Worship Restoration Center, also joins the discussion.

The conference has an in-person component at Swan Waterfall Caterers in Philadelphia for $45 and a virtual option via Zoom for only $25.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/087

Women Healed for a Purpose: A Father's Love and Brotherly Affection

Learn more about the conference and order tickets at https://www.forthebyrdsconsulting.org/

If you need help placing your order, call (215) 688-5199.

Heart of Worship Restoration Center

Learn more about Hear of Worship Restoration Center from https://www.heartofworshiprc.org/.

Auction Items for Convention

We all love the auction at the convention. What makes it great are the items that are donated for it. Please consider donating items for the auction that cost $25 or more. Think themed gift baskets, electronics, sports memorabilia, gift cards, baked goods, etc. Contact Denice Brown for more information.

Door Prizes Needed for Convention

Door prizes are needed for the convention. Typical door prizes are gift cards, cash, scented candles, etc., with a value of up to $30. Bring the item to the convention and inform us at registration that you have a door prize.

Questions About State Convention

If you have questions about the convention, Contact Emily Gindlesperger via email at [email protected]. If you need help registering on the website, contact David Goldstein via email at [email protected].

Support the NFB of PA & White Cane Coffee

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, we've got more NFB of PA State Convention coverage in the run-up to the convention in Harrisburg from November 9 through 12. Lisa and David speak to convention national Representative Pam Allen and National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania President Lynn Heitz about what we can expect. Lynn tells us of several people from Nigeria who are traveling to the convention. Pam talks about a presentation she'll participate in on helping people talk through some of their blindness issues while offering resources. Of course, she'll also give the keynote address at the banquet on Saturday night.

Pam wears many hats in the NFB. She is the First Vice President of the national organization. Since 2002, she has served as the Director of the Louisiana Center. And, if that's not enough, she serves as the President of the NFB of Louisiana. Pam tells us of her NFB journey and her connection to Philadelphia while in college.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/086

2023 State Convention in Harrisburg Links

Learn about the convention: https://www.nfbofpa.org/state-convention

Register as an attendee: https://nfbofpa.org/2023-state-convention-registration/

Register as an exhibitor: https://nfbofpa.org/2023-exhibit-hall-registration/?preview=true

Read the preliminary agenda: https://nfbofpa.org/2023-agenda/

Auction Items for Convention

We all love the auction at the convention. What makes it great are the items that are donated for it. Please consider donating items for the auction that cost $25 or more. Think themed gift baskets, electronics, sports memorabilia, gift cards, baked goods, etc. Contact Denice Brown for more information.

Door Prizes Needed for Convention

Door prizes are needed for the convention. Typical door prizes are gift cards, cash, scented candles, etc., with a value of up to $30. Bring the item to the convention and inform us at registration that you have a door prize.

Crowne Plaza Hotel in Harrisburg

Make your reservations by calling the hotel directly at (717) 234-5021. Tell them you are attending the NFB of PA State Convention. Learn more about the hotel at https://nfbofpa.org/reservations-for-crowne-plaza-hotel/.

Getting to the Convention

If you are taking the train to Harrisburg from Philadelphia, use code V819 when you book your trip. Call Amtrak at (800) USA-RAIL or (800) 872-7245 numerically.

Questions About State Convention

If you have questions about the convention, Contact Emily Gindlesperger via email at [email protected]. If you need help registering on the website, contact David Goldstein via email at [email protected].

Support the NFB of PA & White Cane Coffee

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, David welcomes NFB of PA's 2nd Vice President and 2023 State Convention Chair Emily Gindlesperger to talk about the upcoming convention in Harrisburg from November 9 through 12. Emily runs down all of the planned activities for the annual event. She explains how all groups and divisions will hold their only in-person meetings of the year. Emily tells us of the special guests and presenters. She discusses the exhibit hall and the wide range of goods and services that will be there from various large and small companies.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/085

2023 State Convention in Harrisburg Links

Learn about the convention: https://www.nfbofpa.org/state-convention

Register as an attendee: https://nfbofpa.org/2023-state-convention-registration/

Register as an exhibitor: https://nfbofpa.org/2023-exhibit-hall-registration/?preview=true

Read the preliminary agenda: https://nfbofpa.org/2023-agenda/

Auction Items for Convention

We all love the auction at the convention. What makes it great are the items that are donated for it. Please consider donating items for the auction that cost $25 or more. Think themed gift baskets, electronics, sports memorabilia, gift cards, baked goods, etc. Contact Denice Brown for more information.

Door Prizes Needed for Convention

Door prizes are needed for the convention. Typical door prizes are gift cards, cash, scented candles, etc., with a value of up to $30. Bring the item to the convention and inform us at registration that you have a door prize.

Crowne Plaza Hotel in Harrisburg

Make your reservations by calling the hotel directly at (717) 234-5021. Tell them you are attending the NFB of PA State Convention. Learn more about the hotel at https://nfbofpa.org/reservations-for-crowne-plaza-hotel/.

Getting to the Convention

If you are taking the train to Harrisburg from Philadelphia, use code V819 when you book your trip. Call Amtrak at (800) USA-RAIL or (800) 872-7245 numerically.

Questions About State Convention

If you have questions about the convention, Contact Emily Gindlesperger via email at [email protected]. If you need help registering on the website, contact David Goldstein via email at [email protected].

Support the NFB of PA & White Cane Coffee

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, hosts Simon and David sit down with the inspiring Manning brothers, Brad and Bryan, the visionaries behind Two Blind Brothers. Diagnosed with Stargardt's Disease in their youth, the duo dives deep into the origins of their unique apparel brand. While Two Blind Brothers isn't legally a 501(c)(3), they passionately channel their profits to fund research through several eye-related charities. Plus, discover the thoughtful touch they've added: a braille label indicating the color of each clothing piece. Dive in to learn about their journey and commitment to making a difference.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/084

More About Two Blind Brothers

To learn more about the organization and see all that they have to offer, head to https://www.twoblindbrothers.com. You'll find links to all of their socials there, too. If you are sighted and want to see what shopping their site with Stargard's Disease is like, click the button on the lower left side of the screen.

NFB of PA State Convention in Harrisburg

The annual NFB of PA State Convention is November 9 - 12 at the Crowne Plaza in Harrisburg. Learn more at https://nfbofpa.org/state-convention/. Registration prices go up on October 1, so don't delay!

Support the NFB of PA & White Cane Coffee

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].

Hello everybody!

Welcome to our September 2023 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 as well as 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 an be added to our calendar for the following month.

For those using screen readers, you can use your heading navigations to skip around the email.

A Message from our State Affiliate President

Happy September Federation Family!

It is hard to believe that State Convention is 2 months away. Our National Representative this year is Pam Allen, 1st Vice President of the NFB. There is only a short time to register for the Convention at the Early Bird

price. On September 15, the registration increases to $25. Register early and save!

Looking forward to speaking with you on Coffee with The President on Wednesday, September 6 at 7:30PM!

- 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 without subscribing to it and view it on your web browser by going to NFBofPA.org/calendar/.

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

Member Spotlight: Angelina Angelcyk

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

Angelina Angelcyk serves as one of our board members for the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania. Serving as the youngest board member, she is the student representative. Angelina is a senior of her high school in the Greater Pittsburgh area. You might recognize her name and voice at many NFB events, both nationally and locally. She showcases her piano skills and singing ability at the annual Piano Bar that is hosted by the student division. She is a part of a band, Spectrum, and recently performed alongside Pittsburgh musician Norman Mardini. A woman of many talents, she performed as Rafiki from the Lion King at the Geyer Performing Arts Center in July 2023. She also sings at many events and sells Sachets during our state convention. If you ever get a chance to meet Angelina, 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 see 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 so please check back periodically to ensure the right information.

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 1st Saturday of the month.

Saturday, September 2, 2023 at 10 AM

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

the 1st Wednesday of the month.

Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 7:30 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 2nd Friday of the month.

Friday, September 8, 2023 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 2nd Saturday of

the month.

Saturday, September 9, 2023 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 2nd Saturday of the month.

Saturday, September 9, 2023 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 2nd Saturday of the

month.

Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 1:00 PM

Board of Directors Quarterly Meeting

This meeting is the quarterly meeting for the board of directors. Only those in the board can make motions and vote but all are invited to be a part of the meeting.

Sunday, September 10, 2023 at 7:30 PM

Deaf Blind Division Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who consider themselves to be Deaf Blind and their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the 2nd Monday of the

month.

Monday, September 11, 2023 at 6:00 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 2nd Wednesday of the month.

Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at 6:00 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 3rd Saturday of the month.

Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 10:00 AM

Erie County Chapter Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who live in Erie County Pennsylvania. This meeting is typically held on the 3rd Saturday of the month.

Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 2:00 PM

Blind Parents Group Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for blind parents, grandparents, and their supporters This meeting is typically held on the 3rd Saturday of the month.

Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 7:00 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 3rd Tuesday of the month.

Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 1:00 PM

Pittsburgh Chapter Monthly Meeting

A monthly meeting for those who live in the Greater Pittsburgh area. This meeting is typically held on the 3rd Wednesday of the month.

Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at 6:00 PM

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 4th

Saturday of the month.

Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 10:00 AM

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 4th Saturday of the month.

Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 10:00 AM

Pennsylvania Association of Guide Dog Users (PAGDU) Monthly Meeting

a monthly meeting for those who have or are considering getting a guide dog as well as their supporters. This meeting is typically held on the 4th

Saturday of the month.

Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 4:00 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 4th Monday of the month.

Monday, September 25, 2023 at 7:00 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 4th Wednesday of

the month.

Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 7:30 PM

White Canes Connect Podcast

Did you know that 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 as well as 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, Amazon Music, IHeartRadio, and on 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

Our State Convention is coming up soon! Mark your calendar! Clear your agendas! We will be convening from November 9 to 12, 2023 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Harrisburg, PA!

Please see the links below to register for the convention as well to reserve your hotel rooms! Room rates are $99 a night. We will have a Senior Possibilities Fair, Technology Seminars, Talent Showcase/Live Auction,

special interest groups and division meetings and so much more! We hope to hang out with you at the convention!

Attendee Registration for State Convention:

https://nfbofpa.org/2023-state-convention-registration/

Info on making hotel reservations at the Crowne Plaza Harrisburg:

https://nfbofpa.org/reservations-for-crowne-plaza-hotel/

Senior Possibilities Fair 2023

We will also have a senior possibilities fair on the morning of Thursday, November 9, 2023. There is a separate registration form for this event and can be found at the following link:

https://nfbofpa.org/senior-possibilities-fair/

Talent Showcase

For those who will be attending the convention in-person, we are looking for performers of all talents to showcase them at the talent show which will take place on the evening of Friday, November 10, 2023. If you are interested in performing, please contact Stacie Leap at

[email protected]

Shout-Outs and Announcements! Birthday Wishes

The National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania would like to wish all those who were born in September a very happy birthday!

Rest in Peace Tom Anderson

Tom Anderson served as the Chair of the Blind Christians Group after it was changed from the Communities of Faith division. This email was from Dan Burke:

"Dear friends and Federation family -

Julie and I are heart-broken to tell you that Tom Anderson, the beloved first-Braille teacher at CCB and one of the two staff members who opened the doors of the Colorado Center for the Blind in 1988 with Diane McGeorge, died Tuesday afternoon. Tom had been in the hospital for about two weeks in Kansas where he and his wife, Linda returned after tom's retirement from CCB in 2015. He passed quietly from this life with his dear Linda holding one of his hands and his twin sister Toni holding the other.

Tom had cancer nearly 20 years ago, but was cancer free until about two years ago. He entered treatments and finished them early this year. He and Linda came to the national convention in Houston, and it was wonderful for all of us to see him. He was so obviously excited to be back at the convention again. But he became ill after they returned home and eventually was hospitalized.

Tom was a man of faith and a minister, having his own small church in Littleton for a number of years. He was also a staunch, life-long Federationist, holding many offices at the chapter, state and

national levels, including the Denver Chapter President, the NFB of Kansas state board, and the long-time President of the NFB in Communities of Faith.

Tom was such a good man, a dedicated and patient teacher of Braille to hundreds of blind students over the 27 years he taught at the Center, if also exacting and sometimes stern. He embraced his nickname, "Dr.

Dots," loved to page students late for his class with, "Henrietta, the dots await your fingers," and had one of the most endearing and genuine laughs ever heard in the halls of CCB. No one had a laugh like Tom's, and he laughed often and easily.

Julie spoke with Linda this afternoon. At this time, there is no public memorial scheduled. Please send Linda and the family your prayers and positive thoughts.

Rest in peace, dear, kind and loving friend and teacher to so many."

Fundraisers Blind Parents Group T-Shirts Fundraiser

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

Dancing in the Dark

The Greater Lehigh Valley Chapter will be hosting their annual Dancing in the Dark event on Friday October 13, 2023.

On Friday October 13th we Joyously invite you to enjoy a night of fun and enlightenment to celebrate ational Meet the Blind Month and White Cane Day. This is a semi-formal evening of dinner, music and dancing.

Cocktails begin @ 6:00 PM

. Tickets are $75 and the deadline to purchase ticket is September 15, 2023.

This event will be held at: Blue Grillhouse

. (4431 Easton Avenue. Bethlehem, PA 18020)

There are four menu selections:

1. Flounder stuffed with jumbo crab in lemon cream sauce

2. Chicken breast marsala

3. Slow roasted prime rib of beef - traditional or horseradish crusted

4. Roasted Zucchini with Quinoa

Contact the Event Chair Jemmie Jones for more info and to purchase tickets: 908-391-8375

Believe You Can! Talent Show

SAVE THE DATE: The Keystone Chapter will be having their annual talent show fundraiser on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 8 PM ET. If you wish to be a performer, please complete the Google Form:

BelieveYouCan.live/talent.

Tickets are on sale now at BelieveYouCan.live/tickets.

For more information, please visit their website: believeYouCan.live or contact David Goldstein at [email protected] If you wish to be a performer or have any questions, please contact [email protected]

Other External Events

These events are not hosted or sponsored by the NFB or the NFB of PA. However, we think these might be good resources for those living in Pennsylvania. If you have any events that you wish to be in our monthly

digest, please email Stacie Leap at [email protected]

Liberty Resources' Blind/Low Vision Support Group

Our members Karen Rose and Simone Cooper partner up with Liberty Resources to hold a weekly virtual support group at Liberty Resources. The aim is to share resources and provide support to those experiencing blindness or low vision. Meetings are weekly on Tuesdays from 1pm to 2pm ET via Zoom. You do not need to live in Philadelphia to attend these meetings, this is open to all in Pennsylvania! For more information or to sign-up, please email Latoya Maddox at [email protected]

Purple Path Awareness Walk

Purple Path is an awareness walk about domestic violence. It will be a day filled with testimonials, live entertainment, raffles, food, resources/information tables and much more! The event will be on October 7,

2023 from 12PM to 4PM at 800 Macdade Blvd.Collingdale, PA 19023. More information including volunteering, sponsorships, and registering can be found on their website: www.purplehouseporjectpa.org

Women Healed For a Purpose 2023 Conference!

Our member Lyvette Byrd is hosting her 2nd Annual Women Healed For a Purpose Conference under her business, For the Byrds Consulting, LLC. The mission of the conference is to equip and restore the community through a faith-based initiative that we hope will strengthen women holistically; mind, body, and spirit.

We are women Living Interdependently in support of Family, Friends, and our Fellow neighbors to Educate and Empower our community. The event will be on Saturday, October 28, 2023. There will be guest speakers, and live entertainment. There will be an in-person option as well as a Zoom option. For more information including vending opportunities, volunteering, or to register, please visit the For The Byrds Consulting website

http://www.forthebyrdsconsulting.org/>.

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