[Colorado-Talk] attached and following you will find the NFB of Colorado State Convention which is subject to minor change
Lisa Bonderson
lbonderson at cocenter.org
Mon Oct 13 21:46:49 UTC 2025
AGENDA
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF COLORADO
71st Annual State Convention
October 30 - November 2, 2025
The Westin Westminster
10600 Westminster Blvd.
Westminster, CO 80020
Standley Ballroom
Jessica Beecham, President
2233 W. Shepperd Avenue
Littleton, CO 80120
303-778-1130
JBBeecham at gmail.com<mailto:JBBeecham at gmail.com>
[NFBCO Logo]
NFB PLEDGE
I pledge to participate actively in the effort 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 their dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.
NFB CODE OF CONDUCT
All NFB members, employees, contractors, event attendees, volunteers, and program participants are subject to the NFB Code of Conduct. Everyone is strongly encouraged to review the Code which can be found at: www.nfb.org/codeofconduct<http://www.nfb.org/codeofconduct>.
TRIBUTE TO OUR SPONSORS
Thank you to our Title Sponsor, Colorado Center for the Blind.
Since 1988, the Colorado Center for the Blind has been helping the blind reach new heights of independence and live the lives they want. The Center has provided world class blindness training to students from all over the world. Contact Julie Deden, Executive Director, jdeden at cocenter.org<mailto:jdeden at cocenter.org>, 303-778-1130. Also visit www.cocenter.org<http://www.cocenter.org> for more information.
We thank our Title, Gold, and Silver Sponsors:
Colorado Center for the Blind, Title Sponsor
Blind Institute of Technology, Gold Sponsor
Non-24/Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Gold Sponsor
Spectrum, Gold Sponsor
Democracy Live, Silver Sponsor
NanoPac/Magnisight of the Rockies, Silver Sponsor
GENERAL CONFERENCE INFORMATION
NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE
This year we are delighted to have Anil Lewis, Executive Director for Blindness Initiatives, National Federation of the Blind, serving as our National Representative.
[Anil Lewis is a tall Black man wearing a dark gray suit and patterned tie. He smiles and holds a white cane.]
Anil Lewis was born in 1964 in Atlanta, Georgia. He is the third of four children. Both his older brother and older sister became legally blind at an early age from retinitis pigmentosa. Lewis was originally labeled educable mentally retarded but eventually became the first member of his family to graduate from college. He has excelled academically, received many awards, participated as a leader in many extracurricular activities, and received several college scholarships. Although he was finally diagnosed at age nine with retinitis pigmentosa, his vision was fairly unaffected until age twenty-five.
Currently employed as the executive director of Blindness Initiatives for the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), located in Baltimore, Maryland, he leads a dynamic team of individuals responsible for the creation, development, implementation, and replication of innovative projects and programs throughout a nationwide network of affiliates that work to positively affect the education, employment, and quality of life of all blind people.
Previously, as the director of Advocacy and Policy for the NFB, Lewis was responsible for a variety of public policy and strategic programs. Most notably, he was the legislative lead of the NFB's efforts to repeal Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act, an obsolete provision that allows employers to pay workers with disabilities less than the federal minimum wage. While serving as the director of Strategic Communications for the NFB, Lewis coordinated the public relations campaign for the NFB's Blind Driver Challenge(tm), an innovative research project to develop nonvisual access technology that made it possible for a blind person to safely and independently operate an automobile.
REGISTRATION
Pick up your registration packet and convention agenda in the Standley Ballroom Foyer.
Friday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
For those who have not pre-registered, the following prices will be in effect. Please note that the purchase of meal tickets may be limited based on the ability of the hotel to meet the demand.
Registration Fee: $40.00
Saturday Lunch: $40.00
Saturday Banquet: $75.00
FOOD AND BEVERAGE NOTES
We will not have a Friday general session luncheon this year due to the 1:00 p.m. start time. Do please enjoy lunch at the hotel's Spotted Donkey Cantina or any of the restaurants directly across the street to the south of the Westin. Additionally, we will not be offering coffee at the start of the general sessions. Please enjoy the Starbucks coffee shop in the lobby across the hall from the bank of elevators.
CONVENTION ZOOM PLATFORM
We will be providing Zoom access for the state convention for Friday's Resolutions Committee meeting and General Session, Saturday's General Session, Banquet, and the Sunday morning Business Session. Following you will find the Zoom link and one tap mobile information.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/97335339326?pwd=Wcs2DSHwvTiZFgoltrMFdWXajMIkNm.1
Meeting ID: 973 3533 9326
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,97335339326#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
97335339326, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
Following is the Zoom information for Spanish translation:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/95813212634?pwd=doSHNfnbyxjlVUX2hpWODgHBKgwpEe.1
Meeting ID: 958 1321 2634
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,95813212634#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
95813212634, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
ZOOM HELP DESK
If you are having trouble connecting to the Zoom platform, please contact Curtis Chong by email at Chong.Curtis at gmail.com<mailto:Chong.Curtis at gmail.com> or by phone at 515-306-1654.
CLOSED CAPTIONING
We will be providing live closed captioning for Resolutions, all general sessions, and the banquet. You can access the captions by using the Zoom caption feature or by opening the link below in a separate browser window.
www.streamtext.net/player?event=NFB_COLORADO<http://www.streamtext.net/player?event=NFB_COLORADO>
CHILDCARE INFORMATION
Please contact childcare coordinator, Victoria Pineda at 720-601-6065 to make arrangements. Parents should be sure to register their children. We will provide snacks throughout the weekend and pizza for the banquet.
Childcare will be held in Hospitality Suite 1214.
Friday: Childcare will be open at 7:50 a.m. and will close 15 minutes after general session ends.
Parents must provide meals for their children.
Saturday: Childcare will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Parents must provide lunch for their children. Childcare will re-open at 6:30 p.m. and close 15 minutes after the banquet ends.
Sunday: Childcare will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
DOG RELIEF AREA INFORMATION
The dog relief area is located just out the set of east doors across the hall from the entryway to our convention corridor. Upon exiting the building, you will need to continue past the hotel's outdoor event artificial turf on your left. You will approach and walk through a gate. If you haven't reached a gate, you have not walked far enough. Straight ahead past the gate entrance a few yards, you will reach a dog relief area with real grass. The hotel has provided a trash can on a pole and bags. Please do not use the artificial turf event area and please deposit all waste in the trash cans provided. Contact Dog Guide Coordinator, Charis Glatthar at 303-828-8300 with any questions or concerns, and pay attention to general announcements.
DOOR PRIZES
Pipi Adams and Fitz Stone will serve as our Door Prize Chairs. Door prizes will be drawn in general convention sessions, and you must be present to win. Please bring your prizes to Pipi prior to the beginning of general sessions.
AUCTION
Throughout the weekend, we will conduct our Annual Auction under the stellar leadership of our Auction Chair, Kevan Worley of Colorado Springs. For those who purchase an auction item, please be advised that once an auction item has been purchased, it is the sole responsibility of the purchaser from that moment on. The NFB of Colorado is not responsible for shipping and/or insurance expenses related to purchased auction items, nor is the NFB of Colorado liable for damage to any shipped items.
RECYCLING WRISTBANDS
If you do not care to keep your convention wristbands, please drop them off on the registration table at the ballroom entry as convention winds down.
EXHIBITS
Exhibits will be open in the Cotton Creek Ballroom throughout the convention at the discretion of the individual exhibitor and primarily when there are no competing convention activities.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Please stop and visit the following exhibitors and sponsors:
Aftersight, Exhibitor
A.T. Guys, Exhibitor
Blind Institute of Technology, Gold Sponsor
Blind Girl Magic, Exhibitor
Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, Exhibitor
Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Exhibitor
Hadley, Exhibitor
Humana, Exhibitor
HumanWare, Exhibitor
NanoPac/Magnisight of the Rockies, Silver Sponsor
Non-24/Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Gold Sponsor
Penny Forward, Inc. Exhibitor
Seeing Eye, Exhibitor
Tasty Crumbs, Exhibitor
VisualEyes Access, Exhibitor
The following chapters and divisions will also have tables in the exhibit hall and would love for you to stop by and visit them.
Colorado Springs Downtown
Denver
Mile High
Wild West
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 22, 2025
7:00 p.m. MT via Zoom
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/96873949405?pwd=OGt0TzZ0SjJRWmlGdTJzYTBacW9xdz09
Meeting ID: 968 7394 9405
Passcode: 123456
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,96873949405# US
Dialing Instructions
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter: 96873949405#
If asked to enter a participant ID, simply press #.
The Sports & Rec Division of the NFBCO is holding its annual meeting. The Division was recently reformed with Charis Glatther elected as our President. The Division is working on plans to make sports and recreation activities throughout the Centennial State more accessible for blind and low vision people. Sports and Rec would love all Coloradans to participate; there is no need to have prior experience with sports and/or recreation since we are wishing to participation of all!! President Glatther and the Sports and Rec Board are excited to hold this meeting as part of our upcoming State Convention to discuss the plans we have thus far and to hear what ideas you have!! Please join us and let us move and recreate to build the National Federation of the Blind through being more involved in our sports and recreation communities!! We will live the lives we want!!
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025
12:45 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
ROCK YOUR FUTURE IN MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS!
Ready to turn up the volume on your future? Join us for an afternoon of creativity, connection, and discovery at the NFBCO Convention! This high-energy workshop is for blind or low vision individuals aged 14 and up who want to explore amazing career opportunities in music and performing arts.
Pick your jam! You'll get to dive into three 45-minute sessions of your choice:
* Songwriting - Craft lyrics & melodies that move hearts.
Flatirons on the second floor
* Podcasting - Share your voice and ideas with the world.
Long's Peak on the second floor
* Voice Acting - Bring characters and stories to life.
Westin Boardroom on the twelfth floor
* Audio Production - Mix, record, and master like a pro.
Standley Ballroom I
* DJing - Learn to spin tracks and rock the crowd.
Standley Ballroom II
All sessions are led by blind professionals who are rocking it in their fields. You'll gain insider tips, hands-on practice, and inspiration to chase your dreams!
Don't miss this chance to explore your creativity, connect with mentors, and discover careers that make your talent shine! Following are the times of the sessions.
12:45 p.m. to 1:05 p.m.
LOGISTICS MEETING
Standley 1
1:15 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
FIRST SESSION
2:00 p.m. 15-minute break
2:15 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
SECOND SESSION
3:00 p.m. 15-minute break
3:15 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
THIRD AND FINAL SESSION
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
BACKSTAGE PASS: The Next Generation Jam
Step into the spotlight and discover your rhythm for independence! The Backstage Pass experience invites youth under 18 to explore essential skills for success in a fun interactive setting. Participants will rotate through hands-on stations that include adaptive technology, Braille, cooking, and sports and recreation with Johnny D. and other Federation mentors. Whether learning to whip up a quick meal, score a goal, or navigate new tech, every activity builds confidence, creativity, and teamwork. After the fair, the group will head out together for a well-earned dinner at Mod Pizza, to relax, share laughs, and celebrate a day of learning and leadership.
DINING AROUND WESTMINSTER
Ready to spice up your week? Join us for a night of good food, laughter, and community as we explore some of Westminster's best restaurants on Thursday evening, October 30th! Here's how it works.
Pick the restaurant that sparks your taste buds and reach out to the Federation leader for that group. Be sure to RSVP by Saturday, October 25th with your name and phone number. Check the dinner time carefully - each group meets at slightly different times.
Once RSVPs are in, group leaders will confirm reservations, and we'll all meet at the chosen restaurants to enjoy a fun evening together. Each person is responsible for their own meal and tip.
This is your chance to share a meal, swap stories, make new friends, and connect with old ones. It's all about great food, great company, and great conversation - don't miss out!
Benders Bar & Grill
10710 Westminster Blvd, Westminster, CO 80020
Bender's Bar and Grill - Food Menu<https://bendersbarandgrill.com/westminster-bender-s-bar-and-grill-food-menu>
Bender's Bar and Grill - Drink Menu<https://bendersbarandgrill.com/westminster-bender-s-bar-and-grill-drink-menu>
Dinner time 7:00 p.m.
Host: Mile High chapter
Call or text Cody Bair to RSVP
(970) 673-6998
Dave & Buster's
10667 Westminster Blvd., Westminster, CO 80020<https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=32346a7cbd24bbb4c59283284940006d5fabf6a82daa27c7b8d0ae7bf5f2b942JmltdHM9MTc1ODA2NzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0efa2f1f-c203-612f-3ae9-3be3c3ae609e&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9MTAxfn5Vbmtub3dufkFkZHJlc3NfTGluayZ0eT0xOCZxPURhdmUlMjAlMjYlMjBCdXN0ZXIlMjdzJTIwV2VzdG1pbnN0ZXImc3M9eXBpZC5ZTjg3M3gxMzExMDMwODAmcHBvaXM9MzkuODkwMjkzMTIxMzM3ODlfLTEwNS4wNzA1NjQyNzAwMTk1M19EYXZlJTIwJTI2JTIwQnVzdGVyJTI3cyUyMFdlc3RtaW5zdGVyX1lOODczeDEzMTEwMzA4MH4mY3A9MzkuODkwMjkzfi0xMDUuMDcwNTY0JnY9MiZzVj0xJkZPUk09TVBTUlBM&ntb=1>
default.pdf.coredownload.inline.pdf<https://www.daveandbusters.com/content/dam/dnb/us/en/menu/food/default.pdf.coredownload.inline.pdf>
Dinner time 6:30 p.m.
Host: Wild West chapter
Call or text Paul Sandoval to RSVP
(720) 620-8007
Tuk Tuk Thai
10667 Westminster Blvd, Westminster, CO 80020
TUK TUK THAI EATS : WESTMINSTER - TUK TUK THAI GRILL<https://tuktukrocks.com/tuk-tuk-thai-eats-westminster/>
Dinner time 6:15 p.m.
Host: Sports and Recreation division
Call or text Gary Van Dorn to RSVP
(303) 863-1150
The Stillery
10633 Westminster Blvd, Westminster, CO 80020
Menu | The Stillery<https://www.thestillery.com/menu/>
Dinner time 6:30 p.m.
Host: the Denver chapter
Call or text Julie Deden to RSVP
(303) 653-5987
Mod Pizza
6415 W 104th Ave, Suite 400, Westminster, CO 80020
Menu | MOD Pizza<https://modpizza.com/menu/?_ga=2.239704003.1717643582.1754688620-1984052517.1754432730&_gl=1*xer0ga*_ga*MTk4NDA1MjUxNy4xNzU0NDMyNzMw*_ga_M1NM6RL7WN*czE3NTQ2ODg2MTkkbzIkZzAkdDE3NTQ2ODg2MTkkajYwJGwwJGgw>
Dinner time 7:00 p.m.
Host: Emerging Leaders Group
Call or text Jamilla Lane to RSVP
(404) 759-5913
East Moon Asian Bistro and Sushi
10431 Town Center Dr Ste 101C, Westminster, CO 80021
Wix.com | Welcome to Mr. Ping's Noodles<https://www.eastmoon8.com/menu>
Dinner time 6:00 p.m.
Host, the Boulder chapter
Call or text Andrea Brandies to RSVP
(301) 526-7034
Hacienda Colorado
10422 Town Center Dr, Westminster, CO 80021<https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=6adc1958c3097d35435b66764a3e37bc0776ad2ef6c0e6da48d968d70723c6efJmltdHM9MTc1ODA2NzIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0efa2f1f-c203-612f-3ae9-3be3c3ae609e&u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9MTAxfn5Vbmtub3dufkFkZHJlc3NfTGluayZ0eT0xOCZxPUhhY2llbmRhJTIwQ29sb3JhZG8mc3M9eXBpZC5ZTjEzNngyNjMwNDk3JnBwb2lzPTM5Ljg4Njk0NzYzMTgzNTk0Xy0xMDUuMDczNDcxMDY5MzM1OTRfSGFjaWVuZGElMjBDb2xvcmFkb19ZTjEzNngyNjMwNDk3fiZjcD0zOS44ODY5NDh-LTEwNS4wNzM0NzEmdj0yJnNWPTEmRk9STT1NUFNSUEw&ntb=1>
No Pricing Menu - Hacienda Colorado<https://haciendacolorado.com/menu/no-pricing-menu/>
Dinner time 6:30 p.m.
Host, downtown Colorado Springs chapter
Call or text Nate Hecker to RSVP
(605) 610-7959
FRIDAY MORNING, OCTOBER 31, 2025
7:30 a.m.
CONVENTION CAFÉ
Standley Ballroom Corridor
Please join us for our third annual Convention Café. The affiliate will provide complimentary coffee, tea, and pastries.
7:50 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
NFB OF COLORADO KID CORRAL
Hospitality Suite #1214
Victoria Pineda, Corral Leader
This is our NFB of Colorado Childcare and it's not just babysitting. Victoria has planned a number of activities to keep the kiddos busy. Although there is no charge for the Corral, we ask that you register your children for the convention. Donations to the NFB of Colorado are welcome to help defray the expenses. Kids in childcare will be eligible to receive door prizes through their parents if their names are called. Also, parents are responsible for providing the children with meals, except for the banquet, when pizza will be provided for the kiddos. Snacks will be available throughout.
8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION
Standley Ballroom Foyer
Pick up your pre-registration packets.
For those who have not pre-registered, the following prices will be in effect. Please note that the purchase of meal tickets may be limited based on the ability of the hotel to meet the demand.
Registration Fee: $40.00
Saturday Lunch: $40.00
Saturday Banquet: $75.00
8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
EXHIBITORS AND SPONSORS SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE
Cotton Creek Ballroom
Peruse this year's selection of convention sponsors and exhibitors and find out what is new in technology, products, and services. In particular, we once again want to salute our Titanium Sponsor, Colorado Center for the Blind. Our heartfelt thanks go out to Blind Institute of Technology, Non-24/Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Spectrum, NanoPac/Magnisight of the Rockies.
8:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE
Meadowbrook I
Dan Burke and Curtis Chong, Co-chairs
Come and help set the policy of the National Federation of the Blind of Colorado!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/97335339326?pwd=Wcs2DSHwvTiZFgoltrMFdWXajMIkNm.1
Meeting ID: 973 3533 9326
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,97335339326#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
97335339326, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
Following is the Zoom information for Spanish translation:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/95813212634?pwd=doSHNfnbyxjlVUX2hpWODgHBKgwpEe.1
Meeting ID: 958 1321 2634
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,95813212634#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
95813212634, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
DROP IN ART ROOM
Waverly
Multiple artists will present their puzzles, drawing, sculpting, flip-pics and other fun activities (TBD). All activities are free and open to all convention attendees.
This Art Room offers an opportunity for everyone--from those who already feel comfortable expressing themselves artistically to those who have never tried but are curious! We strive to create an art room that is a supportive and inspiring social space.
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
EXPANDING ACCESS: Deafblind Technology and Support Service Programs in Colorado
Meadowbrook I
JoAnne Hirsch, Communications Technology Program Manager, Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deafblind
Elli Streifer, Deafblind Programs Coordinator, Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deafblind
This interactive panel presentation will highlight Colorado's Deafblind technology distribution program, iCanConnect (ICC), and the state's Support Service Provider (SSP) program. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how these programs increase access, independence, and community participation for Deafblind individuals.
There will also be a demonstration on protactile and other hands-on support service provider work.
10:00 a.m. to 10:55 a.m.
AI BASICS FOR EVERYDAY LIFE
Meadowbrook II
Brett Boyer, Access Technology Specialist, Colorado Center for the Blind.
Artificial intelligence is changing how we work, learn, and live, but for many people it still feels like science fiction. This session will cut through the hype and show how blind people can actually use AI right now. We'll explore practical applications like meal planning, drafting advocacy letters, summarizing articles, and organizing everyday tasks. Participants will get to see AI in action through live demonstrations. We'll bust common myths, and experiment with simple prompts in a hands-on group activity.
11:05 a.m. to 12:05 p.m.
INTRODUCTION TO INVESTING
Meadowbrook II
Chris Peterson AFC®, Founder and CEO, Penny Forward
Blind People Building Bright Futures One Penny at a Time
Cody Bair, CPA
This presentation teaches the basics of investing in a simple, step-by-step way. You will learn how money grows over time, the different ways to invest (like stocks, bonds, and real estate), and how to avoid common mistakes like rushing into bad deals or following the crowd. The presentation also explains how financial markets work and why it's important to have a plan instead of just hoping to get rich fast.
11:05 a.m. to 12:05 p.m.
TOUCHING LIGHT: Making Visual Art Accessible
Waverly
Ted Tahquechi, Blind Photographer, Boulder, Colorado
This session introduces tactile photography; a process created with the cooperation of the Boulder Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind to make visual art accessible through touch. Developed in Colorado, this innovative process extracts light and texture information from photographs and translates it into tactile 3D prints, allowing blind or low vision individuals to experience art in an entirely new way.
The session will begin with an educational presentation, where blind photographer, educator, and NFB member Ted Tahquechi will describe the development of the process, the challenges of creating tactile art, and the future of accessible photography.
11:05 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
IS A GUIDE DOG RIGHT FOR ME?
Windsor
Bill Porter, Field Representative, Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, and America's VetDogs
This seminar is to provide information about the guide dog lifestyle. A guide dog is not a replacement for the white cane, but a mobility tool that some people who are blind or low vision prefer. Bill will provide information to help individuals make the best decisions for themselves.
SESSION I
STANDLEY BALLROOM
1:00 P.M. TO 4:30 P.M.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/97335339326?pwd=Wcs2DSHwvTiZFgoltrMFdWXajMIkNm.1
Meeting ID: 973 3533 9326
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,97335339326#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
97335339326, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
Following is the Zoom information for Spanish translation:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/95813212634?pwd=doSHNfnbyxjlVUX2hpWODgHBKgwpEe.1
Meeting ID: 958 1321 2634
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,95813212634#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
95813212634, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER, WELCOMING REMARKS AND OPENING CEREMONIES
Jessica Beecham, President, NFB of Colorado, Centennial, Colorado
1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
NEW VOICES RISING: Presenting the 2025 NFB of Colorado Scholarship Class
Cody Bair, Co-Chair, NFB of Colorado Scholarship Committee, Littleton, Colorado
Maureen Nietfeld, Co-Chair, NFB of Colorado Scholarship Committee, Centennial Colorado
Douglas Allan, Master of Arts in Special Education/Teacher of the Visually Impaired, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley
Cooper Brown, Computer Science, University of Colorado Denver
Isela Reyna, Business, Arapahoe Community College
2:00 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.
AUCTION ITEM
2:10 p.m. to 2:55 p.m.
THE FEDERATION RHYTHM: A National Report
Anil Lewis, Executive Director for Blindness Initiatives for the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), Baltimore, Maryland
2:55 p.m. to 3:05 p.m.
AUCTION ITEM
3:05 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
THE SPOTLIGHT SESSION: Blind Professionals in Performing Arts
4:00 p.m. to 4:20 p.m.
REMIXING CREATIVITY: Making Music with AI
Brett Boyer, Access Technology Specialist, Colorado Center for the Blind
4:20 p.m.
AUCTION ITEM
4:30 p.m.
ADJOURN SESSION I
FRIDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 31, 2025
7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
MIC & MOJO: NFB Jams - Where Federation Spirit Meets Friday Night Groove
Start the convention weekend with a night of creativity, fun, and Federation pride. Mic & Mojo: NFB Jams is our open-mic and talent showcase featuring performers from across Colorado. Each performer will have five minutes to share their talent. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three acts. Come for the music and stay for the mojo - it's the Federation at its finest!
Performances can include karaoke, original music, poetry, or comedy.
* Each performance slot is 5 minutes long.
* Cost to perform: $10 donation.
* The evening will be capped at 30 performers-sign up early!
* Come dressed in your best Halloween costume as your favorite musician or performing artist! Show off your creativity for a chance to win fun prizes.
* Whether you're performing or cheering from the crowd, this will be a night full of energy, laughter, and unforgettable talent.
* Interested in performing? Please email BBoyer at cocenter.org<mailto:BBoyer at cocenter.org> to secure your spot on stage!
SATURDAY MORNING, NOVEMBER 1, 2025
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION
Standley Ballroom Foyer
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
EXHIBITORS AND SPONSORS SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE
Cotton Creek Ballroom
8:45 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Waverly
Cody Bair, Chairperson
(Note: This is the only closed meeting of the convention. Only appointed representatives from chapters and divisions are permitted to be in attendance.)
SESSION II
AND LUNCHEON
STANDLEY BALLROOM
9:40 A.M. TO 3:00 P.M.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/97335339326?pwd=Wcs2DSHwvTiZFgoltrMFdWXajMIkNm.1
Meeting ID: 973 3533 9326
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,97335339326#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
97335339326, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
Following is the Zoom information for Spanish translation:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/95813212634?pwd=doSHNfnbyxjlVUX2hpWODgHBKgwpEe.1
Meeting ID: 958 1321 2634
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,95813212634#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
95813212634, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
9:40 a.m. to 9:50 a.m.
LET'S GET STARTED: and AUCTION ITEM
Jessica Beecham, President, NFB of Colorado, Centennial, Colorado
9:50 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
CLEARING THE STATIC: State Accessibility
Karen Pellegrin, Senior Program Manager, Technology Accessibility Program
10:15 a.m. to 10:40 a.m.
VOCATIONAL RHYTHM & BLUES: State of DVR
Kristin Corash, Director, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
Krista Hedlund, Manager, Blind and Low Vision Services
10:40 a.m. to 11:10 a.m.
CENTER STAGE: Report from our Colorado Center for the Blind
Julie Deden, Executive Director, Colorado Center for the Blind, Littleton, Colorado
11:10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
AUCTION ITEM
11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
OUR MOVEMENT IN MELODY: Presidential Report
Jessica Beecham, President, NFB of Colorado, Centennial, Colorado
11:45 a.m.
LUNCHEON and AUCTION ITEM
Today's luncheon will start with chicken tortilla soup with tortilla strips and cilantro lime cream followed by a traditional chopped cobb salad with grilled chicken, chopped iceberg, diced tomato, avocado, crumbled blue cheese, applewood smoked bacon and creamy blue cheese dressing. This meal will be topped off with carrot cake with cream cheese frosting for dessert.
11:55 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
MAIN STREET MEDLEY: Celebrating the 16th Street Mall
Gary Van Dorn
12:15 p.m. to 12:35 p.m.
RIGHTS IN RESONANCE: Disability Rights in a New Policy Era
Bryce Rafferty, Staff Attorney, Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition
12:35 p.m. to 1:05 p.m.
AMPLIFYING OUR VOICES: Advocacy in Action
Kevan Worley, President, NFB of Colorado Downtown COS Chapter, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Curtis Chong, Aurora, Colorado
1:05 p.m. to 2:05 p.m.
MY SONG, MY STORY, MY BLINDNESS, MYSELF
2:05 p.m. to 2:20 p.m.
THE CITY IN TUNE: Making Denver Art Accessible
Dan Burke, Centennial, Colorado
2:20 p.m. to 2:25 p.m.
AUCTION ITEM
2:25 p.m. to 2:55 p.m.
HOMEGROWN HARMONY SHOWCASE: Colorado's Got Talent
2:55 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
AUCTION ITEM
3:00 p.m.
ADJOURN SESSION II
SATURDAY AFTERNOON, NOVEMBER 1, 2025
3:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
DROP IN ART ROOM
Waverly
3:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
CREATE YOUR OWN EMERGENCY INFO BOOK TODAY!
Windsor
Ellie Carlson, MA, COMS, GDMI, along with Marty Sobo, Connie Pierson, and Vanessa Peterson will help participants to understand the importance of having their essential information stored in their emergency preparedness GO-BAG and begin to create their own emergency info book.
Marty will share his lived experience having to evacuate his home in California due to fire and encourage participants to be more prepared for an emergency than he was. Connie, Vanessa and Ellie will prepare and distribute 5x7 photo albums with pages labeled in Braille and large print for participants to insert copies of their emergency contacts, identification card, insurance cards, medical information, doctors, veterinarian, etc. at the event or, when they return home.
3:15 p.m. to 4:10 p.m.
HOW THE BIG UGLY BILL IS AFFECTING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES: Steps We Are Taking to Reduce Harm
Meadowbrook I
Bryce Rafferty, Staff Attorney, Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition
3:15 p.m. to 4:10 p.m.
BECOMING A PROMPT NINJA
Meadowbrook II
Brett Boyer, Access Technology Specialist, Colorado Center for the Blind
Once you know what AI can do, the next step is learning how to talk to it. This session dives into the art of prompt engineering - crafting better questions and instructions to get more useful results. Through games, battles, and rapid-fire challenges, participants will learn how to transform vague prompts into powerful ones, iterate for improvement, and use creative techniques to guide AI responses.
4:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH: Unlocking Medicare and Medicaid's Hidden Benefits
Meadowbrook I
Ben Torrez, CIMA, AIF, MBA, Medicare Specialist, Humana
This dynamic and educational presentation, "Navigating Medicare and Medicaid: Your Path to Enhanced Benefits," is designed to appeal to the diverse audience of the National Federation of the Blind. It offers essential, up-to-the-minute information on how individuals, especially those under 65 receiving Social Security Disability, can maximize their healthcare benefits. The session will be both informative and interactive, providing attendees with a clear roadmap to better health and financial well-being.
4:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.
DEAFBLIND SOCIAL GATHERING
Meadowbrook II
Please join members of the Deafblind community to discuss issues of importance to the group and share some tips and tricks for use in everyday life.
SATURDAY EVENING, NOVEMBER 1, 2025
6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
PRE-BANQUET RECEPTION
Standley Ballroom
Let's get tuned up for our annual banquet with a cash bar and socializing.
7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
AN EVENING IN CONCERT: Annual Banquet
Mistress of Ceremonies, Maryann Migliorelli, President, NFB Boulder Chapter, Boulder, Colorado
The banquet meal will start with a classic Caesar salad of romaine hearts, shaved parmesan, garlic herb croutons and Caesar dressing, followed by chicken stuffed Florentine with Yukon gold mashed potatoes and red pepper coulis. This meal will be topped off with a Bailey's pot de créme in a chocolate cup with caramel sauce for dessert.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/97335339326?pwd=Wcs2DSHwvTiZFgoltrMFdWXajMIkNm.1
Meeting ID: 973 3533 9326
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,97335339326#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
97335339326, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
Following is the Zoom information for Spanish translation:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/95813212634?pwd=doSHNfnbyxjlVUX2hpWODgHBKgwpEe.1
Meeting ID: 958 1321 2634
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,95813212634#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
95813212634, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
CENTER STAGE: Keynote Address
Anil Lewis, NFB National Center, Baltimore Maryland
VOICES OF TOMORROW: Scholarship Presentations
Cody Bair, Co-Chair, NFB of Colorado Scholarship Committee, Littleton, Colorado
Maureen Nietfeld, Co-Chair, NFB of Colorado Scholarship Committee, Centennial, Colorado
ENCORE AUCTION: Annual Fundraising Auction
Kevan Worley, NFB of Colorado Auction Chairperson
SUNDAY MORNING, NOVEMBER 2, 2025
SESSION III
STANDLEY BALLROOM
9:00 A.M. TO 11:58 A.M.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/97335339326?pwd=Wcs2DSHwvTiZFgoltrMFdWXajMIkNm.1
Meeting ID: 973 3533 9326
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,97335339326#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
97335339326, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
Following is the Zoom information for Spanish translation:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://nfb-org.zoom.us/j/95813212634?pwd=doSHNfnbyxjlVUX2hpWODgHBKgwpEe.1
Meeting ID: 958 1321 2634
Passcode: NFBCO2025
One tap mobile
+17207072699,,95813212634#
Instructions For Dialing In:
Call 720-707-2699
When prompted for a meeting ID, enter
95813212634, followed by the pound sign.
If you are asked to enter a participant ID, simply press the pound key again.
9:00 a.m. to 9:05 a.m.
MORNING MELODY: Welcome and Opening Remarks
Julie Deden, First Vice President, NFB of Colorado, Centennial, Colorado
9:05 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
CORE HARMONY: NFB Philosophy
9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
THE NEXT VERSE: Meet Our Emerging Leaders
Johnny Dawson, Tim Keenan, Jamilla Lane, Michele Mitchell, Fitz Stone, and Paul Trujillo
10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
VOICES UNITED: Chapter Project Idea Presentation and Roll Call Pledges
10:45 a.m. to 11:57 a.m.
THE CLOSING CHORUS: Business Meeting
NFB of Colorado Treasurers Report, Elections and Resolutions
11:58 a.m.
END SESSION III, AND ADJOURN THE CONVENTION
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