<html xmlns:v="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:vml" xmlns:o="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" xmlns:w="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:word" xmlns:m="http://schemas.microsoft.com/office/2004/12/omml" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40"><head><meta http-equiv=Content-Type content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1"><meta name=Generator content="Microsoft Word 15 (filtered medium)"><!--[if !mso]><style>v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
.shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
</style><![endif]--><style><!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{margin:0in;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;}
a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:#0563C1;
text-decoration:underline;}
p.MsoNoSpacing, li.MsoNoSpacing, div.MsoNoSpacing
{mso-style-priority:1;
mso-margin-top-alt:auto;
margin-right:0in;
mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
margin-left:0in;
font-size:16.0pt;
font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;}
p.MsoListParagraph, li.MsoListParagraph, div.MsoListParagraph
{mso-style-priority:34;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:8.0pt;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
line-height:106%;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
line-height:106%;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
line-height:106%;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;}
p.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:8.0pt;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
line-height:106%;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;}
span.EmailStyle17
{mso-style-type:personal-compose;
font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;
color:windowtext;
font-weight:normal;
font-style:normal;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
/* List Definitions */
@list l0
{mso-list-id:260068464;
mso-list-template-ids:535184500;}
@list l0:level1
{mso-level-tab-stop:.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level2
{mso-level-tab-stop:1.0in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level3
{mso-level-tab-stop:1.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level4
{mso-level-tab-stop:2.0in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level5
{mso-level-tab-stop:2.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level6
{mso-level-tab-stop:3.0in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level7
{mso-level-tab-stop:3.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level8
{mso-level-tab-stop:4.0in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level9
{mso-level-tab-stop:4.5in;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}
ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}
--></style><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:shapedefaults v:ext="edit" spidmax="1026" />
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:shapelayout v:ext="edit">
<o:idmap v:ext="edit" data="1" />
</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNoSpacing><a name="_Hlk54011908"><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>We look forward to welcoming John </span></b></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>Paré back to Connecticut as our national representative and seeing some of you in person and any others that wish to join our 50<sup>th</sup> celebration via zoom!</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><img width=594 height=252 style='width:6.1916in;height:2.625in' id="Picture_x0020_3" src="cid:image001.jpg@01D7C9C0.F4B64A10" alt="Text
Description automatically generated with medium confidence"></span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>2021 50<sup>th</sup> Annual State Convention<br>October 29<sup>th</sup>, 30<sup>th</sup> and 31st, 2021<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><br> Sheraton Hartford South<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>100 Capital Boulevard<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Rocky Hill, CT 06067<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>We will be celebrating our 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary in a hybrid format so all members can participate in a manner that feels comfortable to them. Elections will be held by texting in your vote to 860-385-6788.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><br><u>National Representative</u>:</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'> John Paré, Executive Director, Advocacy and Policy,</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> National Federation of the Blind<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>President</span></u></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>: Maryanne Melley<br>National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'></span><a href="http://www.nfbCT.org"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>www.nfbct.org</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Facebook</span></u></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>: National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Door Prizes:</span></u></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'> Door prizes will be awarded throughout the convention. To be eligible, you must be registered and be on Zoom or in the conference room when your name is drawn. <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>50/50 raffle tickets will be sold throughout the day and the winner will be announced at the end of the Banquet.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Guide Dog relief area: As you leave the conference room turn right. At the end of the hall take another right and then a quick left. Continue straight to the exit doors. Walk down the sidewalk until you come to a set of three stairs. At the bottom of the stairs there is grass on both sides for relieving. PLEASE pick up after your dog and deposit the waste in the trash receptacle back at the doors.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>We would like to thank our generous sponsors:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Platinum Sponsor:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><img border=0 width=357 height=156 style='width:3.7166in;height:1.625in' id="Picture_x0020_2" src="cid:image002.jpg@01D7C9C0.F4B64A10"></span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><br></span></b></span><a href="http://www.oakhillct.org"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>www.oakhillct.org</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span class=MsoHyperlink><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span class=MsoHyperlink><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p><span style='text-decoration:none'> </span></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'></span><a href="https://non-24.com/"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='color:windowtext;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=259 height=58 style='width:2.7in;height:.6083in' id="_x0000_i1025" src="cid:image003.png@01D7C9C0.F4B64A10"></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span class=MsoHyperlink><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'></span><a href="http://www.vandapharma.com"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>www.vandapharma.com</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span class=MsoHyperlink><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span class=MsoHyperlink><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p><span style='text-decoration:none'> </span></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span class=MsoHyperlink><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:windowtext;mso-style-textoutline-type:solid;mso-style-textoutline-fill-color:black;mso-style-textoutline-fill-alpha:100.0%;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth:.75pt;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap:round;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join:bevel;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit:0%;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash:solid;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align:center;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound:simple;text-decoration:none'>Gold Sponsor: Youthful Images </span></b></span><span style='mso-style-textoutline-type:solid;mso-style-textoutline-fill-color:black;mso-style-textoutline-fill-alpha:100.0%;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth:.75pt;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap:round;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join:bevel;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit:0%;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash:solid;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align:center;mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound:simple'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Silver Sponsor: Retina Consultants, PC<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><a name="_Hlk85539445"><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Friday, October 29th, 2021<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></a></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539445'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>5:30p.m.- 7:30p.m. Dinner, Salon 2<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539445'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Slider Station and Mashed Potato Stand<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539445'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>6:30p.m.-10:00p.m. NFB of CT Variety Show!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539445'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Join the fun of music, joke telling, poetry reading, sing a long, and so much more with your fellow federation family members! <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539445'></span><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><a name="_Hlk85539479"><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Saturday, October 30<sup>th</sup>, 2021</span></u></b></a></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539479'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> <u><o:p></o:p></u></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539479'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>7:00a.m.- 9:00a.m. Breakfast, Nutmeg Ballroom<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539479'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:00a.m. - Call to order<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539479'></span><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Invocation; Father Bob Kwiatkowski, Church of Saint Peter Claver<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><a name="_Hlk85699502"><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:05a.m. - Pledge of Allegiance, NFB Pledge<o:p></o:p></span></b></a></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85699502'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85699502'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:10a.m. – Honoring our Veterans, Vernon F. Humphrey, Master Sergeant, US Army, retired and Leonard Schlenk, Staff Sergeant E6, US Army.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85699502'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85699502'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:15a.m. – Announcements: Principals of Engagement, <span style='letter-spacing:-.15pt'>change to our State Constitution. Thank you to our </span></span></b></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>donation mailers. Charlie Rival, Joe Kolczynski, Mary Silverberg, Cheri Duquette, Maryanne Melley, Ebony Simmons, Karine Pimental, Richard Ireland, George Reed, and Pam Taylor. Without all of you we would not be in the strong financial situation we are. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to this years’ convention committee, Beth Rival, Deb Reed, Jim Cronin, Brian Martin, Becky Ireland, and Kristen Dockendorf. Through all their challenging work and planning we are experiencing our first successful hybrid convention.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>12:30p.m.-5:00p.m. Vendors, Salon1<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><a name="_Hlk85539691"><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>2:00p.m.- 3:00p.m. Connecticut Association of Guide Dog Users, Rocky Hill Room<o:p></o:p></span></b></a></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539691'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539691'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>3:00p.m.- 5:00p.m. Connecticut Association of Blind Students, Rocky Hill Room<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539691'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539691'></span><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Recommended change to State Constitution <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Article IX: Affiliation<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-align:justify'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Remove this portion:</span></u></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> (NOTE: An amendment to the Constitution of the National Federation of the Blind was passed in July 1971, restricting the use of the name only to organizations so affiliated. However, we did not pass this amendment with the Constitution of the Connecticut Federation, and your President feels it should not be part of this State Constitution. This note is for reminder to us that such a restriction exists in the National Constitution.)<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Add this:</span></u></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> The name National Federation of the Blind, Federation of the Blind, or any variant thereof is the property of the National Federation of the Blind; and any affiliate, or local chapter or division of an affiliate, if it ceases to be a part of the National Federation of the Blind, (for whatever reason) shall forthwith forfeit the right to use the name National Federation of the Blind, Federation of the Blind, or any variant thereof.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Article XI: Dues<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Remove this portion:</span></u></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> A life-time membership may be secured for a fee of $100.00. A person must be a paid member at least fifteen (15) days in advance of a state convention to be able to vote at said convention.</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:#262626'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut Proposed 2021 State Convention Principles of Engagement:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>These principles of engagement were adopted by the National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut Board of Directors on July 31st, 2021, for recommendation to the State Convention. Nothing in these rules of engagement is intended to change the Federation’s constitution. The Board of Directors and members in good standing and in attendance may participate in all convention discussions as a matter of right. Any member of the NFB of CT may make or second motions [and] propose nominations.” These procedures simply implement the method for following the constitution in a hybrid convention.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>The principles and procedures below are intended to provide clarity and advance notice on how the convention will be managed in 2021. They are consistent with practices used in previous hybrid conventions. This document will be read at the NFB of CT Opening Ceremonies on October 30<sup>th </sup>and then a second time on October 31<sup>st</sup> at the Business Meeting. Those eligible to vote on this proposal will be any enrolled voter present and voting at Business Meeting on October 31<sup>st</sup> as described below.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>“A subcommittee of the board of directors comprising those who are not standing for election this year shall deal with questions and issues of credentials for voting. The subcommittee will include Nathanael Wales, Mary Silverberg, and Veronica Alston. Nathanael Wales shall chair the subcommittee.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>Voting<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><ol start=1 type=1><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>To be eligible to vote at the 2021 Convention, individuals must be registered to vote no later than October 22, 2021.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Be active members in good standing of the National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut either through the affiliate, State division, State Chapter or as a Member at-Large at the state level having paid dues for 2021.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Provide a phone number to be used for voting purposes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraph style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>The subcommittee or Lucia Lee will validate the list of eligible voters based upon the above criteria by October 22, 2021. The vetting process will include verification that the individual was a member in good standing prior to October 22, 2021, according to the state membership database. Any individuals who register to vote through the state convention registration but are not listed as active members will be contacted via email and offered an opportunity to provide proof of membership. If no email is given at the time of registration, the phone number provided for voting purposes will be used to communicate. The final list of eligible voters for the 2021 convention will be considered final on October 22, 2021. No exceptions will be made for members who fail to register to vote at the convention by October 22, 2021.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>All individuals who are members in good standing in 2021, registered for the convention, and provided a valid phone number for voting purposes will constitute the pool of convention voters. “This includes members who will be voting virtually and in person.” </span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>All voting will be done via phone.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Any matter must receive 51 percent support of the votes cast by the convention voters present and voting in order to be affirmed.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Present and voting will mean the subset of convention voters who actually cast a vote on a given question. Thus, voters who are indifferent to a matter cannot block its consideration by the convention by choosing not to cast a vote.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>All votes will be allocated two minutes for vote time.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></li></ol><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.25in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>10.After two minutes, if the outcome to the question under consideration is unclear, the chair will poll the Board of Directors not up for reelection by voice vote for a definitive outcome.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.25in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>11.If voting indicates 75 percent support for or against a question prior to the two-minute period elapsing, the chair may elect to move to the next order of business.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.25in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>12.An opportunity to practice voting will be offered in the convention on a question that has no impact on the policy of the organization<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><a name="_Hlk85539540"></a><a name="_Hlk81925481"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:20a.m. - Jim Cronin, Nominating Committee Report<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></a></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:25a.m. – </span></b></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>John Paré, Executive Director, Advocacy and Policy</span></b></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>, National Federation of the Blind<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:55a.m. – Justin Salisbury, National Association of Blind Students (NABS) Representative-Update from the National Student Division<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>10:15a.m. - Hear from our Scholarship Finalists:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> Lizzy Capelli<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Isabel Rosario<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Yew Siang Cheong<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Sasha Somuah<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Jack Mc Donald<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>10:30a.m. - Maryanne Melley; Presidents Report<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>10:45a.m. - Dave Furland, Sighted Guide Techniques<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>10:55a.m. - Hans Jorgen, Be My Eyes<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>11:05a.m. - Nick Whitney, Fidelco guide dogs, a User, and a Spokesman. <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>11:15a.m. – Erin Spaulding, </span></b></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Hope and Possibility with Achilles Connecticut</span></b></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>11:30a.m. – Vicki Preddy, Vanda Pharmaceuticals<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>11:45p.m.- Shon & Jennifer Spears, Colorado Center for the Blind<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>12:00p.m.-1:00p.m. Break for lunch<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk81925481'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>1:00p.m.- Amy Porter, Department of Rehabilitation Services</span></b></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>1:15p.m. - Vernon Humphry, The Effect of Vision Loss and Partners<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>1:30p.m. - Dan Parker, My Experiences as a Blind Racecar Driver<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>1:45p.m. - Brian Martin and Lizzy Cappelli, Adventures with LEAP (Learn, Earn and Prosper)<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>2:00p.m.- Lou Anne Blake and Jeff Kaloc, Our Right to an Independent Vote<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>2:15p.m.- Justin Salisbury, Welcoming Home Our Native Son<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>2:30p.m. - Patrick Olsen, Accessible Pharmacy Services<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>2:45p.m.- Rick Fox, Former Affiliate President, The History of the NFB of CT<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>3:00p.m. – Michael Ross, Dinosaur State park<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>3:15p.m. – </span></b></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Deborah Schander, State Librarian, Updates on the LBPH (Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped)</span></b></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>3:30p.m. – Marty Watts, Aira Presentation<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>3:45p.m. – Jon Sperling and AJ, A Puppy Raisers Job. Guide Dog Foundation<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539540'></span><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> One Minute Message<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>4:00p.m.- 6:00p.m. Break<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><a name="_Hlk85539571"><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>6:00 p.m. Banquet Dinner</span></b></a></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>, Nutmeg Ballroom<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Invocation: Rabbi Michael Pincus, Congregation Beth Israel<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Master of Ceremonies, Brian Martin <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Keynote Address: </span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>John Paré, Executive Director, Advocacy and Policy</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> National Federation of the Blind<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Presentation of 2021 Scholarships:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Mary Silverberg and Deb Reed:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Scholarship Finalists:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Lizzy Capelli<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Isabel Rosario<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Yew Siang Cheong<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Sasha Somuah<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Jack Mc Donald<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Scholarships:<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Howard E. May Memorial Scholarship</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Woodward Memorial Scholarship</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>C. Rodney Demarest Memorial Scholarship<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Doris Higley Memorial Scholarship<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Zukowski Family Foundation Scholarship</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Conclusion of banquet. <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54011908'></span><p class=MsoNoSpacing><a name="_Hlk54964520"><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p><span style='text-decoration:none'> </span></o:p></span></u></b></a></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p><span style='text-decoration:none'> </span></o:p></span></u></b></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><a name="_Hlk85539785"><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Sunday, October 31, 2021<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></a></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539785'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p><span style='text-decoration:none'> </span></o:p></span></u></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539785'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>7:00a.m.-9:00a.m. Breakfast, Nutmeg Ballroom<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539785'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539785'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>9:00a.m. Call to order; Business Meeting <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85539785'></span><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Roll Call<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>NFB Pledge<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><a name="_Hlk85009998"><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Reading of 2021 Principals of Engagement and Recommended changes to Constitution <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></a></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Vote on said Principals and Constitution changes <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Reports:<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Reading of 2020 Business Meeting Minutes, Vote on Acceptance: Charlie Rival<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Treasurers Report: Nathanael Wales, vote on report.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>ABPVI (Advisory Board Persons with Visual Impairments): Mary Silverberg<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>SRC (State Rehabilitation Council): Deb Reed<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>BCAC (Bureau Consumer Advocacy Committee): Barbara Blejewski<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>PAC (Pre Authorized Contribution) Plan: Len Schlenk<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Vehicle Donation: Maryanne Melley<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Federationist: Brianna Rigsbee<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>New Business:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>BELL Academy; Thank you Kristen Dockendorf and mentor Beth Rival <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>LBPH (Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped) Answers to your Questions; Deb Reed<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Washington Seminar Appointments; Mary Silverberg and Joe Kolczynski <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Vote on Subsidy amount if we attend in person.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>2022 Convention will be at this location<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>January Board Meeting January 15<sup>th</sup> Southern Connecticut Chapter, Milford, Hosts<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><i><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Chapter News<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></p><p class=MsoNoSpacing style='margin-left:.5in;mso-add-space:auto'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Elections, John </span></u></b></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>Paré</span></u></b></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'><b><u><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>, Moderator<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk85009998'></span><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Any member nominated from the floor should have already agreed to serve prior to this convention.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Nominees from the committee and from the floor will have one minute to state why they feel the affiliate should vote for them. The one minute time will be strictly enforced.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Elections: Results will be given to our national Representative John </span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;color:black'>Paré at 860-385-6788.</span></b></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Everyone will have 2 minutes to cast their vote.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Positions: Board Member<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> Board Member<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'> Secretary-One Year Term<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk54964520'></span><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'>Zoom Links for Saturday and Sunday. Please be polite and mute yourselves when our guests are speaking.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>NFB Connecticut is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><u>Topic: 50th State Convention General Session<o:p></o:p></u></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Time: Oct 30, 2021, 09:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Join Zoom Meeting<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/95845616778?pwd=UXlob1ZOam5ZNUt5dUkvQmZPWmpxdz09"><b>https://zoom.us/j/95845616778?pwd=UXlob1ZOam5ZNUt5dUkvQmZPWmpxdz09</b></a><b><o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Meeting ID: 958 4561 6778<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Passcode: 683516<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>One tap mobile<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>+13017158592,,95845616778#,,,,*683516# US (Washington DC)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>+13126266799,,95845616778#,,,,*683516# US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Dial by your location<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b> +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b> +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b> +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b> +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b> +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b> +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Meeting ID: 958 4561 6778<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Passcode: 683516<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Find your local number: </b><a href="https://zoom.us/u/abi4fEIU3A"><b>https://zoom.us/u/abi4fEIU3A</b></a><b><o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Join by Skype for Business<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/skype/95845616778"><b>https://zoom.us/skype/95845616778</b></a><b><o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal>NFB Zoom host is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><u>Topic: Connecticut Association of Guide Dog Users<o:p></o:p></u></p><p class=MsoNormal>Time: Oct 30, 2021, 02:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join Zoom Meeting<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/95452508460">https://zoom.us/j/95452508460</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Meeting ID: 954 5250 8460<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>+13017158592,,95452508460# US (Washington DC)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>+13126266799,,95452508460# US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Dial by your location<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Meeting ID: 954 5250 8460<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Find your local number: <a href="https://zoom.us/u/abDjj6QOQ">https://zoom.us/u/abDjj6QOQ</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join by Skype for Business<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/skype/95452508460">https://zoom.us/skype/95452508460</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal>NFB Zoom host is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><u>Topic: Connecticut Association of Blind Students<o:p></o:p></u></p><p class=MsoNormal>Time: Oct 30, 2021, 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join Zoom Meeting<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/91255139598">https://zoom.us/j/91255139598</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Meeting ID: 912 5513 9598<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>+13017158592,,91255139598# US (Washington DC)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>+13126266799,,91255139598# US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Dial by your location<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Meeting ID: 912 5513 9598<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Find your local number: <a href="https://zoom.us/u/adVdzlRXSW">https://zoom.us/u/adVdzlRXSW</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join by Skype for Business<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/skype/91255139598">https://zoom.us/skype/91255139598</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>NFB Connecticut is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><u>Topic: NFB of CT Business Meeting<o:p></o:p></u></p><p class=MsoNormal>Time: Oct 31, 2021, 09:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join Zoom Meeting<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/j/98001999387?pwd=WmlHU3huenFZaVlHSS9XbFdaRFVvZz09">https://zoom.us/j/98001999387?pwd=WmlHU3huenFZaVlHSS9XbFdaRFVvZz09</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Meeting ID: 980 0199 9387<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Passcode: 201002<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>One tap mobile<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>+13017158592,,98001999387#,,,,*201002# US (Washington DC)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>+13126266799,,98001999387#,,,,*201002# US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Dial by your location<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Meeting ID: 980 0199 9387<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Passcode: 201002<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Find your local number: <a href="https://zoom.us/u/abKdsGnUCC">https://zoom.us/u/abKdsGnUCC</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join by Skype for Business<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="https://zoom.us/skype/98001999387">https://zoom.us/skype/98001999387</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Best Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Maryanne Melley<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>President<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>National Federation of the Blind of Connecticut<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>860-212-5549<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>maryanne.melley@gmail.com<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>“Live the Life You Want; Blindness is Not What Holds You Back”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>