[Greater-baltimore] FW: [Nfbnet-members-list] Social Media and Streaming at NFBMD Convention

Thu Nov 7 17:04:27 UTC 2013

Christopher S. Danielsen, J.D.
Director of Public Relations
National Federation of the Blind

From: Nfbnet-members-list [mailto:nfbnet-members-list-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Chris Nusbaum
Sent: Wednesday, November 06, 2013 10:36 PM
To: nfbnet-members-list at nfbnet.org
Subject: [Nfbnet-members-list] Social Media and Streaming at NFBMD Convention

Here is information on the NFB of Maryland convention, coming up this weekend, including streaming information and the agenda.

Dave

Dear Friends:

I have been asked by the President of the NFB of Maryland to handle social media for the affiliate during our upcoming state convention in Ocean City. In this capacity I am writing to provide all the pertinent information regarding our online presence during the convention. If you will not be able to join us in person, please read the following carefully, as the information in this email will give you access to the excitement of the 2013 NFB of Maryland convention.

As we have done in the past, we will stream portions of the convention on the affiliate's Web site. To access this stream, go to http://www.nfbmd.org. During the convention, you will see links which lead to the stream in a variety of formats. Click on the link corresponding with your media player of choice (Windows Media Player, WinAmp, iTunes, etc,) and the stream will load. The schedule of streamed events is as follows (all times are EasternJ

Friday, November 8
4:00-5:00 PM: NFBMD Board of Directors meeting

Saturday, November 9
9:00 AM-12:00 PM: General Session
2:00-5:00 PM: General Session
7:00-10:00 PM: 47th Annual Banquet

Sunday, November 10
9:00 AM-12:00 PM: General Session

In addition to our stream, we will interact with our listeners through email and Twitter. Throughout the convention sessions and the banquet, our Twitter team will tweet live updates from Ocean City so our members and friends who cannot attend in person can stay apprised of all the excitement. We would also love to hear from you. If you have a question or comment for a speaker, a problem with the stream, or if you just want to let us know you are listening, please mention @NFBMD in a tweet and we will receive it. We will periodically check Twitter throughout the general sessions and give "shout-outs" to the listeners of the stream. So, if you have Twitter, make sure to stay tuned to @NFBMD for convention news as it happens.

Don't have Twitter? No problem. You can still keep in touch with us and ask any questions you might have. If you would like to get in contact during one of the sessions, just email nfbmaryland at gmail.com<mailto:nfbmaryland at gmail.com>. We will read questions and give shout-outs from the email as well. So, even if you will not be able to join us in person, catch the excitement on our Web site and via Twitter and email. If you have any questions about social media during convention, please write to me at dotkid.nusbaum at gmail.com<mailto:dotkid.nusbaum at gmail.com> or call me at (443) 547-2409. To those of you who are attending, see you in Ocean City! To those of you who will not be joining us, see you on the Internet!

Sincerely yours,

Chris Nusbaum

CONVENTION AGENDA

Forty-Seventh Annual Convention of the

National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

Carousel Hotel and Resorts

Ocean City, Maryland

Friday, November 8-Sunday, November 10, 2013

National representative: Scott LaBarre

[[]]

THE NATIONAL FEDERATION
OF THE BLIND PLEDGE:

I pledge to participate actively
in the efforts of the
National Federation of the Blind
to achieve equality, opportunity,
and security for the blind;
to support the policies and programs of the Federation;
and to abide by its Constitution

[[]]
Melissa Riccobono, President
1026 East 36th Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21218
(410) 645-0632
president at nfbmd.org<mailto:president at nfbmd.org>
NFB of Maryland Web site: www.nfbmd.org<http://www.nfbmd.org>

"Greetings"
from the Officers and Board of Directors

Officers:

Melissa Riccobono, President, Baltimore
Debbie Brown, First Vice President, Rockville
Barry Hond, Second Vice President, Baltimore
Judy Rasmussen, Secretary, Kensington
Shawn Jacobson, Treasurer, Olney

Members of the Board of Directors:

Darlene Barrett, Columbia
Michelle Clark, Springdale
Shahinaz Gadalla, Rockville
Melissa Lomax, Gwyn Oak
Sharon Maneki, Columbia
Maurice Peret, Baltimore

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, an affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, is a nonprofit organization of blind persons, their families, and their friends. We promote equal opportunities for the blind. We provide advocacy services for the blind, special training programs for parents of blind children, job referrals and placements for the blind, public education programs, and scholarships to blind students, and we help the newly blind to acquire special techniques for maintaining productive lives.
Committees of the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

Anna Freysz Cable Award Committee
Debbie Brown, Chairman

Convention Child Care
Teresa Graham, Chairman

Convention Hospitality Committee
Wilma Smith, Chairman

Convention Registration Committee
Sonia Little, Chairman

Deaf-Blind Concerns Committee
Janice Toothman, Chairman

Distinguished Educator of Blind Children Award Committee
Sharon Maneki, Chairman

Door Prize Committee
Darlene Barrett, Chairman

Guide Dog Committee
Janice Toothman, Chairman

Jennifer Baker Award Committee
Susan Baker, Chairman

Kenneth Jernigan Award Committee
Dr. Marc Maurer, Chairman

Nominations Committee
Chris Danielsen, Chairman

PAC Plan Committee
Mark Riccobono, Chairman

Resolutions Committee
Anil Lewis, Chairman

Scholarship Committee
Judy Rasmussen, Chairman

SUN, Jernigan Fund, and tenBroek Memorial Fund Auction
Michael Gosse, Chairman

Youth Activity Committee
Melissa Lomax, Trudy Pickrel, and Dan Wenzel, Co-Chairmen

Chapters and Divisions of the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

At Large Chapter
Mike Bullis, Coordinator ¨ (410) 645-0632
Monthly meetings second Thursday via conference call

Baltimore County Chapter
Ruth Sager, President ¨ (410) 602-9030
Monthly meetings fourth Thursday

Central Maryland Chapter
Darlene Barrett, President ¨ (410) 997-9664
Monthly meetings first Tuesday

Delmarva Chapter
Danielle Earl, President ¨ (443) 359-5882
Monthly meetings second Saturday

Greater Baltimore Chapter
Chris Danielsen, President ¨ (410) 659-9314, ext. 2330
Monthly meetings third Saturday

Greater Cumberland Chapter
Jason Adkins, President ¨ (301) 759-3232
Monthly meetings fourth Thursday

Maryland Association of Blind Students
Melissa Lomax, President ¨ (410) 608-6118

Maryland Parents of Blind Children
Trudy Pickrel, President ¨ (301) 387-4182

National Harbor Chapter
Michelle Clark, President ¨ (301) 583-8585
Monthly meetings fourth Saturday

Senior Issues Division
Ruth Sager, President ¨ (410) 602-9030

Sligo Creek Chapter
Debbie Brown, President ¨ (301) 881-1892
Monthly meetings second Saturday

TriCounty Chapter
Nikki Tippett, President ¨ (443) 262-5020
Monthly meetings third Saturday

JOHN T. McCRAW SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The John T. McCraw Scholarship Program, named in honor of the late long-time president of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland and the undisputed leader of Maryland's blind community, has been established to promote post-secondary educational opportunities and superior rehabilitation training for Maryland's blind students.

High School GraduatesThe recipients may use these scholarships to defray the cost of educational expenses incurred at any post-secondary institution.

Youth and SeniorsMiddle school and high school students, as well as seniors experiencing vision loss, may use these scholarships to defray the cost of rehabilitation training provided by any qualified rehabilitation agency for the blind.

BRAILLE SPECTATOR
The Braille Spectator is published for members of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland and others who share an interest in the work of this organization.  Free subscriptions (in print) can be obtained upon request. The Braille Spectator can also be read on the Web at http://www.nfbmd.org<http://www.nfbmd.org/> or can be listened to on the local channel of NFB-NEWSLINE®.

STAY CONNECTED AND INFORMED!
Please follow the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland on Twitter! Visit http://www.twitter.com/NFBMD to receive affiliate news and updates.

Friend the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland on Facebook! Search for NFB Maryland.

Stay connected with your fellow Maryland Federationists by joining our state e-mail listserv. This list allows you to receive affiliate and national announcements, and also to start and participate in discussions regarding blindness and blindness issues. To sign up, visit http://www.nfbnet.org, click on "Join or drop NFB mailing lists," then on "NFBMD," and follow the instructions.

Visit us online at http://www.nfbmd.org<http://www.nfbmd.org/> .

ABOUT THE CAROUSEL

The Carousel Beachfront Hotel is located at 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. Coastal Highway, the main route through Ocean City, runs from north to south. Cross streets are numbered; numbers increase as you travel north.

Entering the lobby of the Carousel from the main entrance, Coastal Highway is behind you and the famed Ocean City beach is directly ahead of you. Off the lobby, the front desk is on your right and elevators are on your left.

Walking through the lobby towards the beach, you will enter the Carousel's Atrium after passing through a set of double doors. Turning left, as soon as you enter the Atrium, the Ice Rink is on your right. The Delaware, Washington, Maryland, and Virginia rooms (in that order) are on your left, and the Game Room is straight ahead of you. Turning right at the end of the Ice Rink, and proceeding toward the beach, you will come to the Seasons Oceanfront Restaurant and the Bamboo Lounge located at the far left corner of the Atrium.

Again entering the Atrium, straight ahead of you is the Brass Ring Bistro, featuring hand-dipped as well as soft serve ice cream, ice cream bars, popcorn, cotton candy, as well as a variety of candy including Swedish Fish, Gummy Bears, Jelly Bellies, and Trail Mix. This is also where you can get a variety of breakfast options including Seattle's Best Coffee, Krispy Kremes, bagels, cereal, etc.  Walking to the back of the Brass Ring Bistro, then turning left with the Ice Rink on your left, is another way to get to the Seasons Restaurant and the Bamboo Lounge.

Starting again at the main entrance to the Atrium, and walking straight ahead, the Ice Rink will be on your left and the Indoor Swimming Pool, Whirlpool, Exercise Room and Sauna, Restrooms, the Pennsylvania Room, and the Gift Shop will all be to your right.

Combine pleasure with business at the Carousel Hotel and Resort. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner in the Seasons Restaurant, a casual oceanfront dining room, open from 7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.

Snacks and sandwiches are also available in the lounge. To accommodate the convention, the lounge will open at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday if you wish to purchase a sandwich for the ride home. The buses will leave shortly after adjournment, so don't delay.

The Carousel's extensive recreational facilities include an Indoor Swimming Pool, Exercise Room, and Ice Rink. Sink into the Whirlpool and relax in the Sauna after a workout or spend the afternoon strolling along the beach.

Additional Notes from the Carousel
Wi-Fi Password for Hotel Rooms: Carousel

Wi-Fi Password for Condominiums: Carouselcondo

No smoking in the rooms or on the balcony. Designated smoking locations are in the front of the hotel, or outside the Beach Access doors.

The Carousel Hotel asks any guide dog user to use the dog relief area, located across 118th Street near the hotel's parking garage. To get to this area, exit the hotel through the front door and turn right. Go to the corner and cross 118th Street. Approximately five feet from the corner on the left side there are rocks and dirt for dog relief, and also bags and a garbage can for disposing of waste. If you need assistance finding this area, please ask at the front desk, and one of the hotel staff members will be happy to show you where to go.

If there is anything we can do to make your stay more pleasurable, please feel free to reach out to a member of our friendly staff by dialing "0" on your room phone. It is our pleasure to have you as our guest. Enjoy your stay at the Carousel Oceanfront Hotel and Condominiums.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Facing towards Coastal Highway outside the main entrance, on the same side and to the right of the hotel on Coastal Highway, is The Crabcake Factory, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Facing towards Coastal Highway outside the main entrance, across the street and to the right will be Burger King, Food Lion, Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins, Rippons Seafood, CVS drug store, a WaWa's, Dolle's fine candies, Julie's Fine Dining, Whiskers Pub, No. 1 Chinese Restaurant, Hubba's Pit Beef Seafood, Billy's Subs, and 7-11.

Across the street and to the left will be The Greene Turtle, Superemo Cheesesteaks, and Pizza Togos. Past the Green Turtle, to the left in the Gold Coast Mall, are a Super Fresh, Rite Aid, Candy Kitchen, Three Brothers, and a movie theatre.

All of these things are within two blocks from the right, and from the left.

Ocean City is loaded with many fine restaurants and interesting attractions. You will be having such a grand time at our convention, however, that you will most likely not have time to enjoy any of them. If you do wish to leave the hotel, and use paratransit transportation, call (410) 723-1606 or (410) 723-1607.

REGISTRATION
Registration and packet pickup for the convention will be held outside the Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware Rooms in the Atrium on Friday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.; on Saturday from 8:00 to 8:40 a.m. and 12:00 noon to 12:15 p.m.; and on Sunday from 8:30 to 8:50 a.m.

Registration fee: $20.00
Banquet: $40.00
Senior Issues Division and Parents Division Luncheons: $18.00

Banquet Ticket Exchange will be held Saturday, 1:20 to 2:00 p.m., outside Maryland and Virginia Rooms.  Turn in banquet tickets to reserve seating at a specific table.  Banquet Ticket Exchange is necessitated by the large number of persons attending the banquet.

All persons taking advantage of the reduced room rates offered by the Carousel Hotel and Resort for this convention are required to register with the convention and to pay the registration fee of $20.00.

DOOR PRIZES
Darlene Barrett is the chairman of the Door Prize Committee.  Many of you have been hard at work gathering fabulous door prizes for this convention.  Please turn in your door prizes to Darlene as soon as possible.  You must be registered for the convention and present when your name is called in order to win a door prize.  Door prizes will be awarded during the general sessions on Saturday and Sunday and during the convention banquet.

CHILDREN'S FUN FAIR (CONVENTION CHILD CARE)
All child care (for children ages 6 weeks to 9 years) will take place in the Washington Room. Hours are: Friday, 9:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 1:00-6:00 p.m.; and Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m. (lunch and dinner will be provided).  Parents should contact Trudy Pickrel for details.

ROOM CHARGES

You may charge meals, phone calls, and incidentals to your room by presenting a credit card to the front desk when checking in. The hotel levies additional charges on all phone calls made from your room. These charges are your responsibility. Please take care of these charges when you check out of your room on Sunday.

HOTEL CHECK OUT AND LUGGAGE HANDLING
On Sunday, you must check out of your room before 12:30 p.m.

If you are leaving the Carousel by NFB of Maryland bus, please bring your luggage to the Delaware Room between 7:30 and 9:00 a.m. Sunday, where it will be tagged and held for storage until 12:00 noon, when buses will be loaded.  Since buses will be making more than one stop, we need your luggage early so that it can be identified for the correct drop-off location.  Please be sure that your luggage is clearly labeled with your name, address, and telephone number.

TRANSPORTATION
If you came to the Carousel Hotel and Resort on transportation provided by the NFB of Maryland, you should expect to return on the same vehicle that brought you here.  However, some changes may be necessary to accommodate one-way passengers.  Please pay careful attention to transportation updates made during the Sunday morning general session.

HOSPITALITY
Stop by the Hospitality Suite, Room 612, for refreshments and fellowship Saturday morning from 7:00 to 8:35 a.m. and Sunday morning from 7:00 to 8:50 a.m.

FRIDAY NIGHT HOSPITALITY, GREAT GAMES,
AND "BLOCKEY" EXTRAVAGANZA!
Join us at 8:00 p.m. on the overlook above the Ice Rink for hospitality, game play, and our first ever "Blockey" Extravaganza! Bring your favorite card or board game, and teach and challenge others to play with you. (Some card and board games will be provided for those who wish to play but were unable to bring their own games.)

At 8:30 p.m., the Ice Rink will be completely turned over to the NFB of Maryland for blind hockey ("blockey.") From 8:30-9:30 p.m., children from 3 to 13 will hone their skills on ice skates and try to score goals the "blockey" way. Then, from 9:30-10:30 p.m., convention attendees ages 14 and up will have their turn on the ice. No "blockey" or ice-skating experience is necessary! There will be plenty of experienced skaters to help you learn, and "blockey" experts will be on hand to explain the rules of the game. Skate rental is required, and costs $4 per person.

Not sure "blockey" is your speed? No problem! You can play games with your friends all night long, and there will be "blockey" commentary, including color commentary provided by our National Representative, Scott LaBarre, so you will not miss any of the athletic, inspired, and possibly hilarious action on the ice!  Complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided.

FUNDING THE MOVEMENT
Donations and pledges to the NFB of Maryland will be taken during the banquet.  The affiliate is in desperate need of funds at this time.

PAC Plan
A PAC Plan pledge form is included in this booklet for your convenience.  Please use it to join the PAC Plan or increase your monthly PAC pledge.  Please see Mark Riccobono at the PAC table during general sessions Saturday and Sunday in order to join the PAC Plan or increase your pledge.

The Braille agenda includes a print copy of the PAC Plan pledge form.

SUN, Jernigan Fund, and
Jacobus tenBroek Memorial Fund Auction
Our auction for SUN, the Jernigan Fund, and the Jacobus tenBroek Memorial Fund will take place spontaneously throughout the convention.  Bring your auction items to Michael Gosse as soon as possible.  Be ready to bid at any time on that must-have item!

Jacobus tenBroek Legacy Society
Help build a future full of opportunity for the blind by becoming a member of the Jacobus tenBroek Legacy Society. Your legacy gift to the National Federation of the Blind can be made in the form of a will or living trust, an income-generating gift, or by naming the NFB as a beneficiary of a retirement plan or life insurance policy. You can also become a member of the Jacobus tenBroek Legacy Society by making a legacy gift to the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland (or other state affiliate).  By committing to support an NFB affiliate, your gift will benefit both local and national programs, as all bequests made to affiliates are split evenly with the NFB national treasury. In addition to having the satisfaction of contributing to the future success of the NFB's mission, tenBroek Legacy Society members will also receive a specially-designed thank you gift and other benefits. For additional information about the Jacobus tenBroek Legacy Society, please contact Lou Ann Blake at the NFB Jernigan Institute by e-mail at lblake at nfb.org<mailto:lblake at nfb.org> or by telephone at (410) 659-9314, extension 2221.

Text2Give
The NFB Text2Give program is a fundraising effort focused on improving education and technology for blind Americans and supporting other NFB initiatives.  The Text2Give program enables anyone with a cellular telephone to give a $10 contribution by text message, on the spot. The contributions will go to the NFB Imagination Fund, which supports the education, technology, and research projects of the NFB Jernigan Institute, as well as programs conducted by the fifty-two affiliates and over seven hundred local chapters of the Federation.  The Imagination Fund helps provide innovative programs that encourage blind youth to participate in scientific careers and help seniors to adjust to vision loss. By encouraging friends, family, and others to text the word BLIND to 85944, you can help raise critical funds for NFB programs at the local, state, and national levels.

Text to Pledge
Want to give more or less than $10 to support the National Federation of the Blind? Please text your name and the amount you would like to pledge to 41444.

Help Drive Change!
The National Federation of the Blind is now accepting vehicle donations! To donate a vehicle of any kind, please call 1-855-659-9314, or visit http://www.carshelpingtheblind.org.

Arrangements will be made to tow your vehicle at no cost to you. You will receive a receipt for your tax-deductable donation. Each vehicle donated is worth approximately $500.

Don't have a vehicle to donate yourself? No problem. Please pass the word to family and friends about this new initiative and help drive change with the National Federation of the Blind!

Convention Sponsor
Vanda Pharmaceuticals has been working on education and awareness for Non-24-Hour Disorder, a serious circadian rhythm disorder highly prevalent in people who are totally blind. To learn more and sign up for information you can visit www.Non-24.com<http://www.Non-24.com> or call toll-free 24/7 1-855-856-2424. Stay tuned mid-November for the launch of the Non-24 Share More Campaign in which we will donate $24 to the NFB for each person that signs up via our toll free number and mentions the NFB. Additionally, this campaign will allow you to share with friends and family to spread the word about Non-24.
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND
Forty-Seventh Annual Convention
AGENDA

FRIDAY, November 8

9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. "Your Child's Road to Independence Begins with You": A Conference for Parents and Teachers (Part 1)

9:30-10:00 a.m. Registration

10:00 a.m. Conference Begins
Sponsored by the Maryland Parents of Blind Children (MDPOBC). Part one of this conference addresses the role of the MDPOBC, opportunities for summer learning and fun for blind youth, advocating for your child when creating an IEP, and access technology.
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children; McHenry, Maryland
Delaware Room

 9:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Children's Fun Fair (Convention Child Care)
Teresa Graham, Coordinator; Ellicott City, Maryland
Washington Room

1:00-6:00 p.m. "Your Child's Road to Independence Begins with You": A Conference for Parents and Teachers (Part 2)
 Sponsored by the Maryland Parents of Blind Children, part two of this conference will cover promoting independence through age appropriate expectations, a demonstration of new technology to create tactile graphics, and more.
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children; McHenry, Maryland
Delaware Room

1:00-6:00 p.m. Children's Fun Fair (Convention Child Care)
Teresa Graham, Coordinator; Ellicott City, Maryland
Washington Room

1:00-6:00 p.m. NFB-NEWSLINE® Demonstration, Survey, and Contest
Find out what's new with NFB-NEWSLINE®! It's not just for your telephone anymore!  Peruse job listings, store ads, and international publications!
Enroll in the drawing for $50 cash by participating in the NFB-NEWSLINE® survey.  Contest ends before Saturday morning session.
Maryland Room

1:00-6:00 p.m. Technology Exhibits
Try your skill at identifying features of star clusters; touch three-dimensional photographs; give your feedback on an accessible voting machine; check out the latest offerings from a variety of companies and organizations who provide technology and services for the blind.
Maryland Room

1:00-4:00 p.m. Convention Registration and Packet Pick-up
Outside Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware Rooms

1:00-3:30 p.m. Reading for Pleasure and Education: Hands-on Demonstrations of BARD Mobile, the NFB-NEWSLINE® App, Read2Go, iBooks, and more!
Bring your own iDevice, Android phone, Victor Stream II, or other reading device for hands-on practice with various apps used for reading different types of materials. Or, come and learn about what types of reading are possible on different devices.
Virginia Room

1:00-3:00 p.m. Student Pool Party!
Sponsored by the Maryland Association of Blind Students, this party will give students ages 10 and up a chance to interact, network, and have tons of fun!
Melissa Lomax, President, Maryland Association of Blind Students; Gwyn Oak, Maryland
Swimming Pool

1:00-2:15 p.m. Primerica 75 Minute Challenge: Financial Wellness Seminar
Learn useful and easy tips for saving money every day. Don't bring your checkbook or credit card; this seminar is absolutely free! Quizzes and door prizes will be only part of the fun.
Tony and Marie Cobb; Catonsville, Maryland
Pennsylvania Room

 1:30-3:30 p.m.  iPhone Drop-In Session: A Seminar for Seniors
With the help of blind instructors, seniors will explore the basics of the iPhone or other iDevices. Hands-on help and demonstrations will be available; seniors should bring their own iPhones or other iDevices.
Ruth Sager, President, Senior Issues Division, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Pikesville, Maryland
Room 611

1:30-3:30 p.m. Journaling 101
Discuss journaling, nonfiction, and creative writing with an enthusiastic journaler and writer.
Amy McGarrah; Baltimore, Maryland
Room 610

2:30-3:30 p.m.  A New Day in Health Care: What Resources Do I Need?
Join presenters from the Maryland Healthcare Exchange to learn what types of plans are now available to you.
Pennsylvania Room

2:30-3:30 p.m. Deaf-Blind Concerns
Join Janice Toothman to discuss concerns, resources, and new opportunities for the deaf-blind of Maryland.
Janice Toothman, Chairman, Deaf-Blind Concerns Committee, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
Room 612

4:00-5:00 p.m.  Board of Directors Meeting
Everyone is encouraged to attend!
Pennsylvania Room

5:00-6:00 p.m. Convention Registration and Packet Pick-Up
Outside Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware Rooms

5:00-6:30 p.m. Maryland Association of Blind Students Business Meeting
Melissa Lomax, President, Maryland Association of Blind Students; Gwyn Oak, Maryland
Pennsylvania Room

5:00-6:00 p.m. What Are the Federation and State Convention All About?
A gathering for first-time convention attendees.
Chris Danielsen, President, Greater Baltimore Chapter, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
Virginia Room

5:30-8:30 p.m. Ice Follies: Ice Skating for the Adventuresome
This is a great opportunity to practice for "Blockey!"
$4.00 per person, includes skate rental.
Ice Rink (Atrium)

7:00-8:30 p.m. Parents and Children Unite
Sponsored by the Maryland Parents of Blind Children, this gathering is for families with blind children, and also for blind parents and their children. A great time for networking, exchanging information, and general fellowship.
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children; McHenry, Maryland
Delaware Room

7:30 p.m. National Federation of the Blind of Maryland Resolutions Committee Meeting
Anil Lewis, Chairman; Baltimore, Maryland
Maryland Room

8:00 p.m.-Midnight   Hospitality, Great Games, and "Blockey"
Play card and board games with your fellow convention attendees. Join us on the ice and play a game of "blockey." Or, just listen to the "blockey" commentary and cheer for your favorite athlete.
Master of Ceremonies: John Berggren; Baltimore, Maryland
Complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided.
Atrium Overlook
SATURDAY, November 9

7:00-8:35 a.m.  Hospitality
Room 612

7:15-8:00 a.m. 2013 BELL Reunion for Students and Parents
Room 611

7:30-8:30 a.m. Let's Make Our Voices Heard: A Meeting for Guide Dog Users and Those Interested in Guide Dogs
Join in valuable discussions about issues faced by guide dog users in Maryland!
Janice Toothman, Chairman, Guide Dog Committee, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
Room 610

8:00-8:55 a.m. Convention Registration and Packet Pick-up
Outside Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware Rooms

8:00-8:45 a.m. Cane Walk for Parents and Children
Room 611

8:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m.  Children's Fun Fair (Convention Child Care)
Teresa Graham, Coordinator; Ellicott City, Maryland
Washington Room

General sessions will be held in the Maryland and Virginia Rooms.

MORNING SESSION

9:00 a.m.  Call to Order, Invocation, and Convention Announcements

9:15 a.m. Report from the National Office
Scott LaBarre, President, National Federation of the Blind of Colorado; Denver, Colorado

9:45 a.m.  Let's Be Pack Rats: Get on the PAC Plan Today!
Mark Riccobono, Chairman, NFBMD PAC Plan Committee; Baltimore, Maryland

9:55 a.m.  All of the News from DORS
Sue Schaffer, Director, Office of Blindness and Vision Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services, Maryland State Department of Education; Columbia, Maryland

10:10 a.m. Questions and Discussion

10:15 a.m. A Long-Time Federationist Tells His Story
Tom Bickford; Silver Spring, Maryland

10:30 a.m. Wake Up and Pay Attention: An Update from Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Annie Gallagher, Advocacy and Outreach Associate Manager, Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; Washington, D.C.

10:45 a.m. Questions and Discussion

10:50 a.m. Attention All Students!: A New College Prep Program Has Come To Maryland!
Instructors and Students from the College Prep Program offered by Blind Industries and Services of Maryland

11:05 a.m. Simplify Your Life: How Getting Rid of Your Clutter Can Help the NFB
Joanne Wilson, Director of Affiliate Development, Office of the President, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland

11:15 a.m.  The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped: The View from a New Director
Nancy Pack, Director, Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped; Baltimore, Maryland

11:30 a.m. Questions and Discussion

11:35 a.m. The Maryland Healthcare Exchange: All You Need to Know
Katherine C. Gunby, Program Coordinator, Lower Shore Health Insurance Assistance Program, Worcester County Health Department; Salisbury, Maryland

11:50 a.m. Questions and Discussion

11:55 a.m.  Reports and Resolutions

12:00 p.m. Adjourn

12:00-12:15 p.m.  Convention Registration and Packet Pick-up
Outside Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware Rooms

12:00-1:45 p.m.  LuncheonThe Education of Blind or Visually Impaired Students
For parents, students, and teachers of blind students.
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; McHenry, Maryland
Pennsylvania Room

12:00-1:45 p.m.  LuncheonReclaiming Independence after Vision Loss
For seniors and others facing vision loss.
Ruth Sager, President, Senior Issues Division, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Pikesville, Maryland
Delaware Room

12:00-1:45 p.m. Financial Literacy for Students
Presented by Anthony and Marie Cobb; Catonsville, Maryland
Room 612

1:20-2:00 p.m.  Banquet Exchange
Outside Maryland and Virginia Rooms

AFTERNOON SESSION

2:00 p.m. Call to Order

2:05 p.m.  Earning Our Keep: The Blind at Work
Conrad Austen, Former Government Affairs and Insurance Intern, Financial Services Round Table; St. Mary's City, Maryland
Mary Fernandez, Paralegal, Brown, Goldstein, and Levy; Baltimore, Maryland
Robyn Hughs, Docent, Jewish Museum of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
Tina Gross-Jones, Licensed Realtor, Celebrity Associates Real Estate Services (CARES); Baltimore, Maryland

2:45 p.m. Questions and Discussion

2:50 p.m. Hello: Information on an Accessible Phone, and Eligibility for a Free Cell Phone
Robert Felgar, General Manager, Odin Mobile; Rockville, Maryland

3:05 p.m. Questions and Discussion

3:10 p.m. What Does the PARCC Assessment Mean for Our Blind Children?
Lauren McLarney, Governmental Affairs Specialist, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
Sharon Maneki, Advocacy Chair, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Columbia, Maryland

 3:30 p.m.  Questions and Discussion

3:35 p.m. Building the Future for Blind Children in a Variety of Ways: The Maryland School for the Blind
Karen Frank, Assistant Principal, Maryland School for the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland

3:50 p.m.  Questions and Discussion

3:55 p.m.  NFBMD Presidential Report: Reflections on the Past Year
Melissa Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland

4:20 p.m. Changing Lives and Creating Smiles Every Day: An Update from Blind Industries and Services of Maryland
Fred Puente, President, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland; Salisbury, Maryland

4:35 p.m.  Questions and Discussion

4:40 p.m.  If Maryland is Truly to Be Excellent, the NFBMD Will Need to Help!
Mark Riccobono, Director, Jernigan Institute, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland

4:50 p.m.  Reports and Resolutions

5:00 p.m.  Adjourn

6:00 p.m.  Reception and Cash Bar
Atrium

7:00 p.m.  Forty-Seventh Annual Convention Banquet
Master of Ceremonies: Mark Riccobono, Executive Director, Jernigan Institute, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
Keynote Banquet Address: Scott LaBarre, President, National Federation of the Blind of Colorado; Denver, Colorado
Scholarships and Awards
Pennsylvania Room

After Banquet  Student Division "Games and Social"
Everyone is a student!
Delaware Room

SUNDAY, November 10

7:00-8:50 a.m.  Hospitality
Room 612

7:00-8:45 a.m.  Board Meeting, Maryland Parents of Blind Children
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children; McHenry, Maryland
Washington Room

7:30 a.m.  Luggage Collection (for bus passengers only)
Delaware Room

8:00-8:30 a.m.  Nonsectarian Devotions
Lloyd and Judy Rasmussen, Sligo Creek Chapter, National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Kensington, Maryland
Maryland and Virginia Rooms

8:30-8:50 a.m.  Registration
Outside Maryland and Virginia Rooms

MORNING SESSION

9:00 a.m.  Call to Order and Invocation

9:05 a.m. A Tribute to Veterans

9:15 a.m. I Hear Morning BELL Ringers: The 2013 BELL Programs
Carlton Walker, Lead Instructor, Baltimore BELL Program, and President, National Organization of Parents of Blind Children; Bowling Springs, Pennsylvania
2013 Baltimore and Glendale BELL Students

9:30 a.m. Affiliate Elections

9:45 a.m.  The Future Is Bright: Youth Share Their Experiences in Awesome Summer Programs
Steve Lin, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland Independence 101
Chris Nusbaum, Louisiana Center for the Blind STEP Program
Nia Phipps, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland Independence 101

10:15 a.m.  Resolutions

10:45 a.m. NFB-NEWSLINE®: The Possibilities Are Endless!
Jason Polansky, Senior, Catoctin High School; Thurmont, Maryland
Jesse Hartle, Fantasy Sports Guru; Lutherville, Maryland
Nijat Worley, Manager of Marketing and Outreach for Sponsored Technologies, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland

11:15 a.m.  Questions and Discussion

11:20 a.m. Nature and the Great Outdoors: It's Not Just for the Birds!
Donna Posont, Student Naturalist; Dearborn, Michigan

11:35 a.m.  Questions and Discussion

11:40 a.m.  Business Meeting

12:00 p.m.  Adjourn

Message of Thanks

        Thank you to all of those who answered the call and made this convention such a big success.  This includes those who spoke on panels and individually; worked in the child care room; helped with the sound system, convention recording, and convention streaming; planned and ran Friday seminars; worked hospitality; helped with the new member gathering; worked with blind tweens and teens; and helped in any other ways I am forgetting.  This convention would not have run so smoothly without all of your assistance.

I would very much like to thank our National Representative, Scott LaBarre, for providing a national perspective at this convention, and sharing his wit, "blockey" color commentary, and other talents with us.

In addition, I would like to thank the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland Board of Directors for all of their support, guidance, and willingness to help over the past year.  Our affiliate is growing in so many ways, and without our teamwork this growth would not be possible.  As always, a special thank you to Sharon Maneki for all of her work, especially on convention details.  Sharon works tirelessly for the NFB of Maryland every day, and I am truly grateful for all of the wisdom, organization, insight, experience, and humor she brings.

        I would also like to thank all of the members of the affiliate who volunteered for projects, gave input and suggestions, and helped in so many other ways, large and small, to make our affiliate strong and vibrant.  I look forward to many opportunities to work with all of you in new and exciting ways in the upcoming years.  Remember, there are always jobs to be done; please do not hesitate to volunteer your time and talents!

        The NFB of Maryland is truly blessed to have Mary Ellen Thompson working with us.  Thank you, Mary Ellen, for all of the wonderful services you have given so willingly over the past year.  You have done everything from driving to destinations near and far, reading documents simple and complex, changing diapers, game playing, helping with BELL and toy inventory . . . and the list goes on.  You have even cut up about a million peppers for snacks for Austin, Oriana, and Elizabeth. Knowing how you feel about peppers, this is truly a testament to how willing you are to put personal feelings aside for the good of the Federation. I could not do all that I do without your expert help. My family and I thank God for you every day, and we, and the NFB of Maryland, are so blessed to have you working with and for us.

        Last, but certainly not least, thank you at least five hundred times (one hundred times for each of my years as president) to my husband, Mark, and our children, Austin, Oriana, and Elizabeth. Mark, each year only gets busier! Thank you for supporting my work in every way, giving such sound advice, being so eager to help, and making me always look beyond this moment to the possibilities of the future.  Austin, Oriana, and Elizabeth, thank you for always being ready to make me laugh and smile, and for being willing to play games and give me hugs and cuddles when I need a break.

        It is an honor to be the president of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland.  I look forward to another year of service with excitement.

Melissa Riccobono, President
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

Take the stress out of this year's holiday shopping with NFB's Bid for Equality national online auction: Black Friday, Nov. 29, to Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3. View our must-have donations and register<http://www.biddingforgood.com/auction/AuctionHome.action?vhost=bid-for-equality> to make your Bid for Equality. The future is in your bid!
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