[Greater-Baltimore] Reminiscing about the 2001 Convention

[marion.gwizdala at gmail.com]

Dear Federation Family,

 

                Since Merry and I will not be able to attend this year's
convention in Austin, we were reminiscing about past conventions, including
the first we attended as a couple. Coincidental to the Greater Baltimore
Chapter hosting the Keystone Chapter, it was 2001 in Philadelphia. We
remembered the several times we attempted to visit a historical site only to
find it either closed or lines too long to wait in. Instead, we found a
restaurant. We joke we ate our way through Philadelphia. We were standing in
line at Wah Wah's to get sandwiches one night - well, morning - at 1:00 a.m.
and saw a bus go by! What a town! 

 

                And the NFB parties, exhibits, small group meetings,
educational opportunities, and, of course, general Session! It was the year
we unveiled our new logo we called "Whozit"! but what I remember the most
was a musical offering by a blind Canadian, Terry Kelly. He performed a song
he wrote for the World blind Union entitled, "The Power of the Dream". The
chorus is

 

Changing what it means to be blind!

Stepp by step, one day at a time!

Still much to do but it will be

That the sighted eyes of the world will be able to see

And there will be changes!

The Power of the Dream!

Due diligence by you and me!

Changing what it means to be blind!"

 

                After Terry finished his song, I went over to chat with him.
We exchanged telephone numbers and we spoke several times afterward. Terry
gave me permission to record his song and modify the lyrics to apply to the
NFB. If you would like a copy of this song, please write to me off-list at

 

Marion.Gwizdala at GMail.com <mailto:Marion.Gwizdala at GMail.com> 

 

Have an awesome convention! We will be listening from Maryland!

 

Fraternally yours,

Marion