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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72" style='word-wrap:break-word'><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><a name="OLE_LINK9"></a><a name="_Hlk75706218"></a><a name="_Hlk84098815"></a><a name="_Hlk94641879"></a><a name="_Hlk113649310"></a><a name="_Hlk89042392"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Fellow Federationists:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></a></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>My how quickly spring has gone by! We held our fourth annual STEM2U event for blind and low vision children, and it was a rousing success. Maryland students now know that blindness is not an obstacle to studying STEM, including forensic science. We also held a concurrent seminar for parents of blind students, which they too learned to raise their expectations for their children. We finished a very successful state legislative session, and worked on numerous individual case advocacy efforts. The DC affiliate and National Organization of Black Blind Leaders recognized two of our leaders in Maryland, featuring Marguerite Woods in March and remembering the late Michelle Clark in May, and many of our members attended both events. We\u2019ve held numerous events at the local level as well. We\u2019re very much looking forward to our first NFB BELL Academy of the summer and the NFB National Convention in the next month or so. And this summer promises to be as action-packed as ever. Read on for more happenings in the NFB of Maryland. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Change to Zelle Contact Information!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFB of Maryland has changed its Zelle contact information. Those sending payments should use the email address </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:Payments@nfbmd.org."><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Payments@nfbmd.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> moving forward. We have made this change in order to improve financial and operational efficiency. Please be sure to notate what the payment is for, e.g. general donation, crab feast ticket, etc. in the notes section. When adding </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:Payments@nfbmd.org"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Payments@nfbmd.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> to your Zelle contacts, you may see either \u201cNFB of Maryland\u201d or \u201cRonza Othman\u201d come up, depending on your bank. Either is accurate. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>If you have questions, please contact Leah Mattern at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:Treasurer@nfbmd.org"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Treasurer@nfbmd.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFBMD Phone Number Back Online!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The phone number for the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland has been restored for both phone and texting. The number is 443-426-4110. We appreciate your patience as we worked to migrate our phone provider and port our number to a new, accessible solution.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Annapolis Advocacy!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The 2026 Maryland legislative session adjourned sine die on April 8, 2026, and though we did not see many of our primary legislative priorities this year become law, we did make significant progress. The General Assembly did however ensure that the $250,000 appropriation for the Center for Excellence in Nonvisual Information was in the 2027 budget, which will ensure that Maryland businesses, employers, and other entities and individuals have access to important resources that preserve and advance accessibility in the State.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We had a great deal of traction but could not get our absentee telephone voting bill or mobile voting for municipal elections bill passed. However, we have already begun working with experts, legislators, and government entities to position these bills well in the next legislative session.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We also experienced a very frustrating and disappointing outcome on the autonomous vehicle legislation that would have increased the ability of the blind to travel independently, safely, and free from discrimination. However, this matter received a great deal of press coverage, and NFBMD was featured prominently explaining why this legislation is vital to blind and disabled Marylanders. We are continuing to educate lawmakers and industry and make our case for autonomous vehicles in the interim, and we will be back next session with this legislation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We were successful in convincing the Maryland General Assembly to exert pressure on the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) to provide funding to the Independent Living for Older Blind (ILOB) program. MSDE allocated $660,000 in its 2027 budget to this program, which is more than ten times what it received in previous years. We will continue advocating for this program so that blind seniors can gain and maintain independence skills and age in place.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We also testified about equal access and safety for disabled incarcerated individuals, delivery taxes that disproportionately harm the disabled, library funding, the need to ensure AI tools are accessible in schools, preserving privacy and dignity for students who need mobile devices in schools due to their disabilities, protecting blind voters from ID and signature requirements that will disproportionately impact the blind and disabled, ensuring schools inform parents when special education services are missed, protecting the blind when it comes to bicycle lanes, Paratransit and MTA fixed bus routes, prohibiting doxxing of and increased penalties for vulnerable individuals and the disabled, improving deaf-blind services and representation, implementing privacy and chain of custody requirements for curbside voting, pedestrian protection, prohibiting ads from being louder than programming for streaming services, bus stop violation enforcement, paying para-educators appropriately, ensuring special education para-educators and other support personnel are appropriately background checked, protecting blind merchant priority in the state\u2019s business enterprise programs, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access recreational, boating, and other opportunities free from discrimination, appropriately funding public transportation programs in Maryland, enforcing auditory bus announcements and improving geolocation information, and many more topics. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFB of Maryland testified more than 300 times on more than 130 unique bills this legislative session. This was a significant increase even over last year.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Thank you to those who attended the 2026 Day in Annapolis, attended and testified at various hearings, drafted testimony, conducted research, attended legislative meet-ups and engaged their elected officials, sent letters, made phone calls, and used social media. Special thanks go to Cricket Bidleman, Chris Danielsen, and Sharon Maneki, who were instrumental in drafting much of our written legislation. Chris Danielsen, Melissa Riccobono, Sharon Maneki, and Cricket Bidleman led our letter writing campaign this year. Debbie Brown and Ellen Ringlein managed our transportation to and from Annapolis, and Debbie Brown took the lead on our work in Southern Maryland and the DC suburbs. Additional thanks go to Chris Danielsen, Jesse Shirek, and Jonathan Mosen for stepping in to represent NFB of Maryland in oral testimony when I was unavailable. Cricket Bidelman also went above and beyond by providing tremendous support with the letter writing campaigns and legislative synopses. Maddie Syme was crucial in our Day in Annapolis logistical planning and execution as well as helping to format written testimony. Linda Furiate, or Annapolis Linda as she is known, did a tremendous job, as usual, with driving and as the NFBMD\u2019s Executive Assistant for Legislative Advocacy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We are very grateful to President Ferguson, Speaker Pena-Melnyk, Senator Love, Senator Lewis-Young, Senator Brooks, Senator Simonaire, Senator Guzzone, Delegate Ziegler, Delegate Lehman, Delegate Terrasa, Delegate Guyton, Delegate Roberts, Delegate Kauffman, their staffs, and all those who worked with us to advance our legislative priorities.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Congratulations to everyone who has participated this session. This is what collective action looks like.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Get ready for Austin in 2026!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The NFB 2026 National Convention will take place from July 3 \u2013 8, 2026 in Austin, Texas. The JW Marriott Austin Hotel will be the primary location and host all convention meetings and seminars, while the Austin Marriott Downtown will serve as our primary overflow hotel. Both hotels will offer a nightly convention rate of $139 per night for singles and doubles and $155 for triples and quads, plus a tourism fee and taxes of 19%. There are some other overflow hotels available as well. Reservations opened on January 1, 2026 and close on May 31, 2026. The JW Marriott Austin has reported that many nights are full. Please make your reservations at an overflow hotel as soon as you can. It is unlikely that many rooms will become available at the JW Marriott.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Convention pre-registration opened March 1 and will close May 31, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We hope to see you in Austin!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFBMD National Convention Orientation \u2013 Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 8:00PM!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland will once again be hosting a National Convention Orientation for Marylanders on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 starting at 8:00PM. All Marylanders who are attending an in-person NFB national convention for the first time or those who just want information about the Convention are welcome. We will be discussing what to expect, Maryland-specific events and activities, and mentoring and getting assistance during the convention.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><a name="_Hlk75702620"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Click this link to join: </span></a></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://zoom.us/j/6248138327?pwd=eTZlYUgwR3ZQVVl1dXBLSHcrbml1QT09"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>https://zoom.us/j/6248138327?pwd=eTZlYUgwR3ZQVVl1dXBLSHcrbml1QT09</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Meeting ID: 624 813 8327<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>One tap mobile<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>+13017158592,,6248138327#<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75702620'></span><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFBMD Caucus \u2013 TBD!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We will be holding the Maryland Caucus in person during the NFB National Convention, and it promises to be action-packed. Come to meet the NFBMD State Scholarship winners, discuss the resolutions that will come before the convention, and so much more! This is a very important event, so please plan to attend.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We have not yet been assigned a meeting day, time, and location, but we will share this information once it becomes available. Keep an eye out for our listserves or check our Calendar of Events page on the NFBMD website. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We hope to have a Zoom option for those attending the convention virtually, but as we have no control over the technology and internet connectivity at the hotel, we cannot guarantee this will work out. We\u2019ll share access information closer to the caucus.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Support NFBMD By Donating and Then Getting Stuff <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We will be accepting donations in Austin at our affiliate table at the Exhibit Hall, and members of the affiliate may also be on hand to receive donations to NFBMD. In appreciation for donations at a certain level, we will offer in appreciation a particular item. You can donate at various levels and can combine levels to get more tokens of appreciation. Here\u2019s what our menu looks like:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo10'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>In appreciation for a donation of $1, you can have a snack item.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo10'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>In appreciation for a donation of $5, you can get a luggage tag shaped like a crab. This luggage tag is branded with the NFB of Maryland logo.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo10'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>In appreciation for a donation of $10, you can receive a pen toolkit. This pocket-sized pen tool includes a flashlight and several multi-tool features. This luggage tag is branded with the NFBMD logo. Supplies are very limited.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo10'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>In appreciation for a donation of $10, you can receive an entire back of assorted snacks.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l3 level1 lfo10'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>In appreciation for a donation of $20, you can receive a clear backpack with the NFB of Maryland logo on it. This stadium-approved bag is fun and practical, and it even has an outside pocket for your other stuff. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We\u2019ll also have available the Sorry Try Again raffle, where you can, for a dollar per try, win instantly $1, $5, $10, $20, or some delicious mints.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We will share our Exhibit Hall table number once it becomes available, or you can ask the Exhibit Hall Information Desk for our location when you get to Austin.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Crabbing for Student Scholarships<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Please purchase your tickets today for the NFB of Maryland Annual Crab Feast. This fundraiser supports the John T McCraw Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships to blind post-secondary education students.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>When:<b> Friday</b>, September 18, 2026 - 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Where: Rosedale Gardens \u2013 8037Philadelphia Road - Baltimore, MD 21237 <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Tickets are $85 each if purchased before August 31, or $95 afterword\u2019s. Children 6 and under are free. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Special Promotion:</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> Buy or Sell 25 or more tickets and get your ticket <b>FREE!</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Dancing, 50 / 50 Raffle, Door Prizes, and more.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Menu Includes:<br>Steamed Crabs, fried chicken, beef Bar B Que \u2013 All You Can Eat!<br>Plus a Buffet of Entrees Including Maryland-style crab soup, corn-on-the-cob, other sides, salad, fruit, cake\u2026<br>Yuengling and Miller beer<br>Carbonated Beverages, iced tea, and Coffee<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>To purchase tickets, visit </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://www.nfbmd.org/crabs"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>http://www.nfbmd.org/crabs</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>For additional information contact Chair Millie Rivera at (202) 494-5687 or email </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:TLCChapter@nfbmd.org"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>TLCChapter@nfbmd.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Seeking Donations for Crab Feast Auction!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We are seeking donations of experiences, gift cards, and items for our 2026 Crab Feast Silent Auction. This auction will raise funds for student scholarships. Bidding will open via our online portal this summer and will close the evening of the Crab Feast on September 18, 2026, when the winning bidders will be announced. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We are asking members to reach out to restaurants, hotels, travel agents, shop owners, sports teams, and providers of experiences to ask that they donate gift cards, items, and experiences. We will create auction packages with one or more of the donations provided. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>For additional information contact Chair Millie Rivera at (202) 494-5687 or email </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:TLCChapter@nfbmd.org"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>TLCChapter@nfbmd.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFB Scholarship Finalists Announced!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We are delighted to have a student from Maryland chosen as part of the 2026 NFB National Scholarship Class. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Osolou Ozo-Onyali (Soso) is a senior at the University of Delaware Honors College, double-majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology with a minor in Disability Studies. Soso plans to be a clinical forensic psychologist, working in the criminal justice system. Soso is a member of the Maryland Association of Blind Students (MDABS) and TLC Chapter, and she currently holds board positions on MDABS and the National Association of Blind Students. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Congratulations to Soso! You\u2019ll meet her at the NFB National Convention!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFBMD John T. McCraw Scholarship Finalists<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland is pleased to announce that this year, five students have been selected as 2026-2027 John T. McCraw Scholarship finalists. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Gia Min Albrecht is an incoming Freshman at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. He will be studying social work. Gia Min is new to the Federation though he attended an NFB BELL Academy when he was very young.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Ashanti Gillis is an incoming Freshman at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. She will be studying psychology with a focus on industrial psychology. Ashanti is new to the Federation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Naudia Graham is a rising junior at Loyola University Maryland. She is double-majoring in political science and leadership and management consulting with the goal of becoming an attorney. Naudia serves as President of the Maryland Association of Blind Students and is a member of the Central Maryland Chapter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Sophia Keil is a graduate student at the University of Massachusetts Boston. She is working towards a Masters in Vision Rehabilitation. Sophia serves as treasurer of the Maryland Association of Blind Students and is a member of the Baltimore County Chapter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Elizabeth Moyer will be attending her second year of graduate school at Loyola University Maryland. She is working to earn her Masters in Special Education. Liz is a member of the Baltimore County Chapter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>They will all be attending the NFB National Convention in Austin and the NFBMD State Convention in Pikesville, so you will have the chance to get to know them. They will receive their NFBMD scholarships of $4,000 each, at the state convention in February provided they remain eligible. We are thrilled with this year\u2019s scholarship class and know you will be impressed as well.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>2027 State Convention Theme Contest <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Each year, we choose a State Convention theme that is representative of our hope, priorities, or expectations for the convention and what comes after. Recent themes have included: \u201cPilots of Progress: Sixty Years Strong, Soaring to New Horizons,\u201d \u201cLead, Love, Live,\u201d \u201cExpect Much, Give Much, Get Much!\u201d, \u201cCelebrating our Stories, Defining our Future,\u201d \u201cRise Up,\u201d \u201cFocus Forward,\u201d and \u201cReconnect, Reimagine, Reignite.\u201d <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>We use the theme to inform the opening ceremonies, tie together the presidential report, and hold seminars and other activities. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>If you have a suggested theme, please text or email it to me by July 31, 2026. The person whose theme is chosen will get a free banquet ticket for the 2027 state convention.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Please email me at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:President@nfbmd.org"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>President@nfbmd.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> or text 443-426-4110.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The BELLs Toll Once Again in Maryland! <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The NFB BELL Academy provides children with Braille and nonvisual skills instruction through fun, hands-on learning activities. The NFB BELL Academy\u2014which stands for National Federation of the Blind Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning®\u2014is a nationwide summer program that prepares blind and low-vision children to grow into confident and independent blind people who live the lives they want. Activities at NFB Maryland BELL are provided in a day program. In addition to Braille crafts, games, and other engaging projects, children learn vital independent living skills, interact with blind adult mentors, and enjoy field trips to sites related to the NFB BELL Academy curriculum. Through these activities and interactions, the children learn that blindness or low vision does not define them or their future.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The NFB BELL Academy is appropriate for blind and low vision children ages four through twelve who:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Do not receive enough Braille and nonvisual skills instruction in school<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Could benefit from more Braille exposure over the summer<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l0 level1 lfo3'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Would enjoy connecting with blind role models<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland is offering four in-person sessions, including:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l6 level1 lfo6'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>A one-week NFB BELL Academy session in Southern Maryland from June 22 \u2013 26, 2026;<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l6 level1 lfo6'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>a two-week in person NFB BELL Academy session in Baltimore, Maryland, From July 20 \u2013 31, 2026;<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l6 level1 lfo6'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>a two-week in person NFB BELL Academy session in Rockville, Maryland, From July 27 \u2013 August 7, 2026;<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l6 level1 lfo6'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>a one-week in person NFB BELL Academy session in Salisbury, Maryland, in partnership with Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, From August 3 \u2013 7, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>To register for the NFB BELL Academy, visit: </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://nfb.org/programs-services/nfb-bell-academy"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>https://nfb.org/programs-services/nfb-bell-academy</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>. For questions, contact NFB of Maryland BELL Academy Coordinator Erin Zobell at Bell@nfbmd.org. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Give A Hoot Comedy Night Fundraiser! <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Featuring Comedian Johnny Watson <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> Location: 16143 Shady Grove Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20877<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Date: August 22, 2026<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Time: 8PM (Doors open at 7PM)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Come out for a night of laughs and support the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland! Give A Hoot Comedy Club generously gives its proceeds to deserving nonprofits doing work in the local community. Please plan to support the important work of the oldest organization of and for blind and low vision Marylanders while enjoying an award-winning comedian at the same time.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Admission is $22.50 per person including fees. Tickets should be purchased in advance. Parking is free.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Full La Mexicana Restaurant menu available in club (food and drinks not included in admission price)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>To purchase your tickets, please click on the link below.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.giveahootcomedy.com/shows/356245"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFBMD Night at Give A Hoot Comedy Club Tickets</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> Those interested in affiliate transportation from Baltimore should contact </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:germlish77@gmail.com"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Ellen Ringlein</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>. For more information, contact </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:deborahb14@verizon.net"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Debbie Brown</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Pay Your 2026 Dues!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>NFBMD maintains an online portal for individuals to pay their chapter and division dues. We are asking members to pay their 2026 dues by December 31, 2025 so we can ensure that our rolls are accurate for State Convention voting.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Individuals may use NFBMD\u2019s Dues Portal to pay their 2026 annual dues and/or lifetime membership dues for those chapters that have lifetime membership. The portal lists all NFBMD chapters and divisions and their dues amounts. Individuals may pay for as many chapters and divisions as they wish. The portal is located at http://nfbmd.org/dues. Alternatively, individuals may mail a check to their chapter or division treasurer.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Individuals may also pay their chapter dues at the Membership Table at the State Convention, but we strongly encourage individuals to pay dues prior to convention.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Please note that those paying via the online portal will incur a small processing fee.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>Important Upcoming Dates <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK9'></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk75706218'></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk84098815'></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk94641879'></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk113649310'></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'></span><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>May 31, 2026 \u2013 Deadline to Preregister for NFB Annual Convention, Austin, Texas<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>June 22 - 26, 2026 \u2013 Southern Maryland NFB BELL Academy, Southern Maryland, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>July 3 \u2013 8, 2026 \u2013 NFB National Convention, Austin, Texas<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>July 20 - 31, 2026 \u2013 Baltimore NFB BELL Academy, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>July 27 \u2013 August 7, 2026 \u2013 Rockville NFB BELL Academy, Rockville, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>August 3 - 7, 2026 \u2013 Eastern Shore NFB BELL Academy, Salisbury, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>August 22, 2026 \u2013 Give-A-Hoot Comedy Night Fundraiser, Gaithersburg, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>September 5 \u2013 10, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Cruise to Bermuda, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>September 18, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Crab Feast, Rosedale, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>October 1 \u2013 31, 2026 \u2013 Blind Equality Achievement Month<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>October 15, 2026 \u2013 White Cane Awareness Day<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>November 14, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Scholarship Dinner and Auction, College Park, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>November 15, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Winter Market, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>January 21, 2027 \u2013 NFBMD Day in Annapolis, Annapolis, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>February 1, 2027 \u2013 Washington Seminar Great Gathering In, Washington, DC<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>February 2, 2027 \u2013 NFB of Maryland Day on the Hill, Washington, DC<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='mso-list:l2 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'>February 11 \u2013 14, 2027 \u2013 NFBMD 2027 Convention, Pikesville, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Ronza Othman, </b>President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>443-426-4110<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Pronouns: she, her, hers<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Need to meet with me? <a href="https://calendly.com/president-nfbmd/30min"><span style='color:blue'>Please use this link to schedule through Calendly</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 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></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Aptos",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div></body></html>