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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72"><div class=WordSection1><h1><a name="OLE_LINK9"></a><a name="_Hlk75706218"></a><a name="_Hlk84098815"></a><a name="_Hlk94641879"></a><a name="_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;color:black'>January 2026 Minute Message </span></span></span></span></span></a><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;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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="_Hlk89042392"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></a></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Fellow Federationists:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>We have kicked off 2026 with a bang! We\u2019ve already held a wildly successful Day in Annapolis, attended Washington Seminar in person and virtually in light of the weather compelling us to pivot and be flexible, and have held a number of fun and interesting events in our local chapters including Louis Braille\u2019s birthday party. And yet, we have a great deal ahead, first of which is our Diamond Jubilee Convention.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Read on for information about what is happening in the NFB of Maryland. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFBMD Blind Cruising 2026</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><a name="_Hlk215876970"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland will be cruising to Bermuda in 2026. Join us for this five-night cruise on the beautiful Royal Caribbean Vision of the Seas, which departs the Port of Baltimore on Saturday, September 5, 2026. We will have two full days in Bermuda. Balcony cabins cost $1520.84 per person assuming double occupancy, including port charges and tax. Ocean view and inside cabins are also available at the prevailing rate. A $250 deposit is required to book the cabin, and final payment is due May 15, 2026. <o:p></o:p></span></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk215876970'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk215876970'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Supply is limited, so please make your reservations as soon as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk215876970'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk215876970'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>To make your deposit for a balcony cabin, or to request pricing for ocean view and inside cabins, please contact our travel agent, Cindy Kiper, at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:ckiper@dreamvacations.com"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk215876970'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>ckiper@dreamvacations.com</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk215876970'></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk215876970'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'> or at 813-418-0647.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk215876970'></span><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Pilots of Progress: Sixty Years Strong, Soaring to New Horizons: The State Convention is Coming!</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>You will not want to miss the state convention at the Ashore Resort and Beach Club in Ocean City which takes place on February 12 - 15, 2026. Come and meet our National Representative, Shawn Callaway, President of the NFB of the District of Columbia and a NFB national board member. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>Late registration is open through February 15, 2026. Visit </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://nfbmd.org/convention"><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:_Hlk89042392'>https://nfbmd.org/convention</span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'> to register online. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='margin-left:.25in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>We will be using a different format, with the NFBMD Board Meeting and several other committee meetings taking place on Thursday afternoon and evening. General Session will kick off Friday evening, with division meetings, seminars, and chapters meeting in person on Friday during the day. Dinner and a Play will take place just before the General Session kicks off. Saturday will feature General Session in the morning, a number of workshops and meetings in the late morning, luncheons for students, seniors, and parents, and then a General Session afternoon session. The NFBMD banquet, which will include our keynote address from our National Representative and a number of awards will take place Saturday evening. We will have our last General Session, which will include our Business Meeting, Sunday morning, with an anticipated 1PM adjournment.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='margin-left:.25in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='margin-left:.25in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>We want to thank our Title Sponsor, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, for its support of our 2026 NFBMD Convention!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='margin-left:.25in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='margin-left:.25in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>See you in Ocean City!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='margin-left:.25in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Seeking Door Prize Donations<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='color:#333333'>We are seeking donations of door prizes to give away at the NFB of Maryland Annual Convention. Door prizes should have a cash value of a minimum of $25 each. For questions, please contact Door Prize Co-chairs Qualik Ford at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:Qford@bism.org"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN>Qford@bism.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='color:#333333'> and Juhi Narula at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:Jnarula@bism.org"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN>Jnarula@bism.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='color:#333333'>. Please bring door prizes to the convention.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:#333333'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='color:#333333'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Seeking Donations for the NFBMD Bake and Experience Auction!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='color:#333333'>We are seeking donations of baked goods and experiences for the NFBMD auction. Some examples of experiences include taking the winner to dinner, giving cooking lessons, musical or show tickets, etc. We are asking for donation commitments prior to February 2, 2026. Please notify Convention Logistics chairperson Justin Young of your donation via email at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:Jyoung@nfb.org"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN>Jyoung@nfb.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'>.</span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:#333333'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Seeking Baked Deliciousness for NFBMD Fire Sale! <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma",sans-serif'>\ufeff</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Attention all!<br>This message is going out to all you bakers, non-bakers, and anyone else with baked goods. As state convention rolls around again, so does our annual fire sale. If you want to help feed our movement and fund the important work we do, please take the time to donate your freshly baked goods, whatever they may be. Cookies, cakes, candies, and croissants, we'll take them all. Please contact Justin Young with your donation commitment via email at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:Jyoung@nfb.org"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Jyoung@nfb.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>State Convention Orientation: February 4, 2026<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:#3B3B3B'>All first-time convention attendees are cordially invited to <u>attend a First-Timers Orientation</u> from 8 to 9:30 p.m., on Wednesday<strong><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'>, February 4</span></strong>. The Ambassadors Committee will walk you through the events that will take place throughout the weekend, explain processes such as door prizes and voting, as well as make sure every first-time convention attendee is matched with a mentor. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:#3B3B3B'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:#3B3B3B'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:#3B3B3B'>Connection information is as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:#3B3B3B'>Zoom Meeting ID: </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://zoom.us/j/6248138327?pwd=eTZlYUgwR3ZQVVl1dXBLSHcrbml1QT09"><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:_Hlk89042392'>624 813 8327</span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:#3B3B3B'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:#3B3B3B'>One-Number Conference Call: 339-209-4083<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:#3B3B3B'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Success in Annapolis!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>The 2026 session of the Maryland General Assembly began on January 14, and we brought the collective action as soon as the session began. Our Legislative Advocacy Team was on sight from nearly the first moment the gavel dropped on the new session. We held our NFB of Maryland in person Day in Annapolis on January 22, and we gathered to debrief at Buddy\u2019s Crabs and Ribs once more. We engaged with all 188 Delegates and Senators early in the session in order to maximize the time we have to push our issues through both chambers. 80 Federationists participated in a tremendously successful Day in Annapolis.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>Our legislative priorities this year are:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li style='color:black;margin-top:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo7'><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:_Hlk89042392'>Telephone Voting for Voters with Disabilities for State, County, and Federal Elections<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li style='color:black;margin-top:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo7'><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:_Hlk89042392'>Mobile Voting for Municipal Elections<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li style='color:black;margin-top:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo7'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:windowtext'>Improving Transportation: Use of Autonomous Vehicles for Persons with Disabilities </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li style='color:black;margin-top:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo7'><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:_Hlk89042392'>Independent Living for Older Blind (ILOB) Program (funding)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li style='color:black;margin-top:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo7'><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:_Hlk89042392'>Center for Excellence in Nonvisual Access (funding)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></li></ul><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>Congratulations to everyone who has participated thus far. This is what collective action looks like.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Success at Washington Seminar!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>On January 26 and 27, Maryland joined Federationists in person and virtually from throughout the country to let Congress know about our legislative priorities for blind Americans. You may read the Washington Seminar fact sheets by visiting </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://nfb.org/washington-seminar"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>https://nfb.org/washington-seminar</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'> or via Newsline. Thank you to everyone who attended meetings, particularly those who pivoted to become the in person team and the virtual team.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>We will continue to work to advocate for our Federal legislative priorities in our home districts. We ask our members to attend town halls and events held by your representatives and ask for support of our legislative priorities.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Get ready for Austin in 2026!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>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 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%. You can begin making your reservations on January 1, 2026 with a reservation deadline of May 31, 2026. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Convention pre-registration will open March 1 and close May 31, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><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:_Hlk89042392'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>We hope to see you in Austin!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Pay Your 2026 Dues!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>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 style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>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 style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>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 style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>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 style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFB and NFBMD Scholarship Programs</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><a name="_Hlk93169595"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The National Federation of the Blind and the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland each administer a separate scholarship program for post-secondary students. The deadline to apply for both scholarship programs is March 31, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>National Scholarship Program: Each year, the NFB awards 30 merit-based scholarships totaling $300,000. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Each scholarship recipient will receive $10,000 and additional prizes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and community service.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>The 30 scholarship finalists are announced in the spring and attend the NFB National Convention, where they are mentored by blind role models.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Application materials must be submitted (online or postmarked) by 11:59PM on March 31, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>To be eligible, applicants must:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=circle><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Be legally blind in both eyes;<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Reside in the United States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico;<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Be pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time, post-secondary course of study in a degree program at a U.S. institution in the Fall of 2026 (a few scholarships may be awarded to an individual who attends school part-time with certain parameters); <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Be age 18 before July 3, 2026; and<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Attend the entire National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind (and all scholarship activities) in Austin, Texas from July 3 through 8, 2026 (scholarship finalists will receive convention grants).<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li></ul><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:105%;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>To apply, submit an application using the online application system at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://scholarships.nfb.org/"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>https://scholarships.nfb.org/</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span class=MsoHyperlink><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:.75in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>State Scholarship Program: The NFB of Maryland will award up to four scholarships of $4,000 each as part of the John T. McCraw Scholarship Program. NFBMD may award a scholarship to a former McCraw scholarship recipient. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Scholarships are merit-based and awarded based on academic achievement, community involvement, and leadership.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Application materials must be submitted (online only) by 11:59PM on March 31, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level1 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>To be eligible, applicants must:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=circle><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Be legally blind in both eyes;<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>reside in Maryland or be pursuing post-secondary studies at a school in Maryland;<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>be age 18 prior to July 3, 2026;<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Be pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time or part-time, post-secondary course of study in a degree program in the Fall of 2026 and Spring of 2027 (priority will be given to full-time students); and<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Attend the entire National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind in Austin, Texas from July 3 through 8, 2026 and the annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland in Maryland in February 2027 (scholarship finalists will receive convention grants).<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='color:black;margin-top:12.0pt;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:normal;mso-list:l6 level2 lfo5;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>To apply, submit an application using the online application system at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/scholarship/apply"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>http://nfbmd.org/scholarship/apply</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk93169595'></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span class=MsoHyperlink><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li></ul></ul><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2 style='text-indent:.5in'><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFBMD Cruise Donation Drive and Drawing \u2013 Blind Cruising 2026!!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:#3B3B3B'>Want to win a free cabin on the NFBMD 2026 Cruise to Bermuda? Here's your chance!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:#3B3B3B'>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland is hosting the 2026 NFBMD Cruise donation drive. For each $20 donation, you will get one chance in the cruise drawing. For example, if you donate $100, you will get five chances.<br> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:#3B3B3B'>The winner will have their cabin costs covered (excluding taxes and port fees) by NFBMD. The drawing will take place at the NFBMD banquet on Saturday, February 14, 2026. The winner does not need to be present to win. The fundraiser is open through 3PM on Saturday, February 14, 2026.<br> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>The rules for the drawing are as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>1. For each $20 donated, the donor will receive one chance. For example, if the donor contributes $100, that equates to 5 chances.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>2. The donor must expressly state that they wish to have their name placed in the cruise drawing.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>3. Donations must be made separately from any door prize contributions, convention registration donations, end-of-year contributions, or any other NFB of Maryland fundraising campaigns.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>4. Donations must be received on or before 3PM on February 14, 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Individuals may make donations using the PayPal button located at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://nfbmd.org/cruisedrawing"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>https://nfbmd.org/cruisedrawing</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'> <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span class=MsoHyperlink><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>OR</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span class=MsoHyperlink><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>via Zelle (</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:President@nfbmd.org"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>President@nfbmd.org</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span class=MsoHyperlink><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>), </span></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>OR by mailing checks to:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Cruise Donation Drive<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>1800 Johnson Street, Suite N1<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Baltimore, MD 21230<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>do You Feel Lucky? <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='color:black'>The NFBMD spring raffle is beginning. During the month of May, you have the opportunity to win $50 Sunday through Friday, or $100 on Saturday. Purchase a 3-digit number raffle ticket for $5. You will be the only one who has this number. Tickets are available from chapter presidents and affiliate Board Members. Help us sell all 1,000 tickets! </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Basket and Bag Bingo is Coming!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Would you like to win over $4,000 in prizes? Would you like to play 23 games of BINGO? Snacks and raffles will also be available. Join us at NFBMD Spring Basket and Bag Bingo, hosted by the Central Maryland Chapter, on March 13, 2025 in Catonsville. Buy your tickets early.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Prizes will feature baskets and bags from designer brands. We need financial contributions to help with these purchases. Please let us know whether you would like to sponsor a basket or bag for $200. All contributions of any amount are welcome. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>You may also purchase your ticket for $30 before March 13 and for $40 on March 13 if tickets are available. Please find information on how to purchase your ticket by visiting </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://nfbmd.org/bingo"><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>https://nfbmd.org/bingo</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='background:white'><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:_Hlk89042392'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><h2><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Important Upcoming Dates </span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span><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:_Hlk89042392'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></h2><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk89042392'></span><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><ul type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>February 4, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD State Convention Orientation, Virtual<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>February 12 \u2013 15, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD 2026 Convention, Ocean City, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>March 1, 2026 \u2013 Preregistration opens for NFB National Convention<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>March 13, 2026 \u2013 Basket and Bag Bingo, Catonsville, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>March 31, 2026 \u2013 Deadline for National Scholarship Applications.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>March 31, 2026 \u2013 Deadline for NFBMD Scholarship Applications.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>April 18, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD STEM2U, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Spring TBD, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Spring Market, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>May 31, 2026 \u2013 Deadline to Preregister for NFB Annual Convention, Austin, Texas<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Summer TBD, 2026 \u2013 Southern Maryland NFB BELL Academy, Southern Maryland, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Summer TBD, 2026 \u2013 Montgomery County NFB BELL Academy, Montgomery County, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Summer TBD, 2026 \u2013 Eastern Shore NFB BELL Academy, Salisbury, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Summer TBD, 2026 \u2013 Baltimore NFB BELL Academy, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>July 3 \u2013 8, 2026 \u2013 NFB National Convention, Austin, Texas<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>September 5 \u2013 10, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Cruise to Bermuda, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>September 18, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Crab Feast, Rosedale, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>October 1 \u2013 31, 2026 \u2013 Blind Equality Achievement Month<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>October 15, 2026 \u2013 White Cane Awareness Day<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>November 14, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Scholarship Dinner and Auction, College Park, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>November 15, 2026 \u2013 NFBMD Winter Market, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>January 21, 2027 \u2013 NFBMD Day in Annapolis, Annapolis, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>TBD, 2027 \u2013 Washington Seminar Great Gathering In, Washington, DC<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo6;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>TBD, 2027 \u2013 NFB of Maryland Day on the Hill, Washington, DC<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'>Ronza Othman, </span></b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'>President</span><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>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 style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>