[NFB-Conventions] NFBMD 2019 Convention Agenda

David Andrews dandrews920 at comcast.net
Sat Oct 19 21:19:57 UTC 2019 

>To: <nfb-maryland at nfbnet.org>
>Date: Sat, 19 Oct 2019 17:04:30 -0400
>Thread-Index: AdWGvzkspY8ERsHRRRizGZXBqa5nbw==
>Subject: [NFB-Maryland] NFBMD 2019 Convention Agenda
>From: president--- via NFB-Maryland <nfb-maryland at nfbnet.org>
>
>Friends,
>Please find attached and pasted below the agenda 
>for the 2019 Annual National Federation of the 
>Blind of Maryland Convention.  The agenda will 
>be going up on the website and on Newsline 
>shortly.  The weekend promises to be 
>action-packed and a lot of fun.  I hope you will 
>join us in Baltimore November 8 – 10.
>
>
>
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
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>2019 Annual Convention
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>AGENDA
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>Celebrating Our Stories, Defining Our Future
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>Friday, November 8 to Sunday, November 10
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>Mark Riccobono
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>Image: Mark Riccobono
>President
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>Marc Maurer
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>National Federation of the Blind
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>Image: Marc Maurer
>Immediate Past President
>National Federation of the Blind
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>THE MEMBERS OF THE
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>BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND
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>THE GREATER BALTIMORE CHAPTER
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>WELCOME YOU TO THE
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>53RD ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE
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>NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND
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>Ronza M Othman, President
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
>15 Charles Plaza, #3002
>Baltimore, Maryland 21201
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>Meleah Jensen, Chairman
>Convention Organization and Activities
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>Ellen Ringlein, President
>Greater Baltimore Chapter
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>Crown Plaza Downtown Baltimore Inner Harbor
>105 W. Fayette St., Baltimore, MD 21201
>410-347-5707
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>WELCOME!
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>
>Welcome to the 53rd annual convention of the 
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 
>being held in Baltimore at the Crown Plaza 
>Baltimore Downtown Inner Harbor. A detailed 
>description of the layout of the hotel can be 
>found later in this agenda. When you check in to 
>the hotel, you will be asked to confirm your 
>departure date. If you decide to leave earlier 
>than the departure date you confirm when you 
>check in, there may be a change fee.
>Title: logo - Description: Rookie Roundup logo
>
>First-Timers Meeting: All first-time convention 
>attendees are cordially invited to attend a 
>First Timers Orientation from 12 to 1 p.m., on 
>Friday, November 8, or directly after the Board 
>Meeting concludes in International Ballroom B. 
>The Ambassadors Committee will walk you through 
>the events that will take place throughout the 
>weekend, explain processes such as registration 
>pickup and banquet exchange, and make sure every 
>first-time convention attendee is matched with a mentor.
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>INCLUSIVITY, DIVERSITY, AND SOCIAL CONDUCT
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>As an attendee at our convention, you not only 
>represent yourself, but also represent our 
>greater organization. We want you to enjoy our 
>time together and to make new friends and renew 
>old acquaintances. Although we encourage members 
>to socialize and have fun, the convention also 
>provides a valuable opportunity to come together 
>to continue the work of our organization, to 
>learn about the important initiatives that we 
>are involved with on local and national levels, 
>and to plan our work for the future.
>
>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 
>seeks to provide a convention environment in 
>which diverse participants, including members, 
>speakers, exhibitors, staff, and volunteers, may 
>learn, network, and enjoy the company of friends 
>and colleagues in an environment of mutual 
>respect and professionalism. We recognize a 
>shared responsibility to create and uphold that 
>atmosphere for the benefit of all. Some 
>behaviors are therefore specifically prohibited:
>
>
>·        harassment or intimidation based on 
>race, religion, ethnicity, language, gender, 
>sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, 
>disability, physical appearance, or other group identity
>
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>·        sexual harassment or intimidation, 
>including unwelcome sexual attention, stalking 
>(physical or virtual), or unsolicited physical contact
>
>
>·        public drunkenness and associated 
>behaviors (e.g., belligerence, yelling, hostility, destruction of property)
>
>Participants are expected to abide by these 
>rules and behaviors in all convention venues, 
>including online arenas, social media, and 
>social events. Participants who are asked to 
>stop a behavior that the recipient considers 
>hostile or harassing are expected to comply immediately.
>
>For assistance or to report an incident, please 
>call 504-621-4162. All formal reports will be 
>fully investigated according to the steps 
>outlined in the National Federation of the Blind 
>Code of Conduct. Based on the information found 
>in the investigation, appropriate action will be 
>taken and may involve staff, organization 
>leaders, and legal counsel. Based on the 
>circumstances, hotel security and/or law 
>enforcement may become involved, when appropriate.
>
>We are committed to diversity, equity, and the 
>free expression of ideas. These principles have 
>been delineated in our Code of Conduct found at nfb.org/code-conduct.
>
>
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>PREREGISTRATION AND ON-SITE REGISTRATION
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>Registration activities take place in the 
>Promenade Foyer, which is outside of the 
>International Ballroom, between 2 and 6 p.m., on 
>Friday; 8 and 8:25a.m., and 12 and 12:15 p.m., 
>Saturday; and 8:30 and 8:50 a.m., Sunday. All 
>convention attendees (both local and from out of 
>town) are asked to register. Those who 
>preregistered for convention may pick up their 
>registration packets in the area designated 
>preregistration. Those who did not preregister 
>may go to the area designated registration. 
>Please have your check or cash ready to pay the 
>registration fee of $25 per person; we will 
>pilot a credit card payment process at 
>convention, but as this is a pilot, we cannot 
>guarantee it will work flawlessly. Convention 
>registration is a requirement for door prize 
>eligibility and a number of other convention 
>activities. We condition rates for hotel rooms 
>on proof of registration, including the showing 
>of an NFBMD registration badge, if requested.
>
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>FUN WITH FRIENDS CONVENTION CHILD CARE ACTIVITIES
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>All child care (for children ages 6 weeks to 9 
>years) will take place in the Pratt Room on the 
>Lower Level.  Hours are: Friday 8:30 a.m. to 
>5:30 p.m.; and Saturday 8:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. 
>and 6:30 to 10 p.m. or at conclusion of the 
>banquet, whichever is earlier (lunch and dinner 
>will be provided). Parents, contact Melissa Riccobono for details.
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>EXHIBIT HALL
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>The exhibit hall is located in the International 
>Ballroom E and the Promenade Foyer. The exhibit 
>hall will operate on Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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>SPECIAL ATTENTION ITEMS
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>·        Banquet tickets may be purchased for 
>$45 by cash or check at the on-site registration 
>area. We will pilot a credit card purchasing 
>process, so we cannot guarantee it will work 
>flawlessly.  No tickets will be available after 
>12 p.m. on Saturday. At the banquet ticket 
>exchange table, you may make arrangements to 
>reserve a specific seat for yourself or for a 
>group of up to 10 people. On the evening of the 
>banquet, tickets will be required to enter the 
>ballroom and will be collected at the tables. 
>Tickets may be exchanged for vegetarian or meat 
>meals at the banquet ticket exchange table if done so by 2 p.m. on Saturday.
>·        Banquet ticket exchange will be located 
>in the Promenade Foyer outside the International 
>Ballroom on Saturday between 1:20 and 2 p.m.
>·        General Sessions will be held in International Ballroom A through C.
>·        Boxed Lunches will be resold if not 
>picked up by 12:30 p.m. on Friday.  Those 
>interested in boxed lunches on Friday should 
>visit the Promenade Foyer.  Those failing to 
>pick up their boxed lunches by 12:30 p.m. on 
>Friday will forfeit them and will not receive a refund.
>·        Tickets for other meals may be 
>purchased on a first come first serve basis from 
>the registration Table and cost as follows:
>o   Picnic and a Play: $20
>o   Senior Issues Luncheon: $25
>o   Parents Luncheon: $25
>·        Darlene Price is the chairman of the 
>Door Prize Committee. Please turn in your door 
>prizes to Darlene as soon as possible. You must 
>be registered for the convention and present 
>when your name is called in order to win a door 
>prize. Door prizes will be awarded during the 
>general sessions on Saturday and Sunday and during the convention banquet.
>·        You are strongly encouraged to bring 
>your NFB membership coins with you to the NFBMD 
>Convention and keep them in your possession at 
>all times. There will be specific incentives, 
>activities, and prizes for those carrying their NFB membership coins.
>·        We will have a cane walk with 
>individualized cane travel instruction by an 
>NOMC throughout the weekend. To reserve a slot 
>for your child or for yourself, please contact Melissa Riccobono.
>·        On Sunday, you must check out of your room before 11 a.m.
>·        If you are leaving the Crown Plaza 
>Baltimore Downtown Inner Harbor by an NFB of 
>Maryland bus, please bring your luggage to the 
>Hopkins Room on the lower level between 7:30 and 
>9 a.m. Sunday, where it will be tagged and held 
>for storage until noon when buses will be 
>loaded. Please be sure that your luggage is 
>clearly labeled with your name, address, and telephone number.
>·        The Guide Dog Relief Area is located on 
>the lower level of the hotel outside of the 
>Hopkins Room. Directly to the left of the door 
>is a grassy area. There also is a large cement 
>area just in front of the doors, about 15 feet 
>wide and 30 feet long. There are stairs up to 
>Liberty Street at the parameter of the cement 
>area, and you can choose to cross the street to 
>visit the dog park on the other side of Liberty 
>Street instead. When exiting the hotel on the 
>lower level, please be sure to prop the door, as 
>it will automatically lock behind you if you do 
>not do so when exiting. Please also remember to 
>make sure the door closes completely behind you 
>when you come back inside the hotel.
>
>·        The NFBMD 2019 Convention is located at 
>a free Aira access site. This means those who 
>are existing Aira explorers can use the service 
>without using their own minutes. Those who are 
>interested in trying Aira may do so at no cost. 
>Visit the Aira booth at the exhibit hall for more information.
>
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>ORGANIZATION INFORMATION
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>NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND
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>15 Charles Plaza, #3002, Baltimore, MD 21201
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>443-426-4110; President at nfbmd.org
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>[]
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>Image: Ronza Othman
>President
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
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>[]
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>Image: Carla McQuillan
>President and National Representative
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>Sharon Maneki
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>National Federation of the Blind of Oregon
>Image: Sharon Maneki
>Immediate Past President
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
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>Officers:
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>Ronza Othman, President, Baltimore
>Deborah Brown, First Vice President, Rockville
>Anil Lewis, Second Vice President, Baltimore
>Judy Rasmussen, Secretary, Kensington
>Shawn Jacobson, Treasurer, Olney
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>BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
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>Michelle Clark, Springdale
>Sharon Maneki, Columbia
>Maurice Peret, Baltimore
>Melissa Riccobono, Baltimore
>Melba Taylor, Bowie
>Marguerite Woods, Baltimore
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>OUR CREDO
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>The National Federation of the Blind knows that 
>blindness is not the characteristic that defines 
>you or your future. Every day we raise the 
>expectations of blind people, because low 
>expectations create obstacles between blind 
>people and our dreams. You can live the life you 
>want; blindness is not what holds you back!
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>THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND PLEDGE
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>I pledge to participate actively in the efforts 
>of the National Federation of the Blind to 
>achieve equality, opportunity, and security for 
>the blind; to support the policies and programs 
>of the federation; and to abide by its constitution.
>
>
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>ABOUT THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND
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>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 
>(NFBMD), an affiliate of the National Federation 
>of the Blind (NFB), is an organization of blind 
>people and their friends. We believe in the full 
>capacity of blind people; we have the power, 
>influence, diversity and determination to help 
>transform our dreams into reality. Our members 
>work together for a brighter tomorrow by raising 
>the expectations for blind people everywhere so 
>that blind persons can live the lives they want.
>
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>WHO WE ARE
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>
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>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 
>is a 501c(3) nonprofit made up of blind people 
>of all ages, their families and friends. Our 
>strong local chapters and divisions, and 
>well-trained leaders help newly blind people 
>adjust to vision loss and promote the full 
>participation and integration of blind people in 
>our communities. We bring our collective 
>experiences together to effect change at the state and national level.
>
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>WHAT WE DO
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>    * Assist blind persons to acquire the skills of independence
>    * Help blind persons to develop confidence 
> in themselves through our many service activities
>    * Teach blind persons the skills of 
> leadership through active participation in 
> conventions, chapter meetings, and civic activities
>    * Encourage blind seniors to continue their 
> active and meaningful lifestyles
>    * Prepare blind students for productive 
> tax-paying careers through academic and training scholarships
>    * Inform people with diabetes about their 
> options for coping with vision loss
>    * Support parents and friends of blind 
> children with information about the capabilities of the blind
>    * Protect and promote the civil rights of 
> blind persons through public education and legislative action
>    * Advocate for policies that eliminate 
> discrimination and guarantee equal access to 
> educational programs and high quality rehabilitation
>    *
>    []
>    Educate the public through seminars, 
> community activities and our publications
>VANDA PHARMACEUTICALS INC.
> 
>
>Vanda Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to raising awareness of Non-24-Hour
>Sleep-Wake Disorder (Non-24) and supporting the blindness community.
>Non-24 is a rare circadian rhythm disorder affecting up to 70% of people
>who are totally blind. People living with Non-24 
>experience excessive daytime sleepiness and 
>nighttime sleeplessness, which leads to impaired 
>social and occupational functioning. This is due to the misalignment between
>the internal master body clock and the 24-hour day.
>
>COME VISIT US AT OUR BOOTH
>TO LEARN ABOUT NON-24 AND
>SIGN UP FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION!
>
>NON-24
>a circadian rhythm disorder
>
>VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.NON-24.COM.
>CALL A HEALTH EDUCATOR TOLL-FREE AT 1-855-856-2424 • 24 HOURS A DAY, EVERY DAY
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>[]
>
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>LIVE THE LIFE YOU WANT
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>Lyrics copied from October 2015 Presidential Release
>Chorus:  Live the life you want. Nobody can stop you.
>Shoot for the sun and break on through.
>So you're blind. You'll be fine. We've got good news!
>You can live the life you want. Yes, we know the truth.
>Grab a cane, get trained, gotta get movin'.
>Make a change in the wage, that's what we're doin'.
>Come with me, yeah
>Chorus
>You and me, NFB, let's dream together.
>NFB, you and me, lives on forever.
>You will see yeah
>Chorus
>You can live the life you want. You’ll know the truth.
>
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>WE EXTEND PROFUSE THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING CONVENTION SPONSORS:
>
>
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>Brown, Goldstein and Levy LLP, Independence Level Sponsor
>Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Independence Level Sponsor
>The San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and 
>Visually Impaired, Equality Level Sponsor
>Elections Systems & Software (ES&S), Opportunity Level Sponsor
>Friends of the Maryland State Library for the 
>Blind and Physically Handicapped, Opportunity Level Sponsor
>Maryland Technology Assistance Program, Opportunity Level Sponsor
>Sprint Accessibility, Opportunity Level Sponsor
>Visit Baltimore, Freedom Level Sponsor
>3D PhotoWorks, Freedom Level Sponsor
>
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>NAVIGATING THE CROWN PLAZA
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>The Crown Plaza Baltimore Downtown Inner Harbor 
>is located at 105 West Fayette Street, near the 
>southeast corner of Fayette and Liberty. This 
>used to be the Baltimore Downtown Sheraton 
>hotel. The old Sheraton property now has two 
>hotels occupying it, the Crown Plaza and the 
>Radisson. The two hotels share the conference 
>facilities that are called the International 
>Ballroom, Promenade, and Fayette Room, and the 
>Crown Plaza side of the facility houses the 
>Carroll Foyer and lower level conference area. 
>We will only use the sleeping rooms in the Crown 
>Plaza Tower for our convention, but we will use 
>all of the conference facilities at the 
>property. The two hotels also share a 
>restaurant, bar, and other common facilities. 
>However, they each have their own entrances, 
>parking valets, check-in desks, sleeping room 
>towers, fitness facilities, and other amenities. 
>The Radisson entrance also is on Fayette Street, 
>about 150 feet east of the Crown Plaza entrance. 
>Convention attendees should use the Crown Plaza 
>entrance.  However, there is a hallway that 
>connects the Radisson and the Crown Plaza, as 
>well as a walkway between the hotels through the 
>restaurant. This description focuses on the 
>Crown Plaza side of the facility, as well as the shared conference space.
>
>We will provide descriptions using cardinal 
>directions, and where possible, also use right 
>and left.  Imagine the Crown Plaza main level 
>almost like an upside down capital T with a 
>capital L connecting to the capital T at its 
>bottom left arm.  The long arm of the 
>upside-down capital T is the south hallway, and 
>the crossbar of the capital T is the east-west 
>hallway. The International Ballrooms and the 
>Fayette Room are along the east (right) leg of 
>the upside-down capital T. An L-shaped hallway 
>hangs off the left (west) end of the upside-down 
>capital T’s crossbar. The north-south leg of the 
>capital L is used primarily to connect the two 
>conference areas to one another. The east-west 
>leg of the capital L houses the Crown Plaza 
>conference Rooms, Carroll, Poe, and Mencken.
>
>When you first enter the Crown Plaza hotel 
>entrance, you will be facing south. The entrance 
>to the Crown Plaza hotel is on Fayette Street. 
>There is an automatic door that leads you into a 
>vestibule. Immediately on your left (east) is 
>the entrance to the shared restaurant, Harbor 
>Sports Bar and Grill. You come across the 
>entrance to this restaurant even before you 
>enter the second doors to the Crown Plaza hotel, 
>and so it is really in the vestibule rather than in the hotel itself.
>
>If you walk into the Crown Plaza hotel main 
>entrance and find yourself in the vestibule, you 
>will find the second set of doors to the hotel 
>on your right. Once you enter those doors, you 
>are facing west, and the restaurant is behind 
>you and Fayette street is on your right. The 
>check-in desks are on your right along the north 
>wall. There are two of them with a space between 
>them. At the west end of this part of the lobby 
>and across from (south of) the second check-in desk is an unstaffed snack bar.
>
>If you orient yourself so that your back is to 
>the first check-in desk, you are at the top of 
>the upside-down capital T; you enter a hallway 
>that goes north and south, which we will call 
>the south hallway. As you walk south along the 
>south hallway, on your left you will pass a 
>common area containing various desks and chairs 
>for use by hotel guests, as well as an ATM. On 
>your right is another common area with carpeting 
>containing sofas and chairs with charging ports 
>in the conversation areas. At the southern end 
>of this carpeted seating area is a long tall 
>table with high stools, where you can recharge 
>your electronic devices. Past this seating area 
>on the right is the accessible entrance to the 
>hotel lobby bar. If you wish to visit the bar, 
>look for a ramp to go up to the bar off towards 
>your right. If you continue south past the lobby 
>bar, you reach the apex of the upside-down 
>capital T, which is an east-west hallway. The 
>south hallway comes to a dead end here.
>
>If you enter the east-west hallway (the crossbar 
>of the upside-down capital T) by turning left 
>(east), the elevator banks will be on your right 
>(south) just before you encounter carpeting. If 
>you turn into the elevator bank hallway, two 
>elevators will be on your right (on the west 
>wall) and one to the left (on the east wall). 
>These elevators will take you up to the sleeping 
>rooms and down to the lower level conference facilities.
>
>If you continue east along the east-west hallway 
>(the crossbar of the capital T) passed the 
>elevator lobby, you come to a carpeted area 
>followed by a strip of tile floor that is about 
>five feet wide, and beyond it, more carpeting. 
>Once you reach the second carpeted area, you are 
>in the Promenade Foyer. Registration will be in 
>the Promenade Foyer throughout the weekend. On 
>your right (south) are the International 
>Ballrooms, which are comprised of ballrooms A 
>through F. You first encounter the doors for 
>International Ballroom A. The doors to Ballroom 
>A will be used for general session. Ballroom A 
>also will be one of the workshop rooms on 
>Friday. Ballrooms B and C are south of ballroom 
>A and all three can be combined together to make 
>one big room, Ballroom ABC. Our general session 
>will be held in Ballroom ABC, and we will have 
>workshops on Friday in Ballrooms A, B, and C as 
>separate meeting rooms. There is no direct 
>access to ballrooms B and C from the Promenade 
>hallway. If the International ballroom is 
>subdivided into A, B, and C, then dividing walls 
>are also setup to create a small access hallway 
>which runs along the east (left if you put the 
>doors of Ballroom A in front of you) end of 
>Ballrooms A, B, and C. To reach this hallway, 
>look for the next set of doors passed ballroom 
>A, which are labeled International Ballroom (no 
>letters), and turn right (south). If you keep 
>walking east along the Promenade Foyer beyond 
>International Ballroom A, the next ballroom you 
>encounter is International Ballroom F. Passed 
>Ballroom F is another set of doors that leads 
>into Ballroom D. Ballroom D has a raised fix 
>stage in it that we will not use.
>
>Across from International Ballroom A on the 
>north side of the Promenade hallway are 
>restrooms (ladies’ on the left and men's on the 
>right). Passed the restrooms, across from 
>Ballroom F is a hallway that branches off to the 
>left (north) and leads to the Radisson Hotel. We 
>will not use any facilities in the Radisson. The 
>Promenade Foyer will come to a dead end at the 
>east end at some steps leading up to Ballroom E 
>and the Fayette Room. To avoid the steps leading 
>down to the hotel business office, from this 
>upper level, at the top of the steps continue 
>straight (east) all the way to the east wall, 
>before turning right (south) to find the 
>entrance to Ballroom E. At the top of the steps 
>continue straight (east) all the way to the east 
>wall, before turning left (north) to find the 
>entrance to the Fayette Room. The Fayette Room 
>has glass walls. Directly to the right (south) 
>of the steps leading up to Ballroom E and the 
>Fayette Room is a wheelchair lift. Your cane can 
>easily miss this obstacle, so to be forewarned is to be forearmed.
>
>If at the apex of the upside-down capital T, you 
>turn right (west), another entrance to the lobby 
>bar is to your right and there is a set of steps 
>that leads up to the bar from this side. The 
>hallway will come to a dead end passed the bar, 
>and you would enter the capital L hallway if you turn left (south).
>
>Along the east arm of the capital L hallway, 
>there is a spiral staircase that leads to the 
>lower floor of the hotel. Of course, you can 
>reach the lower floor via the elevators as well. 
>Passed the area where the spiral staircase is, 
>the L-shaped hallway continues south and comes 
>to a dead end at its apex, another hallway that 
>leads left (east). There are other arms that 
>branch off of the capital L, but they are not 
>relevant to our needs, and if you shoreline 
>along the wall, you will reach the apex of the 
>capital L. The entrance to the Carroll Room is 
>on the left (north) side of this short east-west 
>hallway. On the right (south) side of the 
>hallway is the Poe Room followed by the Mencken 
>Room. The east hallway (capital L) comes to a 
>dead end at a service area and you'll have to 
>retrace your steps to get to other parts of the 
>hotel. The parents and teachers seminars, 
>student division, and merchants division 
>meetings will be in this hallway on Friday.
>
>There are more meeting rooms we will use in the 
>lower lobby. The lower level conference space is 
>like a capital H with the elevator hallway as 
>the crossbar connecting the two legs of the 
>capital H.  To reach the area where we will have 
>meetings and seminars, turn right from the set 
>of two elevators or left from the single 
>elevator towards the leg of the capital H with 
>more meeting rooms. Pratt A and B are along the 
>leg of the H, and Douglass is at one end of the 
>leg while Peale is at the other. If you are 
>facing the Pratt room, the Peale room is to your 
>right (west) and the Douglas room is to your 
>left (east). Pratt is where we will have childcare.
>
>To reach the area where teens and tweens will 
>meet, and where luggage drop-off will be, turn 
>left from the set of two elevators or right from 
>the single elevator towards the leg of the 
>capital H where there is only one meeting room 
>and the spiral staircase as the major landmark. 
>The Hopkins Room is along the leg of the capital 
>H. Restrooms are at the top of that same leg of 
>the capital H. This area also holds the spiral 
>staircase which leads to the upper floor. To 
>find the steps safely, go all the way to the 
>west end by the entrance to Hopkins and turn left (south).
>
>To find the guide dog relief area, orient 
>yourself so the side with the two elevators is 
>behind you and turn left (until you meet a 
>hallway). Turn left again and walk straight 
>until you meet a set of double doors to the outside of the hotel.
>
>The hallways on the guest room floors of the 
>Crown Plaza are quite short. Each floor will 
>have rooms 20 through 35. The lower numbered 
>rooms are in the Radisson tower.  Imagine each 
>floor is like a capital H with the elevator bank 
>as the crossbar of the H. If you put the side 
>with the two elevators behind you and go 
>clockwise starting with the bottom left leg of 
>the H, you will encounter rooms 20 to 23 
>(northwest side), rooms 24 to 27 (northeast 
>side) rooms 28 to 31 (southeast side), and rooms 32 to 35 (southwest side).
>
>
>
>
>CHAPTERS AND DIVISIONS OF
>THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND
>
>
>
>
>
>At Large Chapter
>
>
>
>Marguerite Woods, president, 443-271-1668, mwoods719 at gmail.com
>Monthly meetings third Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., via phone:
>(605) 313-4818, access code 720125
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Baltimore County Chapter
>
>
>
>Ruth Sager, president, 410-602-9030, 
><mailto:rsager78 at gmail.com>rsager78 at gmail.com
>Monthly meetings fourth Wednesday in Pikesville
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Central Maryland Chapter
>
>
>
>Darlene Price, president, 410-997-9664, 
><mailto:chicagirl3 at verizon.net>chicagirl3 at verizon.net
>Monthly meetings first Tuesday in Columbia
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Eastern Shore Chapter
>
>
>
>Heather Guy, president, 410-430-8954, hguy403 at comcast.net
>Monthly meetings second Saturday in Salisbury
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Greater Baltimore Chapter
>
>
>
>Ellen Ringlein, president, 443-516-7855, 
><mailto:greaterbaltimore at nfbmd.org>greaterbaltimore at nfbmd.org
>Monthly meetings third Saturday in Baltimore
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Greater Carroll County Chapter
>
>
>
>Brian Keseling, president, 410-855-5605, 
><mailto:bkmaverick at gmail.com>bkmaverick at gmail.com
>Monthly meetings second Saturday in Westminster
>
>
>Greater Cumberland Chapter
>
>
>
>Jean Faulkner, president, 301-729-8942
>Monthly meetings third Wednesday in Cumberland
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Maryland Association of Blind Students
>
>
>
>Ellana Crew, president, 443-758-7211, eemcrew at gmail.com
>Periodic meetings throughout the year
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Maryland Association of Blind Merchants
>
>
>
>Melba Taylor, president, 240-381-1637, m.taylor at encoreassoc.com
>Periodic meetings throughout the year
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Maryland Parents of Blind Children
>
>
>
>Melissa Riccobono, president, 443-708-3663, MelissaARiccobono at gmail.com
>Periodic meetings throughout the year
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>National Harbor Chapter
>
>
>
>Michelle Clark, president, 301-583-8585, 
><mailto:mcikeyc at aol.com>mcikeyc at aol.com
>Monthly meetings fourth Saturday in Suitland
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Senior Issues Division
>
>
>
>Ruth Sager, President, 410-602-9030, rsager78 at gmail.com.
>Periodic meetings throughout the year
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Sligo Creek Chapter
>
>
>
>Debbie Brown, president, 301-881-1892, 
><mailto:Deborahb14 at verizon.net>Deborahb14 at verizon.net
>Monthly meetings second Saturday primarily in Silver Spring
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>TLC Chapter
>
>
>
>Meleah Jensen, president, 504-621-4162, MeleahHeather at gmail.com
>Meetings third Thursday in Towson
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>The San Francisco LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
>2018 Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award recipient brings you:
>TMAP: on-demand tactile street maps!
>TMAPs depict the area around a user-specified 
>address or intersection. Streets, pedestrian 
>paths, and buildings are shown with raised 
>lines, easily followed with the fingertips. 
>Braille and large print labels indicate street 
>names and other critical information like cardinal directions and scale.
>Place your TMAP order at 1-888-400-8933
>Mention promo code TMAP NFB through November and 
>get a 20% discount! (Regular price $25)
>
>
>COMMITTEES OF THE
>NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND
>
>
>
>If you’re interested in being appointed to a 
>particular committee, notify the NFBMD president 
>at president at nfbmd.org or 443-426-4110.
>
>
>
>Advocacy Committee
>
>
>
>Sharon Maneki, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Ambassadors Committee
>
>
>
>Judy Rasmussen, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Audit Committee
>
>
>
>Barry Hond, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>BELL Committee
>
>
>
>Melissa Riccobono, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Braille Spectator Committee
>
>
>
>Ronza Othman and Sharon Maneki, Editors
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Deaf-Blind and Hearing Loss Issues Committee
>
>
>
>Janice Toothman, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Development and Fundraising Committee
>
>
>
>Anil Lewis and Shawn Jacobson, Co-chairmen
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Guide Dog Issues Committee
>
>
>
>Ashley Alvey and Janice Toothman, Co-chairmen
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Legislation Committee
>
>
>
>Sharon Maneki, Chairman
>
>
>
>Membership Committee
>
>
>
>Dezman Jackson, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>PAC Plan Committee
>
>
>
>John G. Paré Jr., Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Public Relations Committee
>
>
>
>Chris Danielsen, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Resolutions Committee
>
>
>
>Jesse Hartle, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Scholarship Committee
>
>
>
>Mildred Rivera, Chairman
>
>
>
>Sharon Maneki Youth Empowerment Grant Committee
>
>
>
>Sharon Maneki, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Social Media Committee
>
>
>
>Karen Anderson, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Website and Technology Committee
>
>
>
>Graham Mehl, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Youth Activity Committee
>
>
>
>Melissa Lomax, Chairman
>
>
>
>Convention-Related Committees
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Anna Freysz Cable Award Committee
>
>
>
>Debbie Brown, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Convention Child Care Committee
>
>
>
>Christine Day, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Convention Hospitality Committee
>
>
>
>Ellen Ringlein, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Convention Organization and Activities
>
>
>
>Meleah Jensen, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Convention Registration Committee
>
>
>
>Marie Marucci, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Distinguished Educator of Blind Children Award Committee
>
>
>
>Sandy Bishop, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Door Prize Committee
>
>
>
>Darlene Price, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Gold Cup Crab Race Committee
>
>
>
>Rose Warner, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Jennifer Baker Award Committee
>
>
>
>Susan Baker, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Kenneth Jernigan Award Committee
>
>
>
>Dr. Marc Maurer, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>National Funding Support Auction Committee
>
>
>
>Michael Bullis, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Nominating Committee
>
>
>
>Ellen Ringlein, Chairman
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>Leaving A Legacy
>Dream Makers Circle
>You can help build a future of opportunity for 
>the blind by becoming a member of our Dream 
>Makers Circle. It is easier than you think. Just 
>visit your bank and convert an account to a 
>P.O.D. (payable on death) bank account which is 
>payable after your passing to the National 
>Federation of the Blind or the National 
>Federation of the Blind of Maryland. Your legacy 
>gift to the National Federation of the Blind or 
>the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 
>can be made in the form of a will or living 
>trust, an income generating gift, or by naming 
>us as the beneficiary of a retirement plan, IRA, 
>pension, or a life insurance policy. You can 
>designate a specific amount, a percentage, or 
>list NFB as one of several beneficiaries. For 
>additional information, please contact Patti 
>Chang at 410-659-9314, ext. 2422 or at pchang at nfb.org.
>
>[]
>
>
>
>BROWN, GOLDSTEIN, and LEVY
>CONGRATULATIONS ON 50+ YEARS OF
>BREAKING
>BARRIERS
>120 E. Baltimore Street, Suite 1700, Baltimore MD 21202
>tel. 410.962.1030 • fax 410.385.0869 • www.browngold.com
>
>
>STAY CONNECTED AND INFORMED:
>
>
>
>Follow the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland on Twitter:
>twitter.com/NFBMD
>
>Friend the National Federation of the Blind of 
>Maryland on Facebook: 
><https://www.facebook.com/nationalfederationoftheblindofmaryland>facebook.com/nationalfederationoftheblindofmaryland
>
>Stay connected with your fellow Maryland 
>federationists by joining our state email 
>listserv. This list allows you to receive 
>affiliate and national announcements, and also 
>to start and participate in discussions 
>regarding blindness and blindness issues. To 
>sign up visit nfbnet.org, click on “join or drop 
>NFB mailing lists,” and activate “NFBMD” link, 
>and follow the instructions. Many of our local 
>chapters now also have a listserv. Talk to your 
>chapter president to learn how to sign up so you 
>don’t miss important information about chapter news and events.
>
>Visit our website at nfbmd.org.  Check out our 
>blog for the President’s Messages.  We welcome 
>blogposts from all of our members.  Be sure to 
>check out the Blindness Resources link, and the 
>Know Your Rights link to keep up to date on 
>important information.  Be sure to download and 
>print “About NFBMD,” in the “About Us” tab on 
>nfbmd.org, for use at chapter outreach events.
>
>
>
>BRAILLE SPECTATOR
>
>
>
>The Braille Spectator is published for members 
>of the National Federation of the Blind of 
>Maryland and others who share an interest in the 
>work of this organization. The Braille Spectator 
>can be read on the web at nfbmd.org/newsletter 
>or can be listened to on the local channel of NFB-Newsline.
>[]
>
>STRIVE
>Lyrics by Barbara Elliott
>[]
>Sometimes people tell me blind people should be quiet and sit down
>But I say "No!" I say "No!" I say "No."
>They contend that I should be content to let others lead me around,
>But I say "No!" I say "No!" I say "No."
>Everybody needs somebody to help sometimes, but I'm in charge of me,
>CHORUS: I've gotta strive, strive, strive a little farther,
>Reach, reach, reach a little longer,
>Work, work, work a little harder,
>Hope, hope, hope a little stronger.
>Watch me, watch me, watch me.
>Nothin's gonna stop me, stop me, stop me.
>I'm spreading my wings, soaring on a dream,
>I can do anything!
>I gotta be brave even when I'm afraid to do hard things.
>I'll tell myself "Go!" I'll just go, I will go.
>I'm not a fool; I need training and tools to live out my dreams.
>So I'll say "Go!" I'll just go, I will go.
>I'm not a passenger in my life. I'm gonna take control and drive.
>Chorus
>
>
>Live the Life You Want with the KNFB Reader
>
>
>
>Fast, Accurate, Efficient
>With the KNFB Reader, you can read such printed 
>items as credit card receipts, packaging labels, 
>mail, product information, computer screens, and 
>of course books and documents.  Take a photo and 
>the app reads the text aloud or publishes it in 
>Braille if you have refreshable Braille display.
>Learn more and purchase KNFB Reader for iPhone, 
>Android, and Windows 10 devices at http://www.knfbreader.com
>
>
>
>
>EXPANDING OUR PROMINANCE IN MARYLAND
>
>
>
>
>[]
>
>Image: NFBMD engaged in legislative advocacy in 
>Annapolis with Delegate Mosby fighting for 
>desegregated voting based on disability
>[]
>
>Image: Participants dressed in costume for the 
>NFB Meet the Blind Month Wizarding Weekend on Main in Old Ellicott City
>
>
>2019 NFB BELL GLENN DALE
>
>
>
>[]
>
>Image: NFB BELL Academy participants singing our original BELL song
>
>
>
>
>2019 NFB BELL BALTIMORE
>
>
>
>
>
>[]
>
>Image: President Riccobono reading with NFB BELL Academy participants
>
>
>
>
>
>2019 NFB BELL SALISBURY
>
>
>
>
>
>[]
>
>Image: BELL participants picked peaches and 
>later assembled peach baskets for blind seniors
>
>
>
>
>CONVENTION AGENDA
>
>
>
>
>
>FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8
>
>
>
>8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.­FUN WITH FRIENDS CHILDCARE
>Pratt Room
>Anna Givens, Childcare and Youth Coordinator; Arlington, Virginia
>
>8 a.m. - 5 p.m.­ANNUAL CONFERENCE FOR PARENTS 
>AND TEACHERS OF BLIND CHILDREN: MARYLAND PARENTS OF BLIND CHILDREN
>Carroll Room
>What are the skills and tools blind students 
>need in school and to live the lives they want? 
>How do you make sure school services are 
>appropriately addressing their needs? What can 
>you do to support them at home? Learn about the 
>benefits of summer programs and how to help your 
>child with other blindness skills. These are 
>only some of the topics to be discussed at this 
>seminar. Featured speakers at this seminar will 
>be Jackie Anderson, a long time teacher of blind 
>students, blind parent, and originator of the 
>concept for the NFB BELL Academy and Carla 
>McQuillan, the owner operator of a Montessori 
>preschool program and a blind parent. Melissa 
>Riccobono, president, Maryland Parents of Blind 
>Children Division; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>8 - 8:45 a.m.­REGISTRATION
>See Parent Agenda for more information.
>
>9 a.m. - 5 p.m.­TEEN/TWEEN ACTIVITIES
>Hopkins Room
>Anna Givens, Coordinator, Child and Youth Coordinator; Arlington, Virginia
>
>9:30 - 10:30 a.m.­RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE MEETING
>International Ballroom A
>Everyone is encouraged to attend!
>Jesse Hartle, Chairman; Lutherville, Maryland
>
>9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.­NFBMD AUDIO QUILT PROJECT
>Fayette Room
>We are bringing our theme of “Celebrating Our 
>Story, Defining Our Future” to life by asking 
>federationists to visit the NFBMD Recording 
>Studio to record a message that will be woven 
>into an audio quilt. Please drop into the studio 
>when you have a few moments. Please be prepared 
>to provide the following information:
>-         Your name;
>-         year you joined the federation;
>-         name of person who brought you into the federation; and
>
>-         the one activity, program, or event 
>that the federation did since you joined that 
>has most impacted you (This must be one sentence or less).
>Steve Sawczyn, chief audio quilter and sound engineer, Minneapolis, Minnesota
>
>10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.­NFBMD BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING (Open to All)
>International Ballroom D and F
>
>10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.­NATIONAL CERTIFICATION IN 
>UNIFIED ENGLISH BRAILLE (NCEUB) EXAMINATION (Advanced registration is required)
>Peale Room
>This nationally recognized exam will be a 
>requirement for all TVIs seeking certification 
>in the state of Maryland starting October 1, 
>2020. More information, as well as registration 
>forms are available at: 
>sites.google.com/view/tviportalmaryland/ncueb-testing. 
>Deadline to register is October 25, 2019. 
>Conchita Hernandez, proctor and Maryland 
>statewide low incidence specialist (blind and 
>low vision), Maryland Department of Education; Washington, DC
>
>
>11 a.m. - 5 p.m.­EXHIBITS
>
>International Ballroom E and Promenade Foyer
>
>Check out the latest offerings from a variety of 
>companies and organizations that provide 
>technology and services for the blind. Anil 
>Lewis, sponsorship and exhibits coordinator and 
>second vice president, National Federation of 
>the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>11:30 a.m.­BOXED LUNCH DISTRIBUTION
>Promenade Foyer: Those not attending Parent and Teacher Conference
>Carroll Foyer: Those attending Parent and Teacher Conference
>*You paid for a boxed lunch at pre-registration.
>
>12 - 1 p.m.­FIRST TIME CONVENTION ATTENDEES ORIENTATION
>International D
>This meeting is for first-time attendees to the 
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland 
>Convention. Come to get oriented to the 
>activities that will take place throughout the 
>weekend. Get all of your questions answered.
>Judy Rasmussen, ambassador committee chairman 
>and secretary, National Federation of the Blind 
>of Maryland; Kensington, Maryland
>
>1 p.m.­NFBMD TOURS DEPART
>International B
>Those who are going on the NFBMD Tours will beet 
>and depart from this room. All participants must 
>pay $10 per person prior to being permitted to participate in a tour.
>Tour A: Ravens Stadium at M&T Field
>Tour B: The Every Man Theater – Behind the Scenes
>Ellen Ringlein, travel agent and president, 
>Greater Baltimore Chapter; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>1 - 2:30 p.m.­NFBMD TOWN HALL
>International Ballroom DF
>Come discuss what you feel would make our 
>affiliate more effective. How can we better 
>advance our mission for the blind of Maryland 
>and the nation? What programs work, and what 
>programs do not? This gathering will provide an 
>opportunity for open discussion about how to 
>shape the National Federation of the Blind of 
>Maryland moving forward. Mark Riccobono, 
>facilitator; president, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>1 - 2:30 p.m.­STORY SOURCE: WHERE TO GET THEM AND HOW TO PLAY THEM!
>International Ballroom A
>There are many ways to find excellent books to 
>read. This workshop examines the various sources 
>for finding books and stories for the blind and 
>with what blindness related technologies those 
>services are compatible. Sharon Maneki, 
>coordinator; president, Friends of the Maryland 
>Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped 
>and board member, National Federation of the 
>Blind of Maryland; Columbia, Maryland
>
>2 - 6 p.m.­CONVENTION REGISTRATION AND PACKET PICKUP
>Promenade foyer
>
>2:30 - 4 p.m.­OUR STORY THROUGH ORAL HISTORY
>International Ballroom A
>Our individual and collective history is a rich 
>and varied one. Come learn about how to capture 
>our stories through oral history. Lou Ann Blake, 
>deputy executive director of Blindness 
>Initiatives, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>2:30 - 4 p.m.­JOB HUNTING: TELLING OUR STORIES 
>IN RESUMES AND THROUGH INTERVIEWS
>International Ballroom C
>Our resumes tell prospective employers our work 
>and academic stories. Ever wonder how to make 
>your resume stand out? Ever wonder what 
>interview techniques would make you more 
>memorable so that those prospective employers 
>would want to hire you? Ever wonder how to talk 
>about your blindness, or whether or not to even 
>talk about it at all? Then this is the workshop 
>for you. Eileen Rivera Ley, treasurer, TLC 
>Chapter; Baltimore, Maryland; Millie Rivera, 
>NFBMD scholarship chairman, Halethorpe, 
>Maryland; Dr. Sandra Rivera, economist, U.S. 
>International Trade Commission; Washington, DC
>
>4 - 6 p.m.­LET’S PLAY BINGO AND WIN PRIZES!
>International Ballroom DF
>Sponsored by Blind Industries and Services of 
>Maryland. Everyone is invited to attend!, 
>Heather Guy, bingo coordinator, BISM staff 
>member, and president, Eastern Shore Chapter; Salisbury, Maryland
>
>4 - 5 p.m.­DEAF-BLIND AND HEARING LOSS ISSUES COMMITTEE MEETING
>Douglass Room
>Share strategies and ideas to maintain 
>independence. Anyone interested is invited to 
>attend. Janice Toothman, chairman; Bowie, Maryland
>
>4 - 6:30 p.m.­STUDENT WORKSHOP
>Poe Room
>Come learn about matters of interest to students 
>including how to self-advocate in school, with 
>potential employers, and in the world. Learn 
>what resources are available for students. 
>Ellana Crew, president, Maryland Association of 
>Blind Students; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>5 - 6 p.m.­PROTECTING THE RIGHTS OF GUIDE DOG USERS
>Douglass Room
>Share strategies and ideas on how to ensure that 
>the rights of guide dog users are protected. 
>Ashley Alvey, co-chairman; Baltimore Maryland; 
>Janice Toothman, co-chairmen; Bowie, Maryland
>
>5 - 6 p.m.­BLIND PARENTS MEETING
>Peale Room
>Share tips and tricks on how to parent using 
>non-visual techniques. Network with other blind 
>parents and caregivers. Melissa Riccobono, chairman; Baltimore Maryland
>
>5 - 9 p.m.­MARYLAND ASSOCIATION OF BLIND 
>MERCHANTS SYMPOSIUM AND NETWORKING MIXER
>Mencken Room
>Come learn about matters of interest to blind 
>merchants and those in the Business Enterprise Program.
>5 - 7 p.m.­Symposium
>7 - 9 p.m.­Networking Mixer
>Melba Taylor, president
>
>5:30 - 8 p.m.­PARENT AND FAMILIES NETWORKING DINNER
>Carroll Room
>Participants of the Parent and Teacher Seminar 
>and those with school-aged children are invited 
>to a casual pizza party. This is an opportunity 
>for families to chat and get to know one 
>another. Melissa Riccobono, president, Maryland 
>Parents of Blind Children; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>6:30 - 8:30 p.m.­PICNIC AND A PLAY
>International Ballroom ABC
>The Braille is Beautiful players will perform 
>Rudolph the Nasally Impaired Reindeer, an 
>original play written by Debbie Brown.
>Debbie Brown, play author and director; first 
>vice president, National Federation of the Blind 
>of Maryland; Rockville, Maryland
>
>6:30 p.m.­NFB BELL ACADEMY REUNION
>Peale Room
>
>8:30 - 11:30 p.m.­NFBMD FAMILY GAMES NIGHT
>International Ballroom DF
>This gameshow style evening promises to be fun 
>for all ages. Enjoy snacks and fellowship. 
>Gameshow Host: Melissa Riccobono, board member, 
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9
>
>
>
>7 - 8:15 a.m.­IEP WORKSHOP
>Carroll Room
>Learn about the new requirements that the State 
>of Maryland has added to IEPs from an 
>expert.  Continental breakfast will be 
>available. Conchita Hernandez, Maryland 
>statewide low incidence specialist (blind and 
>low vision), Maryland State Department of Education; Washington, DC
>
>7 - 8:15 a.m.­MARYLAND ASSOCIATION OF BLIND STUDENTS ANNUAL MEETING
>Poe Room
>The Maryland Association of Blind Students will 
>hold its annual business meeting, including 
>planning future workshops and events and holding 
>elections. Continental breakfast will be 
>available. Ellana Crew, president; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>7 - 8:15 a.m.­AT-LARGE CHAPTER MEETING
>Mencken Room
>The At-Large Chapter will meet face-to-face. 
>Continental breakfast will be 
>available.  Marguerite Woods, president; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>8 - 8:25 a.m.­CONVENTION REGISTRATION AND PACKET PICKUP
>Promenade foyer
>
>8 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.­FUN WITH FRIENDS CHILDCARE
>Pratt Room
>Anna Givens, coordinator; Arlington, Virginia
>
>8 a.m. - 3 p.m.­FBMD AUDIO QUILT PROJECT
>Fayette Room
>We are bringing our theme of “Celebrating Our 
>Story, Defining Our Future” to life by asking 
>federationists to visit the NFBMD Recording 
>Studio to record a message that will be woven 
>into an audio quilt. Please drop into the studio 
>when you have a few moments. Please be prepared 
>to provide the following information:
>-         Your name;
>-         year you joined the Federation;
>-         name of person who brought you into the federation; and
>
>-         the one activity, program, or event 
>that the federation did since you joined that 
>has most impacted you (This must be one sentence or less).
>Steve Sawczyn, chief audio quilter and sound engineer, Minneapolis, Minnesota
>
>8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.­TEEN/TWEEN ACTIVITIES
>Hopkins Room
>Anna Givens, coordinator, child and youth coordinator; Arlington, Virginia
>
>
>
>SATURDAY MORNING SESSION
>
>
>
>
>
>All general sessions will be held in International Ballroom ABC
>
>
>
>
>8:30 a.m.­CALL TO ORDER, OPENING CEREMONIES, AND INVOCATION
>
>8:45 a.m.­GET MEMBORIZED: NFB MEMBERSHIP CEREMONY
>Dezman Jackson, membership chair, National 
>Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>9:05 a.m.­BALTIMORE CITY WELCOME
>Bernard C. “Jack” Young, mayor, city of Baltimore; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>9:15 a.m.­GREETINGS FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT
>Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation 
>of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
>ENSURING OUR FUTURE BY SUPPORTING OUR NATIONAL 
>FUNDS: WHITE CANE, SUN, KENNETH JERNIGAN, AND JACOBUS TENBROEK
>Dr. Marc Maurer, immediate past president, 
>National Federation of the Blind; Catonsville, Maryland
>GET ON THE PAC PLAN
>John Paré, executive director of advocacy and 
>policy, National Federation of the Blind, 
>Maryland PAC Plan chairman; Baltimore, Maryland
>GOLD CUP CRAB RACE
>Rose Warner, ticket agent; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>9:40 a.m.­A GLIMPSE INTO OUR NATIONAL STORY: A REPORT FROM OUR NATIONAL OFFICE
>Carla McQuillan, member, Board of Directors, 
>National Federation of the Blind; president, NFB of Oregon, Portland, Oregon
>
>10:10 a.m.­DEFINING OUR FUTURE: TRAINING, 
>REHABILITATION, AND SERVING THE PUBLIC
>Fred Puente, president, Blind Industries and 
>Services of Maryland; Salisbury, Maryland
>
>10:20 a.m.­TRANSPORTATION IN MARYLAND AND 
>BEYOND: OUR FIGHT TO MAINTAIN OUR RIGHT TO TRAVEL INDEPENDENTLY
>Kevin Quinn, administrator, Maryland Transit 
>Administration; Baltimore, Maryland
>Maurice Peret, board member, National Federation 
>of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>Sara Gayton, shared space coordinator, National 
>Federation of the Blind of the UK; London, England
>
>10:50 a.m.­QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION
>
>11 a.m.­OUR STORY: THE HISTORY OF THE MARYLAND AFFILIATE
>Dr. Marc Maurer, immediate past president, 
>National Federation of the Blind; Catonsville, Maryland
>
>11:10 a.m.­FEDERAL WELCOME
>Senator Benjamin Cardin, United States Senate; Maryland
>
>11:25 a.m.­THE STORY OF US: LEADERSHIP GROUND IN A SHARED FUTURE
>Mark Riccobono, president, National Federation 
>of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>11:35 a.m.­OUR STORY, OUR DISTRICT
>Senator Bill Ferguson, District 46, Maryland State Senate; Annapolis, Maryland
>
>11:50 a.m.­QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION
>
>NOON­ADJOURN
>
>12 - 12:15 p.m.­CONVENTION REGISTRATION AND PACKET PICK-UP
>Promenade Foyer
>
>12 - 1:45 p.m.­LUNCHEON: THE EDUCATION OF BLIND AND LOW VISION STUDENTS
>Carroll Room
>For parents, teachers of the blind, and those 
>interested in matters concerning blind 
>students.  Sponsored by Brown, Goldstein and 
>Levy. Melissa Riccobono, president, Maryland 
>Parents of Blind Children’s Division, National 
>Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>12 - 1:45 p.m.­LUNCHEON: RECLAIMING INDEPENDENCE AFTER VISION LOSS
>International Ballroom DF
>For seniors and others facing vision loss. 
>Sponsored by Vanda Pharmaceuticals. Ruth Sager, 
>president, Maryland Senior Issues Division, 
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>1:20 - 2 p.m.­BANQUET TICKET EXCHANGE
>Promenade Foyer
>
>
>
>SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSION
>
>
>
>2 p.m.­CALL TO ORDER
>
>2:05 p.m.­CELEBRATING OUR STORIES, DEFINING OUR FUTURE
>Ronza Othman, president, National Federation of 
>the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>2:40 p.m.­DELEGATE WELCOME
>Delegate Robbyn Lewis, District 46, Maryland 
>House of Delegates; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>2:50 p.m.­PARTNERING WITH COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS FOR A BETTER FUTURE
>Tony Stevens, executive director, Downtown 
>Baltimore Family Alliance; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>3 p.m.­ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SERVICES FOR THE BLIND
>A statewide approach for inclusion and equal access for the blind
>Carol Beatty, secretary, Maryland Department of 
>Disability; Baltimore, Maryland
>Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Tomorrow
>Toni March, director, Office of Blindness and 
>Vision Services, Maryland Division of 
>Rehabilitation Services (DORS), Baltimore; Maryland
>One Team
>W. Robert Hair, superintendent, Maryland School 
>for the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
>Our Library, Our Story, Our Future
>John Owen, director, Maryland State Library for 
>the Blind and Physically Handicapped; Baltimore, Maryland
>3:40 p.m.­QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION
>
>3:50 p.m.­PAYING IT FORWARD: CAREER MENTORING
>Anil Lewis, executive director of blindness 
>initiatives, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>4 p.m.­WRITING OUR OWN HAPPY ENDING: 
>DESEGREGATING VOTING BASED ON DISABILITY IN MARYLAND
>Moderator: Sharon Maneki, director of 
>legislation and advocacy, National Federation of 
>the Blind of Maryland; Columbia, Maryland
>Senator Clarence Lam, Maryland State Senate; Annapolis, Maryland
>Delegate Nick Mosby, Maryland House of Delegates; Baltimore, Maryland
>Lou Ann Blake, deputy executive director of 
>blindness initiatives, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
>Jessica Weber, attorney, Brown, Goldstein & Levy; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>4:40 p.m.­QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION
>
>4:50 p.m.­REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
>
>5 p.m.­ADJOURN
>
>6 p.m.­RECEPTION AND CASH BAR
>Promenade Foyer
>
>6:30 - 10 p.m. (or 15 minutes after the banquet 
>ends, whichever is earlier)­FUN WITH FRIENDS CHILDCARE
>Pratt Room
>Anna Givens, coordinator
>
>
>7 p.m.­53RD ANNUAL CONVENTION BANQUET
>
>
>
>International Ballroom ABCDF
>Master of Ceremonies: Mark Riccobono, president, 
>National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
>Keynote Banquet Address: Carla McQuillan, 
>member, Board of Directors, National Federation 
>of the Blind; president, NFB of Oregon, Portland, Oregon
>Scholarships and Awards.
>
>Immediately after the banquet­MARYLAND GOLD CUP CRAB RACE
>Race Callers: Ronza Othman and Rose Warner
>
>
>SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10
>
>
>
>7:30 - 8:30 a.m.­MARYLAND PARENTS OF BLIND CHILDREN BOARD MEETING
>Carroll Room
>Melissa Riccobono, president; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>7:30 - 9 a.m.­LUGGAGE COLLECTION (for bus passengers only)
>Hopkins Room
>
>8 - 8:30 a.m.­NONSECTARIAN DEVOTIONS
>International Ballroom ABC
>Lloyd and Judy Rasmussen, Sligo Creek Chapter, 
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Kensington, Maryland
>
>8:30 - 8:50 a.m.­NFB BELL ACADEMY PARTICIPANTS FINAL REHERSAL
>Poe Room
>
>8:30 - 8:50 a.m.­CONVENTION REGISTRATION AND PACKET PICK-UP
>Promenade Foyer
>
>SUNDAY MORNING SESSION
>9 a.m.­CALL TO ORDER AND INVOCATION
>
>9:05 a.m.­THE STORY OF HEROES: RECOGNIZING OUR VETERANS
>Ed Jackson, board member, Greater Baltimore 
>Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind 
>of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>9:15 a.m.­INTERTWINING OUR STORIES: WELCOME FROM A DELEGATE
>Delegate Brooke Lierman, District 46, Maryland 
>House of Delegates; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>9:25 a.m.­WRITING OUR OWN STORIES: THE NFB BELL ACADEMY
>Student presentations and introduction of volunteers
>Melissa Riccobono, NFB BELL academy coordinator 
>for Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>9:45 a.m.­THE STORY OF WHAT I DID OVER SUMMER BREAK
>Moderator: Karen Anderson, first vice president, 
>Greater Baltimore Chapter, National Federation 
>of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>Garrett Mooney, treasurer, Maryland Association 
>of Blind Students; Baltimore, Maryland
>Qualik Ford, board member, Maryland Association 
>of Blind Students, National Federation of the 
>Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>Ellana Crew, president, Maryland Association of 
>Blind Students, National Federation of the Blind 
>of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
>
>10:15 a.m.­QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION
>
>10:25 a.m.­ADVOCACY: MANY STORIES COMPRISE OUR STORY
>Sharon Maneki, director of legislation and 
>advocacy and board member, National Federation 
>of the Blind of Maryland; Columbia, Maryland
>
>10:40 a.m.­OUR STORY THROUGH POETRY: THE BLIND POET
>Dave Steele; London, England
>
>10:55 a.m.­AFFILIATE ELECTIONS
>
>11:20 a.m.­RESOLUTIONS AND BUSINESS MEETING
>
>NOON­ADJOURN
>
>
>
>A CLOSING MESSAGE
>
>
>
>On behalf of the officers and Board of 
>Directors, I’d like to take this opportunity to 
>thank all federationists and friends for your 
>generous monetary donations and gifts of goods 
>and services. We had a very successful year and 
>an outstanding convention because of your help!
>  Ronza Othman, President
>
>
>
>Free Aira Site Access at National Federation of the Blind
>of Maryland Convention
>The National Federation of the Blind partnered 
>with Aira to provide free Aira Site Access to 
>NFB members during our 2019 state convention. 
>Aira subscribers who are National Federation of 
>the Blind members can use the service at our 
>convention for free, without having minutes 
>deducted from their plans. In addition, those 
>interested in Aira have the unique opportunity 
>to try out the service for free while at our 
>convention. Aira may be used at the Crown Plaza 
>Downtown Baltimore Inner Harbor.
>
>Aira allows blind individuals to connect via 
>live video to a trained agent through a mobile 
>app or wearable glasses to get real-time visual 
>information or assistance. Learn more about Aira 
>and special pricing available for NFB members at go.aira.io/NFB.
>
>
>
>How it Works
>
>
>
>Before you head to convention or as soon as you 
>get there, download the free Aira app from the 
>App Store, and create a guest account if you are 
>not already an Aira subscriber. Also, make sure 
>your phone’s GPS feature is enabled. When you 
>enter the convention site access location, your 
>phone will receive a notification letting you 
>know that the space you are in is part of the 
>Aira network. When you connect with an agent, 
>he/she also will confirm that you are now 
>covered by the network, and no minutes will be deducted from your account.
>
>When you leave or enter convention areas that 
>are covered by the site access network, you will be informed by the Aira agent.
>To learn more about Aira and the special plans 
>available exclusively to NFB members, visit go.aira.io/NFB.
>[]
>[]
>
>
>
>[]
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>BRAILLE IS BEAUTIFUL
>
>
>
>
>
>Na na na-na na na, na na na-na nah.
>Na na na na nah, na na na-na nah.
>
>Chorus:
>Go on and live your life,
>Don't need a bit of sight.
>In the end you'll find
>Braille is beautiful.
>Put your fingers on the page.
>Tell your friends it's all the rage.
>It's all gonna be OK, yeah
>Braille is beautiful!
>
>Na na na na na na, Na na na-na nah Braille is beautiful!
>Na na na-na nah, Na na na-na nah.
>
>Verse
>Louis Braille was his name. Slate 'n' stylus was his game.
>They tried to stop him, but we adopted the code that paved the way.
>
>Chorus
>
>Na na na na na na, Na na na-na nah Braille is beautiful!
>Na na na-na nah, Na na na-na nah.
>Na na na-na nah, Na na na-na nah.
>
>BRAILLE IS BEAUTIFUL!
>
>
>
>
>2019 NFBMD EXHIBITORS
>
>
>
>The following is a list of organizations that 
>will be participating in the 2019 NFBMD Exhibit 
>Hall.  Check NFBMD.org for updates and additions to this list.
>
>·        Vanda Pharmaceuticals
>·        Election Systems & Software (ES&S)
>·        Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
>·        Maryland Technology Assistance Program
>·        Sprint Accessibility
>·        Visit Baltimore
>·        Aira
>·        AT Guys
>·        Bureau of Engraving and Printing
>·        Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
>·        Dave Steele, the Blind Poet
>·        Integration Technologies Group
>·        JW.org
>·        Low Vision Specialists of Maryland and Virginia
>·        Maryland ABLE
>·        Maryland Department of Disabilities, Assistive Technology Program
>·        Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)
>·        Maryland Relay / Telecommunications Access of MD
>·        NFBMD National Harbor Chapter
>·        NFBMD Seniors Division
>·        National Security Agency (NSA)
>·        Paparazzi Accessories (jewelry)
>·        Rare Patient Voice
>·        Sheria Young
>·        Sound Pro
>
>·        The Image Center of Maryland
>
>
>
>Ronza Othman, President
>National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
>443-426-4110
>
>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.
>
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