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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">October 2020 Minute Message </a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Fellow Federationists:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;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='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>As the leaves change color, Halloween decorations adorn front yards, and the weather begins to cool, we in the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland remain active as ever. Our 54th Annual State Convention is just around the corner, and the Board and Host Committee are making final preparations. Our chapters are out in the community holding Meet the Blind Month activities, and we have received numerous White Cane Awareness Month proclamations in Maryland. We continue working hard on our advocacy efforts and initiatives to make sure that blind Marylanders have equal access to education, employment, information, transportation, and the community. Please read below for information about important happenings around the affiliate. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Rise Up: The State Convention is Coming!</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'>You will not want to miss the state convention which takes place on November 6-8, 2020. This year’s virtual convention will take place anywhere and everywhere. </span><span style='color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'>This year, our National Representative will be Pam Allen, President of the National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana, Chairman and First Vice President of the National Federation of the Blind Board of Directors, and Executive Director of the Louisiana Center for the Blind. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'>Convention Late registration is open now. Visit </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/convention"><span style='color:black'>http://nfbmd.org/convention</span></a><span class=MsoHyperlink><span style='color:black'> to register and for the most up-to-date information about the convention</span></span><span style='color:black'>. Late registration after October 16, 2020 is $25 per adult and free for kids. Those who register after October 16, 2020 will not be eligible for door prizes, voting, and other convention aspects requiring access to systems and platforms other than Zoom. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;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='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Please plan to join us anywhere and everywhere for our annual convention.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Seeking Auction Donations</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p><span lang=EN style='color:black'>We are seeking donations for the NFBMD auction. Given the virtual nature of the convention, we are only accepting donations of experiences and commitments to provide baked goods. Some examples of experiences include taking the winner to dinner, giving cooking lessons, etc. We are asking for donation commitments prior to November 3, 2020. Please notify Convention Host Committee Chairman Scott White of your donation via email at </span><a href="mailto:Swhite@nfb.org"><span lang=EN style='color:black'>Swhite@nfb.org</span></a><span lang=EN style='color:black'> or by phone at </span><span style='color:black'>410-868-9519.</span><span lang=EN style='color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Listen Live to the NFB of Maryland 2019 State Convention Stream <o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>We will be streaming the 53<sup>rd</sup> Annual Convention of the NFB of Maryland. To listen live, visit </span><a href="http://www.nfbmd.org/node/320"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>http://www.nfbmd.org/node/320</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Social Media Information for the NFB of Maryland 2019 State Convention </span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>We will be using the hashtag #NFBMD. Please use this hashtag when posting about the NFB of Maryland 2020 Convention on Twitter or Facebook. Please send any pictures you take of Convention activities to Social Media Chairperson Karen Anderson at </span><a href="mailto:Kanderson@nfb.org"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Kanderson@nfb.org</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> or via text to 402-319-7645. Please be sure to describe any pictures you post and send to Karen.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Thank You to Our Convention Sponsors </span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>We would like to express our gratitude to the following NFB of Maryland Convention Sponsors. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Title Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>AdNet/AccountNet, Inc., Independence Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Maryland Relay, Independence Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Blind Savvy, USA, Equality Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Brown, Goldstein & Levy, Equality Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Sipbound Corporation, Equality Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Friends of the Maryland Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Opportunity Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Maryland Technology Assistance Program, Opportunity Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The Flower Barn and The Clayground Studio and Gallery, Opportunity Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The Low Vision Shop of Maryland and Virginia, Opportunity Sponsor <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>3D PhotoWorks, Freedom Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:105%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Custom Canes / You Cane Give, Freedom Sponsor<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFBMD State Convention Orientation – November 4, 2020</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>All first-time convention attendees are cordially invited to attend a </span><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>First-Timers Orientation from 8 to 9:30 p.m., on Wednesday, November 4.</span></b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> 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. Participants can access this orientation via Zoom using Meeting ID</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>: </span><a href="https://zoom.us/j/6248138327?pwd=eTZlYUgwR3ZQVVl1dXBLSHcrbml1QT09"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>624 813 8327</span></a><span class=MsoHyperlink><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>.</span></span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Accessing the 54th Annual NFBMD Convention</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The 54<sup>th</sup> Annual Convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland will be accessible via Zoom, web streaming, Smart Speaker, Newsline, and Direct Dial Conference Line. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:106%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span class=Heading3Char><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Zoom:</span></span><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> Click on the imbedded links in the agenda to launch the Zoom desktop client or mobile application. Alternatively, dial 301-715-8592 and enter the ten- or eleven-digit Conference ID listed in the agenda followed by the pound key. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:106%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span class=Heading3Char><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Web Streaming: </span></span><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Visit </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/convention/stream"><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>http://nfbmd.org/convention/stream</span></a><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:106%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span class=Heading3Char><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Smart Speaker:</span></span><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> Ask your Amazon device to launch Federation of Maryland.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:106%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span class=Heading3Char><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Newsline:</span></span><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> Find the stream on the Maryland information channel.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='text-indent:-.25in;line-height:106%;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo8'><![if !supportLists]><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Georgia",serif;color:black'><span style='mso-list:Ignore'>-<span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'> </span></span></span><![endif]><span class=Heading3Char><span style='font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Direct Dial Conference Line:</span></span><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:106%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> Call 339-209-4083.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><i><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>*Please note, the web stream, Smart Speaker, Newsline, and Direct Dial methods of access are enabled for listening only and do not permit interactive engagement. Consequently, those wishing to engage with the convention, including for the auction, door prizes, and other activities will need to do so using either the Convention Virtual Information Table or via email.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class=MsoNormal><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFBMD Convention Tours</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The Convention Host Committee is finalizing plans for virtual tours. Visit </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/convention"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFBMD.org/Convention</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> for the most up-to-date information about this year’s tours. This year, you will have two options – one will begin at 3pm and the other at 4pm Friday, November 6, 2020. Tours are free.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFBMD COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund</span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>We continue to operate an affiliate COVID-19 fund to assist individuals and families that are experiencing financial hardship during the COVID-19 crisis. This fund is available to blind individuals and families with a blind household member living in Maryland. The financial assistance must be needed due to a change in circumstance, e.g. loss of employment income, because of COVID-19 or associated government directives like the Stay-at-Home order. Assistance is limited to essentials such as groceries and medication. This Fund is being administered by the NFBMD Financial Assistance Committee. Anyone who is wishing to request assistance should contact me at </span><a href="mailto:President@nfbmd.org"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>President@nfbmd.org</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> or at 443-426-4110.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;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='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>In addition, we are seeking contributions to augment the NFBMD COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund. Those interested in making a monetary donation may do so by sending a check to NFBMD, 15 Charles Plaza, #3002, Baltimore, Maryland 21201 or by using the PayPal donation link on our website located at </span><a href="http://www.nfbmd.org/COVID-19Fund"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>http://www.nfbmd.org/COVID-19Fund</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:.2in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><a name="OLE_LINK8"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Reminder to Vote </span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;margin-left:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The National Presidential election will take place on November 3, 2020, and NFBMD urges everyone to vote. NFBMD encourages those who are able and who are not in high-risk categories to vote in person if possible. To find a list of voting locations, visit the Maryland State Board of Elections website at: </span><a href="https://elections.maryland.gov/"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>https://elections.maryland.gov/</span></a><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:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;margin-left:.25in;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:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;margin-left:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>As of May 8, 2020, Maryland no longer uses the term Absentee Voting and instead uses the phrases “Mail-in Voting” and “Mail-in Ballots.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;margin-left:.25in;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:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;margin-left:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>As a result of previous litigation that NFBMD undertook, Maryland is required to offer an accessible absentee voting system. This enables the blind to gain access to an accessible computer-based ballot using their assistive technology. The voter marks the ballot using the voter’s computer and then prints, signs, and mails in the ballot. Mail in ballots must have been requested in advance. They must be postmarked by November 3, 2020 or placed in an official drop off location/box on or before November 3, 2020.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;margin-left:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Seeking Voting Experiences </span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>We are seeking information about your experience voting in the National Election on November 3, 2020 and in early voting. We are particularly interested in in-person voting. Please answer the following questions and send an email to Ronza Othman at </span><a href="mailto:President@nfbmd.org"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>President@nfbmd.org</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>. Alternatively, call 443-426-4110 to share your in person voting experience.<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>what polling place did you use to vote?<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>What time of day did you vote?<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Were you neutrally presented with the option to vote by ballot marking device (BMD) or paper ballot?<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>If you requested to use the BMD, was it set up and working?<o:p></o:p></span></li><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=circle><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level2 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>If not, what was the problem?<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level2 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>How long did it take to resolve?<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>If you requested to use the BMD, was the poll worker able to explain to you how to use the BMD?<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>How many BMDs were there at your polling location?<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Was there a line to use the BMD(s)? <o:p></o:p></span></li><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=circle><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level2 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>If so, was it longer than any line for the hand marked paper ballots?<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>How long did the entire voting process take you?<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo9'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>Is there anything else we should know about your voting experience?<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Notice of Official Business Meeting: Constitutional Review and Convention Rules of Engagement – November 6, 2020 at 9:00AM <o:p></o:p></span></h2><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'>We will be holding an Official Business Meeting of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland during the Board of Directors Meeting at the </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/convention/2020"><span style='color:black'>NFB of Maryland state convention</span></a><span style='color:black'> at 9:00AM Friday, November 6, 2020. At that time, we will hold official readings of two documents. </span><span style='color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Proposed rules of engagement: </span></b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The first document is the </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/convention/2020/Principles-of-Engagement"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Proposed Rules of Engagement</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> for the NFBMD State Convention, which the NFBMD Board of Directors voted to use when we met in August 2020. The Convention will vote on adoption of these proposed Rules of Engagement on Saturday, November 7, 2020 in our morning Convention General Session. These proposed rules were sent via an email on Thursday, October 15, 2020.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:12.0pt;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:1.5pt;margin-left:0in;background:white'><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Proposed language to revise our NFBMD State Affiliate Constitution: </span></b><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The second document includes proposed language to revise our </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/node/173"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFBMD State Affiliate Constitution</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>. Our Constitutional Amendment Committee, which includes Chairperson Debbie Brown, Sharon Maneki, Marguerite Woods, and Dr. Marc Maurer, worked hard to modernize our Constitution and incorporate needed changes now that we have an </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/at-large-chapter"><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>At Large chapter in Maryland</span></a><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>. We most recently updated this Constitution in 1982. The Convention will vote on adoption of the proposed amended constitution on Saturday, November 7, 2020 in our morning Convention General Session. The proposed amended constitution and explanations of changes were sent via an email on Monday, October 12, 2020.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'> All documents referenced here may be viewed at </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/node/401"><span style='color:black'>http://nfbmd.org/node/401</span></a><span style='color:black'>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></h2><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>NFBMD Secures White Cane Awareness Month Proclamations Statewide <o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland has secured a proclamation commemorating White Cane Awareness Month from each of the 24 Maryland jurisdictions as well as from Governor Hogan for the entire state. This effort was only successful due to the hard work of every single chapter and division, as they contacted their local and nearby counties to procure the proclamations. Congratulations, NFBMD. Through these proclamations, we are ensuring that every Maryland jurisdiction understands and appreciates the critical role that long white canes and guide dogs play in maintaining our independence. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:.2in;margin-left:.25in;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Blind Cruising 2021 </span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland will be hosting a cruise fundraiser from September 19, 2021 to September 26, 2021. The affiliate will receive a portion of the cost of each cabin that is booked. All are welcome, including members of the NFBMD, other affiliates, families, colleagues, and friends. For additional information or to reserve your cabin, please contact </span><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>our travel agent, Cindy Kiper at kkiper@cruisesinc.com or 813-418-0647 or visit </span><a href="http://nfbmd.org/blindcruising"><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>http://nfbmd.org/blindcruising</span></a><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>. .</span><span lang=EN 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'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'> </span><span lang=EN 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'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Details are as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Ship: Carnival Pride<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Date: September 19 – September 26, 2021<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Port of Departure: Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Number of nights: 7<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Ports visited: Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; Half Moon Cay, Bahamas; and Freeport, Bahamas<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN 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'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Key Dates:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>- First deposit due: Until All Cabins Booked or December 31, 2020 (whichever is earlier) = $25 per person<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>- Second deposit due: April 15, 2021 - $250 per person plus full names of sailors<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>- Final payment due: June 1, 2021<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN 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'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Types and prices of cabins (this is a per person price based on double occupancy and includes cabin fee, port charges, and taxes); we have a limited number of cabins, so prices may change once our block is filled.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>- Balcony cabin (extended balcony) = $958.64 per person<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>- Balcony cabin (standard balcony) = from $935.64 to $946.64 per person<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>- interior cabin = From $727.64 to $737.64 per person<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>- if anyone needs an Ocean View or triple or quad cabin, they should let us know.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Note: Cabin types are going first come first serve, so please email to inquire about availability.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto'><span lang=EN 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'><span lang=EN style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>We hope you will join us in 2021 on this incredible trip.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Washington Seminar and NFBMD Day in Annapolis Go Virtual<o:p></o:p></span></h2><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'>As a result of the restrictions imposed by the Federal and State legislatures in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Washington Seminar and NFBMD Day in Annapolis will be held virtually. We are beginning to prepare for both legislative advocacy efforts, and we believe that virtual legislative advocacy creates unique and new opportunities to educate our state and Federal representatives. </span><span style='color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'>Washington Seminar: The Great Gathering In will take place virtually on February 8, 2021. Rather than having a single Day on the Hill for Maryland, we will have a Week on the Hill from February 9 through 11. We hope to have constituent participation from each Congressional district as we meet with the respective representatives. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'>Week In Annapolis: Rather than having a single day where we meet with all 47 state senators and 141 delegates, we will hold the NFBMD Week in Annapolis from January 19 – 22, 2021. We hope to have constituents present from each district when we meet with the respective delegates and senators.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style='background:white'><span style='color:black'>We will share more information in the coming weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'>Important Upcoming Dates </span><span style='font-size:12.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><ul type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo7;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>November 6-8, 2020 – Annual State Convention, Everywhere<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo7;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>January 19 - 22, 2021 – NFBMD Week in Annapolis<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo7;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>February 6, 2021 – Regional Braille Challenge, Maryland School for the Blind<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo7;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>February 8, 2021 – Washington Seminar Great Gathering In<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo7;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>February 9 - 11, 2021 – Maryland Week on the Hill<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo7;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>March 12, 2021 – 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:l1 level1 lfo7;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>July 6 – 11, 2021 – NFB National Convention, New Orleans, Louisiana<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo7;background:white'><span style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif'>August 7, 2021 – NFBMD Crab Feast, Parkville, Maryland<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal style='mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;margin-left:.25in;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><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></div></body></html>