[nfb-talk] National Federation of the Blind Convention Agenda:
Kenneth Chrane
kenneth.chrane at verizon.net
Sat May 23 13:35:57 UTC 2009
2009 ANNUAL CONVENTION
DETROIT, MICHIGAN
JULY 3 to JULY 8
THE MEMBERS OF THE
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MICHIGAN
WELCOME YOU TO THE
69th ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND
Marc Maurer, President
National Federation of the Blind
1800 Johnson Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21230
Mary Ellen Jernigan
Executive Director for Operations and
Chairwoman, Convention Organization and Activities
Fred Wurtzel, President
National Federation of the Blind of Michigan
1212 North Foster Avenue
Lansing, Michigan 48912-3309
Detroit Marriott® at the Renaissance Center
Renaissance Center
(313) 568-8000
Courtyard by Marriott®
333 E. Jefferson Avenue
(313) 222-7700
DETROIT MARRIOTT
The 69th annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind
is being held in Michigan at the Detroit Marriott® at the Renaissance
Center. As usual, our hotel rates are very good: singles and doubles $62,
triples $66, and quads $68. In addition to the room rates, there is a 15
percent sales tax. There is no charge for children under eighteen in the
room with parents as long as no extra bed is required. Proof of convention
registration is necessary, including the showing of an NFB registration
badge if requested. Otherwise, regular hotel rates must be paid.
The Detroit Marriott is a seventy-two story round hotel in the
middle of a larger complex of buildings known as the Renaissance Center.
The lowest level is the Motor Lobby where people arriving by taxis and
automobiles enter the hotel. There are bellmen at this entrance and
elevators going directly to the main lobby of the hotel, which is located on
Level Three. All hotel meeting rooms, ballrooms, and the exhibit hall are
on Levels Three, Four, and Five. A bank of twelve elevators is located in
the center of the hotel in a corridor oriented along the east-west axis of
the building. The first six elevators at the west end of the corridor
(three on each side) serve floors three through forty. The next six
elevators (three on each side) serve floors three, four, five, and forty
through seventy. Just beyond each end of the elevator corridor a set of
escalators serves Levels Three, Four, and Five. To reach the main hotel
lobby you should leave the elevator corridor heading west. The hotel
restaurant (Forty-two Degrees North) and Volt (a bar which also serves an
extensive array of food) can be entered from the main lobby. Many other
food outlets including a large food court are located on Levels A, One, and
Two in the Renaissance Center complex. The easiest way to exit the hotel
proper into other parts of the Renaissance Center Complex is to use an
escalator located near the Coach Insignia Restaurant elevator at the south
end of Level Three of the hotel. The Detroit Marriott has a smoke-free
policy.
COURTYARD MARRIOTT
The Courtyard Marriott is connected to Level Two of the Renaissance Center
Complex by an enclosed overhead walkway. It may also be reached by leaving
the Renaissance Center at Level One through the Jefferson Lobby. We are
using both sleeping rooms and meeting space in the Courtyard Marriott.
"MOTOR CITY" MARCH FOR INDEPENDENCE:
SUPPORTING OUR IMAGINATION FUND CAMPAIGN
On Monday, July 6, we open the convention with our spectacular third March
for Independence. Marching through downtown Detroit, we will celebrate our
liberty among friends, family members, and supporters. Please gather for
this fundraising and "friend-raising" walk-a-thon and rally at 6:45 Monday
morning in the Wintergarden on Level A of the Detroit Marriott. Most of the
route is along the beautiful RiverWalk promenade and culminates with a rally
in Rivard Plaza. Marcher drop-in briefing sessions are on Sunday, July 5,
from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. Let's walk together to make the Motor City March a
truly magnificent event.
NFB OF MICHIGAN HOSPITALITY DANCE!
Our host affiliate invites you to celebrate with them by renewing old
friendships and/or forming new ones on Monday, July 6, at 7:00 pm in the
Ambassador Ballroom, Level 3. Entertainment by "Nine," a nine-piece band
that will perform Motown, soul, classic rock, pop, and old
standardsguaranteed to create an exciting atmosphere and stir pleasant
memories.
ROOKIE ROUNDUP
All first-time convention attendees are cordially invited to
attend a reception from 8:00 to 10:00 pm on Friday, July 3, in the
Ambassador Ballroom One, Level 3. President Maurer and other Federation
leaders will be on hand to welcome you to the convention and preview the
week's activities. Veteran conventioneers should urge all first-timers to
attend this special event. Also, first-time rookies are invited to join an
informal, fun gathering on Sunday, July 5, from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm in the
Affiliate Action Suite 6801.
REGISTRATION & PREREGISTRATION
Registration activities take place in the Renaissance Foyer, Level
4 beginning at 9:00 am on Saturday, July 4; at 8:30 am on Sunday, July 5;
and at other times as listed throughout the week. The fee for registration
at convention is $20 per person (if you preregistered before May 31, the fee
was $15), and all those attending the convention (both local and out of town
people) are asked to register. 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 NFB registration badge if requested. Therefore, please
register as soon as possible after arrival.
EXHIBITS AND NFB INDEPENDENCE MARKET
Exhibits and the NFB Independence Market are located in the Ontario Exhibit
Hall, Level 3. The exhibit hall hours are:
Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Monday Noon to 1:45 pm; sponsors only from 7:00-10:00 pm
Tuesday Noon to 1:45 pmNote: This is the final time that
Independence Market and Literature will be
open.
Tuesday 7:00 to 10:00 pmExhibit Hall only; Independence
Market and Literature closed)
There is a special event for sponsor-level exhibitors only on Monday, July
6, from 7:00 to 10:00 pm (see "Special Attention" section and agenda listing
for more information). Sign up for NFB-NEWSLINE® at the NEWSLINE table,
check the agenda for times to visit Room 6401 to learn about it, or call
local number (313) 483-1147 to use NEWSLINE at convention. Any alterations
in the general session schedule which may occur during the convention will
result in conforming shifts in the exhibit schedule and will be announced in
the exhibit areas. A number of affiliated NFB divisions and committees have
tables. Many new electronic devices are demonstrated, as well as a special
exhibit of materials and resources for the deaf-blind.
MEETINGS
General sessions of the convention are being held in the
Renaissance Ballroom, Level 4 on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The morning
sessions convene at 9:30 am on Monday, and 9:00 am on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The convention adjourns promptly at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, July 8. Please
note that all requests for announcements by Dr. Maurer during general
sessions must be submitted in Braille.
BANQUET AND BANQUET TICKET EXCHANGE
The banquet is being held in the Renaissance Ballroom, Level 4 at
7:00 pm, Wednesday, July 8. Banquet tickets purchased at convention are
$40.00 (the cost was $35 if purchased before May 31) and are on sale during
registration on Saturday and Sunday, and from noon to 12:30 and 1:30 to 2:00
pm on Monday. No banquet tickets will be available for purchase after
Monday.
It will be necessary to have your banquet ticket with you to
attend the banquet; it will be collected at the banquet table. Arrangements
should be made for reserved table assignments by taking the ticket(s) you
purchase to the Banquet Exchange Table in the registration area, where you
may exchange either an individual ticket or a group of tickets for reserved
seating. Banquet tables seat ten people.
RELIGIOUS SERVICES AND DEVOTIONS
On Sunday, July 5, Fr. Gregory Paul, C.P., will celebrate a Roman
Catholic Mass at 7:15 am in Ambassador Ballroom One, Level 3.
Also on Sunday at 11:45 am services for the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints will be held in Ambassador Ballroom One, Level 3.
Devotional services will be held in Ambassador Ballroom One, Level
3, at 7:30 am on Tuesday, and 8:00 am on Wednesday. Please note there is no
service on Monday morning. Services are nonsectarian and will end at least
fifteen minutes prior to morning convention sessions.
knfbReader MOBILE
THE CELL PHONE THAT READS PRINT
With the power of digital photography and unique cell phone software,
reading print on the go wherever you are is now possible for blind people.
Come and learn about this fabulous, life-changing technology in the exhibit
hall and at demonstration and training sessions planned in the afternoon on
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and in the evening on Tuesday. Go totally
mobile and join the reading revolution today!
SPECIAL ATTENTION IS CALLED
TO THE FOLLOWING ITEMS
. A Federation Information Desk will be in the registration area from
Saturday morning, July 4, through Wednesday, July 8, if you have questions
or need assistance. The Michigan affiliate will also maintain a table near
the hotel check in desk in the main lobby to provide assistance and
hospitality during much of the convention.
. When you register, you will be given a badge. Please wear it at all times
during the convention.
. The room number for the Presidential Suite is 7010. Someone will be on
hand in the Presidential Suite throughout most of the convention to greet
you and make appointments for you with the President or anyone else you wish
to see. The Presidential Suite will not be open during the business
sessions of the convention, the Sunday morning Board of Directors meeting,
Monday morning (due to the Independence March), or the Wednesday evening
banquet. Come to the Presidential Suite. You will be most welcome.
. The room number for Mary Ellen Jernigan, Chairwoman of Convention
Organization and Activities, is 6910. Questions concerning hotel rooms,
meeting rooms, banquet, scheduling, registration, and other matters dealing
with convention arrangements should be referred to the Chairwoman of
Convention Organization and Activities.
. Individuals needing to conduct business with the NFB Treasurer may do so
by going to the DaVinci Room, Level 4 on Monday, July 6, between 5:30 and
7:30 pm, or on Tuesday, July 7, between 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm.
. The Michigan Suite (Fred Wurtzel, President) is 6805.
. The Affiliate Action and Rookie Activities Suite (Joanne Wilson and Pam
Allen, Coordinators) is 6801.
. We are again offering NFB Camp (child-care services) for children six
weeks through ten years of age in Marquette A and B Rooms, Level 5 during
convention sessions, most meetings, and the banquet. Preregistration and
payment by June 15 were required for NFB Camp.
NFB Camp is organized and supervised by Carla McQuillan, the
executive director of Main Street Montessori Association. Alison McQuillan,
camp worker and teacher since 1998, is the activities director. Please note
that NFB Camp provides morning and afternoon snacks, but parents are
required to provide lunch for their child(ren) every day. Times listed are
the opening and closing times for NFB Camp. A late fee of $10 will be
assessed for all late pickups.
NFB Camp hours:
Friday, 7/3 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
Saturday, 7/4 Closed
Sunday, 7/5 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 1:00 to 5:30 pm
Monday, 7/6 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 to 5:30 pm
Tuesday, 7/7 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 to 5:30 pm
Wednesday, 7/8 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 to
5:30 pm
Banquet 7/8 6:30 pm to 30 minutes after
closing
. A Special Evening For Sponsor-Level Exhibitors: Again this year, the
exhibit hall will reopen from 7:00 to 10:00 pm on Monday, July 6, for a very
special evening dedicated solely to Sponsor-Level Exhibitors listed here.
Come and bring a guest to say "thank you" to our sponsors and to enjoy their
interesting offers and demonstrations. Our convention sponsors
arePlatinum: HumanWare and UPS; Gold: Deque Systems, Inc., Freedom
Scientific, and Oracle; Silver: En-Vision America, Intel®, and Wal-Mart;
Bronze: Adobe, Council of U.S. Dog Guide Schools (CUSDGS), IBM, Independent
Living Aids (ILA), and Microsoft; Exhibit Hall: GW Micro, J&B Medical
Supply, National Industries for the Blind, ReadHowYouWant, and Roche
Diagnostics.
. The ever-popular Showcase of Talent is back again at 7:00 pm on Tuesday,
July 7, presented by the Performing Arts Division. Admission price is
$5.00. If you would like to participate in the Showcase, make sure to sign
up early by contacting Beth Allred at the convention.
. Raffle tickets will not be sold in the registration area, and no raffles
or other such drawings will take place during convention sessions or at the
banquet. The single exception to this rule will be that national divisions
may (if they request it in advance) conduct such drawings during the
convention or at the banquet. LaSalle A Room, Level 5 will be set aside at
12:00 noon on Wednesday, July 8, for all other drawings. Any group or
affiliate wishing to conduct drawings at this time (or any person wishing to
know the winners) may go at noon on Wednesday to the LaSalle A Room.
AFFILIATED DIVISIONS, COMMITTEES, AND GROUPS
The Federation carries on its business through divisions,
committees, and groups. The meetings of some of these have been scheduled
for particular times and are listed in the agenda. Others have not been
formally scheduled but will meet at the call of their chairpersons or
presidents. If you have matters that you would like to discuss with any of
the following divisions, committees, or groups, you should contact:
Divisions:
. Agriculture and Equestrian: Fred Chambers, President;
. Assistive Technology Trainers: Michael Barber, President;
. Classics, Antiques, and Rods or Special Interest Vehicles (CARS):
Joseph B. Naulty, President;
. Deaf-Blind: Burnell Brown, President;
. Diabetes Action Network for the Blind: Michael Freeman, President;
. Human Services: Melissa Riccobono, President;
. National Association of the Blind in Communities of Faith: Tom Anderson,
President;
. National Association of Blind Entrepreneurs: James R. Bonerbo,
President;
. National Association of Blind Lawyers: Scott LaBarre, President;
. National Association of Blind Merchants: Kevan Worley, President;
. National Association of Blind Office Professionals: Lisa Hall, President;
. National Association of Blind Piano Technicians: Don Mitchell, President;
. National Association of Blind Rehabilitation Professionals: Melody
Lindsey, President;
. National Association of Blind Students: Terri Rupp, President;
. National Association of Blind Veterans: Dwight Sayer, President;
. National Association of Guide Dog Users: Marion Gwizdala, President;
. National Association to Promote the Use of Braille (NAPUB): Nadine
Jacobson, President;
. National Federation of the Blind in Computer Science: Curtis Chong,
President;
. National Federation of the Blind Krafters: Joyce Kane, President;
. National Federation of the Blind Seniors: Judy Sanders, President;
. National Organization of Blind Educators: Sheila Koenig, President;
. National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC): Carol
Castellano,
President;
. Performing Arts: Dennis Holston, President;
. Public Employees: Ivan Weich, President;
. Science and Engineering: John Miller, President;
. Sports and Recreation: Lisamaria Martinez, President;
. Travel and Tourism: Don Gillmore, President;
. Writers: Robert Leslie Newman, President.
Committees:
. Ambassadors: Angela Wolf, Chairperson;
. Blind Educator of the Year Award: David Ticchi, Chairperson;
. Committee on Assistive Technology (COAT): Curtis Chong, Chairperson;
. Committee on Automobile and Pedestrian Safety (CAPS): Deborah Kent
Stein, Chairperson;
. Committee to Empower Underserved Populations (CEUP): Ron Brown,
Chairperson;
. Cultural Exchange and International Program: Diane McGeorge, Chairperson;
. Distinguished Educator of Blind Children Award: Joyce Scanlan,
Chairperson;
. Employment: Buna Dahal, Chairperson;
. Imagination Fund: Kevan Worley, Chairperson;
. Jacobus tenBroek Award: Ramona Walhof, Chairperson;
. Jacobus tenBroek Memorial Fund: Tami Jones, Chairperson;
. Kenneth Jernigan Fund: Allen Harris, Chairperson;
. Library Services: David Hyde, Chairperson;
. Loan Fund: Donald C. Capps, Chairperson;
. Membership: Ron Gardner, Chairperson;
. Newel Perry Award: Allen Harris, Chairperson;
. Newsletter Publications: Norma Crosby, Chairperson;
. NFB-NEWSLINE® Program Steering: David DeNotaris, Chairperson;
. PAC Plan: Scott LaBarre, Chairperson;
. Planned Giving: John Halverson, Chairperson;
. Promotion, Evaluation, and Advancement of Technology: Gary Wunder,
Chairperson;
. Public Relations: Barbara Pierce, Chairperson;
. Research and Development: Curtis Chong, Chairperson;
. Resolutions: Sharon Maneki, Chairperson;
. Scholarship: Anil Lewis, Chairperson;
. Shares Unlimited in NFB (SUN): Sandy Halverson, Chairperson;
. Spanish Translation: Norman Gardner, Chairperson;
. White Cane and Affiliate Finance: Alpidio Rolón, Chairperson.
Groups:
. Blind Musicians: Linda Mentink, Chairperson;
. Blind Parents: Deborah Kent Stein, Chairperson;
. Blind Professional Journalists: Elizabeth Campbell and Bryan Bashin,
Co-Chairpersons;
. Educators of Blind Children: Gail Wagner, Chairperson;
. Geordi's Engineers: Lorraine Rovig, Chairperson;
. Legislative Initiatives Discussion: Don Burns, Coordinator;
. Living History: Michael Freholm, Chairperson;
. NFB Ham Radio: D. Curtis Willoughby, Chairperson;
. NFB in Judaism: David Stayer, Chairperson;
. NFB Lions: Ramona Walhof and Milton Ota, Co-Chairpersons;
. Orientation and Mobility: Edward C. Bell, Chairperson;
. Professionals in Blindness Education: Heather Field, Chairperson;
. Webmasters: Gary Wunder, Chairperson.
CONVENTION AGENDA
FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2009
7:30 - 8:45 amHAM RADIO GROUP EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Raphael Room, Level 4
Discuss hotel frequencies and architectural features and distributing
special FM receivers for the hearing-impaired and Spanish-speaking
attendees. D. Curtis Willoughby (KA0VBA), Chairperson
7:45 am - 6:30 pmTHE FUTURE IS OURS.AND THEIRS
Parent, Rehabilitation, and Orientation & Mobility Joint Conference for
Families and Rehabilitation Professionals (7:45 - 8:45 amRegistration and
coffee; 12:00 to 2:00 pmNBPCB Awards Luncheon, Ambassador Three Ballroom)
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
NOPBC Fees: Adults $30; Youth (13-18) $20; Children (5-12) $10
NABRP Fees (includes lunch): Students $75; Professionals $100
Note: Conference admission included with either registration
above.
Sponsors: National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC);
National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB); National
Association of Blind Rehabilitation Professionals (NABRP); and the
Professional Development & Research Institute on Blindness (PDRIB) at the
Louisiana Tech University. Chairpersons: Carol Castellano and Edward Bell
8:00 am - 4:30 pmPROFESSIONALS IN BLINDNESS EDUCATION
Duluth B Room, Level 5
Heather Field, Chairperson
8:30 amNFB CAMP: IT'S MORE THAN CHILD'S PLAY (CHILD CARE)
Marquette A and B Rooms, Level 5
Please see "Special Attention" section of agenda for further information.
(Preregistration by June 15 was required.)
8:30 - 11:30 amWHAT'S NEW IN JAWS 10 AND MAGic 11, AND A FIRST LOOK AT JAWS
11FREEDOM SCIENTIFIC, INC.
Mackinac East Ballroom, Level 5
Join Eric Damery, JAWS Product Manager, for an exciting and informative
session covering all of the new details surrounding JAWS and MAGic
development. This will also be the first look at JAWS 11 scheduled for
public beta in August and includes a demo of Windows 7. Bring questions!
FRIDAY, JULY 3, Continued
8:30 am - 5:00 pmIBTC'S ACCESS TECHNOLOGY SEMINARS
Mackinac West Ballroom, Level 5
8:30 - 10:00 amMobile productivity on cell phones.
10:30 am - noonCreate DAISY books from your desktop.
1:30 - 3:00 pmWeb 2.0 features with screen access software.
3:30 - 5:00 pmLesser-known names in screen access software.
9:00 am - 12:00 noonGW MICRO: BRAILLE SENSE PLUS AND VOICE
SENSERegistration $10; Refreshments provided.
Nicolet A Room, Level 5
The Braille Sense Plus is the lightest note taker with a 32-cell Braille
display, and the Voice Sense is the smallest note taker. Learn about the
features of GW note takers including the GW Sense Navigation GPS.
Presenters: Raul Gallegos and Chris Park. To register, call (260) 489-3671.
9:00 am - 5:00 pmNFB YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (ages 14-18)
Sponsored by NFB Jernigan Institute; Mary Jo Thorpe, Coordinator
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
9:00 - 10:15 amPARENTS-REHAB SEMINAR
Cascade B Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
10:30 am - 12:00 noonALL ABOUT ME
Help shape the future of youth outreach for the NFB.
2:00 - 3:00 pmBACK & BICEPS, CHEST & TRICEPS
Learn the "ropes" about working out in a gym.
3:30 - 5:00 pmME AND YOUTUBE
An interactive YouTube activity for teens.
9:00 am - 10:00 pmNFB-NEWSLINE® PRESENTATIONS
Room 6401, 60th floor
9:00-11:00 am, 2:00-6:00 pm, and 8:30-10:00 pmLearn about NEWSLINE
In Your Pocket, Web News on Demand, and other new features.
11:30 am -1:30 pmAffiliate presidents' gathering. Learn about NFB-
NEWSLINE Online and how to promote NEWSLINE.
6:30 - 8:00 pmExhibit for parents and their blind children (ages 10+).
FRIDAY, JULY 3, Continued
10:00 am - 5:00 pmEMPLOYMENT COMMITTEE SEMINAR
Richard B Room, Level 5
10:00 am-Registration; 10:30 am-Seminar begins
Key strategies for job hunting: How? Where? What? Remember, innovation and
authenticity produce abundant opportunities. Gain the secrets of obtaining
and maintaining employment. Buna Dahal, Chairperson
10:15 am - 12:00 noonNOPBC BRAILLE CARNIVAL (ages 5-13)
Ambassador Two Ballroom, Level 3
1:00 - 3:00 pmPAC MATE, BEYOND NOTE TAKINGFREEDOM SCIENTIFIC, INC.
Mackinac East Ballroom, Level 5
Join Jonathan Mosen as we explore the power of PAC Mate Omni, from beaming
your KNFB Reader Mobile documents to be read in Braille, to watching TV
right from your PAC Mate Omni. See our new StreetTalk VIP GPS solution in
action.
1:00 - 3:00 pmWRITERS DIVISION WORKSHOP ($5.00 fee)
Room 6405, 60th floor
Visit with a published author. Robert Leslie Newman, President
1:00 - 4:00 pmSWIM CLINIC; SPORTS & REC DIVISION
Pool, Courtyard Marriott
Annie Sawicki, part of the AdapTap team (that designed an award-winning
device by blind swimmers), is conducting a swimming workshop. Take a break
with a cool dip in the pool. Lisamaria Martinez, President
1:00 - 5:00 pmHUMANWARE PRODUCT SHOWCASE AND USER GROUPS
LaSalle A and B Rooms, Level 5
Sessions: 1:00 Breeze; 2:00 BrailleNote; 3:00 Stream; 4:00 Mobile Devices
Join HumanWare and other users to learn about recent updates and share
product tips. Ask questions and give us your suggestions for your favorite
HumanWare product. Door Prizes for every session!
1:30 - 2:45 pmknfbReader MOBILE DEMONSTRATION & TRAINING
Greco Room, Level 4
Use your cell phone to read printit's really that simple! Come and learn
how this fabulous, life-changing technology can work for you. Go totally
mobile and join the reading revolution today!
FRIDAY, JULY 3, Continued
2:00 - 3:30 pmNOPBC CONCURRENT SESSIONS FOR PARENTS
One-Two Buckle My Shoe, Three-Four Out the Door
Cascade A Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Developmental timelines from preschool through elementary.
Instructors: Debbi Head, Heather Field, Annee Hartzell
Show Me the Technology: Middle School/High School
Renoir Room, Level 4
What is needed, how to work with the school to get it, and what
to do when all else fails. Instructors: Dr. Matt Maurer and Al
Lovati
Literacy for All
Skyline B Room, Courtyard Marriott
Large print? Braille? Both? How to tell what is best for your child.
Great Expectations: Mobility Instruction and Blind Children with Additional
Disabilities
Skyline A Room, Courtyard Marriott
High expectations, real life goals, and how to achieve them in the area of
independent travel. Instructor: Denise Mackenstadt
2:00 - 5:00 pmNOPBC TRIP TO PENRICKTON CENTER
Meeting place to be announced
Parents of children with significant multiple disabilities can visit this
center which uses the Active Learning techniques of Lilli Nielsen.
2:00 - 5:00 pmNOPBC SESSIONS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH
(Note to parents: Volunteers will accompany the children from one workshop
to the other.)
Not-so-mad Scientists: Hands-on Chemistry Experiments:
Cascade D Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Instructors: Dr. Andrew Greenberg, Cary Supalo, Marilyn
Winograd, and Dr. Lillian Rankel
2:00 - 3:30 pmFor Kindergarten through Grade 5
3:30 - 5:00 pmFor Grades 6 through 12
FRIDAY, JULY 3, Continued
NOPBC SESSIONS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH, Cont'd.
Tactile Drawings and Representations:
Cascade C Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Instructors: Ann Cunningham and Debbie Kent Stein
2:00 - 3:30 pmFor Grades 6 through 12
3:30 - 5:00 pmFor Kindergarten through Grade 5
2:00 - 5:00 pmGW MICRO: WINDOW-EYES TRAINING (Registration $10;
Refreshments provided)
Nicolet A Room, Level 5
Explore the power of Window-Eyes with advanced scripting support, Office
2007, Windows Vista, and Windows 7. Come to see the best support for the
Internet in a screen reader. Presenters: Raul Gallegos and Chris Park. To
register, call (260) 489-3671.
2:00 - 7:00 pmKRAFTERS KORNER
Richard A Room, Level 5
Meet some talented Federation crafters and purchase their beautiful
hand-made items for sale. Joyce Kane, Krafters Division President
3:00 - 4:30 pmMAKING THE MOST OF YOUR JERNIGAN INSTITUTE (Workshop One;
Workshop Two is on Saturday at 4:00 pm)
Brulé A Room, Level 5
Attendees will learn the latest information about the Institute and about
how they can utilize its programs to build the organization at the local
level. We expect the discussion to spark new, imaginative ideas for future
programs. Led by Mark Riccobono, Jernigan Institute Executive Director.
3:00 - 4:45 pm knfbReader MOBILE DEMONSTRATION & TRAINING
Greco Room, Level 4
Use your cell phone to read printit's really that simple! Come and learn
how this fabulous, life-changing technology can work for you. Go totally
mobile and join the reading revolution today!
3:00 - 5:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOC. OF BLIND ENTREPRENEURS
Brulé B Room, Level 5
James R. Bonerbo, President
FRIDAY, JULY 3, Continued
3:30 - 4:50 pmNOPBC CONCURRENT SESSIONS FOR PARENTS
Access for Everyone
Skyline A Room, Courtyard Marriott
Learn how blind and low-vision children of all abilities can access
education and information in school and in the world.
Instructor: Dr. Denise Robinson
Braille Music for Dummies
Skyline B Room, Courtyard Marriott
Just enough to stay one step ahead of the kids. Instructors: Jennifer
Dunnam and Kyle Conley
Spaghetti, Meatballs, and Birthday Parties
Cascade A Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Manners, cafeterias, games, playgrounds, and friends (Pre-K
and Elementary)
Instructors: Debbi Head and Emily Gibbs
Bring Me to the MallText Me Later
Renoir Room, Level 4
Manners, food courts, and friends (middle and high school)
Instructors: Eric Guillory and Deja Powell
5:00 - 6:30 pmPARENTS AND REHABILITATION PROFESSIONALS JOINT CONFERENCE
RECEPTION
Ambassador Three Ballroom, Level 3
6:00 - 10:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GUIDE DOG USERS BUSINESS MEETING
Mackinac West Ballroom, Level 5
6:00 pm-Registration; 7:00 pm-Meeting begins
Topics: airline emergency procedures and evacuation; creating and growing
state associations of guide dog users; and protecting the rights of guide
dog users through advocacy and education. Marion Gwizdala, President
FRIDAY, JULY 3, Continued
6:30 - 10:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND OFFICE PROFESSIONALS
Renoir Room, Level 4
6:30 pm-Registration; 7:00 pm-Meeting begins
Featuring a hands-on Braille proofreading workshop. Guest speaker is from
Seedlings Braille Books for Children. Lisa Hall, President
7:30 - 10:00 pmNOPBC FAMILY HOSPITALITY NIGHT
Cascade D Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Drop in, relax, and chat in an informal atmosphere.
8:00 - 10:00 pmNFB LIONS GROUP
Room 6405, 60th floor
NFB members who are also Lions are urged to meet to share ideas and
experiences. Co-Chairpersons: Ramona Walhof and Milton Ota
8:00 - 10:00 pmROOKIE ROUNDUP RECEPTIONGAINING INSIGHT FOR FIRST-TIMERS
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
First-time conventioneers, don't miss this event! President Maurer and
former rookies will be on hand to welcome you and answer questions.
Coordinator: Pam Allen, Director of the Louisiana Center for the Blind and
President of the NFB of Louisiana
8:00 pm - midnightKARAOKE NIGHT
Ambassador Two Ballroom, Level 3
Admission: $5.00. You'll have a great time. Braille song lists available.
Hosted by BLIND, Incorporated
9:00 - 10:00 pmNFB AMBASSADORS COMMITTEE MEETING
Greco Room, Level 4
Angela Wolf, Chairperson
SATURDAY, JULY 4, 2009
9:00 am - 5:00 pmREGISTRATION ($20); BANQUET TICKET SALES ($40);
Renaissance Foyer, Level 4
9:00 am 5:00 pmEXHIBITS AND NFB INDEPENDENCE MARKET AND LITERATUREOntario
Exhibit Hall, Level 3
1:00 - 3:00 pmWHAT'S NEW WITH NFB-NEWSLINE®
Mackinac West Ballroom, Level 5
Presentational seminar about the world's largest audible newspaper service
for the blind and visually impaired. Topics cover newest online initiatives
and improvements to the service.
1:00 - 5:00 pmEXPLORING THE LATEST INNOVATIONS IN MOBILE REFRESHABLE
BRAILLE AND TACTILE GRAPHICS TECHNOLOGIES
Richard A Room, Level 5
1:00-2:00ALVA Braille Controller: more than just a Braille display.
2:00-3:00Talking Tactile Tablet: exploring tactile images, interactive
games.
3:00-4:00Reading On the Go!: read books, texts, etc. using a cell phone.
4:00-5:00Mobile Geo: a new GPS solution for accessible cell phones.
Larry Lewis, President, Flying Blind, Inc.
1:00 - 5:00 pmNATIONAL CERTIFICATION IN LITERARY BRAILLE (NCLB) OFFICIAL
EXAMINATIONSECTIONS ONE AND TWO
Ambassador Three Ballroom, Level 3
Participants must have preregistered. Exam Sections Three and Four are on
Sunday, July 5 (see agenda listing). Sponsored by the National Blindness
Professional Certification Board
1:30 pmRESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE
Renaissance Cartier Ballroom, Level 4
Sharon Maneki, Chairperson
1:30 - 2:45 pm knfbReader MOBILE DEMONSTRATION & TRAINING
Greco Room, Level 4
Use your cell phone to read printit's really that simple! Come and learn
how this fabulous, life-changing technology can work for you. Go totally
mobile and join the reading revolution today!
SATURDAY, JULY 4, Continued
2:00 - 5:00 pmNOPBC SESSIONS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH
Braille Beats
Cascade D Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Kids get into Braille music in a fun way. Instructor: Kyle Conely
2:00 - 3:30 pmFor Kindergarten through Grade 5
3:30 - 5:00 pmFor Grades 6 through 12
You Want to Move It, Move It
Cascade A Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Judo expert Lisamaria Martinez and friends get you moving!
2:00 - 3:30 pmFor Grades 6 through 12
3:30 - 5:00 pmFor Kindergarten through Grade 5
2:30 - 4:30 pmTRAVEL AND TOURISM DIVISION
Raphael Room, Level 4
Don Gillmore, President
3:00 - 4:45 pmknfbReader MOBILE DEMONSTRATION & TRAINING
Greco Room, Level 4
Use your cell phone to read printit's really that simple! Come and learn
how this fabulous, life-changing technology can work for you. Go totally
mobile and join the reading revolution today!
3:30 - 10:00 pmNFB-NEWSLINE® PRESENTATIONS
Room 6401, 60th floor
3:30-6:00 pm and 8:30-10:00 pmLearn about NEWSLINE In Your Pocket, Web
News on Demand, and other new features.
6:30-8:00 pmGathering for professionals in the field of work with the
blind for an evening of presentations and possibilities.
4:00 - 5:30 pmMAKING THE MOST OF YOUR JERNIGAN INSTITUTE
Duluth B Room, Level 5
Attendees will learn the latest information about the Institute and about
how they can utilize its programs to build the organization at the local
level. We expect the discussion to spark new, imaginative ideas for future
programs. Led by Mark Riccobono, Jernigan Institute Executive Director.
SATURDAY, JULY 4, Continued
4:00 - 6:00 pmSPANISH SEMINAR
Brulé B Room, Level 5
Conducted entirely in Spanish. Learn about the Federation, hear from some
of our leaders, and network with other Hispanic members. Facilitators: Rosy
Carranza and A.Z. Martinez
4:30 - 5:30 pmWAL-MART AND NFB JERNIGAN INSTITUTE: FUTURE INNOVATIONS FORUM
Brulé A Room, Level 5
Join a town hall meeting on Equal Access at the Pharmacy Counter. Discuss
emerging issues, best practices, and preferences as a blind or low-vision
consumer. Influence future work through the NFB Jernigan Institute to
encourage innovative Pharmacy practices and take the opportunity for the
world's largest retailer to hear your voice.
4:30 - 6:00 pmTWELFTH ANNUAL MOCK TRIALNational Association of Blind
Lawyers; Scott LaBarre, President
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
Admission: $5.00. Federation lawyers are pitted against each other
reenacting an old Federation case with the audience serving as the jury.
6:00 - 7:30 pmNEWSLETTER PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE
DaVinci Room, Level 4
Covering state newsletters, formatting a good publication, and publishing in
accessible formats. Norma Crosby, Chairperson
6:00 - 10:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND STUDENTS
Ambassador Two Ballroom, Level 3
6:00 pm-Registration ($5.00) & Meet-and-Greet; 7:00 pm-Meeting
Happy 42nd birthday to NABS! Remember to bring your contact information on
a Brailled index card for registration. Terri Rupp, President
6:45 - 7:45 pmIMAGINATION FUND TRAINING MEETING
Greco Room, Level 4
Kevan Worley, Facilitator
SATURDAY, JULY 4, Continued
7:00 - 8:30 pmNFB AFFILIATE PRESIDENTS AND TREASURERS SEMINAR
Nicolet A Room, Level 5
Affiliate presidents and treasurers are asked to attend this seminar about
state financial programs, financial data, and planning the end of 2009 and
beginning of 2010. Topics include: 990s, state charitable registrations,
end-of-year preparations, and other issues. Facilitators: Bridgid Burke and
Charlie Brown
7:00 - 8:30 pmPUBLIC EMPLOYEES DIVISION
Richard A Room, Level 5
Ivan Weich, President
7:00 - 9:00 pmCLASSICS, ANTIQUES, AND RODS (CARS) DIVISION
Renoir Room, Level 4
Joseph B. Naulty, President
7:00 - 9:00 pm"KEYS TO INDEPENDENCE," NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND PIANO
TECHNICIANS SEMINAR
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
Learn how to have a career in piano tuning and repair; it can enhance your
independence. Don Mitchell, President
7:30 - 9:30 pmMEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
Duluth B Room, Level 5
The more we educate, the more we grow. Ron Gardner, Chairperson
7:30 - 10:00 pmBLIND PARENTS GROUP
Brulé B Room, Level 5
Deborah Kent Stein, Chairperson
8:00 - 9:00 pmWHITE CANE AND AFFILIATE FINANCE COMMITTEE
Raphael Room, Level 4
Alpidio Rolón, Chairperson
8:00 - 9:30 pmWEBMASTERS WORKSHOP
Greco Room, Level 4
A meeting for all NFB affiliate and division Webmasters.
Gary Wunder, Chairperson, Webmasters Group
SATURDAY, JULY 4, Continued
8:00 - 10:00 pmCOMMITTEE ON LIBRARY SERVICES
Duluth A Room, Level 5
David Hyde, Chairperson
9:00 - 10:00 pmSPANISH TRANSLATION COMMITTEE
Raphael Room, Level 4
Norman Gardner, Chairperson
SUNDAY, JULY 5, 2009
7:15 - 8:15 amROMAN CATHOLIC MASS
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
Fr. Gregory Paul, C.P., Celebrant
8:00 am - 10:00 pmNFB-NEWSLINE® PRESENTATIONS
Room 6401, 60th floor
8:00-11:00 am, 1:30-5:30 pm, and 8:30-10:00 pmLearn about NEWSLINE
In Your Pocket, Web News on Demand, and other new features.
6:00-7:00 pmPromotion, Evaluation, and Advancement of Technology
Committee gathering. Learn about NFB-NEWSLINE's revolutionary new
online initiatives.
8:30 am - 5:00 pmREGISTRATION ($20); BANQUET TICKET SALES ($40);
Renaissance Foyer, Level 4
8:30 am 5:00 pm EXHIBITS AND NFB INDEPENDENCE MARKET AND LITERATUREOntario
Exhibit Hall, Level 3
9:00 11:30 amNFB BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING (Open to all)
Renaissance Ballroom, Level 4
11:45 am - 12:45 pmTHE DIVISION FOR MENFB YOUTH TRACK
Greco Room, Level 4
A meet-and-greet with NFB division representatives. Coordinator: Mary Jo
Thorpe. Co-sponsored by NOPBC and NFB Jernigan Institute.
11:45 am - 1:15 pmCHURCH SERVICES FOR THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF
LATTER-DAY SAINTS
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
12:00 noon - 2:00 pmROOKIE ROUNDUP GATHERING
Affiliate Action Suite 6801
Attention rookies! Participate in a gathering of fun for first-time
conventioneers. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and have
your convention questions answered by experienced Federationists.
SUNDAY, JULY 5, Continued
12:30 - 4:00 pmDIABETES ACTION NETWORK FOR THE BLIND
Mackinac East Ballroom, Level 5
12:30 pm - Registration; 1:00 pm - Meeting begins
Keynote speaker is Ann S. Williams, PhD, RN, CDE, a diabetes educator with
much experience with diabetic issues. Mike Freeman, President
12:30 - 5:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND LAWYERS
Richard A Room, Level 5
12:30 pm - Registration; 1:00 pm - Meeting begins
Examine laws affecting blind people and others with disabilities; address
ongoing struggles to gain equal access to Web sites, employment, legal texts
and exams. Scott LaBarre, President
12:30 - 5:00 pmNFB IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
LaSalle B Room, Level 5
12:30 pm - Registration; 1:00 pm - Meeting begins
Discuss recent releases, concerns of information technology professionals,
and other topics. Curtis Chong, President
12:30 - 5:00 pm"OVERCOMING OBSTACLES THROUGH COURAGE AND
DETERMINATION"National Association of the Blind in Communities of Faith
Cadillac A Room, Level 5
12:30 pm - Registration; 1:00 pm - Meeting begins; Tom Anderson,
President
12:30 5:00 pmREVOLUTIONIZING RANDOLPH-SHEPPARD
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND MERCHANTS MEETING
Ambassador Two Ballroom, Level 3
12:30 pm - Registration; 1:30 pm - Meeting begins
Those involved in the Randolph-Sheppard program or who operate a similar
business discuss protection of the priority and the creation of new business
opportunities and outreach. Kevan Worley, President
12:30 - 5:00 pmSPORTS AND RECREATION DIVISION
Skyline A Room, Courtyard Marriott
12:30 pm - Registration; 1:00 pm - Meeting begins
Wear your sweats and come ready for hands-on presentations in yoga and much
more! Lisamaria Martinez, President
SUNDAY, JULY 5, Continued
12:45 - 4:30 pmMIDDLE SCHOOL BIG ADVENTURE! (Ages 9-14)
Meet (and return) at back of Cascade A and B Ballrooms, Courtyard Marriott
Hang out as a group and have fun exploring with blind mentors Michael
Freholm and Garrick Scott.
1:00 - 3:00 pmBLIND PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS GROUP
Duluth A Room, Level 5
Elizabeth Campbell, Chairperson
1:00 3:00 pmCULTURAL EXCHANGE AND INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Duluth B Room, Level 5
Diane McGeorge, Chairperson
1:00 3:00 pm"GRABBING HEADLINES FOR YOUR AFFILIATE" SEMINARPUBLIC
RELATIONS COMMITTEE
Nicolet B Room, Level 5
Topics: locating press contacts; drafting press releases; developing
relationships with reporters and editors; working effectively with the
media. Barbara Pierce, Chairperson; Seminar conducted by Chris Danielsen and
Jessica Freeh, NFB Public Relations
1:00 - 3:00 pmNOPBC DIVISION ANNUAL MEETING: MAKING THEIR FUTURE DREAMS
COME TRUE
Cascade A and B Ballrooms, Courtyard Marriott
Carol Castellano, President
1:00 - 4:00 pmPERFORMING ARTS DIVISION
DaVinci Room, Level 4
Unveiling the "Music of the Movement" album. Hear from an artist recruiter
about a media company paving the way for blind audio professionals. Dennis
Holston, President
1:00 - 4:00 pmWRITERS DIVISION BUSINESS MEETING
Renoir Room, Level 4
Robert Leslie Newman, President
SUNDAY, JULY 5, Continued
1:00 - 4:30 pmNATIONAL ORGANIZATION OF BLIND EDUCATORS
Brulé B Room, Level 5
1:00 pm - Registration; 1:30 pm - Meeting begins
Blind teachers discuss techniques they use in their classrooms; meeting in
groups specific to grade level and content areas of interest to create a
network of mentors. Sheila Koenig, President
1:00 - 5:00 pmAUTO SHOW (CLASSICS, ANTIQUES, AND SPECIAL INTEREST VEHICLES)
Location to be announced. Joe Naulty, CARS Division President
1:00 - 5:00 pmNATIONAL CERTIFICATION IN LITERARY BRAILLE (NCLB) OFFICIAL
EXAMINATIONSECTIONS THREE AND FOUR
Cascade C and D Ballrooms, Courtyard Marriott
Participants must have preregistered. Sponsored by the National Blindness
Professional Certification Board
1:00 - 5:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND REHABILITATION PROFESSIONALS
Brulé A Room, Level 5
1:00 pm - Registration; 2:00 pm - Meeting begins
Network, share mutual interests, find placement strategies, and examine and
discuss concerns and current issues. Melody Lindsey, President
1:00 - 5:00 pm"SENIORS IN CHARGE"
NFB SENIORS DIVISION MEETING & (SOMEWHAT) SILENT AUCTION
Mackinac West Ballroom, Level 5
Find out ways to spread our message of hope to newly blind seniors. We're
also having our popular not-so-silent auction. Judy Sanders, President
1:00 - 6:00 pmHUMAN SERVICES DIVISION SEMINAR AND BUSINESS MEETING
Nicolet A Room, Level 5
1:00 pm - Registration; 2:00 pm - Meeting begins; 5:00 pm - Networking
Psychologists, social workers, counselors, and music or dance therapists
meeting to network and ask questions. Melissa Riccobono, President
SUNDAY, JULY 5, Continued
1:30 - 4:45 pmknfbReader MOBILE DEMONSTRATION & TRAINING
Greco Room, Level 4
Session One: 1:30 - 2:45 pm; Session Two: 3:00 - 4:45 pm
Use your cell phone to read printit's really that simple! Come and learn
how this fabulous, life-changing technology can work for you. Go totally
mobile and join the reading revolution today!
3:00 - 4:30 pmNOPBC PARENT POWER WORKSHOP
Cascade A and B Ballrooms, Courtyard Marriott
Parent leaders from around the country share their experiences. Moderator:
Barbara Mathews
3:15 - 4:45 pmMEET THE BLIND MONTH ACTIVITIES AND OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS
SEMINAR: PLANS AND ACTION EQUAL SUCCESS
Duluth B Room, Level 5
October is "Meet the Blind Month." Find out about events that are
entertaining and fun and encouraging chapters to try new types of
fundraising and meet-and-greet events. Jerry Lazarus, NFB Jernigan Institute
5:00 - 6:30 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND LAWYERS RECEPTION
Richard B Room, Level 5
For NABL members and seminar participants to promote networking and
fellowship within our membership. Hors d'oeuvres and cash bar available.
Scott LaBarre, President
5:00 - 7:00 pmBRAILLE BOOK FLEA MARKET
Ambassador Three Ballroom, Level 3
Happy Birthday, Louis Braille! Browse tables of new and used Braille and
print/Braille books. UPS volunteers will ship the books to your home free
of charge. Donations requested to support the Braille Readers are Leaders
program. Cake and snacks for browsers. Cosponsored by NOPBC and NAPUB.
Coordinator: Peggy Chong
5:00 - 8:00 pmJUDO WORKSHOP; SPORTS & REC DIVISION
Skyline B Room, Courtyard Marriott
Join USA Judo and paralympian bronze medal winner Greg DeWall to learn about
judo from people involved in the sport. See you on the mat! Lisamaria
Martinez, President
SUNDAY, JULY 5, Continued
5:30 - 7:00 pmKURZWEIL 1000 USERS' MEETING
Richard A Room, Level 5
Join the Kurzweil 1000 Users' Contingent! Meet with Steve Baum, Vice
President of Engineering, and share some Kurzweil 1000 experiences.
Kurzweil 1000 is our state-of-the-art, text-to-speech and life navigation
software for blind and visually impaired readers.
5:30 - 7:30 pmAGRICULTURE AND EQUESTRIAN DIVISION
Duluth A Room, Level 5
Fred Chambers, President
6:00 - 10:00 pmBACK TO BASICS: FOUNDATIONS IN MEMBERSHIP AND CHAPTER
DEVELOPMENT
Ambassador Two Ballroom, Level 3
Topics: running a purposeful chapter meeting, community projects and chapter
fundraising, and weaving Federation philosophy into local meetings. NFB
Affiliate Action Team
6:00 - 10:00 pmDEAF BLIND DIVISION
Nicolet B Room, Level 5
6:00 pm - Registration; 7:00 pm - Meeting begins
Burnell Brown, President
6:00 - 10:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GUIDE DOG USERS SEMINAR
6:00 pm - Registration; 7:00 pm - Meeting begins
Brulé A Room, Level 5
Topics: Islam, the Koran, and guide dogs; Training Centers and Guide Dogs: a
panel discussion; and massage for dogs. You can also "test drive" a guide
dog! Marion Gwizdala, President
6:30 - 9:00 pmASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY TRAINERS DIVISION
Renoir Room, Level 4
6:30 pm - Registration; 7:00 pm - Meeting begins
Note-taking devices to recommend to clients and what to do about students
who are seemingly "unteachable." Michael Barber, President
SUNDAY, JULY 5, Continued
6:30 - 9:30 pmSCIENCE AND ENGINEERING DIVISION
Cascade A and B Ballrooms, Courtyard Marriott
6:30 pm - Registration; 7:00 pm - Meeting begins
John Miller, President
7:00 - 8:30 pmLIVING HISTORY GROUP
Nicolet A Room, Level 5
Dedicated to recording, preserving, and appreciating Federation history.
Michael Freholm, Chairperson
7:00 - 8:30 pm"SOMETIMES TRUTH REPELS" a play by Jerry Whittle (Admission:
$5.00; Second Performance is at 9:00 pm)
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
A play about the teaching career of Louis Braille performed by the Louisiana
Center for the Blind Players. Proceeds go to the Louisiana Center for the
Blind's summer training program for blind children.
7:00 - 9:00 pmCOMMITTEE TO EMPOWER UNDERSERVED POPULATIONS
LaSalle B Room, Level 5
Ron Brown, Chairperson
7:00 - 9:00 pmFEDERATION RE-GENERATION
Duluth B Room, Level 5
Do you need to rejuvenate and kick-start your affiliate with fresh ideas?
Re-generate! Get a new generation involved. Join the NFB Jernigan
Institute Education Team to learn more about program possibilities.
7:00 - 9:00 pmNFB KRAFTERS DIVISION BUSINESS MEETING
Cadillac A Room, Level 5
Unveiling new craft initiatives, including plans for a new Web site and
information on our Monday night nationwide chats. Joyce Kane, President
7:00 - 9:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION TO PROMOTE THE USE OF BRAILLE (NAPUB)
SEMINAR
Mackinac West Ballroom, Level 5
Celebrating Louis Braille's 200th birthday! Receive information about the
commemorative Louis Braille silver dollar, the NFB Share Braille Web site
project, and more. Nadine Jacobson, President
SUNDAY, JULY 5, Continued
7:00 - 9:00 pmNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND VETERANS
LaSalle A Room, Level 5
Guest speakers; reviewing access technology; unveiling the 2009 NABV pin.
Pay dues and receive an NABV-3 shirt. Dwight Sayer, President
7:00 - 10:00 pmMARCH FOR INDEPENDENCE MARCHER DROP-IN BRIEFINGS (THREE
SEPARATE SESSIONS)
Brulé B Room, Level 5
Session One: 7:00-8:00 pm; Session Two 8:00-9:00 pm; Session Three
9:00-10:00 pm. Drop in anytime and help us lead the 2009 March for
Independence. Facilitator: Kevan Worley
7:30 - 9:00 pmDADS' NIGHT OUT
Contact Brad Weatherd for location
All dads, sighted and blind, are welcome. Sponsored by the NOPBC
7:30 - 9:00 pmNFB IN JUDAISM MEETING
Room 6405, 60th Floor
David Stayer, Chairperson
7:30 - 10:00 pmCOMMITTEE FOR THE PROMOTION, EVALUATION, AND ADVANCEMENT OF
TECHNOLOGY; Gary Wunder, Chairperson
Greco Room, Level 4
8:00 - 9:30 pmMAKING BRAILLE BOOKS FOR CHILDREN
Ambassador Three Ballroom, Level 3
Make Braille books at home that will inspire your child to read and explore.
Sponsored by NOPBC. Instructors: Carlton Walker and Krystal Guillory
9:00 - 10:30 pm"SOMETIMES TRUTH REPELS," a play by Jerry Whittle (Second
Performance) Admission: $5.00
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
A play about the teaching career of Louis Braille performed by the Louisiana
Center for the Blind Players. Proceeds go to the Louisiana Center for the
Blind's summer training program for blind children.
9:30 - 10:30 pmFRIENDS OF RECOVERY MEETING
Raphael Room, Level 4
Coordinator: Gary Ray
MONDAY, JULY 6, 2009
6:45 amMOTOR CITY MARCH FOR INDEPENDENCE RALLY!
Please gather in the Wintergarden on Level A of the Detroit Marriott for a
7:00 am start.
NOTE: Because of the March for Independence, there are no registration,
devotions, Independence Market and Literature, or Exhibit Hall activities on
Monday morning.
**************************************************
OPENING GENERAL SESSION
9:30 am INVOCATION
9:35 am WELCOMING CEREMONIES
9:55 am CELEBRATION OF FREEDOM: VETERANS RECOGNIZED
Dwight Sayer, President, National Association of Blind
Veterans,
National Federation of the Blind; Winter Gardens, Florida
10:05 am ROLL CALL OF STATES AND APPOINTMENT OF NOMINATING
COMMITTEE
11:45 am REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
12:00 pm ADJOURN
**************************************************
12:00 noon 12:30 pm and 1:30 - 2:00 pmREGISTRATION ($20); FINAL BANQUET
TICKET SALES ($40)Renaissance Foyer, Level 4
12:00 noon 1:45 pmEXHIBITS AND NFB INDEPENDENCE MARKET AND
LITERATUREOntario Exhibit Hall, Level 3
12:00 noon - 1:30 pmNFB CHAPTER PRESIDENTS MEETING
AFFILIATE ACTION SUITE 6801
Informal gathering for NFB chapter presidents only to discuss issues of
interest to Federationists at the grassroots level. Chapter presidents
attending this convention should not miss this important meeting.
MONDAY, JULY 6, Continued
12:15 - 2:00 pmLOUISIANA CENTER FOR THE BLIND ALUMNI LUNCHEON
Ambassador Three Ballroom, Level 3
Contact: Pam Allen, Director, Louisiana Center for the Blind
**************************************************
GENERAL SESSION
2:00 pm CALL TO ORDER
2:05 pm PRESIDENTIAL REPORT, Marc Maurer
3:00 pm POLICIES TO ENHANCE EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSION, SAFETY,
AND PRODUCTIVITY
The Honorable John D. Dingell, Member of Congress, 15th
Congressional District; Michigan
3:20 pm PROMOTING PEDESTRIAN SAFETY: A PRIORITY FOR
MANUFACTURERS
The Honorable Dave McCurdy, President and CEO, Alliance of
Automobile Manufacturers; McLean, Virginia
3:40 pm THE JOURNEY OF BRAILLE: FROM THE HANDS OF THE
CREATOR TO EARTH ORBIT
4:00 pm THE VALUE OF A COIN, OF A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, AND
OF A CLASS OF HUMAN BEINGS
Fredric K. Schroeder, Ph.D., Research Professor, San Diego
State University; Vienna, Virginia
4:25 pm PROVIDING THE FUNDAMENTAL TOOLS: BRAILLE BOOKS
Brian A. McDonald, President, National Braille Press;
Boston, Massachusetts
4:40 pm REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
5:00 pm ADJOURN
MONDAY, JULY 6, Continued
5:30 - 6:30 pmNOMINATING COMMITTEE; Sharon Maneki, Chairperson
Cadillac A Room, Level 5
6:00 - 8:00 pmAFB INTRODUCES ACCESSIBLE WALKING DIRECTIONS AND NEW
CareerConnect FEATURES
Mackinac East Ballroom, Level 5
The American Foundation for the Blind's reception introduces Mapquest
Accessible Walking Directions and new CareerConnect offerings. Be the first
to try a free on-line directions service. Join up as a CareerConnect leader
or mentor. We look forward to reconnecting with old friends.
6:00 - 9:00 pmINDOOR ROWING; SPORTS & REC DIVISION
Skyline A and B Rooms, Courtyard Marriott
Row your way into fitness and maintain a healthy lifestyle using an
accessible rowing machine. Prizes plus plenty of fun! Lisamaria Martinez,
President
6:30 - 8:00 pmGUITAR SEMINAR
LaSalle B Room, Level 5
Learn about the guitar; get advice from a professional musician, Cameron
Strife; $5 donation. Presented by the NFB Performing Arts Division
6:30 - 10:00 pmNFB-NEWSLINE® PRESENTATION
Room 6401, 60th floor
Drop by and learn about NEWSLINE In Your Pocket, Web News on Demand, and
other new features.
7:00 - 8:30 pmNOPBC CONCURRENT SESSIONS FOR PARENTS, REHAB PROFESSIONALS,
AND INTERESTED OTHERS:
IEPs: Evals, Goals, Strategies, the Law
Cascade A Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Instructor: Carlton Walker
The Science of Getting in on Science
Cascade B Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Instructors: Cary Supalo, Marilyn Winograd, Dr. Lillian Rankel
Mental Mapping: Using Environmental Sounds and Clues
Cascade C Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Instructor: Daniel Kish
MONDAY, JULY 6, Continued
7:00 - 8:30 pmBOOKSHARE AT NFB MEMBER PARTY
LaSalle A Room, Level 5
Enjoy snacks and refreshments while meeting the Bookshare staff. This is
your opportunity to talk with us and share your ideas; we're here to listen.
Plan to have fun with contests, drawings, and interacting with your fellow
members. We look forward to seeing you.
7:00 - 9:00 pmBRAILLE READERS ARE LEADERS: THE INITIATIVE FOR CHANGE
Duluth B Room, Level 5
One representative from each affiliate should attend this session. Help to
ensure Braille literacy for all by learning about the exciting developments
and discuss strategies for promoting Louis Braille bicentennial coins.
7:00 - 9:00 pmMOVING LEGISLATION ON THE STATE AND NATIONAL LEVEL SEMINAR
Cadillac B Room, Level 5
Each affiliate should send one representative. Learn the best methods of
increasing support for our legislative priorities. Changing lives through
laws is our business. Led by Jesse Hartle, NFB Strategic Initiatives Staff
7:00 - 10:00 pmA SPECIAL EVENING FOR SPONSOR-LEVEL EXHIBITORS
Ontario Exhibit Hall, Level 3
The exhibit hall reopens for an evening dedicated solely to sponsor-level
exhibitors. Come and bring a guest to say "thank you" to our sponsors and to
enjoy their interesting offers and demonstrations. Our convention sponsors
arePlatinum: HumanWare and UPS; Gold: Deque Systems, Inc., Freedom
Scientific, and Oracle; Silver: En-Vision America, Intel®, and Wal-Mart;
Bronze: Adobe, Council of U.S. Dog Guide Schools (CUSDGS), IBM, Independent
Living Aids (ILA), and Microsoft; Exhibit Hall: GW Micro, J&B Medical
Supply, National Industries for the Blind, ReadHowYouWant, and Roche
Diagnostics.
7:00 - 10:00 pmNOPBC CHILDREN'S ACTIVITY (ages 5-13)
A UNIVERSALLY FUN TIME
Cascade D Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Drop in and explore the universe with Noreen Grice; volunteers led by
Michael Freholm
MONDAY, JULY 6, Continued
7:00 - midnightNFB OF MICHIGAN HOSPITALITY DANCE
Ambassador Ballroom, Level 3
"There may be trouble ahead.but while there's moonlight and music and love
and romance.let's face the music and dance!" Join our host affiliate to
enjoy dancing or simply listening to some really good music. Entertainment
provided by "Nine," a nine-piece band performing Motown, soul, classic rock,
pop, and old standards.
7:30 - 8:30 pmNFB YOUTH TRACK MEETINGS
ME AND THE GOSSIP GIRLS (ages 14-18)
Greco Room, Level 4
Girlsbring your questions and thoughts about makeup, dating, or
just how to get more involved in your school.
ME AND THE GUYS (ages 14-18)
Renoir Room, Level 4
Guystalk about cars, dating, school, or how to nail that perfect
job
to make a little extra money.
8:00 - 10:00 pmCOMMITTEE ON AUTOMOBILE AND PEDESTRIAN SAFETY (CAPS);
Deborah Kent Stein, Chairperson
Nicolet A Room, Level 5
8:30 - 10:00 pmNOPBC CONCURRENT SESSIONS FOR PARENTS, REHAB PROFESSIONALS,
AND INTERESTED OTHERS
Pro to Pro to Parent to ParaLearn How Your Child's "Team" Can
Work Together
Cascade A Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Instructors: Dr. Denise Robinson and Gail Wagner
Taking the Headaches Out of Adapting in Math
Cascade B Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Instructors: Eric and Krystal Guillory
Summer Jobs, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Volunteering
Cascade C Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Instructor: Jan Bailey
TUESDAY, JULY 7, 2009
7:30 - 8:15 amDEVOTIONS
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
8:00 8:30 amREGISTRATION ($20)
Renaissance Foyer, Level 4
**************************************************
GENERAL SESSION
9:00 am INVOCATION
9:05 am FINANCIAL REPORT
10:00 am ELECTIONS
10:30 am EXPANDING ACCESS TO DIGITAL INFORMATION FOR THE
BLIND
Gilles Pepin, Chief Executive Officer, HumanWare;
Drummondville, Canada
10:50 am A BLIND ATHLETE IN THE PARALYMPICS
Tyler Merren, 2008 U.S. Paralympic Team Member, Men's
Goalball; Kalamazoo, Michigan
11:05 am DEVELOPMENTS AT THE FIRST EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
FOR THE BLIND IN THE UNITED STATES, PERKINS
Steven M. Rothstein, President, Perkins School for the
Blind;
Watertown, Massachusetts
11:25 am THE FEDERATION IN THE WORLD FROM THE PERSPECTIVE
OF THE WORLD BLIND UNION
Maryanne Diamond, President, World Blind Union; Melbourne,
Australia
11:40 am REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
12:00 pm ADJOURN
TUESDAY, JULY 7, Continued
12:00 noon 12:30 pm and 1:30 - 2:00 pmREGISTRATION ($20) Renaissance Foyer,
Level 4
12:00 noon 1:45 pmEXHIBITS AND NFB INDEPENDENCE MARKET AND
LITERATURE(Final Time Period for Independence Market and Literature)
Ontario Exhibit Hall, Level 3
**************************************************
GENERAL SESSION
2:00 pm CALL TO ORDER
2:05 pm STRATEGIC INITIATIVES REPORT
John Paré, Executive Director for Strategic Initiatives,
National
Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
2:35 pm REPORTS, RESOLUTIONS, AND OTHER BUSINESS
5:00 pm ADJOURN
**************************************************
6:00 - 10:00 pmIT WASN'T ME, A MURDER MYSTERY AT THE CLUB
Mackinac East Ballroom, Level 5
Play along as guests at a dance club while private investigators try to
solve a murder. Early arrivers are assigned a character role to play for
the evening. Latecomers won't be able to play along but are welcome to
watch the game and enjoy the experience. Presented by NFB Youth Track.
6:30 - 9:00 pmCOLORADO CENTER FOR THE BLIND OPEN HOUSE
Brulé A and B Rooms, Level 5
Discover how good training can change your life. Julie Deden, Director
6:30 - 9:30 pmNOPBC CHILDREN'S ACTIVITY (Ages 5-14)
WE WILL NOT LET CONVENTION ACQUAINTANCES BE FORGOT
Cascade C Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott
Led by Michael Freholm
TUESDAY, JULY 7, Continued
6:30 - 10:00 pmNFB-NEWSLINE® PRESENTATION
Room 6401, 60th floor
Stop by and learn about NEWSLINE In Your Pocket, Web News on Demand, and
other new features.
7:00 - 8:15 pmknfbReader MOBILE DEMONSTRATION & TRAINING
Greco Room, Level 4
Use your cell phone to read printit's really that simple! Come and learn
how this fabulous, life-changing technology can work for you. Go totally
mobile and join the reading revolution today!
7:00 - 8:30 pmBLIND MUSICIANS GROUP BUSINESS MEETING
Duluth B Room, Level 5
Linda Mentink, Chairperson
7:00 - 8:30 pmNINTH ANNUAL RANDOLPH-SHEPPARD RECEPTION HOSTED BY THE
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND MERCHANTS
Richard B Room, Level 5
Socialize, network, and learn more about Randolph-Sheppard and other
business opportunities we can create through our work in the NFB. Kevan
Worley, President
7:00 - 9:00 pmCOUNCIL OF U.S. DOG GUIDE SCHOOLS (CUSDGS) RECEPTION
Ambassador Three Ballroom, Level 3
Learn how a dog guide can impact your life from featured speaker Michael
Hingson, a World Trade Center survivor. Meet representatives from
participating schools and learn about their programs. You can even schedule
a "Juno" walk for later in the week.
7:00 9:00 pm"SOCIAL SECURITY AND SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME: WHAT
APPLICANTS, ADVOCATES, AND RECIPIENTS SHOULD KNOW" SEMINAR
Cadillac B Room, Level 5
Information on Social Security and SSI benefits, including the income
subsidy program for those receiving the Medicare prescription drug benefit.
Presenter: Dan Frye, Attorney and Associate Editor of the Braille Monitor
TUESDAY, JULY 7, Continued
7:00 10:00 pmEXHIBITS ONLY (Independence Market and Literature
Closed)Ontario Exhibit Hall, Level 3
7:00 - 11:00 pmANNUAL SHOWCASE OF TALENTAdmission $5.00
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
Register early by contacting Beth Allred at the convention. Proceeds benefit
the scholarship program in memory of Mary Ann Parks. Sponsored by the
Performing Arts Division; Dennis Holston, President
7:00 - 11:00 pmHUMANWARE LOW VISION PRODUCTS SEMINAR
Nicolet B Room, Level 5
Come and learn about HumanWare's exciting low vision products in a hands-on,
interactive seminar: myReader 2 video magnifier; SmartView desktop units;
portable handheld devices; and a distance viewing system. Presenter: Ed
Wikdall
8:00 - 10:00 pmCOMMITTEE ON RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
LaSalle A Room, Level 5
If you have an interest in new technologies and believe that spectacular
accomplishments are possible when blind people themselves are involvedthen
join our meeting. Curtis Chong, Chairperson
8:00 - 11:30 pmMONTE CARLO NIGHT
Mackinac West Ballroom, Level 5
Try your luck at any of the usual card games found on a casino floor.
Prizes go to the top three winners holding the most chips at the end of the
evening. Sponsored by the National Association of Blind Students
8:30 - 9:45 pmknfbReader MOBILE DEMONSTRATION & TRAINING
Greco Room, Level 4
Use your cell phone to read printit's really that simple! Come and learn
how this fabulous, life-changing technology can work for you. Go totally
mobile and join the reading revolution today!
9:30 - 10:30 pmFRIENDS OF RECOVERY MEETING
Raphael Room, Level 4
Coordinator: Gary Ray
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2009
8:00 - 8:45 amDEVOTIONS
Ambassador One Ballroom, Level 3
8:30 9:00 amREGISTRATION ($20)Final opportunity to register.
Renaissance Foyer, Level 4
**************************************************
GENERAL SESSION
9:00 am INVOCATION
9:05 am THE NEAR-PERFECT AUDIO BOOK: HOW WE DO IT
Frank Kurt Cylke, Director, National Library Service for
the Blind and
Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress; Washington,
D.C.
Mary Beth Wise, Quality Assurance Specialist, National
Library
Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library
of
Congress; Washington, D.C.
9:25 am QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION
9:30 am THE DEMAND, THE CRISIS, THE SOLUTION IN EDUCATION FOR
THE BLIND
Edward Bell, Ph.D., Director, Professional Development and
Research Institute on Blindness, Louisiana Tech
University; Ruston,
Louisiana
9:45 am THE THEORY AND THE PRACTICE: EDUCATION FOR THE
BLIND IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOL
Denise M. Robinson, Ph.D., Teacher and Coordinator of
Programming for Blind and Visually Impaired Students;
Yakima,
Washington
10:00 am WHY ARE YOU TRYING TO MAKE THAT CHILD BLIND?
Carol Castellano, President, National Organization of
Parents of
Blind Children, National Federation of the Blind; Madison,
New
Jersey
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, Continued
10:20 am TEACHING AN ESSENTIAL SKILL: BRAILLE
Jerry Whittle, Teacher-Counselor, Louisiana Center for the
Blind;
Ruston, Louisiana
April Davis, Coordinator of Summer Programs for Blind
Children, Louisiana Center for the Blind; Ruston,
Louisiana
James Mays, Industrial Arts Teacher, Louisiana Center for
the Blind; Ruston, Louisiana
Deja Powell, Cane Travel Instructor, Utah Division of
Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Salt Lake
City, Utah
Anil Lewis, President, National Federation of the Blind of
Georgia;
Atlanta, Georgia
Terri Rupp, President, National Federation of the Blind of
Nevada;
Las Vegas, Nevada
10:50 am FROM THE CENTER OF HISTORY: FIVE YEARS INTO THE
FUTURE OF THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND
JERNIGAN INSTITUTE
Mark Riccobono, Executive Director, National Federation of
the Blind Jernigan Institute; Baltimore, Maryland
11:10 am FRONTIER CAREERS FOR THE BLIND INCLUDE ENGINEERING
Leigh R. Abts, Ph.D., Research Associate Professor of
Engineering
and Education, University of Maryland; College Park,
Maryland
11:25 am NFB NEWSLINE: FROM PHONE TO COMPUTER TO PODCAST
TO POCKET
Scott White, Director of Sponsored Technology, National
Federation
of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
11:40 am REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
12:00 pm ADJOURN
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, Continued
12:00 noon - 1:45 pmHAM RADIO GROUP BUSINESS MEETING
Raphael Room, Level 4
We will consider the amendment of the division constitution that we adopted
last year. D. Curtis Willoughby (KA0VBA), Chairperson
12:00 noon - 1:45 pmNFB CAMP TOY SALE
Marquette A Room, Level 5
Everything must go30 to 70 percent off toys purchased for NFB Camp.
12:00 noon - 1:45 pmRAFFLES AND DRAWINGS
LaSalle A Room, Level 5
12:15 - 1:45 pmEVERYTHING YOU'VE EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT THE NLS
Nicolet B Room, Level 5
A question-and-answer session with Frank Kurt Cylke, Director, and staff of
the
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library
of Congress.
**************************************************
GENERAL SESSION
2:00 pm CALL TO ORDER
2:05 pm SHAPING THE STANDARD FOR THE LEGAL COMMUNITY: THE
NECESSITY FOR ACCESS TO INFORMATION FOR ALL
Daniel Goldstein, Esq., Partner, Brown, Goldstein & Levy,
LLP;
Baltimore, Maryland
2:25 pm NEGOTIATING ACCESSIBLE ELECTRONIC BOOKS: A MASSIVE
UNDERTAKING, A SMASHING SUCCESS
Jack Bernard, Esq., Chair, Counsel for Disability
Concerns, and
Assistant General Counsel, University of Michigan; Ann
Arbor,
Michigan
2:45 pm THE COMMITMENT OF MICROSOFT TO ACCESSIBLE
TECHNOLOGY
Rob Sinclair, Director of Accessibility, Microsoft
Corporation;
Redmond, Washington
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, Continued
3:05 pm TRANSCENDING THE BARRIERS OF YESTERDAY,
ANTICIPATING THE ROMANCE OF THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE
WITH THE TECHNOLOGY OF TOMORROW
Ray Kurzweil, President and Chief Executive Officer,
KNFB-Reading Technology, Inc.; Wellesley Hills,
Massachusetts
3:25 pm REPRESENTING THE CITY OF CHICAGO
Patti Chang, Esq., Senior Corporation Counsel, City of
Chicago;
Chicago, Illinois
3:45 pm DR. JACOB BOLOTIN AWARD
Gary Wunder, Chairperson, Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award
Committee, and Secretary, National Federation of the
Blind; Columbia, Missouri
4:15 pm THE RIGHT OF THE PEDESTRIAN TO BE SAFE IN THE WORLD
Ronald Medford, Acting Deputy Administrator, National
Highway
Traffic Safety Administration; Washington, D.C.
4:30 pm REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
5:00 pm ADJOURN
**************************************************
7:00 pmBANQUET
Renaissance Ballroom, Level 4
INVOCATION
MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Fredric K. Schroeder
INTRODUCTIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
BANQUET ADDRESS: Marc Maurer
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
10:00 pm - midnightAFTER BANQUET PARTY
Ambassador Three Ballroom, Level 3
10:00 pmSCIENCE FICTION MEETING
All persons interested in science fiction and fantasy are welcome to join in
an open discussion. Please contact Ed Meskys for room location.
Thank You...
The National Federation of the Blind would like to give a special thank you
to VBrick Systems for donating the technology and Internet services to allow
full streaming of all general sessions of the convention, the meeting of the
board of directors, and the annual banquet. Through this contribution, more
individuals will learn about the outstanding work that comes out of the
largest gathering of the blind in the world.
The National Federation of the Blind acknowledges with gratitude
our Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Exhibit Hall Convention Sponsors
below. Their messages follow.
Platinum Sponsors:
HumanWare
UPS
Gold Sponsors:
Deque Systems, Inc.
Freedom Scientific
Oracle
Silver Sponsors:
En-Vision America
Intel®
Wal-Mart
Bronze Sponsors:
Adobe
Council of U.S. Dog Guide Schools (CUSDGS)
IBM
Independent Living Aids (ILA)
Microsoft
Exhibit Hall Sponsors:
GW Micro
J&B Medical Supply
National Industries for the Blind
ReadHowYouWant
Roche Diagnostics
David Andrews and white cane Harry.
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