[Nfbk] Convention Notes

[Cathy Jackson]

Good Sunday Morning!
As I sit here in my backyard swing drinking my coffee, I am reflecting on another successful NFB National Convention. 
Congrats to Danielle Burton who is an NFB tenBroek Schollar. Danielle received a $3,000 scholarship, plus other cash awards and accessible equipment. I was privileged to serve on the scholarship Committer for the 6th year.
We had 25 NFB of Kentucky members present at convention, Seven were first-timers. From all accounts they enjoyed their first convention and learned a great deal.
Unfortunately, not one name from Kentucky was drawn for a door prize or any of the big raffles. 
We all spent way too much money in the exhibit hall. But, please don't ask me about the technology, I don't have a clue about that stuff.
There were 4 states hosting the convention: Louisiana, New Hampshire, Utah, and Oklahoma. This is done so as not to put such a burden on the Florida Affiliate. 
The banquet meal was absolutely one of the best. We had a huge piece of roast beef with veggies that were actually cooked and seasoned. The votes are split on the vegetarian meal. Jayne loved the mushroom and Nickie, well not so much.
The banquet was long as usual, but we survived. President Riccobono's speech was inspiring. I can see him growing as a leader right before my eyes.
We had our traditional Kentucky night. Not everyone was able to attend. We are a busy bunch and the schedule at convention is packed. It was a fun time for those who were there.
The agenda was filled with interesting and informative presenters. However, I am partial to our NFB members. Anill Lewis and the team in the Jernigan institute did an amazing job. Amy Burrish from Nebraska spoke about being a blind parent with two sighted children and the awkward situations she faces. And let us not forget Mark Riccobono's presidential report. We took a look at where we have been and where we are going in the coming year.
Resolutions are an important platform for this organization. They set the tone of business for the coming year. I encourage you to take a look at them. As a matter of fact, all of the  speeches, resolutions, and a convention wrap-up will be printed in the August/September edition of the Monitor. 
This would have been my 40th consecutive NFB Convention, except I missed in 1998 when my Dad was ill. I am planning on being in Orlando in 2017. I hope to see even more Kentuckians registered next year!
Cathy
Sent from my iPhone