[nfbmi-talk] Fwd: [State-affiliate-leadership-list] Maryland Agenda

Larry Posont president.nfb.mi at gmail.com
Mon Nov 10 04:03:29 UTC 2014


National Federation of the Blind of Michigan
7189 Connors Rd.
Munising, MI 49862

November 10, 2014

Dear Michigan Federationists:

     Here is the Maryland Convention Agenda that you may wish to read.

Sincerely,
Larry Posont
President
 National Federation of the Blind of Michigan
 (906) 387-3546
Email: president.nfb.mi at gmail.com
 Web page: www.nfbmi.org

Munising home of the beautiful Pictured Rocks.

Hello everyone,

Attached is a copy of the NFB of Maryland convention agenda.

Enjoy.

Melissa
CONVENTION AGENDA

FORTY-EIGHTH ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND

LIVE THE LIFE YOU WANT!

SHERATON BALTIMORE NORTH HOTEL
TOWSON, MARYLAND

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14-SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2014

NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE: RONALD BROWN



The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create
obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life
you want; blindness is not what holds you back.

Melissa Riccobono, President
1026 East 36th Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21218
(410) 645-0632
president at nfbmd.org
NFB of Maryland website: www.nfbmd.org

"Greetings"
from the Officers and Board of Directors

Officers:
Melissa Riccobono, President, Baltimore
Debbie Brown, First Vice President, Rockville
Barry Hond, Second Vice President, Baltimore
Judy Rasmussen, Secretary, Kensington
Shawn Jacobson, Treasurer, Olney

Members of the Board of Directors:
Darlene Barrett, Columbia
Michelle Clark, Springdale
Melissa Lomax, Gwyn Oak
Sharon Maneki, Columbia
Maurice Peret, Baltimore
Michon Smith, Columbia

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, an affiliate of the
National Federation of the Blind, is a nonprofit organization of blind
persons, their families, and their friends. We promote equal
opportunities for the blind. We provide advocacy services for the
blind, special training programs for parents of blind children, job
referrals and placements for the blind, public education programs, and
scholarships to blind students, and we help the newly blind to acquire
special techniques for maintaining productive lives.

Committees of the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

Anna Freysz Cable Award Committee
Debbie Brown, Chairman

Convention Child Care
Teresa Graham, Chairman

Convention Registration Committee
Sonia Little, Chairman

Convention Sponsorship/Exhibit Hall Committee
Anil Lewis, Chairman

Deaf-Blind Concerns Committee
Janice Toothman, Chairman

Distinguished Educator of Blind Children
 Award Committee
Sharon Maneki, Chairman

Door Prize Committee
Darlene Barrett, Chairman

Guide Dog Committee
Janice Toothman, Chairman

Jennifer Baker Award Committee
Susan Baker, Chairman

Kenneth Jernigan Award Committee
Dr. Marc Maurer, Chairman

Nominations Committee
Chris Danielsen, Chairman

PAC Plan Committee
John G. Paré Jr., Chairman

Resolutions Committee
Jesse Hartle, Chairman

Scholarship Committee
Judy Rasmussen, Chairman

SUN, Jernigan Fund, and
Jacobus tenBroek Memorial Fund Auction
Terri Uttermohlen, Chairman

Youth Activity Committee
Melissa Lomax and Trudy Pickrel, Co-Chairmen

Chapters and Divisions of the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

At Large Chapter
Sharon Maneki, Coordinator * (410) 715-9596
Monthly meetings third Tuesday via conference call

Baltimore County Chapter
Ruth Sager, President * (410) 602-9030
Monthly meetings fourth Wednesday

Central Maryland Chapter
Darlene Barrett, President * (410) 997-9664
Monthly meetings first Tuesday

Delmarva Chapter
Danielle Earl, President * (443) 359-5882
Monthly meetings second Saturday

Greater Baltimore Chapter
Chris Danielsen, President * (410) 659-9314, ext. 2330
Monthly meetings third Saturday

Greater Cumberland Chapter
Jason Adkins, President * (301) 759-3232
Monthly meetings fourth Thursday

Maryland Association of Blind Students
Melissa Lomax, President * (410) 608-6118

Maryland Parents of Blind Children
Trudy Pickrel, President * (301) 387-4182

National Harbor Chapter
Michelle Clark, President * (301) 583-8585
Monthly meetings fourth Saturday

Senior Issues Division
Ruth Sager, President * (410) 602-9030

Sligo Creek Chapter
Debbie Brown, President * (301) 881-1892
Monthly meetings second Saturday

TriCounty Chapter
Nikki Tippett, President * (443) 262-5020
Monthly meetings third Saturday

Towson, Lutherville, Cockeysville (TLC) Chapter
Mary Jo Hartle, President * (318) 243-4135
Monthly meetings third Thursday

JOHN T. McCRAW SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The John T. McCraw Scholarship Program, named in honor of the late
long-time president of the National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland and the undisputed leader of Maryland's blind community, has
been established to promote post-secondary educational opportunities
and superior rehabilitation training for Maryland's blind students.

High School Graduates--The recipients may use these scholarships to
defray the cost of educational expenses incurred at any post-secondary
institution.

Youth and Seniors--Middle school and high school students, as well as
seniors experiencing vision loss, may use these scholarships to defray
the cost of rehabilitation training provided by any qualified
rehabilitation agency for the blind.

STAY CONNECTED AND INFORMED!
Please follow the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland on
Twitter! Visit http://www.twitter.com/NFBMD to receive affiliate news
and updates.

Friend the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland on Facebook!
Search for NFB Maryland.

Stay connected with your fellow Maryland Federationists by joining our
state email listserv. This list allows you to receive affiliate and
national announcements, and also to start and participate in
discussions regarding blindness and blindness issues. To sign up,
visit http://www.nfbnet.org, click on "Join or drop NFB mailing
lists," then on "NFBMD," and follow the instructions. Many of our
local chapters now also have listservs. Talk to your chapter president
to learn how to sign up so you don't miss important information about
chapter news and events.

Visit our newly redesigned website at http://www.nfbmd.org.

BRAILLE SPECTATOR
The Braille Spectator is published for members of the National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland and others who share an interest
in the work of this organization. Free subscriptions (in print) can be
obtained upon request. The Braille Spectator can also be read on the
Web at http://www.nfbmd.org or can be listened to on the local channel
of NFB-NEWSLINE(R).


THE NATIONAL FEDERATION
OF THE BLIND PLEDGE:

I pledge to participate actively
in the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind
to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind;
to support the policies and programs of the Federation;
and to abide by its Constitution.

Navigating the Sheraton Baltimore North Hotel

Address: 903 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson, Maryland 21204. Main
telephone: (410) 321-7400.

Meeting Rooms Being Used
The F. Scott Fitzgerald Ballroom is located on the Plaza Level (first
floor). The Cole Boardroom, Grason Room, Amphitheater, Duncan Room,
and skywalk to the Towson Town Center mall are all located on the
second level.

Plaza Level (First Floor)
As you enter the main entrance to the hotel, you are facing south and
in the lobby area, which is tiled. Directly in front of you is a large
carpeted square seating area with two chairs on each corner of the
square and a large ottoman in the center of the square. Immediately to
your right is the bell stand podium. Also to the right about twenty
feet away is the front desk.

On the far side of the carpeted seating area, directly opposite of the
main entrance door, is another door to: a smoking area; a flight of
stairs with trash cans on either side; and at the bottom of the
stairs, a grassy area appropriate for dog relief.

>From the main entrance door, walking about twenty feet diagonally to
the left brings you to: 1) the beginning of a long carpeted hallway
which takes you to the Rain 903 restaurant (seating for 96 and open
from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.), lobby bar, and Fitzgerald Ballroom; 2)
stairs to the second floor; 3) to the right of the stairs, a very
small gift shop that offers candy, snacks, ice cream, and other sundry
items; and 4) to the right of the gift shop, a bank of three
elevators--one on the right and two on the left. All three elevators
may be used to go to the sleeping rooms, meeting rooms on the second
floor, and pool on the third floor.

At the end of the long carpeted hallway is an area with wood flooring.
There is a rainfall water fountain directly ahead, and the Rain 903
restaurant hostess stand is to the right of this fountain. Turning
left at the end of the hallway and going a short distance, the lobby
bar is on the right. Walking past the lobby bar are both men's and
women's restrooms on the right in a slight alcove, with men's on the
right side and women's on the left. Continuing past the restrooms
takes you to the West Foyer area. Once in the foyer area, turn right
to go to the multiple entrances of the Fitzgerald Ballroom.

Also, once you are in the West Foyer area, to the left is a secondary
entrance door to the hotel marked "Meeting and Banquet Entrance." Just
past this entrance door is a stairwell to the second floor.

Second Floor
There are four meeting rooms on the second floor plus the skywalk to
the Towson Town Center mall. If you take the stairs by the gift shop,
you will go up several sets of steps before reaching the second floor.
When you arrive on the second floor, the elevators are to your left,
and a long carpeted balcony/hallway is to your right.
Skywalk to Mall
The first opening you come to on the right is a very short entryway to
the skywalk. The skywalk is an uncovered overpass that takes you to
the mall parking garage. When you enter the garage, turn right, go up
a slight hill, and go into the mall. The food court is on the third
floor, which you can get to via an escalator that is a short distance
down on the left.

Meeting Rooms
Past the skywalk entryway are all of the meeting rooms. On the right
going down the balcony/hallway are the Cole Boardroom and Grason Room.
The Cole Boardroom is just past the business office, which has a glass
door. The Grason Room is located two meeting rooms down from the Cole
Boardroom (the McIntosh and Burke Rooms are in between). There is a
hallway on the right immediately past the Grason Room which has men's
and women's restrooms located on the left as you go down that hallway.

The Amphitheater (which had no sign on the outside of it indicating
that it was the Amphitheater when we toured the hotel) and Duncan Room
are located in a separate hallway which can be accessed by bearing
left as you pass the Grason Room. Both of these rooms are on the right
side in that hallway. At the end of the hallway on the left is a
stairwell to the West Foyer outside of the Fitzgerald Ballroom.

Parking
You must park in the Sheraton garage if you are staying overnight at
the hotel. You cannot park in the mall garage overnight or your car
will be towed away (according to the hotel employee at the front
desk). The Sheraton's garage is large and well-lit. When you drive
into the garage, you have to stop and get a ticket stub from a
machine. You must have your ticket stub validated at the front desk
every time you leave the garage. If you don't get the ticket stub
validated, the garage security gate arm will not rise to allow you to
exit. If you use the elevator in the garage, press the 'PL' button.
After exiting the elevator, the hotel's main entrance is a short walk
and to the left. (There is another secondary entrance on the left
before you get to the main entrance which takes you directly into the
Fitzgerald Ballroom area.) Parking charges of nine dollars per day
will be automatically added to your room bill if you park in the hotel
garage.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. No special
password is needed.

Room Charges
You may charge meals, phone calls, and incidentals to your room by
presenting a credit card to the front desk when checking in. The hotel
levies additional charges on all phone calls made from your room.
These charges are your responsibility. Please take care of these
charges when you check out of your room on Sunday.

REGISTRATION
Registration and packet pickup for the convention will be held in the
West Foyer on Friday from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.; on Saturday from 8:00 to
8:40 a.m. and 12:00 noon to 12:15 p.m.; and on Sunday from 8:30 to
8:50 a.m.

Registration fee: $20.00
Banquet: $45.00
Senior Issues Division and Parents Division Luncheons: $25.00

Banquet Ticket Exchange will be held Saturday, 1:20 to 2:00 p.m., in
the West Foyer. Turn in banquet tickets to reserve seating at a
specific table. Banquet Ticket Exchange is necessitated by the large
number of persons attending the banquet.

All persons taking advantage of the reduced room rates offered by the
Sheraton Baltimore North for this convention are required to register
with the convention and to pay the registration fee of $25.00.

DOOR PRIZES
Darlene Barrett is the chairman of the Door Prize Committee. Many of
you have been hard at work gathering fabulous door prizes for this
convention. Please turn in your door prizes to Darlene as soon as
possible. You must be registered for the convention and present when
your name is called in order to win a door prize. Door prizes will be
awarded during the general sessions on Saturday and Sunday and during
the convention banquet.
KIDS CLUB (CONVENTION CHILD CARE)
All child care (for children ages 6 weeks to 10 years) will take place
in the Grason Room. Hours are: Friday, 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; and
Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and 6:30-10:00 p.m. (lunch and dinner
will be provided). Parents should contact Teresa Graham for details.

HOTEL CHECK OUT AND LUGGAGE HANDLING
On Sunday, you must check out of your room before 12:30 p.m.

If you are leaving the Sheraton by NFB of Maryland bus, please bring
your luggage to Fitzgerald A between 7:30 and 9:00 a.m. Sunday, where
it will be tagged and held for storage until 12:00 noon, when the bus
will be loaded. Please be sure that your luggage is clearly labeled
with your name, address, and telephone number.

TRANSPORTATION
If you came to the Sheraton Baltimore North Hotel on transportation
provided by the NFB of Maryland, you should expect to return on the
same vehicle that brought you here. However, some changes may be
necessary to accommodate one-way passengers. Please pay careful
attention to transportation updates made during the Sunday morning
general session.


FRIDAY NIGHT HOSPITALITY AND
TERRIFIC TRIVIA CHALLENGE!
Join us at 8:00 p.m. in Fitzgerald B and C for hospitality and our
Terrific Trivia Challenge! Get a team of five people together and try
your skill at trivia. Take on other teams head to head in this evening
of trivia madness. Prizes will be awarded! Team sign up before
convention is encouraged. Contact Melissa Riccobono for more details.
If space is available, teams may be able to sign up the evening of the
contest.

Not sure trivia is your thing? No problem! Please come to eat some
delicious complimentary snacks and cheer on your favorite team in our
trivia contest. Master of Ceremonies, Anil Lewis, will keep everyone
up to date on the scores of the trivia contest. Our National
Representative, Ron Brown, and his wife, Jean, will serve as our
contest judges.

A cash bar will also be available.

FUNDING THE MOVEMENT
Donations and pledges to the NFB of Maryland will be taken during the
banquet. The affiliate is in desperate need of funds at this time.

PAC Plan
A PAC Plan pledge form is included in this booklet for your
convenience. The Braille agenda includes a print copy of the PAC Plan
pledge form. Please use it to join the PAC Plan or increase your
monthly PAC pledge. Please see John Paré at the PAC table during
general sessions Saturday and Sunday in order to join the PAC Plan or
increase your pledge.

SUN, Jernigan Fund, and
Jacobus tenBroek Memorial Fund Auction
Our auction for SUN, the Jernigan Fund, and the Jacobus tenBroek
Memorial Fund will take place spontaneously throughout the convention.
Bring your auction items to Terri Uttermohlen as soon as possible. Be
ready to bid at any time on that must-have item!

Jacobus tenBroek Legacy Society
Help build a future full of opportunity for the blind by becoming a
member of the Jacobus tenBroek Legacy Society. Your legacy gift to the
National Federation of the Blind can be made in the form of a will or
living trust, an income-generating gift, or by naming the NFB as a
beneficiary of a retirement plan or life insurance policy. You can
also become a member of the Jacobus tenBroek Legacy Society by making
a legacy gift to the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland (or
other state affiliate). By committing to support an NFB affiliate,
your gift will benefit both local and national programs, as all
bequests made to affiliates are split evenly with the NFB national
treasury. In addition to having the satisfaction of contributing to
the future success of the NFB's mission, tenBroek Legacy Society
members will also receive a specially-designed thank you gift and
other benefits. For additional information about the Jacobus tenBroek
Legacy Society, please contact Lou Ann Blake at the NFB Jernigan
Institute by email at lblake at nfb.org or by telephone at (410)
659-9314, extension 2221.

Help Drive Change!
The National Federation of the Blind is now accepting vehicle
donations! To donate a vehicle of any kind, please call
1-855-659-9314, or visit http://www.carshelpingtheblind.org.

Arrangements will be made to tow your vehicle at no cost to you. You
will receive a receipt for your tax-deductable donation. Each vehicle
donated is worth approximately $500.

Don't have a vehicle to donate yourself? No problem. Please pass the
word to family and friends about this new initiative and help drive
change with the National Federation of the Blind!

GreenDrop
The National Federation of the Blind has teamed up with GreenDrop to
collect donations of clothing and household items. If you live in or
near Laurel or College Park, Maryland, you can bring donations
directly to Second Avenue stores for drop off. If you, or family or
friends, live in Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware,
Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, or Virginia, you can
donate your unwanted items through drop-off locations or call for a
pickup from your home or business. Your donation will help the blind
live the life we want.
For more information about the National Federation of the Blind
GreenDrop program or to schedule a pickup of your unwanted items,
visit www.nfbpickup.org, call 1-888-610-4NFB (4632), or email
GreenDrop at nfb.org. You can also contact us if you would like to
organize a household discards drive in your neighborhood, at your
school, or where you work.
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF MARYLAND
Forty-Eighth Annual Convention
AGENDA

FRIDAY, November 14

9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.  "Independence 101": A Conference for Parents and Teachers

9:00-10:00 a.m.  Registration
Outside Grason Room

10:00 a.m.  Conference Begins
Sponsored by the Maryland Parents of Blind Children (MDPOBC). This
conference addresses the role of the MDPOBC, opportunities for summer
learning and fun for blind youth, advocating for your child when
creating an IEP, cane skills, organization in both school and home,
improving independence skills, and information on the new PARCC
assessment and Unified English Braille.
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children; McHenry, Maryland
Amphitheater, Duncan Room, and Fitzgerald A North

9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.  Kids Club (Convention Child Care)
Teresa Graham, Coordinator; Ellicott City, Maryland
Grason Room

10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.  Board of Directors Meeting
Everyone is encouraged to attend!
Fitzgerald C

11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.  NFB-NEWSLINE(R) Demonstration, Survey, and Contest
Find out what's new with NFB-NEWSLINE(R)! It's not just for your
telephone anymore! Peruse job listings, store ads, and international
publications!
Enroll in the drawing for $50 cash by participating in the
NFB-NEWSLINE(R) survey. Contest ends before Saturday morning session.
North Foyer

11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.  Technology Exhibits
Receive a free iBill Currency Identifier; get a chair massage; browse
and purchase products from the National Federation of the Blind
Independence Market; explore three-dimensional photographs; give your
feedback on your voting experiences; and check out the latest
offerings from a variety of companies and organizations that provide
technology and services for the blind.
North Foyer

12:15-1:15 p.m.  Be Smart: How to avoid falling victim to scams and
identity theft
Representatives from Legal Shield will speak about keeping yourself
safe financially. Lunch may be purchased for a fee of $10 on a first
come, first served basis. This event is being coordinated by the
Maryland Senior Issues Division, but is open to all who are interested
in this topic.
Ruth Sager, President, Maryland Senior Issues Division; Pikesville, Maryland
Fitzgerald C

1:00-6:00 p.m.  Convention Registration and Packet Pick-up
West Foyer

1:30-2:30 p.m.  Salsa Dancing: Time to get your groove on!
Learn how to salsa dance; no prior experience necessary!
Valencia Moody, 2011 and 2013 Salsa Champion, National Federation of
the Blind National Convention; Waldorf, Maryland
Fitzgerald A South

1:30-3:00 p.m.  UEB (Unified English Braille) Workshop 1: How changes
in Braille will benefit and impact you
Debbie Brown, First Vice President, National Federation of the Blind
of Maryland, Quality Assurance Specialist, National Library Services
for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress;
Rockville, Maryland
Fitzgerald A North

1:30-5:00 p.m.  Seniors on the Move!
Participate in Zumba, yoga, and salsa dancing! These workshops are
being coordinated by the Maryland Senior Issues Division, but are open
to all interested parties if space is available.
Ruth Sager, President, Senior Issues Division; Pikesville, Maryland
Fitzgerald C

1:30-5:00 p.m.  Reading for Pleasure and Education, and "Is there an
app for that?": Hands-on Demonstrations of the new K-NFB Reader Mobile
app, BARD Mobile, the NFB-NEWSLINE(R) App, Read2Go, and more!
Bring your own iDevice, Android phone, Victor Stream II, or other
reading device for hands-on practice with various apps used for
reading different types of materials. Ask questions regarding
available apps for online shopping, games, audio streaming, and more.
Room 1217

2:30-4:00 p.m.  Maryland Association of Blind Students Annual Meeting
The best place to learn about tools, techniques, resources, and
networks available to blind students is here! Receive updates on
technology devices and programs, have hands-on experience with
independent living skills, and hear from successful blind adults. Come
meet students from across the state of Maryland, and get involved!
Elections will be held at this meeting.
Melissa Lomax, President, Maryland Association of Blind Students; Gwyn
Oak, Maryland
Fitzgerald B

2:45-3:45 p.m.  Zumba Gold Session 1: Get up and dance!
No prior experience necessary.
Stephanie Webb, Zumba Gold Instructor; White Marsh, Maryland
Fitzgerald A South

3:00-4:30 p.m.  Deaf-Blind Concerns
Join Janice Toothman to discuss concerns, resources, and new
opportunities for the deaf-blind of Maryland.
Janice Toothman, Chairman, Deaf-Blind Concerns Committee, National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Bowie, Maryland
Cole Boardroom

3:15-4:45 p.m.  UEB (Unified English Braille) Workshop 2: How changes
in Braille will benefit and impact you
Debbie Brown, First Vice President, National Federation of the Blind
of Maryland, Quality Assurance Specialist, National Library Services
for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress;
Rockville, Maryland
Fitzgerald A North

4:00-5:00 p.m.  Zumba Gold Session 2: Get up and dance!
No prior experience necessary.
Stephanie Webb, Zumba Gold Instructor; White Marsh, Maryland
Fitzgerald A South

5:00-6:00 p.m.  What Are the Federation and State Convention All About?
A gathering for first-time convention attendees.
Chris Danielsen, President, Greater Baltimore Chapter, National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
Cole Boardroom

6:30-8:00 p.m.  Parents and Children Unite
Sponsored by the Maryland Parents of Blind Children, this gathering is
for families with blind children, and also for blind parents and their
children. A great time for networking, exchanging information, and
general fellowship.
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children; McHenry, Maryland
Fitzgerald A North

7:30 p.m.  National Federation of the Blind of Maryland Resolutions
Committee Meeting
Jesse Hartle, Chairman; Lutherville, Maryland
Fitzgerald A South

8:00 p.m.-Midnight  Hospitality and Terrific Trivia Challenge!
Get a team of five together to play trivia against other NFB of
Maryland members and friends. Test your knowledge on everything from
NFB history to music, sports, TV shows, and more. Prior team
registration is encouraged, but team sign up at convention may be
possible if space allows. If trivia's not your thing, sit back, relax,
and cheer for your favorite trivia team!
Master of Ceremonies: Anil Lewis, Executive Director, National
Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute; Baltimore, Maryland
Complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided.
Fitzgerald B and C

SATURDAY, November 15

7:00-8:15 a.m.  Maryland Guide Dog Committee Meeting
This meeting is open to current and past guide dog users, and anyone
interested in guide dogs.
Janice Toothman, Chairman, Maryland Guide Dog Committee; Bowie, Maryland
Cole Boardroom

7:15-8:00 a.m.  2014 National Federation of the Blind Braille
Enrichment for Literacy and Learning (BELL) Reunion for Students and
Parents
Grason Room

7:45-8:40 a.m.  Convention Registration and Packet Pick-up
West Foyer

8:00-8:45 a.m.  Cane Walk for Parents and Children
Outside Grason Room

8:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m.  Kids Club (Convention Child Care)
Teresa Graham, Coordinator; Ellicott City, Maryland
Grason Room

General Sessions will be held in Fitzgerald B and C.

MORNING SESSION

8:45 a.m.  Call to Order, Invocation, and Convention Announcements

9:00 a.m.  Working Together to Live the Life We Want: A Report from
the National Office
Ronald Brown, Second Vice President, National Federation of the Blind,
and President, National Federation of the Blind of Indiana;
Indianapolis, Indiana

9:30 a.m.  Helping the Blind of Maryland Live the Life They Want for
Over 100 Years: A Report from Blind Industries and Services of
Maryland, Our Convention Title Sponsor
Christina Davis, Senior Director, Blind Industries and Services of
Maryland; Phoenix, Maryland

9:45 a.m.  Questions and Discussion

9:50 a.m.  Braille: The Key for Our Children to Unlock the Door of the
Life They Want
Mary Jo Hartle, Lead Teacher, Baltimore NFB BELL Program; Lutherville, Maryland
Carlton Ann Cook Walker, Lead Teacher, Glendale NFB BELL Program;
Bowling Springs, Pennsylvania
Student Participants, Baltimore and Glendale NFB BELL Programs

10:05 a.m.  Speaking of Literacy: Living the Life Full of Books We
Want with the Help of the Maryland Library for the Blind and
Physically Handicapped
Irene Padilla, Assistant Superintendent, Division of Library
Development and Services, Maryland State Department of Education;
Baltimore, Maryland

10:20 a.m. Questions and Discussion

10:25 a.m.  Funding Our Movement: We Need Money to Live the Life We Want
John G. Paré Jr., PAC Chairman, National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland

10:35 a.m.  Sometimes, to Live the Life You Want You Need a LIFT
Mark Pettis, Executive Director, Learning Is For Tomorrow (LIFT);
Baltimore, Maryland
Anica Zlotescu, Blind/Low Vision Instructor, Learning Is For Tomorrow
(LIFT); Baltimore, Maryland

10:50 a.m.  Questions and Discussion

10:55 a.m.  Reading What You Want, Where You Want Helps Us Live the
Life We Want: Introducing the K-NFB Reader
Anne Taylor, Director of Access Technology, National Federation of the
Blind Jernigan Institute; Catonsville, Maryland

 11:10 a.m.  Employment Is Part of the Life We Want: Federationists at Work
Jean Brown, Owner, Visions Salon and Day Spa; Indianapolis, Indiana
Brian Altman, Education Coordinator, Henry M. Jackson Foundation for
the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc.; Gaithersburg, Maryland
J.J. Meddaugh, President, A T Guys; Kalamazoo, Michigan
Cheryl Fogle-Hatch, Archaeologist; Baltimore, Maryland

11:50 a.m.  Reports and Resolutions

12:00 p.m.  Adjourn

12:00-12:15 p.m.  Convention Registration and Packet Pick-up
West Foyer

12:00-1:45 p.m.  Luncheon--The Education of Blind or Visually Impaired Students
For parents, students, and teachers of blind students.
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children, National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland; McHenry, Maryland
Duncan Room

12:00-1:45 p.m.  Luncheon--Reclaiming Independence after Vision Loss
For seniors and others facing vision loss.
Ruth Sager, President, Senior Issues Division, National Federation of
the Blind of Maryland; Pikesville, Maryland
Fitzgerald A

1:20-2:00 p.m.  Banquet Exchange
West Foyer

AFTERNOON SESSION

2:00 p.m.  Call to Order

2:05 p.m.  More Training and Networking Opportunities to Help You Live
the Life You Want: Two Maryland Independent Living Centers
Imani Graham, Peer Support/Independent Living Specialist, The Image
Center for People with Disabilities; Baltimore, Maryland
Sarah Sorensen, Director, Independence Now; Maryland

2:20 p.m.  Questions and Discussion

2:25 p.m.  DORS Helps Us Live the Life We Want
Sue Schaffer, Director, Office of Blindness and Vision Services,
Division of Rehabilitation Services, Maryland State Department of
Education; Columbia, Maryland

2:40 p.m.  Questions and Discussion

2:45 p.m.  Together With Love, Hope, and Determination, We Transform
Dreams into Reality
Melissa Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind of
Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland

3:15 p.m.  The Maryland School for the Blind; Educated Students Go
Forth to Live the Life They Want
Michael J. Bina, President, Maryland School for the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland

3:30 p.m.  Questions and Discussion

3:35 p.m.  Soundtrack to the Past: The Songs that Describe Our History
and Remind Us of the Distance We Have Come Toward Living the Life We
Want
Christopher Nusbaum, NFB History Enthusiast; Union Bridge, Maryland

3:50 p.m.  The Three Giants: The Men Who Led and Lead Us on the Path
of the Life We Want
Dr. Marc Maurer, Immediate Past President, National Federation of the
Blind; Catonsville, Maryland
Mary Ellen Jernigan, Policy Advisor to the President, National
Federation of the Blind; Hanover, Maryland
Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland

4:50 p.m.  Reports and Resolutions

5:00 p.m.  Adjourn

6:00 p.m.  Reception and Cash Bar
North Foyer

6:00 p.m.  Maryland Parents of Blind Children Portrait Studio
Have individual and group photos taken in your fancy banquet attire!
All proceeds will benefit the Maryland Parents of Blind Children.
West Foyer

7:00 p.m.  Forty-Eighth Annual Convention Banquet
Master of Ceremonies: Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation
of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
Keynote Banquet Address: Ronald Brown, Second Vice President, National
Federation of the Blind, and President, National Federation of the
Blind of Indiana; Indianapolis, Indiana
Scholarships and Awards
Fitzgerald Ballroom

SUNDAY, November 16

7:00-8:45 a.m.  Board Meeting, Maryland Parents of Blind Children
Trudy Pickrel, President, Maryland Parents of Blind Children; McHenry, Maryland
Grason Room

7:30 a.m.  Luggage Collection (for bus passengers only)

8:00-8:30 a.m.  Nonsectarian Devotions
Lloyd and Judy Rasmussen, Sligo Creek Chapter, National Federation of
the Blind of Maryland; Kensington, Maryland
Fitzgerald B and C

8:30-8:50 a.m.  Registration
West Foyer

MORNING SESSION

9:00 a.m.  Call to Order and Invocation

9:05 a.m.  The National Federation of the Blind App: Staying In Touch
with the Life of the Federation
John Berggren, Executive Director of Operations, National Federation
of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland

9:20 a.m.  Questions and Discussion

9:25 a.m.  Summer Programs Now Jump Start the Lives They Want in Their Futures
Participants in the 2014 Blind Industries and Services of Maryland
Independence 101 program, and participants in the 2014 Louisiana
Center for the Blind Buddy and STEP Program

9:45 a.m.  Affiliate Elections

10:00 a.m.  Hiking 75 Miles for 75 Years of the National Federation of
the Blind: They are Truly Living the Life They Want!
Maurice Peret, "Blind Wanderer"; Baltimore, Maryland
Lou Ann Blake, "Bum Knees"; Baltimore, Maryland

10:15 a.m.  Questions and Discussion

10:20 a.m.  Driving Toward the Life We Want: Chapter Involvement in
the GreenDrop and Vehicle Donation Initiatives
Darlene Barrett, GreenDrop Guru and Honk Honk Heroine, National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland; Columbia, Maryland

10:30 a.m.  Questions and Discussion

10:35 a.m.  Let's Go Build the Federation!: Let's Help Others Learn
They Can Live the Life They Want!
Jeanie Massay, Co-Chair, 75 Days of Action Committee, National
Federation of the Blind; Norman, Oklahoma
Kevan Worley, Co-Chair, 75 Days of Action Committee, National
Federation of the Blind; Colorado Springs, Colorado
Ronza Othman, Chair, 75 Days of Action Committee, National Federation
of the Blind of Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland
Mark Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland

11:00 a.m.  Improving Opportunities for Disabled People in America
The Honorable Ben Cardin, United States Senator for Maryland

11:15 a.m.  Questions and Discussion

11:20 a.m.  Resolutions

11:40 a.m.  Business Meeting

12:00 p.m.  Adjourn

Message of Thanks

Thank you to all of those who answered the call and made this
convention such a big success. This includes those who spoke on panels
and individually; worked in the child care room; helped with the sound
system, convention recording, and convention streaming; planned and
ran Friday seminars; worked hospitality; helped with the new member
gathering; worked with blind tweens and teens; and helped in any other
ways I am forgetting. This convention would not have run so smoothly
without all of your assistance.

I would very much like to thank our National Representative, Ron
Brown, for providing a national perspective at this convention, and
sharing his story with us at our banquet. Thank you also to Ron's
wife, Jean, for her help in judging our Terrific Trivia Challenge, and
for sharing her experiences as a spa owner with the convention.

In addition, I would like to thank the National Federation of the
Blind of Maryland Board of Directors for all of their support,
guidance, and willingness to help over the past year. Our affiliate is
growing in so many ways, and without our teamwork this growth would
not be possible. As always, a special thank you to Sharon Maneki for
all of her tireless efforts on behalf of the National Federation of
the Blind of Maryland. This year, in particular, I am grateful to
Sharon for her work to revitalize and sustain our At Large Chapter.
Sharon works tirelessly for the NFB of Maryland every day, and I am
truly grateful for all of the wisdom, organization, insight,
experience, and humor she brings.

A special thank you to Ronza Othman for handling convention logistics
with the Sheraton Baltimore North this year. This is an enormous job,
and Ronza has done a fantastic job making sure this convention has run
smoothly. In addition, Ronza has coordinated the NFB of Maryland's
efforts in the 75 Days of Action Campaign. Thank you Ronza for sharing
your energy, time, and talents to help our affiliate grow.

I would also like to thank all of the members of the affiliate who
volunteered for projects, gave input and suggestions, and helped in so
many other ways, large and small, to make our affiliate strong and
vibrant. I look forward to many opportunities to work with all of you
in new and exciting ways in the upcoming years. Remember, there are
always jobs to be done; please do not hesitate to volunteer your time
and talents!

The NFB of Maryland is truly blessed to have Mary Ellen Thompson
working with us. Thank you, Mary Ellen, for all of the wonderful
services you have given so willingly over the past year. You have done
everything from driving to destinations near and far, reading
documents simple and complex, stuffing envelopes, changing diapers,
game playing, assisting with homework, helping with BELL and toy
inventory . . . and the list goes on. I could not do all that I do
without your expert help. My family and I thank God for you every day,
and we, and the NFB of Maryland, are so blessed to have you working
with and for us.

As always, the biggest thank you needs to go to my husband, Mark, and
our children, Austin, Oriana, and Elizabeth. Mark, each year only gets
busier! Thank you for supporting my work in every way, giving such
sound advice, being so eager to help, and making me always look beyond
this moment to the possibilities of the future. Austin, Oriana, and
Elizabeth, thank you for always being ready to make me laugh and
smile, and for being willing to play games and give me hugs and
cuddles when I need a break.

It has truly been an honor to have served as president of the National
Federation of the Blind of Maryland for the past six years. Thank you
all for your confidence in me, for allowing me to do such challenging
and energizing work, and for giving me so many opportunities to work
with you to help the blind of Maryland live the life they want. I know
the time is right for me to step away from the presidency, and I have
no doubt that our new president will lead the affiliate with love,
hope, and determination so our dreams will be transformed into
reality. I, too, pledge to be involved in this affiliate's work for as
long as I am able. This is most certainly not a goodbye; it is just a
hello to something new. I look forward to the bright future of the
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland.

Melissa Riccobono, President
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

Thank You to Our Convention Sponsors

Title Sponsor
Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM)

Independence Sponsors
Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Venable LLP

Opportunity Sponsor
Maryland Technology Assistance Program
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