[nfbmi-talk] 2017 NFB National Convention Agenda: Plain Text Edition
Kane Brolin
kbrolin65 at gmail.com
Sun Jun 11 00:37:05 UTC 2017
This is for anybody that could not open the Word document sent a
couple of days ago.
David Andrews sent this to the NFB Members list on nfbnet.org. Enjoy.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Andrews via NFBNet-Members-List <nfbnet-members-list at nfbnet.org>
Date: Fri, 9 Jun 2017 23:40:12 -0500
Subject: [Nfbnet-members-list] 2017 NFB National Convention Agenda
To: nfbnet-members-list at nfbnet.org
National Federation of the Blind logo and tagline Live the life you want.
2017 ANNUAL CONVENTION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
JULY 10 to JULY 15
THE MEMBERS OF THE
HOST AFFILIATE COMMITTEE
WELCOME YOU TO THE
77th ANNUAL CONVENTION OF THE
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND
Mark Riccobono, President
National Federation of the Blind
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place
Baltimore, Maryland 21230
John Berggren, Chairman
Convention Organization and Activities
Shawn Callaway, President
National Federation of the Blind
of District of Columbia
National Federation of the Blind
Board of Directors
James Brown, President
National Federation of the Blind
of Tennessee
Nani Fife, President
National Federation of the Blind
of Hawaii
Donald Porterfield, President
National Federation of the Blind
of Arizona
Rosen Shingle Creek
9939 Universal Boulevard
Orlando, Florida 32819
(866) 996-9939
WELCOME!
Welcome to the 77th annual convention of the National Federation of
the Blind being held in Orlando at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel. A
detailed description of the layout of the hotel can be found
immediately after the “Convention Notes,” which are at the end of the
program listings. Check the “Convention Notes” for further information
about a variety of convention topics. When you check in to the hotel,
you will be asked to confirm your departure date. If you decide to
leave earlier than the departure date you confirm when you check in,
there may be a change fee.
ROOKIE ROUNDUP
Title: logo - Description: Rookie Roundup logoAll first-time
convention attendees are cordially invited to attend a reception from
8:00 to 9:30 p.m. on Monday in the Panzacola Ballroom G-1, Level 1.
President Riccobono 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.
PREREGISTRATION AND ON-SITE REGISTRATION
Registration activities take place in the Sebastian Ballroom
Pre-function area, Level 1 beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, at 8:30
a.m. on Wednesday, and at other times as listed throughout the week.
All convention attendees (both local and out‑of‑town) are asked to
register. Those who preregistered for convention may pick up their
registration packets in the area designated “Preregistration.” Those
who did not preregister may go to the area designated “Registration.”
Please have your check or cash ready to pay the registration fee of
$30 per person; we cannot accept credit cards at registration.
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.
EXHIBIT HALL AND INDEPENDENCE MARKET
The Exhibit Hall and the NFB Independence Market are located in
Sebastian Ballrooms K and L, Level 1. There is a special sponsor-only
exhibitor preview for convention attendees on Tuesday morning from
9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Exhibit Hall hours of operation are:
Tuesday 9:00 to 11:00 AM (sponsors only)
Tuesday 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Thursday Noon to 1:45 PM and 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Friday Noon to 1:45 PM (final opportunity to visit
the Exhibit Hall)
Independence Market hours of operation are:
Tuesday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Thursday Noon to 1:45 PM
Friday Noon to 1:45 PM (final opportunity to visit the Market)
THE CONVENTION QUEST
In Braille, take the word for a female monarch, move two dots and you
will have your watchword. If you enjoy puzzles, brain teasers, trivia,
popping up in random locations to sing Federation songs, and having a
good time with your friends, then this is for you! You will face many
challenges, but the rewards are plentiful. To join in this unique and
interactive experience, once you arrive at convention, please visit
http://quest.nfb.org. For more information on how to play, please send
an email to quest at nfb.org <mailto:quest at nfb.org?subject=QUEST> , or
call (203) 364-4263.
READ INNACCESSIBLE PRINT AND PDFS WITH KNFB READER!
KNFB Reader uses the power of digital photography and a specially
designed mobile device app to read print on the go using your iOS,
Android, or Windows 10 phone or tablet or your Windows 10 computer.
Come see this award-winning, life-changing technology in our
demonstration room any time on Tuesday or Wednesday from 1:00 to 6:00
p.m. in Wekiwa 7, Level 2. Access that inaccessible print or PDF with
KNFB Reader—just point, shoot, and read!
SPECIAL ATTENTION ITEMS
· The Presidential Suite (13217); Dr. Maurer’s Suite (13216);
and the Host Affiliate’s Suite (11230) are all open during much of the
convention. All are welcome to come to these suites to visit.
Appointments to meet with President Riccobono may be made at the
Presidential Suite.
· Banquet tickets may be purchased for $65 by cash or check at
the on-site registration area. No banquet tickets will be available
after 2:00 p.m. on Thursday.
To attend the banquet, tickets must be exchanged by 2:00 p.m. on
Thursday at the banquet exchange table. On the evening of the banquet,
exchanged tickets will be required to enter the ballroom and will be
collected at the tables. Tickets will be exchanged for a specific seat
for yourself or for a group of up to ten people, as well as for
vegetarian or kosher meal options.
· General sessions will be held in Sebastian Ballrooms I and J, Level 1.
· Individuals needing to conduct business with the NFB
treasurer may do so by going to the Wekiwa Registration Desk, Level 2
on Thursday between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m., or on Friday between noon and
2:00 p.m.
CONVENTION AGENDA
Icon of the NFB MONDAY, JULY 10, 2017
7:30 - 8:45 AM—AMATEUR RADIO DIVISION—EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Suwannee 21, Level 2
Discuss convention frequencies, hotel architectural features, and
distribution of special FM receivers for the hearing-impaired and
Spanish-speaking attendees. Rachel Olivero (AD9O), President
7:30 AM - 4:45 PM—#HOWWESEEIT: A Conference for FAMilies and Teachers
of Blind/Visually Impaired Children
Registration: Adults, $40; Two or more adults, $70; Children (to 18),
free. Sponsored by NFB’s National Organization of Parents of Blind
Children Division (NOPBC). Kim Cunningham, President.
Panzacola Ballroom F-1, Level 1
7:30-8:45 AM—Registration
9:00-10:45 AM—General Session
11:00 AM-12:15 PM—NOPBC Concurrent Workshops, Session I
Essential 411: How to Optimize Your Convention Experience—Suwannee 18, Level 2
Tips, Tricks, and Tools for Success in Elementary School Math—Suwannee
19, Level 2
Stress Management for Parents—and Their Kids Too!—Suwannee 20, Level 2
A Parent’s Perspective on Raising a Blind Child with Autism—Suwannee 21, Level 2
11:00 AM-1:00 PM—NOPBC Hands-On Technology Workshop, Technology Basics
in Five Steps or Less (Low-Tech Session)—Suwannee 13, Level 2
2:00-3:15 PM—NOPBC Concurrent Workshops, Session II
Using Google Drive, Google Docs, and Other Google Products in the
Classroom—Suwannee 18, Level 2
You Are Your Child’s First Teacher: Encouraging Play and Exploration
in Early Childhood—Suwannee 19, Level 2
Tips, Tricks, and Tools for Surviving Higher Level Math—Suwannee 20, Level 2
It’s Recess Time: Encouraging Kids to Participate in Recess, Sports,
and Other Social Activities—Suwannee 21, Level 2
2:00-4:00 PM—NOPBC Hands-On Technology Workshop, Technology Basics in
Five Steps or Less (High-Tech Session)—Suwannee 13, Level 2
Icon of the NFB MONDAY, JULY 10, Continued
3:30-4:45 PM—NOPBC Concurrent Workshops Session III
Remote Technology Instruction: What Is It, What Are Its Advantages,
and How Can My Child Receive It?—Suwannee 18, Level 2
Orientation and Mobility for the Young Blind Child—Suwannee 19, Level 2
It Might Not Be a Braille Thing: Recognizing Possible Reading or Other
Learning Disabilities in Blind Children—Suwannee 20, Level 2
Learning to Drive: Take Control of Getting From Place to Place When
Driving Yourself Is Not an Option—Suwannee 21, Level 2
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM—CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN REHABILITATION AND EDUCATION
FOR THE BLIND—SIXTEENTH ANNUAL REHABILITATION AND ORIENTATION &
MOBILITY CONFERENCE
Panzacola Ballroom F-2, Level 1
7:30-8:30 AM—Registration
8:30 AM—Conference begins
Registration Fees: Students, $75; Professionals, $85 before June 15
($100 after that date applies).
Sponsors: National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB)
and the Professional Development & Research Institute on Blindness
(PDRIB) at the Louisiana Tech University. Dr. Edward Bell, Chairperson
8:30 AM—CHILDCARE SERVICES (Preregistration by June 15 was required)
Suwannee 14, 15, 16, and 17, Level 2
Please see “Convention Note 6” for further information.
8:30 - 11:30 AM—NEWEST JAWS FEATURES AND THE NEW FUSION RELEASE,
JOINING ZOOMTEXT AND JAWS
Panzacola Ballroom H-3, Level 1
Join Eric Damery, JAWS Product Manager, as we discuss and demonstrate
the recent JAWS 18 release. We will be covering updates on Google Docs
and Office 365 work and discuss some of the new features coming in
this year’s JAWS release. Also, learn more about what we’ve just
released with ZoomText Fusion and how this solution will benefit users
who have some vision, but want to take advantage of JAWS at the same
time.
Icon of the NFB MONDAY, JULY 10, Continued
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM—JERNIGAN INSTITUTE TECHNOLOGY SEMINARS
Wekiwa 6, Level 2
8:30-8:45 AM—OrCam-Wearable OCR and More
8:45-10:00 AM—Cutting the Cord: Accessibly Watching TV without a Cable
Subscription
10:30 AM-Noon—Microsoft Office 365-Reinventing “Everyday” Productivity
1:30-3:00 PM—Web Browsing in the 21st Century
3:30-5:00 PM—Refreshable Braille Rumble: An Overview of Braille
Display Support across OSs and Screen Readers
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM—ADOBE SESSION I
Sebastian Ballroom I-3, Level 1
Join Adobe representatives at one of three sessions this week. Each
session begins with a presentation on both accessibility and product
updates at Adobe. Attendees will then have opportunities to provide
feedback on our products. We will focus on Acrobat Reader for iOS and
Android and Adobe Sign but will be happy to discuss any Adobe
products.
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM—STEM HANDS-ON SEMINAR PLUS TUTORIALS
Suwannee 11, Level 2
Learn proficiency in math, data analysis, efficient graphics
production, and how to perform chemistry experiments as a blind
person. You too can be a successful blind scientist with a career!
Individual tutoring sessions offered throughout the week. See John
Gardner for details.
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM—NF-BE Healthy Fair
Sebastian Ballroom J, Level 1
Join the NFB Sports & Recreation Division and WE Fit Wellness for a
hands-on health and exercise experience. Learn about your health,
donate blood, check out accessible activity trackers and other health
devices, and try some fun activities like sword fighting, cardio
drumming, goalball, and more.
11:00 AM - 12:15 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (Ages 11-18)
Wekiwa 1 and 2, Level 2
A Little Bit about Me
Icon of the NFB MONDAY, JULY 10, Continued
12:30 - 4:00 PM—JOB SEEKER SEMINAR
Sebastian Ballroom I-2, Level 1
Load up with ammunition for your job hunt! Expert advice and great
ideas from NFB training centers, agencies, and employers. Includes
breakouts and networking. Set your sights for the NFB National Job
Fair. Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee, Dick Davis,
Chairperson.
1:00 - 3:00 PM—HANDS-ON ELBRAILLE SESSION, COME EXPERIENCE THE FIRST
BRAILLE NOTETAKER RUNNING WIN 10 AND JAWS
Panzacola Ballroom H-3, Level 1
The most exciting new notetaker is on sale this year at the booth,
with HOME USE PROGRAM pricing of 20 percent off. Bring your FOCUS 14
to this session, along with your JAWS serial number, and we’ll help
you get your new unit all setup. Or just come by and give it a test
drive and talk to the experts to learn all the details on both the 14
and 40 cell models.
1:00 - 4:00 PM—ADOBE SESSION II
Sebastian Ballroom I-3, Level 1
1:00 - 4:00 PM—SENIORS DIVISION SEMINAR—A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A NEWLY
BLIND SENIOR ($5)
Wekiwa 4, Level 2
Join Diane McGeorge and the Senior Division to explore this
all-important topic. Learn about strategies that work and share your
ideas; hands-on demos, discussion-paring tools, and useful techniques.
Cost is $5 per person to support the division. Ruth Sager, President
1:00 - 5:00 PM—CANINE WELLNESS AND ACCESS INS & OUTS
Panzacola Ballroom F-2, Level 1
1:00 PM—Registration
2:00 PM—Presentations
A veterinarian will share information about maintaining optimal health
throughout your dog’s life, including wellness, preventive care,
grooming tips, and first aid. Also learn about the rights and
responsibilities of both guide dog users and the businesses they
frequent. Marion Gwizdala, President, National Association of Guide
Dog Users Division
Icon of the NFB MONDAY, JULY 10, Continued
1:00 - 5:00 PM—HUMANWARE PRODUCT SHOWCASE AND USER GROUPS
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
1:00-3:00 PM—BrailleNote Touch: Come join us for a presentation of the
world’s first Google-certified Braille tablet. Learn about the updates
and enhancements to this innovative device along with what is yet to
come this year.
3:00-4:00 PM—Victor Reader Stream: Come share your experiences with
other Stream users and learn about something new and exciting coming
to the Victor family.
4:00-5:00 PM—Innovations of the Future: An open forum for you to
provide your technology ideas and offer feedback to our experts.
2:00 - 4:45 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (Ages 11-18)
Wekiwa 1 and 2, Level 2
Let’s Talk Tech and Social Media
3:00 - 8:30 PM—SPORTS & RECREATION WORKSHOPS
Panzacola Ballroom H-4, Level 1
3:00-4:30 PM and 5:00-6:30 PM—1Touch Self Defense Workshops ($10 per
session): Come experience self-defense designed with blind people in
mind!
7:00-8:30 PM—Essential Oils 101; Natural Solutions for Healthy Living:
Come learn how essential oils offer natural solutions for weight
management, stress, sleep, anxiety, depression, pain, sinuses, or
allergy issues.
Sponsored by the Sports & Recreation Division, Jessica Beecham, President.
3:00 - 6:00 PM—GOOGLE PRODUCT DEMONSTRATION
Wekiwa 3, Level 2
3:00 PM—Android Accessibility: Join Maya Ben Ari for an overview of
Android accessibility and recent updates. Learn about the latest
developments in TalkBack and the Android operating system.
3:45 PM—Google Home: Discover the many capabilities of Google Home,
the eyes-free Google Assistant device designed to enhance your home
environment. Speaker, Kiran Kaja
4:30 PM—G Suite Accessibility: Join Roger Benz to learn more about the
latest accessibility improvements to G Suite apps, including Google
Docs, Google Drive, Google Calendar, and more.
Icon of the NFB MONDAY, JULY 10, Continued
5:15 PM—Chromebook Accessibility: Join Laura Palmaro to learn about
the accessibility features built into every Chromebook, and deep dive
into the new ChromeVox screen reader.
5:00 - 7:00 PM—HISPANIC SEMINAR
Wekiwa 4, Level 2
Blindness is blindness, no matter what the language. Meet new and old
friends; learn about Federation philosophy and the truth about
blindness—in Spanish. Alpidio Rolón, Moderator
5:00 - 7:30 PM—MIX-AND-MINGLE RECEPTION FOR REHABILITATION PROFESSIONALS
Panzacola Ballroom H-2, Level 1
5:30 - 7:00 PM—NOPBC FAMILY HOSPITALITY
Panzacola Ballroom F-1, Level 1
Relax, snack, chat, meet new families and teachers, and connect with
old friends. Veteran attendees will be on hand to welcome you and
provide information. Free admission with 2017 NOPBC Conference name
badge:
$15 per adult, $5 per child without badge. Pizza and lemonade will be
served. Cosponsored by the National Organization of Professionals in
Blindness Education, a Division of the NFB.
5:30 - 7:00 PM—NFB LIONS GROUP
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
Lions Clubs International has a primary goal to assist blind people
and prevent blindness. Lions need and are generally receptive to
input from and involvement of blind people. Featured speaker is Past
International Director Robert Littlefield from Multiple District 5.
Lions and prospective Lions are welcome. Ramona Walhof and Milton Ota,
Co-Chairpersons
6:00 - 10:00 PM—LIVING THE GUIDE DOG USER LIFE YOU WANT!
Panzacola Ballroom F-2, Level 1
6:00 PM—Registration
7:00 PM—Presentations
Learn more about guide dogs in three consecutive sessions: Teaching
the Guide Dog Team New Tricks, Harness Up: The Process of Getting a
Guide Dog and Beyond, and Guide Dog Show and Tail. Marion Gwizdala,
President, National Association of Guide Dog Users Division
Icon of the NFB MONDAY, JULY 10, Continued
6:00 - 8:30 PM—PROMOTION, EVALUATION, AND ADVANCEMENT OF TECHNOLOGY
Panzacola Ballroom H-3, Level 1
Hear exhibitors explain briefly what they are exhibiting and where
they are located in the Exhibit Hall. Come explore ways to evaluate
new products; everyone is welcome. Mark Jones, Chairperson
6:30 - 8:00 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (Ages 11-18)
Wekiwa 1 and 2, Level 2
To Be or Not To Be Blind: That is the Question
6:30 - 10:00 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND OFFICE PROFESSIONALS
Suwannee 19, Level 2
6:30 PM—Registration
Learn about assistive technology in the workplace, training
opportunities, and any job announcements available. Lisa Hall,
President
7:00 - 8:00 PM—AIRA - HOW IS TECHNOLOGY AND AUGMENTED REALITY
DISRUPTING ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR THE BLIND?
Wekiwa 3, Level 2
Learn how Aira is ushering in an exciting new stage in assistive
technology through the use of wearable smart glass devices and
cutting-edge video and data streaming technologies to assist the blind
in a wide range of daily activities. Augmented reality and artificial
intelligence combine to render a new level of personal assistance.
7:00 - 8:00 PM—IMAGINATION FUND
Sebastian I-3, Level 1
Learn about the new text-to-give campaign along with the Imagination
Fund Committee’s fundraising plans for the coming year. Everette
Bacon, Chairperson
7:00 - 8:30 PM—LIVING HISTORY GROUP
Suwannee 20, Level 2
Dedicated to recording, preserving, and appreciating Federation
history. Michael Freholm, Chairperson
Icon of the NFB MONDAY, JULY 10, Continued
8:00 - 9:00 PM—WHITE CANE AND AFFILIATE FINANCE COMMITTEE
Wekiwa 4, Level 2
Are there new and ingenious ways to collect money and spread the word
about the NFB? I’m sure there are. Come and share your ideas on how to
fund our movement. Alpidio Rolón, Chairperson
8:00 - 9:30 PM—ROOKIE ROUNDUP
Panzacola Ballroom G-1, Level 1
First-time convention attendees—don’t miss this event! President
Riccobono and former rookies will be on hand to welcome you and answer
questions about the week’s activities. Pam Allen, Director of the
Louisiana Center for the Blind, President of the NFB of Louisiana,
Chairperson and Vice President of the Board of Directors of the
National Federation of the Blind
8:00 - 10:00 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (Ages 11-14)
Wekiwa 1, Level 2
It’s Cool to Be in Middle School
8:00 - 11:00 PM—NABS STUDENT NETWORKING
Wekiwa 7, Level 2
Drop in to the National Association of Blind Students (NABS)
networking event to make some new friends or reconnect with old ones.
Come chat with NABS members and leaders about our division or anything
else that’s on your mind. Join us for some fun to kick off the
convention week! Kathryn Webster, President
8:00 PM - Midnight—KARAOKE NIGHT♫♫ (Admission: $6)
Panzacola Ballroom F-3 and F-4, Level 1
Here’s your chance to sing like a rock star and help support BLIND,
Inc. youth programs! Enjoy music, door prizes, and a cash bar as you
learn about BLIND, Inc. Show us your talent! Hosted by BLIND,
Incorporated.
9:00 - 10:00 PM—NFB AMBASSADORS COMMITTEE MEETING
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
Dan Burke, Chairperson
Icon of the NFB TUESDAY, JULY 11, 2017
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM—PREREGISTRATION PACKET PICKUP
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM—REGISTRATION ($30) AND BANQUET TICKET
SALES ($65)
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM—INDEPENDENCE MARKET
Sebastian Ballrooms K and L, Level 1
9:00 - 11:00 AM—SPONSOR-LEVEL EXHIBITORS PREVIEW
Sebastian Ballroom K and L, Level 1
The Exhibit Hall opens its doors and is dedicated solely to
sponsor-level exhibitors. Come to say “thank you” to our sponsors and
enjoy their interesting offers and demonstrations. Our exhibiting
convention sponsors are:
Platinum:
Aira & AT&T; Google, Inc.; Microsoft; Oracle; OrCam; UPS; Vanda
Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; VFO: Ai Squared/Freedom Scientific/Optelec
Gold:
Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP; iSenpai, LLC; JPMorgan Chase & Co.;
Target; Uber Technologies, Inc.
Silver:
Amazon; Dropbox; HumanWare; Market Development Group, Inc.; Pearson; Sprint
Bronze:
Charter Communications; Facebook; National Industries for the Blind;
VitalSource Technologies, LLC; Wells Fargo
White Cane:
BAUM (USA) Inc.; C&P - Chris Park Design; Disability Relations Group;
Duxbury Systems, Inc; Educational Testing Service; Envision, Inc.;
En-Vision America, Inc.; HIMS; iFactory; Lyft, Inc.; OHFA Tech, Inc.;
Rosen Bien Galvan & Grunfeld, LLP; TRE Legal Practice
Icon of the NFB TUESDAY, JULY 11, Continued
9:30 - 11:30 AM—NFB NATIONAL JOB FAIR
Panzacola Ballroom F-3 and F-4, Level 1
The job hunt begins. This job fair is different, because these
employers want to hire blind people. Dress for success (we mean it),
bring a polished résumé, and prepare to talk about yourself. Attend
the Job Seeker and Upward Mobility Seminars first to prepare.
Interview prep available. We had five Fortune 500 employers in 2016
and expect more in 2017. From 200 to 300 blind job seekers attend.
Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee, Dick Davis, Chairperson
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM—EXHIBIT HALL
Sebastian Ballrooms K and L, Level 1
1:00 - 2:30 PM—MASTER THE BASICS OF MANAGING YOUR MONEY
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
In this session, you’ll discover the benefits of using a financial
institution, opening checking and savings accounts, and keeping good
track of your money. Learn how to choose checking and savings accounts
that are right for you; make purchases and pay bills with ATM cards,
debit cards and checks; track and manage your transactions; and avoid
or minimize fees. In addition, learn the basics of budgeting and gain
access to tools to help you create a personal spending plan.
1:00 - 4:00 PM—ADOBE SESSION III
Sebastian Ballroom I-3, Level 1
1:00 - 4:00 PM—NOPBC YOUTH STYLE SHOW
Wekiwa 8, Level 2
1:00-2:30 PM—Rehearsal
2:45 PM—Style Show Begins
Our young blind models and NFB stars strut their stuff on the runway.
We extend a special invitation to our kids with additional
disabilities. Come enjoy the fashions and music and support NOPBC.
Tickets $5 at the door. Laura Bostick, First Vice President, NOPBC,
and Kim Cunningham, President, NOPBC
1:00 - 4:00 PM—BLIND MUSICIANS GROUP
Suwannee 19, Level 2
Share tips and ideas, ask questions, and network with other blind
musicians. Parents are welcome. Linda Mentink, Chairperson
Icon of the NFB TUESDAY, JULY 11, Continued
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM—DEAF-BLIND: STRENGTH IN NUMBERS CREATES CHANGE
Wekiwa 9, Level 2
Join our workshops designed to give unique solutions and create
positive changes for those who live with a combined loss of
hearing/sight: SSP services, air travel, communication cards related
to safe travel, and employment accommodations. Sponsored by the NFB
Deaf-Blind Division, Alice Eaddy, President
1:00 - 5:00 PM—BLIND CANCER SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP
Suwannee 18, Level 2
Join us for a meet and greet, a panel discussion, and personal stories
of strength and courage. Our group's purposes are to help all cancer
survivors get well and stay well, to offer preventive measures, and to
create a platform for cohesive dialogue and information dissemination.
Isaiah Nelson, Coordinator
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM—AMAZON KINDLE AND DEVICE ACCESSIBILITY
Panzacola Ballroom F-1, Level 1
An exploration of recent updates to Kindle reading experiences, Amazon
Fire TV, Fire Tablet, Alexa and more. Amazon will demonstrate
improvements in screen reader support for Kindle on PC and their own
screen reader VoiceView on Fire Tablets, as well as support for
Braille reading on Fire Tablets, and unveil updates to Fire TV and the
Alexa voice service.
1:00 PM - 6:00 PM—KNFB READER: THE COOL TOOL FOR WORK & SCHOOL
Wekiwa 7, Level 2
Witness the power of the fastest and most accurate print-reading app
in person at our KNFB Reader demonstration. Enter a drawing to win a
free copy of KNFB Reader while you try it for yourself firsthand. Now
available for Windows 10 tablets, computers, and phones!
1:00 - 6:00 PM—NFB-NEWSLINE® DEMONSTRATION OPEN HOUSE
Wekiwa 7, Level 2
NFB-NEWSLINE’s four hundred publications, including sixty magazines,
can help you become a part of your community’s conversation and live
the life you want. Our NFB-NEWSLINE experts are here to answer your
questions. Not a subscriber? We can sign you up on the spot!
Icon of the NFB TUESDAY, JULY 11, Continued
1:00 - 8:30 PM—SPORTS & RECREATION DIVISION WORKSHOPS
Sebastian I-2 Ballroom, Level 1
1:00-2:30 PM—Traditional Japanese Sword Fighting
You saw it at the NF-BE Healthy Fair, now come get a more in-depth
lesson in nonvisual techniques.
3:00-4:30 PM and 5:00-6:30 PM—1Touch Self Defense Workshops ($10 per session)
7:00-8:30 PM—Yoga and Mindfulness
Bring a matt or towel from your room and wind down with us during this
yoga and mindfulness session! This is your chance to try out yoga with
a descriptive instructor in a completely nonjudgmental space.
Sponsored by the Sports & Recreation Division, Jessica Beecham, President
1:00 - 8:30 PM—INSPIRING ARTISTS, BEGINNERS TO PROS
Panzacola Ballroom H-4, Level 1
1:00-5:00 PM—Drop-in Activities
5:00-7:00 PM—Art Exhibit
7:00-8:30 PM—Artist Panel Discussion
Experience tactile art as a creative way to gather and share
information and ideas. Visitors are invited to explore sculptures and
other tactile art forms on display. This open art room offers free
tools and materials for sculpting and tactile drawing. Deborah Kent
Stein and Ann Cunningham, Coordinators
1:00 PM—RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE
Sebastian Ballroom J, Level 1
Sharon Maneki, Chairperson
2:15 - 3:00 PM—DOES IT REALLY WORK? HEAR FROM AIRA USERS AND AGENTS AS
THEY SHARE REAL WORLD AND CANDID EXPERIENCES
Wekiwa 3, Level 2
Hear directly from Aira users who will share how Aira is changing the
game in assistive technology. Aira agents will also talk about their
journey and the emotional and intense experiences that come from
hundreds of daily sessions assisting the blind and visually impaired.
Icon of the NFB TUESDAY, JULY 11, Continued
2:30 - 5:00 PM—PROFESSIONALS IN BLINDNESS EDUCATION
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
2:30 PM—Registration
3:00 PM—Meeting
All professionals working with students from birth through age
twenty-one are welcome and encouraged to join our informative and
interactive meeting. Come network and collaborate, sharing and
learning with colleagues and future educators. Eric Guillory,
President
3:00 - 4:00 PM—HANDS-ON PHOTO AND VIDEO WORKSHOP
Suwannee 20, Level 2
Join us for hands-on photo and video training. Learn what makes a good
photo or video and how to get the most out of them. Bring whatever
device you have for capturing photo and video. We’ll show you how you
can use any tool to serve your photo and video needs. Stephanie Eller,
Facilitator
3:00 - 4:30 PM—USING CREDIT TO YOUR ADVANTAGE
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
Want to hear some good news? If you do a careful job of managing your
money over time, understand how credit works, and use it wisely,
you’ll gain the ability to borrow money when you need it. In this
session, you’ll start at the beginning and learn the basics of credit,
including information on credit scores, how to obtain and read a
credit report, and how to establish a good credit history. In
addition, you’ll learn how to use your credit to your advantage to
help you achieve your goals and dreams. Attend this session to learn
about the types of loans available, how to shop for, compare and
choose a loan product, how to choose a lender, and how to protect
yourself from risk.
4:00 - 5:00 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (Ages 11-18)
Wekiwa 1, Level 2
Mocktail Party
4:15 - 5:45 PM—TWENTIETH ANNUAL MOCK TRIAL (Admission: $5)
Panzacola Ballroom G-1, Level 1
Federation lawyers oppose each other to enact a case addressing the
civil rights of blind people, and the audience serves as the jury. The
subject matter is serious, but the courtroom portrayers are very
entertaining. Scott LaBarre, President, National Association of Blind
Lawyers
Icon of the NFB TUESDAY, JULY 11, Continued
5:00 - 10:00 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND VETERANS RECEPTION AND MEETING
Panzacola Ballroom H-2, Level 1
5:00-7:00 PM—Veterans Reception with Food and Cash Bar
7:00-10:00 PM—Annual Meeting
All veterans and interested parties are invited to attend. Veterans'
issues will be discussed, opening session Veterans Celebration
assignments will be given including the Color Guard. Dues will be
collected and biannual election of officers will be held. Dwight
Sayer, President
5:30 - 7:00 PM—NFB AFFILIATE PRESIDENTS AND TREASURERS SEMINAR
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
All state affiliate presidents and treasurers are asked to attend this
session. Topics will include state financials, state and federal
filings, year-end preparations, and national fundraising programs.
Participants can discuss state issues with facilitators Nick Lambright
and Bridgid Burke.
5:30 - 8:00 PM—NOPBC FAMILY POOLSIDE SOCIAL
Join us for swimming and socialization. All family members are
welcome. We will meet at the zero entry family pool! (Rain location in
Wekiwa 2, Level 2)
6:00 - 10:00 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION TO PROMOTE THE USE
OF BRAILLE
Wekiwa 9, Level 2
6:00 PM—Registration
Learn about Braille-related research, discuss current projects with
vendors who produce Braille through hard copy and technology, UEB
progress, and develop strategies for strengthening our division. Steve
Booth, President
6:00 - 10:30 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND STUDENTS (NABS)
Panzacola Ballroom G-1, Level 1
6:00 PM—Registration ($5)
7:00 PM—Meeting begins promptly
Students, young professionals, parents, teachers, and anyone
interested in learning about issues affecting blind students are
welcome and encouraged to attend. It promises to be informative,
engaging, and fun! Join our students from across the country to learn
together and discuss general business of this flourishing division!
Kathryn Webster, President
Icon of the NFB TUESDAY, JULY 11, Continued
7:00 - 8:00 PM—AIRA & EMPLOYMENT: HOW AIRA COULD HELP YOU LAUNCH YOUR
NEXT CAREER
Wekiwa 3, Level 2
If you’re looking for ways to expand your employment potential, this
is the session for you! Join us as we talk about how Aira is working
with employers, employees, and potential hires to bridge the hiring
gap.
7:00 - 8:30 PM—PUBLIC EMPLOYEES DIVISION
Suwannee 19, Level 2
Come learn about issues facing employees of federal, state, and
municipal government, as well as public schools and public utility
commissions. Find out about government jobs and self-advocacy. Ivan
Weich, President
7:00 - 9:00 PM—AFFILIATE PRESIDENTS NETWORKING SOCIAL
Sebastian Ballroom I-1, Level 1
Come together with current and past affiliate presidents to network
and share experiences on leading an affiliate and what it means to be
a Federation leader. Shawn Callaway, Coordinator
7:00 - 9:00 PM—KNFB READER LIAISON MEETING
Wekiwa 7, Level 2
All KNFB Reader Liaisons are requested to attend this meeting. We will
be providing training, reviewing presentation materials, discussing
target audiences, and answering questions. Please bring your
device(s), your ideas, and your questions!
7:00 - 9:00 PM—LEGISLATIVE MEET UP
Wekiwa 6, Level 2
A recap of Washington Seminar, a run-down of priorities, and an
opportunity for legislative directors to share with one another
strategies to move our legislative priorities at the local, state, and
federal levels. Gabe Cazares, Kimie Beverly, and Dylan
Hedtler-Gaudette, NFB Government Affairs Team
7:30 - 9:00 PM—LIBRARY SERVICES COMMITTEE
Wekiwa 8, Level 2
Come and discuss what services there are and what they could be. Learn
about new additions to the Library of Congress’s National Library
Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) and other
accessible book programs. David Hyde, Chairperson
Icon of the NFB TUESDAY, JULY 11, Continued
7:30 - 9:30 PM—BLIND PARENTS GROUP
Wekiwa 4, Level 2
Blind parents share their experiences with child-raising issues, such
as learning infant care, coping with printed homework assignments,
finding print-Braille books, dealing with the public’s misconceptions,
and more. Deborah Kent Stein, Chairperson
8:00 - 9:00 PM—JUDAISM MEETING
Suwannee 18, Level 2
David Stayer, Chairperson, NFB in Judaism Group
8:00 - 10:00 PM—MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE MEETING
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
You're invited! If you are interested in finding ways to discover
potential members while keeping current members engaged and
interested, this is the meeting for you! Sharing our best practices
across the Federation will take our chapters, affiliates, and our
national organization to the next level. Chairperson, Jeannie Massay
9:00 - 10:00 PM—SPANISH TRANSLATION COMMITTEE
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
We provide simultaneous translation into Spanish during the general
sessions of the convention and lead other Spanish initiatives for the
Federation. Please join us if you would like to help with this effort.
Conchita Hernandez, Chairperson
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, 2017
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM—PREREGISTRATION PACKET PICKUP
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM—REGISTRATION ($30) AND BANQUET TICKET
SALES ($65)
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM—EXHIBIT HALL and INDEPENDENCE MARKET
Sebastian Ballrooms K and L, Level 1
9:00 - 11:30 AM—NFB BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING (Open to All)
Sebastian Ballrooms I and J, Level 1
12:30 - 4:00 PM—NFB DEAF-BLIND DIVISION BUSINESS MEETING
Wekiwa 9, Level 2
Get updates on national issues affecting the deaf-blind community,
technology, and the division’s business matters. Election of officers.
Alice Eaddy, President
12:30 - 4:00 PM—SPORTS & RECREATION DIVISION MEETING
Panzacola G-2, Level 1
12:30 PM—Registration
1:00 PM—Meeting
Join us for a high energy meeting full of demonstrations, information
on helpful health and wellness tools, and motivation to get you
moving! Learn how the Sports and Rec Division can support your pursuit
of health and wellness! Jessica Beecham, President
12:30 - 4:00 PM—NATIONAL ORGANIZATION OF BLIND EDUCATORS
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
Blind teachers discuss techniques they use in their classrooms.
Participants also meet in groups specific to grade level and content
areas of interest to create a network of mentors. If you teach or are
considering a career in teaching at any level, please join us. Cayte
Mendez, President
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, Continued
12:30 - 4:30 PM—WHAT’S NEW FROM SENIORS? OUR RETREAT!
Wekiwa 6, Level 2
12:30 PM—Registration ($5)
1:30 PM—Meeting
Come to the Seniors Division annual meeting and learn about blindness
skills training through our Senior Retreat Program. We teach each
other about the truth of living with blindness and aging. Hear seniors
tell their stories on how to live the lives they want. Silent Auction.
Ruth Sager, President
12:30 - 5:00 PM—DIABETES ACTION NETWORK SEMINAR
Suwannee 11, Level 2
12:30 PM—Registration
Learn about new accessible diabetes equipment coming to market and
strategies for living well with diabetes. Division officer and board
member elections will be held. Bernadette Jacobs, President
12:30 - 5:00 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND LAWYERS
Panzacola Ballroom H-3, Level 1
12:30 PM—Registration
Examine laws affecting blind people and others with disabilities;
address ongoing struggles to gain equal access to websites,
employment, legal texts, and exams; share practice tips for blind
lawyers. Scott LaBarre, President
12:30 - 5:00 PM—NFB IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
Wekiwa 4, Level 2
12:30 PM—Registration
Enhancing nonvisual access to information technology and improving the
ability of blind information and computer technology professionals to
compete in today's world. Brian Buhrow, President
12:30 - 5:00 PM—NFB IN COMMUNITIES OF FAITH
Suwannee 19, Level 2
12:30 PM—Registration
Speakers will tell how their faith has helped them face and overcome
challenges; also hear representatives from various faith-based
libraries and publishing houses describe what their organizations do.
Tom Anderson, President
1:00 - 4:00 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (Ages 11-18)
Wekiwa 1 and 2, Level 2
Come Learn About All Things STEM!
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, Continued
1:00 - 4:00 PM—NOPBC MEETING
Panzacola Ballroom F-1, Level 1
Keynote address by the 2017 Distinguished Educator of Blind Children;
talks on accessible science, art, textbooks, games, technology,
programs for kids, Parent Power, business meeting, elections, and
more. Kim Cunningham, President
1:00 - 4:00 PM—PERFORMING ARTS DIVISION
Suwannee 21, Level 2
Express yourself! This meeting will feature a panel on expression and
movement on stage. Then we will practice what we’ve learned in our
hour of improv. Julie McGinnity, President
1:00 - 4:30 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND MERCHANTS
Panzacola Ballroom F-2, Level 1
"With Challenges Come New Opportunities." Randolph-Sheppard faces some
of its greatest challenges in years, but with that comes opportunities
for new entrepreneurial initiatives, including the private sector and
franchising. Nicky Gacos, President
1:00 - 5:00 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND REHABILITATION PROFESSIONALS
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
1:00 PM—Registration
Network, share mutual interests, find placement strategies, and
examine and discuss concerns and current issues. Melody Roane,
President
1:00 - 5:00 PM—HUMAN SERVICES DIVISION
Suwannee 20, Level 2
1:00 PM—Registration ($5)
2:00-5:00 PM—Division Meeting
We are a diverse group of blind professionals, paraprofessionals, and
students pursuing careers as social workers, mental health counselors,
psychologists, and other allied health professions. Please join us for
our biennial elections and to network during our last hour. Merry C.
Schoch, President
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, Continued
1:00 - 6:00 PM—KNFB READER: THE COOL TOOL FOR WORK & SCHOOL
Wekiwa 7, Level 2
Witness the power of the fastest and most accurate print reading app
in person at our KNFB Reader demonstration. Enter a drawing to win a
free copy of KNFB Reader while you try it for yourself first hand. Now
available for Windows 10 tablets, computers, and phones!
1:00 - 6:00 PM—NFB-NEWSLINE® DEMONSTRATION OPEN HOUSE
Wekiwa 7, Level 2
NFB-NEWSLINE®’s four hundred publications, including sixty magazines,
can help you become a part of your community’s conversation and live
the life you want. Our NFB-NEWSLINE® experts are here to answer your
questions. Not a subscriber? We can sign you up on the spot!
1:00 - 8:30 PM—INSPIRING ARTISTS, BEGINNERS TO PROS
Panzacola Ballroom H-4, Level 1
1:00-5:00 PM—Drop-in Activities
5:00-7:00 PM—Art Exhibit
7:00-8:30 PM—Hands-on Workshop for NOPBC and TVIs
Experience tactile art as a creative way to gather and share
information and ideas. Visitors are invited to explore sculptures and
other tactile art forms on display. This open art room offers free
tools and materials. Deborah Kent Stein and Ann Cunningham,
Coordinators
4:00 - 6:00 PM—UNITED BLIND INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF AMERICA
Wekiwa 8, Level 2
Join your Federation colleagues for a wide-ranging discussion about
improving working conditions and wages for all blind workers, and
developing strategies to ensure that all disabled workers are paid at
least the minimum wage. Sandy Halverson, President
4:30 - 5:30 PM—SOCIAL MEDIA BASICS FOR YOUR AFFILIATE
Suwannee 13, Level 2
Learn the basics of utilizing social media for your affiliate or
division (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube), including the
pros and cons of each platform, the best content to post, and how to
make sure it’s all on brand. Stephanie Eller, Facilitator
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, Continued
4:30 - 10:00 PM—SPORTS & RECREATION DIVISION WORKSHOPS
Panzacola Ballroom G-2, Level 1
4:30-6:00 PM—Anywhere, Anytime, Exercise Solutions
Join us to learn body weight exercises that you can do anywhere,
anytime, and with no equipment! Sponsored by NFB Sports and Rec
6:00-7:30 PM and 8:00-9:30 PM—1Touch Self Defense Workshops
($10 per session)
Sponsored by the Sports & Recreation Division. Jessica Beecham, President
5:00 - 6:30 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND LAWYERS RECEPTION
Panzacola Ballroom H-2, Level 1
For NABL Division members and seminar participants only; to promote
networking and fellowship within our membership. Hors d'oeuvres and
cash bar are available. Scott LaBarre, President
5:00 - 7:00 PM—BRAILLE BOOK FAIR PRESENTING SPONSOR WELLS FARGO
Panzacola Ballrooms F-3 and F-4, Level 1
Browse tables of new and used Braille and print/Braille books. There
will be fiction, nonfiction, early readers through multi-volume
novels, cookbooks, and more. Through a collaboration with our Literacy
Partner, the Wells Fargo Foundation, the books are offered at no cost
to the reader. Volunteers will box and prepare them to be shipped to
the reader’s home via Free Matter for the Blind. Donations are
encouraged. Krystal Guillory, Coordinator
5:00 - 8:00 PM—NFB LGBT MEETING AND SOCIAL
Wekiwa 9, Level 2
Building the Federation and giving back with pride! Panels will
discuss reaching out to families & youth, access to LGBT information,
& involvement in local pride events. A 7PM social will follow. Tai
Tomasi, Coordinator, (515) 329-4908
5:30 - 6:30 PM—MAKING SOCIAL MEDIA WORK HARDER FOR YOUR AFFILIATE
Suwannee 13, Level 2
Learn how to make your social media presence work harder for your
chapter or affiliate. We'll discuss the content that will most engage
your audience, ways to effectively amplify our message, and how to
evaluate posts effectiveness through analytics. Stephanie Eller,
Facilitator
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, Continued
5:30 - 7:00 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (Ages 14-18)
Wekiwa 1 and 2, Level 2
Dating 101
6:00 - 7:00 PM—FCC’S ACCESSIBILITY LAWS FOR TELEVISION
Wekiwa 6, Level 2
Hear about the current state of accessible televisions, set-top boxes,
and similar devices that play back video programming. Learn how to
request and use accessible TV interfaces. Will Schell, Attorney
Advisor, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission
6:00 - 10:00 PM—NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF GUIDE DOG USERS
Panzacola Ballroom F-2, Level 1
6:00-6:45 PM—Registration
7:00 PM—Call to Order
Celebrate our successes in education and advocacy on behalf of guide
dog users. Be the first to download Version 2.0 of the NAGDU mobile
app for iOS & Android as we take a guided tour. Learn more about our
Uber/Lyft settlement and how you can be a part of change. Elect our
leaders! Marion Gwizdala, President
6:00 - 10:00 PM—NFB COMMUNITY SERVICE DIVISION
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
6:00 PM—Registration ($5)
6:30 PM—Seminar and Business Meeting
Learn how to find or make your own service projects, gain tools to
organize your own state efforts, discover how you can live the life
you want through serving your community, no matter your age or
circumstance; and find out what the division has been up to in the
past year. Let’s get involved! Darian Smith, President
6:30 - 10:00 PM—SCIENCE & ENGINEERING DIVISION
Suwannee 21, Level 2
6:30 PM—Registration
7:00 PM—Meeting
Learn techniques for gardening, performing biology and chemistry labs,
and analyzing engineering data sets. Learn how to gain access to
graphics and mathematical material. Contact John Gardner at
john.gardner at viewplus.com regarding one-on-one STEM tutorials. John
Miller, President
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, Continued
6:30 - 10:00 PM—ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY TRAINERS DIVISION
Suwannee 11, Level 2
6:30 PM—Registration
Learn about developments in collaboration software from Google &
others, structured discovery in the communication classroom, the
evolution of technology, choosing the best device for the task. Hear
about the Orbit Reader. Help shape the division’s future. See you
there. Registration $5 for members-only benefits. Nancy Coffman,
Coordinator
7:00 - 8:00 PM—AIRA TECH TALK: THE CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND
AIRA’S INNOVATIVE SERVICE
Wekiwa 3, Level 2
If you’re a technology fan or simply curious about the Aira solution,
you won’t want to miss this unique session! Listen to the creative
minds behind Aira technology explain the challenges and innovations
necessary to deliver the Aira experience along with their vision and
thoughts on what’s next to come.
7:00 - 8:30 PM—“ALL SHOT” (An original play by Jerry Whittle; $5
admission fee; one performance only)
Panzacola Ballroom G-1, Level 1
Rody Salley, an aging and blind former major league baseball player,
returns to his childhood home for his final years. He encounters his
daughter after many years of separation. He finds a new purpose for
his life.
7:00 - 9:00 PM—CHAPTER PRESIDENTS’ CHAPTER MEETING
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
All chapter presidents attending national convention are invited and
encouraged to attend the ultimate chapter meeting. Experience a live
presidential release, discover what your chapter meetings may be
missing and how to get the business of the Federation done while
having fun! Jeannie Massay, Coordinator
7:00 - 9:00 PM—EMPOWERING UNDERSERVED POPULATIONS
Wekiwa 8, Level 2
If you are feeling underserved, come and be heard! Get empowered to
live the life you want! Ron Brown, Chairperson, Committee to Empower
Underserved Populations
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, Continued
7:00 - 9:00 PM—NFB KRAFTERS DIVISION BUSINESS MEETING
Suwannee 18, Level 2
Join us to hear about our telephone conference classes taught by blind
and visually impaired crafters and learn about our email classes.
Become a paid member and take as many classes as you would like
through July 2018. Joyce Kane, President
7:00 - 10:00 PM—BALLROOM DANCING WORKSHOPS
Panzacola Ballroom F-1, Level 1
7:00 PM—Registration ($5)
7:15 PM—Rumba Lesson
8:30 PM—Waltz Lesson
Take the first step and learn to conquer the dance floor with romantic
rumba and elegant waltz! No partner or prior dance experience needed;
all welcome! Katelyn MacIntyre, Vice President, NFB Performing Arts
Division
7:00 - 10:00 PM—NFB-NEWSLINE® SEMINAR FOR STATE COORDINATORS
Wekiwa 7, Level 2
All NFB-NEWSLINE state coordinators are encouraged to attend. Come and
learn about what other coordinators are doing to promote NFB-NEWSLINE
around the country. Provide your input for future enhancements to the
service. Your questions and suggestions are welcome.
7:30 - 9:00 PM—DADS’ NIGHT OUT
All dads, sighted and blind, are welcome.
Contact Corbb O’Connor at (703) 309-4884 for location. Sponsored by NOPBC.
7:30 - 9:30 PM—BLIND FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT COMMITTEE MEETING
Suwannee 13, Level 2
Come learn about issues facing federal employees and applicants. Share
your experiences with and your solutions to federal workplace
challenges. Ronza Othman, Chairperson
8:00 - 10:00 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK SESSIONS (Ages 11-18)
Wekiwa 1 and 2, Level 2
What Does My Blindness Mean to Me?
Icon of the NFB WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, Continued
8:00 - 9:00 PM—FRIENDS OF RECOVERY MEETING
Suwannee 19, Level 2
All convention delegates involved in or interested in twelve-step
recovery programs are invited to attend. A second Friends of Recovery
meeting will be on Friday at 8:00 p.m. Sheri Koch, Coordinator
8:00 - 9:30 PM—WEBMASTERS MEETING
Suwannee 20, Level 2
A meeting for all NFB affiliate and division webmasters to discuss the
importance of an informative, accessible, and visually attractive
website. Gary Wunder, Chairperson
8:00 - 10:00 PM—NABS OLYMPICS ($5)
Wekiwa 4, Level 2
Do you like some competition with Federation friends? Are you eager to
learn, help others, or just want to have fun? If you said yes to any
of these questions, then join us for games, challenges, trivia, and an
evening of fun with several of our national divisions and NFB training
centers. Come play, compete, win prizes, and show off. All are
invited! Kathryn Webster, President
Icon of the NFB THURSDAY, JULY 13, 2017
8:00 - 8:45 AM—DEVOTIONS
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
8:45 - 9:15 AM—PREREGISTRATION PACKET PICKUP
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
8:45 - 9:15 AM—REGISTRATION ($30), AND BANQUET TICKET SALES ($65)
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
OPENING GENERAL SESSION
9:30 AM INVOCATION
9:35 AM WELCOMING CEREMONIES
2017 National Convention Host Committee
10:05 AM CELEBRATION OF FREEDOM: VETERANS RECOGNIZED
Dwight Sayer, President, National Association of Blind Veterans, a
Division of the National Federation of the Blind; Winter Garden,
Florida
10:25 AM ROLL CALL OF STATES AND APPOINTMENT OF NOMINATING COMMITTEE
11:55 AM REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
12:00 PM ADJOURN
Noon - 1:45 PM—EXHIBIT HALL AND INDEPENDENCE MARKET
Sebastian Ballrooms K and L, Level 1
Icon of the NFB THURSDAY, JULY 13, Continued
12:15 - 1:15 PM—AIRA - HOW IS TECHNOLOGY AND AUGMENTED REALITY
DISRUPTING ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR THE BLIND?
Wekiwa 3, Level 2
Learn how Aira is ushering in an exciting new stage in assistive
technology through the use of wearable smart glasses devices,
advancing connectivity and cutting-edge video and data streaming
technologies to assist the blind in a wide range of daily activities.
How will augmented reality and artificial intelligence combine to
render a new level of personal assistance?
12:15 - 1:45 PM—LOUISIANA CENTER FOR THE BLIND ALUMNI RECEPTION
Panzacola Ballroom H-2, Level 1
All Louisiana Center for the Blind (LCB) alumni and those interested
in learning more about our life-changing programs are welcome! Join us
as we celebrate the accomplishments of our alumni! Learn how LCB
training will help you “live the life you want!” Pam Allen, Executive
Director
1:30 - 2:00 PM—PREREGISTRATION PACKET PICKUP
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
1:30 - 2:00 PM—REGISTRATION ($30) AND FINAL BANQUET TICKET
SALES ($65)
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
GENERAL SESSION
2:00 PM CALL TO ORDER
2:05 PM PRESIDENTIAL REPORT
Mark A. Riccobono, President, National Federation of the Blind;
Baltimore, Maryland
Icon of the NFB THURSDAY, JULY 13, Continued
3:00 PM LEADERSHIP IN SELF-DRIVING AUTOMOBILES: THE
BLIND AND THE SELF-DRIVING COALITION FOR SAFER STREETS
David Strickland, General Counsel and Spokesperson, Self-Driving
Coalition for Safer Streets; Washington, District of Columbia
3:20 PM LEADERSHIP IN LITERACY: HOW DO WE KNOW WHAT WE
DO NOT KNOW?
Marc Maurer, Director of Legal Policy and Immediate Past President,
National Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
3:40 PM ENGINEERING TOOLS FOR TACTILE FLUENCY: A
PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ORGANIZED BLIND MOVEMENT
Josh Coffee, President, E.A.S.Y. LLC; Burlington, Vermont
3:55 PM EMPOWERING STEM EDUCATION THROUGH TECHNOLOGY:
HUMANWARE'S COMMITMENT TO THE FUTURE
Gilles Pepin, Chief Executive Officer, HumanWare; Drummondville, Québec, Canada
4:10 PM BUILDING NEW PATHS TO ACCESSIBILITY: POWERING
THE NEXT GENERATION OF ACCESSIBLE EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
Betsy Beaumon, President, Benetech; Palo Alto, California
4:30 PM REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
5:00 PM ADJOURN
5:30 - 6:30 PM—NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Wekiwa 6, Level 2
5:30 - 7:30 PM—RESEARCH AND ACADEMIC PROFESSIONALS MEETING
Suwannee 20, Level 2
The National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute's Research
Advisory Council invites interested individuals to discuss topics for
research and publication in the Journal of Blindness Innovation and
Research (JBIR), as well as to share ideas for increasing the research
and academic presence of the NFB. Edward Bell, Arielle Silverman, and
Lou Ann Blake, Coordinators
Icon of the NFB THURSDAY, JULY 13, Continued
5:30 - 8:30 PM—SKI FOR LIGHT AND NFB SPORTS AND REC DIVISION MIX AND MINGLE
Panzacola Ballroom H-3, Level 1
Learn about the 2018 Ski for Light International Event near Lake Tahoe
and touch cross-country skis and boots. Extreme athletes and those
beginning a fitness journey can learn how the Sports and Rec Division
supports your desire to keep fit! Appetizers first-come, first-served
courtesy of Ski for Light. Cash bar.
6:00 - 7:00 PM—BREAKTHROUGH WEARABLE ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Panzacola H-4, Level 1
Join OrCam for a demo of the next generation OrCam MyEye device.
6:00 - 7:30 PM—COMMITTEE ON AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES AND INNOVATIONS IN
TRANSPORTATION
Wekiwa 8, Level 2
This committee collects information about trends in transportation and
emerging models of transportation that might not exist today which may
present opportunities for the blind to move around independently,
ensuring the NFB plays a prominent role in the future of
transportation. Sachin Dev Pavithran, Chairperson
6:00 - 8:00 PM—SELF-ADVOCACY IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Panzacola F-2, Level 1
A workshop for current or soon-to-be undergraduate or graduate
students to know your legal rights and learn effective strategies for
self-advocacy in obtaining accommodations and accessing instructional
materials and digital content. Gabe Cazares and Valerie Yingling,
National Federation of the Blind; Sharon Krevor-Weisbaum, Managing
Partner, Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP
6:00 - 8:00 PM—IMPROVING THE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE USING UBER
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
Uber is changing the way people move within their communities, and
feedback from the National Federation of the Blind has helped improve
the app experience for people who are blind or low vision. Learn how
to use the product, get insight into some of the upgrades we've made,
and offer feedback on features you'd like to see.
Icon of the NFB THURSDAY, JULY 13, Continued
6:00 - 10:00 PM—EDUCATIONAL TESTING SERVICE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY ASSESSMENTS
Wekiwa 7, Level 2
6:00-8:00 PM—Session I
8:00-10:00 PM—Session II
Come learn about next generation assessments and how your access
technologies are opening new doors of opportunity for personal
advancement in education. Come learn and give feedback on how these
new innovative assessments will take shape. Cary A. Supalo,
Educational Testing Service
6:30 - 9:00 PM—COLORADO CENTER FOR THE BLIND OPEN HOUSE
Panzacola Ballroom F-1, Level 1
Meet the staff and students at the CCB to discover what great training
will do for you! Pick up a Braille puzzle, get some favorite recipes,
use a click rule, learn about stone carving, rock climbing and more.
Training in Colorado will change your life! Julie Deden, Director
7:00 - 8:00 PM—HOW TO ADVOCATE FOR ACCESSIBILITY IN THE ERA OF VOTE-BY-MAIL
Wekiwa 4, Level 2
If your state is considering becoming a vote-by-mail state, or already
is one, learn what the impacts are to blind voters and how to advocate
for accessibility. Lou Ann Blake and Charles S. Brown, Coordinators
7:00- 9:00 PM—COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE: OPEN TO ALL LEADERS
Wekiwa 3, Level 2
Join other chapters, affiliates, and divisions in a showcase of social
media strategies and action plans, which will help you reach
non-members in a “brand” new way. Plus, we’ll demonstrate how your
fundraising communications can be fun and energizing! Corbb O’Connor,
Chairperson
7:00 - 9:00 PM—EMPLOYMENT COMMITTEE MEETING
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
Face off with experts from the Employment Committee, who will give you
advice and answer your questions. Learn about new technology and
resources, too. Looking for a job? Bring your résumé! Looking for an
employee? Bring your job posting! Networking abounds. Suggestions for
the committee are always welcome. Dick Davis, Chairperson
Icon of the NFB THURSDAY, JULY 13, Continued
7:00 - 9:00 PM—EXHIBIT HALL
Sebastian Ballrooms K and L, Level 1
7:00 - 9:00 PM—GRANT WRITING AND FUNDRAISING BASICS
Wekiwa 6, Level 2
This seminar covers dos and don’ts of grant writing and fundraising
for chapters and affiliates. Patti Chang and Seth Lamkin, Coordinators
7:00 - 10:00 PM—NOPBC CONCURRENT SESSIONS
7:00-9:45 PM—Braille Basics: A make-and-take session to increase
parents’ knowledge of Braille and use of Braille around the
home—Wekiwa 9, Level 2
7:00-8:15 PM—IEP 101 – What does a good IEP look like and how do I get
there?—Suwannee 18, Level 2
7:00-8:15 PM—Creating an IFSP: How do you create smart goals for your
infant or toddler?—Suwannee 19, Level 2
8:30-9:45 PM—IEP 202: Beyond the basics—Suwannee 18, Level 2
8:30-9:45 PM—Basic IEP Advocacy Training: For NFB members and families
who wish to help other families learn to advocate effectively at IEP
meetings—Suwannee 19, Level 2
7:00 - 10:00 PM—NOPBC YOUTH TRACK ACTIVITY (Ages 11-18)
Wekiwa 1, Level 2
7:00-8:00 PM—(For Sighted Siblings of Blind Children, ages 11-18 only)
Sibling Rivalry: What is it Like to Have a Brother or Sister Who
Happens to Be Blind?
8:00-10:00 PM—(Ages 11-18) Unconventional Convention Scavenger Hunt
7:00 - 10:00 PM—NOPBC CHILDREN’S CRAFT & GAME NIGHT (Ages 5-12)
Wekiwa 2, Level 2
This activity will be available for children of families attending
workshops during this time. NFB Child Care will not be open!
8:00 - 9:30 PM—RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Wekiwa 8, Level 2
Technology is omnipresent in our lives. While it provides
unprecedented advantages in education and employment, the blind are
still excluded from many products. Hear about new advances and discuss
ways we can influence developers to include accessibility in their
hardware and software. Brian Buhrow, Chairperson
Icon of the NFB THURSDAY, JULY 13, Continued
8:00 - 10:00 PM—CAREERS IN AUTOMOTIVE-RELATED SPECIALTIES
GROUP
Suwannee 20, Level 2
Are your car crazy? Come and mingle with like-minded individuals. Marcus
Simmons will tell his interesting life’s story. A list of the helpful
devices presented last year will be available. Call (248) 595-9134 for
details. Marcus Simmons, Chairman
8:00 PM - Midnight—HOST COMMITTEE LUAU
Panzacola Ballrooms F-3 and F-4, Level 1
$7 wristbands ahead of time; $10 at the door
Come one, come all, to what promises to be an entertaining event
planned by our very own Host Committee. Arizona, Hawaii, Tennessee,
the District of Columbia, and the NFB Student Division have put
together an evening of fun with delicious food, desirable drinks, fun
games, and lots of dancing! You won’t want to miss this night with
hundreds of Federationists joining together in good company! Shawn
Callaway, Chair, National Convention Host Committee, and Kathryn
Webster, NABS President
9:00 PM - Midnight—TRIVIA NIGHT (Admission: $10)
Panzacola Ballroom H-2, Level 1
Who will be the 2017 Trivia Champions? It could be you! Come join the
Community Service Division as we bring back trivia night! Flex your
musical knowledge of popular songs, artists, and theme music in an
evening full of fun, laughs, and some healthy competition! Proceeds
benefit future programs and activities of the Community Service
Division.
Icon of the NFB FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017
8:00 - 8:45 AM—DEVOTIONS
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
8:15 - 8:45 AM—PREREGISTRATION PACKET PICKUP
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
8:15 - 8:45 AM—REGISTRATION ($30)
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
GENERAL SESSION
9:00 AM INVOCATION
9:05 AM FINANCIAL REPORT
10:00 AM ELECTIONS
10:30 AM LEADERSHIP IN FITNESS: A CROSSFIT TRAINER LIVING
THE LIFE SHE WANTS
Bettina Dolinsek, CrossFit Trainer;
Des Moines, Iowa
10:50 AM RUNNING ACROSS AMERICA: A BLIND ULTRA-ATHLETE'S
CHALLENGE TO CHANGE
Jason Romero, Ultra-Athlete; Denver, Colorado
11:10 AM BREAKING BLIND: STAYING FIT WITH A DOSE OF
FEDERATION LOVE, HOPE, AND DETERMINATION
Maureen Nietfeld, Home Management
Instructor, Colorado Center for the Blind; Littleton, Colorado
11:30 AM REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
12:00 PM ADJOURN
Icon of the NFB FRIDAY, JULY 14, Continued
Noon - 1:45 PM—EXHIBIT HALL AND INDEPENDENCE MARKET (final opportunity
to visit the Independence Market and Exhibit Hall)
Sebastian Ballrooms K and L, Level 1
12:15 - 1:15 PM—A CONVERSATION WITH AIRA CEO SUMAN KANUGANTI
Wekiwa 3, Level 2
Aira founder and CEO Suman Kanuganti will sit down with surprise
special guests and share Aira’s roadmap of innovation—come find out
what’s next and on the mind of Aira and its customers.
12:30 - 1:30 PM—CASH AND CARING NETWORK
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
States and chapters will share information about raising funds for
themselves and for the national treasury. We will feature pros and
cons of online auctions and how to use social media. Every affiliate
should be included in this network. Ramona Walhof, Chairperson
12:30 - 1:45 PM—NOPBC BRAINSTORMING SESSION
Suwannee 20, Level 2
Please share your ideas with us. What did you like at this convention?
What resources would help you stay connected throughout the year? What
workshops might you like to see us offer next year? Be a part of this
valuable conversation. Kim Cunningham, President
1:30 - 2:00 PM—PREREGISTRATION PACKET PICKUP
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
1:30 - 2:00 PM—REGISTRATION ($30)
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
GENERAL SESSION
2:00 PM CALL TO ORDER
2:05 PM THE AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR THE BLIND: NEW
DIRECTIONS FOR THE FUTURE
Kirk Adams, President, American Foundation for the Blind; New York, New York
Icon of the NFB FRIDAY, JULY 14, Continued
2:20 PM TRANSFORMING HOPE INTO ACTION: A REPORT FROM
THE WORLD BLIND UNION
Fredric Schroeder, President, World Blind Union; Vienna, Virginia
2:40 PM A WORLDWIDE REVOLUTION: THE MARRAKESH TREATY,
THE ACCESSIBLE BOOKS CONSORTIUM, AND GLOBAL LITERACY FOR THE BLIND
Scott LaBarre, President, National Federation of the Blind of
Colorado; President, National Association of Blind Lawyers, a Division
of the National Federation of the Blind; Denver, Colorado
2:55 PM BUILDING THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY AMERICAN
WORKFORCE: DISABILITY DOES NOT DEFINE YOUR EMPLOYMENT
The Honorable R. Alexander Acosta, Secretary, United States Department
of Labor; Washington, District of Columbia
3:15 PM FROM KNOWLEDGE TO POWER: A REPORT ON ADVOCACY
AND POLICY PROGRAMS
John Paré, Jr., Executive Director for Advocacy and Policy, National
Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
3:35 PM REPORTS, RESOLUTIONS, AND OTHER BUSINESS
5:00 PM ADJOURN
5:00 - 9:00 PM—MICROSOFT USABILITY STUDY
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
Usability Study #1: Evaluating the accessibility of screen reader
products on different platforms—Windows, Mac, Android, iOS.
Participants must be regular computer users with screen reader
experience. Familiarity with communication apps (such as Slack) is
preferred. Sessions are thirty minutes in length.
Usability Study #2: Evaluating the accessibility of OneNote on Windows
10. Participants should be either K-12 or university students. Study
will include a mixture of usability tasks and interviews. Sessions are
sixty minutes in length.
Both sessions can be scheduled by emailing accevent at microsoft.com;
participants will receive $50 for their time.
Icon of the NFB FRIDAY, JULY 14, Continued
7:00 - 8:30 PM—SOCIAL SECURITY AND SSI: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
Social Security and SSI benefits, eligibility criteria, application
process, reporting obligations, and information about working while
receiving benefits. James McCarthy, Presenter
7:00 - 9:00 PM—BRAILLE PROOFREADING SEMINAR
Wekiwa 9, Level 2
If you are a parent of a blind child, teacher of blind and visually
impaired children, a rehabilitation teacher, or interested in learning
what’s happening in the Braille field, join us to get hands-on
experience. Presented by the National Association of Blind Office
Professionals Division. Lisa Hall, President
7:00 - 9:30 PM—UPWARD MOBILITY SEMINAR
Wekiwa 4, Level 2
Stuck in a dead end job? Want to move up but don’t know how? LinkedIn,
networking, creative job search skills, and other ways to break the
glass ceiling. Crafty ideas from employers, committee members, and
others. Sponsored by the NFB Employment Committee.
7:00 - 10:00 PM—DO YOU DREAM IN COLOR? FILM SCREENING AND DISCUSSION
Panzacola Ballrooms F-1 and F-2, Level 1
Join us for a screening of the critically acclaimed film Do You Dream
in Color? about four inspiring blind students and their journeys. This
will be followed by a rare opportunity for a discussion with the
film's creators, Sarah Ivy and Abigail Fuller, as well as Carina
Orozco who is featured in the film and now works at our Colorado
Center.
8:00 - 9:00 PM—FRIENDS OF RECOVERY MEETING
Suwannee 19, Level 2
All convention delegates involved in or interested in twelve-step
recovery programs are invited to attend. Sheri Koch, Coordinator
Icon of the NFB FRIDAY, JULY 14, Continued
8:00 - 10:30 PM—SEVENTEETH ANNUAL SHOWCASE OF TALENT ($5)
Panzacola Ballroom G-1, Level 1
Join us for a night of great performances. Whether you perform in the
show or support your friends from the audience, it is an enjoyable
evening of great entertainment. General admission is $5. We will award
cash prizes to two acts. The cost to perform in this year’s show will
be $10. Call (314) 610-7740 if you have questions. Presented by the
Performing Arts Division. Julie McGinnity, President
Icon of the NFB SATURDAY, JULY 15, 2017
7:15 - 8:45 AM—AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR THE BLIND
7:15 AM—Doors open
7:30 AM—Breakfast served
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) cordially invites you to a
complimentary breakfast, featuring remarks from president and CEO,
Kirk Adams. Learn more about AFB’s new strategic initiatives that will
work toward an inclusive world with no limits for people who are blind
or visually impaired. Attendance is limited; please RSVP to Sarah
Malaier, smalaier at afb.net or call (202) 469-6831, by June 23 to
receive a confirmation email with banquet room location information.
8:00 - 8:45 AM—DEVOTIONS
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
8:15 - 8:45 AM—PREREGISTRATION PACKET PICKUP
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
8:15 - 8:45 AM—REGISTRATION ($30)—Final opportunity to register
Sebastian Ballroom Pre-function Area, Level 1
GENERAL SESSION
9:00 AM INVOCATION
9:05 AM THE FUTURE OF ACCESS TECHNOLOGY FOR THE BLIND:
PROGRESS AT VFO
Tom Tiernan, President and CEO, VFO; St. Petersburg, Florida
9:20 AM THE FUTURE OF EQUAL ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY: A
COMMITMENT TO THE JOURNEY AT MICROSOFT
Jenny Lay-Flurrie, Chief Accessibility Officer, Microsoft; Redmond, Washington
9:40 AM WORLDWIDE EXCELLENCE IN TRAVEL: ACCESSIBILITY
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BLIND
Bhala Dalvi, VP of Technology and Executive Sponsor of Accessibility,
Expedia Inc.; Bellevue, Washington
Icon of the NFB SATURDAY, JULY 15, Continued
10:00 AM EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP AND PRODUCT INNOVATIONS:
THE FUTURE OF THE AMERICAN PRINTING HOUSE FOR THE BLIND
Craig Meador, President, American Printing House for the Blind;
Louisville, Kentucky
10:15 AM EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGY LED BY THE BLIND: A
REPORT FROM THE JERNIGAN INSTITUTE
Anil Lewis, Executive Director for the Jernigan Institute, National
Federation of the Blind; Baltimore, Maryland
10:35 AM SUPPORTING EQUALITY FOR BLIND AMERICANS: A NEW
SHERIFF IN THE UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
The Honorable Val Demings, United States House of Representatives,
10th Congressional District; Florida
10:55 AM THE POWER OF THE MIND: RESEARCH EXPLORING THE
CAPACITY OF THE BLIND
Marina Bedny, Assistant Professor, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
11:10 AM BUILDING NEW PATHS TO ACCESSIBILITY: POWERING THE
NEXT GENERATION OF ACCESSIBLE EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
Ann Cunningham, Art Instructor, Colorado Center for the Blind;
Littleton, Colorado
11:25 AM REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
12:00 PM ADJOURN
Noon - 1:45 PM—AMATEUR RADIO DIVISION BUSINESS MEETING
Suwannee 11, Level 2; Rachel Olivero (AD9O), President
Noon - 1:45 PM—RAFFLES AND DRAWINGS
Wekiwa 5, Level 2
Icon of the NFB SATURDAY, JULY 15, Continued
12:15 - 1:45 PM—NLS QUESTION-AND-ANSWER SESSION
Wekiwa 10, Level 2
A question-and-answer session with the National Library Service for
the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress.
GENERAL SESSION
2:00 PM CALL TO ORDER
2:05 PM DR. JACOB BOLOTIN AWARDS
James Gashel, Chairperson, Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award Committee;
Secretary, National Federation of the Blind; Avon, Colorado
2:35 PM KNFB READER: DEMONSTRATION AND PRODUCT UPDATE
2:45 PM EXPLORING THE FUTURE: DISABILITY, TECHNOLOGY,
AND PARTNERSHIP
Ray Kurzweil, Director of Engineering, Google, Inc.; Mountain View, California
3:05 PM REVOLUTIONIZING ACCESS TO INFORMATION: A
PLATFORM FOR TESTING THE LIMITS
Suman Kanuganti, Co-founder and CEO, Aira Tech Corp.; San Diego, California
3:25 PM THE BLIND COOK: CHOPPING THROUGH MISCONCEPTIONS
TO LIVE THE LIFE SHE WANTS
Christine Hà, Chef, Cookbook Author,
and Master Chef Season 3 Winner; Houston, Texas
3:45 PM TRANSFORMING DREAMS INTO REALITY: THE
FULFILLMENT OF ONE BLIND MAN'S MISSION
Ron Gardner, Past President, National Federation of the Blind of Utah;
Bountiful, Utah
4:05 PM LEADERSHIP THROUGH ACTION: A CHAMPION FOR THE
BLIND IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS
The Honorable David Young, United States House of Representatives, 3rd
Congressional District; Iowa
Icon of the NFB SATURDAY, JULY 15, Continued
4:25 PM REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS
5:00 PM ADJOURN
7:00 PM—BANQUET
Sebastian Ballrooms I and J, Level 1
INVOCATION
MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Marc Maurer
INTRODUCTIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
BANQUET ADDRESS: Mark Riccobono
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
CONVENTION NOTES:
Note 1: A Federation information desk is in the registration area from
Tuesday morning through Saturday in case you have questions or need
assistance.
Note 2: Rosen Shingle Creek room rates are: singles and doubles, $83;
triples and quads, $89. In addition to the room rates, there is a 12.5
percent tax. There is no charge for children under seventeen 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. This is a non-smoking hotel; smoking is permitted only in
specified areas outside.
Note 3: Guide Dog Relief Areas:
There are two guide dog relief areas at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel.
The one closest to the sleeping room section is located outside lower
lobby level at the rear side of the hotel, toward the outdoor function
space and pool area. The one closest to the meeting room section is
located in the Panzacola-Sebastian wing on level one. Go past the
Sebastian Ballrooms K and L (Exhibit Hall and Independence Market),
exit through the doors across the end of the wing that lead to the
event parking lot, and turn left.
Note 4: All requests for announcements by President Riccobono during
General Sessions must be submitted in Braille.
Note 5: 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 will be that national
divisions may (if they request it in advance) conduct drawings during
the sessions or at the banquet. Groups or affiliates wishing to
conduct their drawings (or any person wishing to know the winners) may
go at noon on Saturday to Wekiwa 5, Level 2.
Note 6: Childcare for children between the ages of six weeks and
twelve years is available during convention sessions, most meetings,
and the banquet. Preregistration and payment by June 15 are required
for childcare. Childcare is organized and supervised by Carla
McQuillan, the executive director of Main Street Montessori
Association. Duncan McQuillan serves as the activities and staff
coordinator. Please note that childcare services 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.
A late fee of $10 per quarter-hour per child will be assessed for late
pickups. Childcare services hours are:
Monday, July 10 8:30 AM
to 12:30 PM and 1:30 to 5:30 PM
Tuesday, July 11 Closed
Wednesday, July 12 8:30 AM to
noon and 12:45 to 5:30 PM
Thursday, July 13 9:00 AM
to 12:30 PM and 1:30 to 5:30 PM
Friday, July 14 8:30
AM to 12:30 PM and 1:30 to 5:30 PM
Saturday, July 15 8:30 AM
to 12:30 PM and 1:30 to 5:30 PM
Banquet, July 15 6:30 PM
to 30 minutes after the banquet ends
Note 7: Divisions, Committees, and Groups: The Federation carries on
its business through the affiliated divisions, committees, and groups
listed below:
DIVISIONS:
Divisions of the National Federation of the Blind are organized around
a specialized interest area usually related to employment or a major
stage in life (e.g. parents or students). Divisions serve as a formal
vehicle for building the organization at the national level.
Amateur Radio: Rachel Olivero (AD9O), President
Assistive Technology Trainers: Nancy Coffman, President
Communities of Faith: Tom Anderson, President
Computer Science: Brian Buhrow, President
Community Service: Darian Smith, President
Deaf-Blind: Alice Eaddy, President
Diabetes Action Network: Bernadette Jacobs, President
Human Services: Merry Schoch, President
Educators: Cayte Mendez, President
Guide Dog Users: Marion Gwizdala, President
Krafters: Joyce Kane, President
Lawyers: Scott LaBarre, President
Merchants: Nicky Gacos, President
Promote the Use of Braille: Steve Booth, President
Office Professionals: Lisa Hall, President
Parents of Blind Children: Kim Cunningham, President
Performing Arts: Julie McGinnity, President
Professionals in Blindness Education: Eric Guillory, President
Public Employees: Ivan Weich, President
Rehabilitation Professionals: Melody Roane, President
Science and Engineering: John Miller, President
Seniors: Ruth Sager, President
Sports and Recreation: Jessica Beecham, President
Students: Kathryn Webster, President
United Blind Industrial Workers of America: Sandy Halverson, President
Veterans: Dwight Sayer, President
Writers: Eve Sanchez, President
COMMITTEES:
Committees of the National Federation of the Blind are appointed by
the President, with the exception of the nominating committee, and
serve to advise the organization’s leadership on important matters and
to carry out projects to build the organization at all levels.
Ambassadors: Dan Burke, Chairperson
Automobile and Pedestrian Safety: Maurice Peret, Chairperson
Autonomous Vehicles and Innovations in Transportation: Sachin
Pavithran, Chairperson
Blind Educator of the Year Award: Edward Bell, Chairperson
Blind Federal Employment: Ronza Othman, Chairperson
Cash and Caring: Ramona Walhof, Chairperson
Communications: Corbb O'Connor, Chairperson
Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award: Carla McQuillan, Chairperson
Employment: Dick Davis, Chairperson
Empower Underserved Populations: Ron Brown, Chairperson
Genetic Education: Ronit Ovadia Mazzoni, Chairperson
Imagination Fund: Everette Bacon, Chairperson
Jacobus tenBroek Award: Marc Maurer, Chairperson
Jacobus tenBroek Memorial Fund: Tracy Soforenko, Chairperson
Kenneth Jernigan Fund: Allen Harris, Chairperson
Library Services: David Hyde and Marci Carpenter, Co-Chairpersons
Membership: Jeannie Massay, Chairperson
PAC Plan: Scott LaBarre, Chairperson
Promotion, Evaluation, and Advancement of Technology: Mark Jones,
Chairperson
Research and Development: Brian Buhrow, Chairperson
Resolutions: Sharon Maneki, Chairperson
Scholarship: Patti Gregory-Chang, Chairperson
Shares Unlimited in NFB (SUN): Sandy Halverson, Chairperson
Spanish Translation: Conchita Hernandez, Chairperson
White Cane and Affiliate Finance: Alpidio Rolón, Chairperson
GROUPS:
Groups of the National Federation of the Blind serve as a resource to
members around specific topic areas. Groups are coordinated by a
chairperson appointed by the President and are intended to connect
members across the country to strengthen the resource network of the
organization.
Blind Cancer Survivors Support: Isaiah Nelson, Chairperson
Blind Musicians: Linda Mentink, Chairperson
Blind Parents: Deborah Kent Stein, Chairperson
Blind Professional Journalists: Elizabeth Campbell and Bryan Bashin,
Co-Chairpersons
Careers in Automotive Related Specialties: Marcus Simmons, Chairperson
Legislative Initiatives: Don Burns, Chairperson
Living History: Michael Freholm, Chairperson
NFB in Judaism: David Stayer, Chairperson
NFB LGBT Group: Tai Tomasi, Chairperson
NFB Lions: Ramona Walhof and Milton Ota, Co-Chairpersons
Orientation and Mobility: Edward Bell, Chairperson
Piano Technology: Don Mitchell, Chairperson
Travel and Tourism: Amy Baron, President
Webmasters: Gary Wunder, Chairperson
NAVIGATING THE HOTEL
(Adapted from an article by Mary Ellen Jernigan in the May 2011 Braille Monitor)
In recent years I have written a description of the layout of the
convention hotel. Although I have tried, I haven’t been able to come
up with an image as memorable as “a high top tennis shoe lying on its
side” to picture the footprint of the hotel. Nor can I speak easily in
terms of north, south, east, and west, because if you were to walk in
the front door with compass in hand (which I did), you would find that
you were heading not south, not east, or even southeast, but a little
east of southeast—120 degrees to be exact.
The first thing to understand about the hotel is that the meeting
rooms are located in an area that is totally separate from the part of
the hotel that contains the sleeping rooms. The sleeping room
elevators do not go to the meeting room levels. This means that the
starting place to find any meeting room is always the main lobby.
When you have come in the front door, the hotel registration desk is
located to your left along the same wall as the front door. Directly
across from the front door toward the far side of the lobby you will
find the Birdcage. The Birdcage is a tall, free-standing structure
about three feet across filled with colorful, chirping, tropical
birds, and is used by hotel staff and guests alike as a major landmark
and meeting place. Just beyond the Birdcage is a balcony railing
overlooking the level below. Since the odd compass orientation of the
hotel makes speaking of facing, turning, or walking north, south,
east, or west not particularly meaningful, I will use the following
terms in describing the lobby: front door side of the lobby, balcony
side of the lobby, facing the balcony, facing the front door, and
standing at the Birdcage.
There are two sets of elevators in the main lobby. One set serves the
lobby level, the lower lobby level, and floors 1 through 10. These
elevators are located inside of a short, free-standing elevator
corridor, which is perpendicular to and directly across from the hotel
check-in desk. The corridor has an opening at both ends—one end
opening toward the hotel check-in desk, and the other end opening
toward the balcony side of the lobby. If you turn right as you exit
the elevator corridor at the balcony end of the corridor, you will be
heading directly toward the Birdcage.
The second set of elevators serves the lobby level, the lower lobby
level, and floors 10 through 14. To find this set of elevators from
the front door, cross the lobby to the Birdcage (at this point you
will be facing the balcony rail overlooking the lower level) and turn
right, walking until you dead end at a display case outside of the
entrance to the Cala Bella restaurant. The elevators are now
immediately on your right.
The numbering system for the sleeping rooms is based on the floor and
the wing in which the room is located, with the floor number given
first followed by the wing designation and then the room number. On
each sleeping room floor as you leave the elevator area there is a
tactile placard on the wall giving a diagram of the wing layout. The
letters and numbers can be read tactilely.
If you are standing at the Birdcage facing the balcony rail, the
staircase leading down to the lower level will be to your right along
the balcony rail. Farther to your right is the fine dining Italian
bistro Cala Bella. If you are facing the balcony rail and turn left at
the Birdcage you will be walking along the balcony side of the lobby.
You would pass the opening into the 1 to 10 elevator corridor on your
left, and then continuing on you would find the concierge on your
right. Immediately beyond the concierge’s desk is a small single
elevator which serves only the lobby level, the lower lobby level, and
sleeping rooms located on the third floor. Just beyond this elevator
are the entrances into the spa and fitness center. In this corner of
the lobby you will also find men’s and women’s restrooms and a
staircase leading to the third floor sleeping rooms.
Located on the lower level of the lobby is the large Café Osceola,
which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering both buffets
and á la carte menu options. Also on this level is the 18 Monroe
Street Market. This market is open 24 hours a day and is a combination
of convenience store and quick-service restaurant. The restaurant part
of the operation opens at 6:30 a.m. and continues well into the
evening, offering hot and cold deli-style sandwiches, salads, pizza,
hot entrées and desserts either for dine-in or take-out to your room
or the outside eating area near the pools. This is a large area
containing tables and chairs.
The hotel swimming pools and hot tubs, outdoor function space, and
recreation areas, and the Cat-Tails Pool Bar & Grille are all accessed
from the lower lobby level. All of this outdoor space is located on
the rear side.
Outside on the front entrance side at the lobby level is a stand-alone
facility housing a restaurant called A Land Remembered, open for lunch
and dinner. As you leave the hotel, a long covered walkway to the
right of the front entrance leads to A Land Remembered.
MEETING SPACE
The meeting space is connected to the main lobby and sleeping room
section by a wide passageway accessed only from the lobby level.
Standing at the Birdcage facing the front door side of the hotel,
walking forward across the lobby, and making a left turn just before
going out the front door places you at the entrance to the passageway
connecting the lobby and meeting space. Or if you are coming into the
hotel through the front door, making a right turn immediately after
passing the bell stand will place you at the entrance to this
passageway.
Along both sides of the passageway are restaurants and shops. Walking
toward the meeting space, the first thing on your left will be Smooth
Java, a full-service coffee bar featuring Starbucks coffees; followed
by Headwaters Lounge, which serves appetizers, salads, and sandwiches,
as well as beverages; and finally the Banrai Sushi restaurant. The
right side of the passageway as you walk toward the meeting space has
a guest services counter where you can obtain tickets and
transportation to various local attractions or arrange for an
Enterprise rental car, followed by the hotel’s gift shop. Two food
outlets have swapped places this year. First on your right is
newly-expanded Mexican eatery Mi Casa Tequila Taqueria. Next up is
Tobias Burgers & Brews, serving pub fare with a broad selection of
handcrafted burgers and local microbrew beers.
After passing by the retail shops and eateries, you come to a large
rotunda, which serves as the entryway to the hotel’s meeting space
sometimes referred to as the “Convention Center.” Continuing straight
ahead, crossing the Rotunda to the far side, you will find a wide,
short flight of steps leading up to Level 2 of the meeting space. At
the base of the steps to the right and the left are escalators and
staircases leading down to Level 1 of the meeting space. The escalator
and staircase on your right take you to the Panzacola-Sebastian wing
of the meeting space on Level 1. All of our meetings and activities on
Level 1 are in the Panzacola-Sebastian wing. The escalator and
staircase on your left lead to the Gatlin wing of the Level 1 meeting
space. A small escalator located to the right of the steps also leads
up to Level 2 of the meeting space.
None of our meetings or activities takes place in the Gatlin wing.
Should you go down that escalator or staircase on your left, you
cannot get to our meeting space in the Panzacola-Sebastian wing except
by coming back up to the Rotunda and taking the other escalator or
staircase leading to the Panzacola-Sebastian wing.
With respect to the escalator and staircase, the staircase is located
between the up escalator and the down escalator. A small elevator also
serves the meeting space in the Panzacola-Sebastian wing on Level 1,
the Rotunda, and the meeting space on Level 2. Please note that there
is also a small elevator that goes from Level 2 to the Rotunda and to
the Gatlin wing on Level 1. This means that should you happen to take
the Gatlin wing elevator from Level 2, you would need to get off at
the Rotunda. Remember, if you end up in the Gatlin wing (either by
taking the wrong elevator, the wrong staircase, or the wrong
escalator), you need to return to the Rotunda to get to the
Panzacola-Sebastian wing. Level 2 of the meeting space is also served
by two short escalators going only between the Rotunda and Level 2—the
down escalator being found near the small elevator serving the
Panzacola-Sebastian wing, and the up escalator being found near the
small elevator serving the Gatlin wing.
If you continue straight ahead after you reach the top of the short
flight of steps leading to Level 2, you enter a corridor containing
the ten Wekiwa meeting rooms. These rooms are along both sides of the
corridor with 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 on the right, and 10, 9, 8, 7, and 6
on the left.
If at the top of the steps you were to turn left and continue walking
until you cannot go farther and then turn right, you enter a corridor
containing the eleven Suwannee meeting rooms. These rooms are along
both sides of the corridor with 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 on the right
side, and 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, and 16 on the left. There are restrooms
just ahead of you before you make the right turn into the Suwannee
meeting room corridor.
Also located on Level 2 are the St. John’s meeting rooms, but we do
not use the St. John’s rooms for any of our meetings.
The General Sessions, the Board meeting, the Banquet, the Exhibit Hall
and Independence Market, Registration and Preregistration, Resolutions
Committee meeting, and a number of our other activities and meetings
are located on Level 1 in the Panzacola-Sebastian wing. The
Panzacola-Sebastian wing contains the Panzacola Ballroom and the
Sebastian Ballroom—both of which divide up into many smaller meeting
room sections. The names of the sections of the Panzacola Ballroom
begin with F, G, or H. The sections of the Sebastian Ballroom begin
with I, J, K, or L.
As you enter the Panzacola-Sebastian wing from the escalator,
staircase, or small elevator you are entering an L-shaped passageway.
As you continue walking straight ahead, you are walking along the
short arm of the ‘L.’ The Panzacola meeting rooms F-4, F-3, F-2, and
F-1 (in that order) will be on your left. There will be no rooms on
your right. This short arm of the ‘L’ is about 200 feet long and ends
at the Panzacola registration counter. (We are not using the Panzacola
registration counter, but it is a good landmark to use to find the
intersection of the long and short arms of the ‘L.’) Turning left at
the Panzacola registration counter, you enter the very long (about 500
feet) arm of the ‘L.’ Along the left side of the long arm of the ‘L’
passageway (also known as the Panzacola-Sebastian Pre-function area)
will be entryways (in this order) to the Panzacola G and H rooms and
the Sebastian I, J, K, and L rooms. Along the right side of the
passageway are glass doors and windows to the outside of the hotel,
restrooms, and the Sebastian registration counter. Preregistration on
Tuesday, July 11, will be at the Sebastian registration counter.
Registration on Tuesday, July 11 for those who have not preregistered,
will be farther down the ‘L,’ beyond the Sebastian registration
counter. Later in the week, all registration will be at the Sebastian
registration counter. During much of the convention, the hotel plans
to offer buffet-type fast food service (quick breakfasts, beverages,
soups, sandwiches, salads, chips, and perhaps some hot entrées) in the
Panzacola-Sebastian Pre-function area.
General Sessions will be held in Sebastian I and J. The Exhibit Hall
and Independence Market will be in Sebastian K and L, which is the
last section of the Sebastian Ballroom at the very far end of the
500-foot passageway. Doors across the far end of the passageway lead
outside to the event parking lot. Exiting these doors and turning
right will lead to another dog relief area.
As I bring this article to a close, I offer one final navigation tip.
If after studying this material you remember only one thing—it should
be this: To go to any meeting of any kind from inside the hotel you
must get yourself to the Rotunda.
See you at the Rotunda!
Thank You.
The National Federation of the Blind acknowledges with gratitude our
convention sponsors listed below. Their messages follow.
Platinum:
Aira & AT&T
Google, Inc.
Microsoft
OrCam
Oracle
UPS
Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
VFO: Ai Squared/Freedom Scientific/Optelec
Gold:
Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP
iSenpai, LLC
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Target
Uber Technologies, Inc.
Silver:
Amazon
Dropbox
HumanWare
Market Development Group, Inc.
Pearson
Sprint
Bronze:
Charter Communications
Facebook
National Industries for the Blind
VitalSource Technologies, LLC
Wells Fargo
White Cane:
BAUM (USA) Inc.
C&P - Chris Park Design
Disability Relations Group
Duxbury Systems, Inc.
Educational Testing Service
Envision, Inc.
En-Vision America, Inc.
HIMS
iFactory
Lyft, Inc.
OHFA Tech, Inc.
Rosen Bien Galvan & Grunfeld, LLP
TRE Legal Practice
SPONSOR ADS
AT&T + Aira ad: #DoMore with Aira. Aira is now available to all NFB
members. Aira connected by AT&T. Sign up at www.aira.io
Microsoft ad: Empowerment. Microsoft’s mission is to empower every
person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. This
includes creating and delivering technology that is accessible and
functional for people of all abilities.
http://microsoft.com/accessibility
Oracle ad: Oracle Delivers Accessibility. Transparent accessibility
reporting; international accessibility standards development;
comprehensive accessibility implementation guidance; the world’s top
governments, states, cities, and universities run Oracle. “Oracle is
committed to creating accessible technologies and products that
enhance the overall workplace environment and contribute to the
productivity of our employees, our customers, and our customers’
customers.” Safra Catz, CEO, Oracle. For more information about
Oracle’s accessible products, go to: oracle.com/accessibility.
UPS ad: Supporting great causes: a commitment that’s as much a part of
UPS as our brown trucks. UPS is proud to support the National
Federation of the Blind and the National Convention. ups.com
<http://www.ups.com> .
VFO: Ai Squared/ Freedom Scientific/ Optelec/ The PacielloGroup ad:
What’s New From VFO? Our brands Ai Squared/ Freedom Scientific/
Optelec/ The PacielloGroup. Convention Highlights: ZoomText Fusion 11
• Run JAWS® and ZoomText® simultaneously or independently
• Single installer with one activation code
ElBraille 14 Windows® 10 Notetaker with JAWS and Focus Blue
• Access to your favorite Office® applications • 20 hours battery life
• WiFi, Bluetooth® 4.0, 4G and LTE protocols • GPS, Sim Card port, USB and HDMI
Home Use Program
• Significant discounts on software
• Special Software Maintenance Agreement pricing
• 20% discount on all hardware
ONYX OCR Portable Video Magnifier
• Four-in-one camera
• Magnifies and reads aloud any document
• View an entire page and navigate quickly
Available to NFB conference registrants in the exhibit hall only. VFO
is a proud sponsor of the NFB National Convention. www.VFOGroup.com
Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP ad: For 30 years, the NFB has entrusted
me with exciting and important work that brings me joy every day. I
have learned so much from my friends and mentors in the NFB and have
been so supported by all my friends in the blind community. I thank
you for the extraordinary honor of representing you. Dan Goldstein.
Brown, Goldstein & Levy is proud to partner with the NFB and of the
groundbreaking work we have accomplished together and will accomplish
in the future. 120 E. Baltimore St., Ste. 1700 Baltimore, MD 21202.
www.browngold.com. 410.962.1030
iSenpai, LLC ad: Congratulations NFB on another outstanding National
Convention! Keep teaching blind kids how it’s done! Are you a parent
of a blind kid? Find the NOPBC table & introduce yourself! Get plugged
in to the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children! iSenpai:
your technology advisor.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. ad: Commitment to access and inclusion. JPMorgan
Chase & Co. We proudly support the National Federation of the Blind in
developing innovative education, technology and training programs that
create pathways to independence and success for their constituents.
Target ad: Target for all. At Target, we believe everyone should be
able to enjoy shopping at Target.com and in our stores. Learn more:
Target.com/accessibility. Contact us: accessibility at Target.com
Uber Technologies, Inc. ad: Uber is proud to partner with the National
Federation of the Blind to help bring reliable, accessible
transportation to people all across the world. Learn more at
accessibility.uber.com
Amazon.com ad: Visit the NFB Exhibit Hall to experience the
accessibility of Kindle E-Readers, Kindle for PC, Fire Tablets, Fire
TV, Alexa, and more…Amazon products come with built-in access features
so that all customers can enjoy their books, movies, apps, and more.
Learn more @ www.amazon.com/accessiblity
HumanWare ad: NO LIMIT. HumanWare develops highly intuitive and
intelligent solutions that empower people who are blind or with low
vision by giving them the independence to participate effectively in a
sighted workplace. Tools like the new BrailleNote Touch, first and
only Google certified braille tablet, and the explore family of
handheld electronic magnifiers, allow blind and visually impaired
people live full, productive lives. Contact us for a free
demonstration 1-800-722-3393 www.humanware.com. Humanware see things.
Differently.
Market Development Group ad: Market Development Group ad:
Congratulations to the National Federation of the Blind on another
successful convention! Market Development Group, Inc. A full-service
marketing company. John Alahouzos, executive vice president. 1832
Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA. (202) 298-8030.
www.mdginc.org.
Pearson ad: Pearson. Pearson, the world’s learning company, is proud
to be a sponsor of the National Federation of the Blind’s 77th
National Convention. Pearson is committed to making education
accessible for all. Please stop by our booth when you visit the
exhibit hall.
Sprint Vision ad: Sprint Vision ad: Sprint Vision ad: Sprint Vision is
here for you! Sprint Vision is committed to working with the blind and
low vision community to deliver user-friendly accessible devices,
affordable plans and offers extraordinary customer care.
• Promotional service plan offers
• Free 411 directory assistance
• Accessible website: sprint.com/vision
• TeleSales: 866-588-5814
Dedicated Care Support: 855-885-7568
Email: sprintaccessibility at sprint.com
sprint.com/vision
OrCam ad: OrCam MyEye wearable assistive device. Breakthrough
artificial vision technology with a smart camera, empowering people
who are blind or visually impaired. Instantly and discreetly read text
from any surface, recognize faces, and identify products. OrCam gives
independence. Stop by our booth in the exhibit hall for a demo.
www.orcam.com. 1-800-713-3741.
Charter Communications ad: Charter Communications is proud to support
the National Federation of the Blind at its National Convention. By
collaborating with the blind and visually impaired community, Charter
Communications can enhance technology and service to better meet the
needs of all our customers.
National Industries for the Blind ad: National Industries for the
Blind is proud to partner with the National Federation of the Blind to
advance the interests of people who are blind. Together, there are no
limits to what we can do. Learn more at NIB.org.
Wells Fargo ad: Our diversity is our strength. Every day, we go to
work, attend school, and live our lives side by side. Our individual
experiences come together to help us learn more about the world around
us, and ourselves as well. Wells Fargo honors and recognizes the
National Federation of the Blind. www.wellsfargo.com. Together we’ll
go far.
Disability Relations Group ad: Designed for all voter kiosk votec.
Help design the next accessible voting system!
www.votecdesignedforall.com
Educational Testing Service ad: ETS Measuring the power of learning.
Our mission is to advance quality and equity in education by providing
fair and valid assessments, research and related services. Our
products and services measure knowledge and skills, promote learning
and performance, and support education and professional development
for all people worldwide. Questions about GRE, TOEFL, Praxis, GACE,
TExES, or HiSET tests? Stop by our table!
Envision, Inc. ad: Since 1933 Envision has been providing advocacy and
support to improve independence for individuals who are blind or
visually impaired. Envision is proud to sponsor the National
Federation of the Blind. Envision. To improve the quality of live and
provide inspiration for the blind and visually impaired through
employment, outreach, rehabilitation, education and research.
www.envisionus.com.
Lyft, Inc ad: Going the extra mile. Lyft is a proud partner of the NFB.
Rosen Bien Galvan & Grunfeld LLP ad: Trial and Appellate Advocates.
RBGG is proud to represent and support the National Federation of the
Blind so that blind people may live the lives they want. Advancing
justice and solving problems on behalf of individuals and businesses
for 25 years. rbgg.com.
David Andrews and Long White Cane Harry
dandrews at visi.com or david.andrews at nfbnet.org
Twitter: @dandrews920
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