[NFBV-Announce] NFB of Virginia 2024 State Convention Agenda, Registration, and an invitation to join us in Portsmouth (October 31-November 3) - Agenda now available
tracy.soforenko at gmail.com
tracy.soforenko at gmail.com
Thu Sep 26 22:42:37 UTC 2024
We truly hope you can join us for the 2024 National Federation of the Blind
of Virginia state convention to be held in Portsmouth, Virginia from October
31 – November 3.
Discover a weekend of connection, learning, and fun for all ages and stages
of life at the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia’s annual state
convention! Whether you are a parent of a blind child, a high school or
college student, a working professional, or a senior, this weekend has
something exciting for you. Visit NFBV.org/Register to book now!
Why Attend?
Our action-packed weekend offers something for everyone, with opportunities
to connect, learn, and have fun. Here are just a few highlights:
- Adaptive Sports & Wellness Activities: From blind tennis to chair
aerobics, there is something to get everyone moving, no matter your age or
skill level.
- Interactive Technology & Resource Fair: Explore hands-on demonstrations of
the latest accessible tech, from AI tools enhancing workplace productivity
to gadgets simplifying daily living, plus low-vision cell phones, audible
health monitors, and more.
- Professional Development & Career Support: Get real-time feedback on your
resume, participate in mock interviews, and gain insights from professionals
across industries. Whether you are starting your career or looking for a new
opportunity, we have you covered.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Kids can dive into accessible video games, create
braille art, or swap books at our Braille Book Exchange while parents
connect with each other and hear from experienced blind role models.
We have also negotiated affordable hotel and meal rates!
Do not delay! To find all details including the agenda and other necessary
information, go to
<https://nfbv.org/convention> https://nfbv.org/convention
This will be a weekend you DO NOT want to miss.!
Please find the agenda attached and pasted after my signature for your
convenience.
Tracy Soforenko
President, National Federation of the Blind of Virginia
202 285-4595
<mailto:Tracy.soforenko at gmail.com> Tracy.soforenko at gmail.com
<http://www.nfb.org> www.nfb.org
<http://www.nfbv.org> www.nfbv.org
National Federation of the Blind. Live the Life You Want
The National Federation of the Blind is a community of members and friends
who believe in the hopes and dreams of the nation’s blind. Every day we work
together to help blind people live the lives they want.
Advancing Advocacy, Breaking Barriers, Creating Change
66TH ANNUAL CONVENTION
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF VIRGINIA
Tracy Soforenko, President
October 31 – November 3, 2024
Renaissance Portsmouth
425 Water Street
Portsmouth, Virginia 23704
(757) 673–3000
Co–Hosted by The Tidewater and Peninsula Chapters OF THE NATIONAL FEDERATION
OF THE BLIND OF VIRGINIA
Stewart Prost and Uricka Harrison, Presidents
Our National Representative:
Anil Lewis, Executive Director – Blindness Initiatives, National Federation
of the Blind, Atlanta, Georgia
Table of Contents
The Federation Pledge 5
Convention Registration 5
Inclusivity, Diversity, and Social Conduct
5
Thursday, October 31, 2024 7
FRIDAY, November 1, 2024 9
General Session 9
Friday Afternoon Concurrent Seminars
14
Friday Evening Concurrent Sessions and Hospitality
17
Saturday, November 2, 2024 21
General Session 21
Saturday Afternoon Breakout Sessions
27
2024 Convention Banquet 30
Sunday, November 3, 2024 32
General Session 32
Convention Notes: 35
Virtual Meeting Access over Zoom 35
Convention Registration & Information
36
Meal Functions 36
Door Prizes 37
Action Auction 37
Information Table 38
DOG Relief Area 38
Assistive Listening Devices 39
Daylight Saving Time 39
Hospitality Room 39
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Exhibitors
40
Trailblazers Level 45
Pioneers Level 45
Announcements 45
Dream Makers Circle 45
Vehicle Donations 45
Preauthorized Contributions (PAC)
46
The Federation Pledge
“I pledge to participate actively in the efforts of the National Federation
of the Blind to achieve equality, opportunity, and security for the blind;
to support the policies and programs of the Federation; and to abide by its
Constitution.”
Convention Registration
<https://nfbv.org/register> Convention registration is available online. We
ask everyone, whether a Virginia resident or not, to register. If you
register before October 7, you will be entered into a drawing for $100.
Current members of a Virginia chapter or division will be eligible to vote
for resolutions and in our elections.
Early registration registration on or before October 7is subsidized.
Virtual participation is free of charge.
Details regarding registration and other logistics can be found on our
<https://nfbv.org/convention/> convention landing page.
Inclusivity, Diversity, and Social Conduct
We are committed to providing a harassment–free environment for everyone.
Thank you for cultivating an atmosphere in which participants from diverse
backgrounds can learn, network, and share with each other in an environment
of mutual respect. We are committed to diversity, equity, and the free
expression of ideas.
These principles have been outlined in our code of conduct found at:
<https://nfb.org/code-conduct> https://nfb.org/code–conduct
We recognize a shared responsibility to create and uphold that atmosphere
for the benefit of all. Prohibited behaviors include harassment, unwelcome
sexual attention, and inappropriate use of the NFB of Virginia virtual
convention platform. Prohibited behavior or misuse of the platform will not
be tolerated and may result in removal from the convention and/or other
consequences. For assistance or to report an incident at the convention,
please call 703-672-1339, or email <mailto:help at nfbv.org> help at nfbv.org for
immediate attention. All reports will be fully investigated according to the
steps in our code of conduct. Thank you for doing your part to contribute to
our community and the high expectations we strive to maintain.
To file a confidential Code of Conduct violation, please do so at:
<https://tinyurl.com/43f5jrds> https://tinyurl.com/43f5jrds
Thursday, October 31, 2024
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Registration – Portsmouth Registration Desk.
7:00 PM to 8:30 PM Welcome Meet and Mix – Commodore Room
Come meet and mix on Thursday night with members from across the
Commonwealth in a relaxed environment. Grab some dinner, meet some friends,
and unwind before the convention fully swings into gear. The cost for this
event is $17. Register on or before October 27th. Remember that prices will
go up after the early registration deadline of October 7.
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM Silver Bells Reunion and Open House Dinner – Portsmouth
7. Sandy Halverson, Silver Bells Program Coordinator
Please join us to learn about our transformative senior empowerment
programs. Reconnect with alumni and staff. If you have never attended Silver
Bells <https://nfbv.org/silverbells> , find out more about the program from
past participants. If you are one of our 180+ alumni, find out about
upcoming training opportunities. Discover how our training will help you
live the life you want! Please make certain to include dinner in your
registration because this meal has a separate charge of $31 with early
registration.
8:30 PM to 10:30 PM Día de los Muertos
and other Halloween Lore from Around
the World – Portsmouth 4. Renee Valdez, Chair, NFB of Virginia Diversity,
Equity & Inclusion Committee
The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee welcomes you to a night of
wonder, education, and entertainment. Experience the Halloween tradition as
observed by various cultures. As an example, Día de los Muertos is a
tradition observed in the Mexican culture. We will bring it to life in a
dramatization featuring costume, music, movement, aromas, taste, and
textures. Audience members will be invited to participate in role play
activities, playing musical instruments, dancing, and implementing sound
effects. Halloween is more than just trick or treat and the Great Pumpkin.
Learn the cultural elements inherent in the celebration of Halloween in a
way that is engaging of all the senses, the biggest sense being the sense of
fun! All who attend are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costume!
Whatever you wear, dress comfortably because we will be moving, grooving,
and laughing during this exciting program.
FRIDAY, November 1, 2024
8:00 AM to 8:50 AM Registration – Portsmouth Registration Desk.
General Session
Portsmouth 5 Ballroom
Zoom <https://zoom.us/j/8297256345?pwd=SFAyamlQNU44ZTJ6dUZNMTV4RmhCQT09>
Meeting ID: 829 725 6345
9:00 AM Opening Ceremonies.
* Call to Order – Tracy Soforenko, President, NFB of Virginia
* Invocation – Deborah Prost, Member, Beth Messiah Synagogue of
Tidewater, Norfolk, Virginia
* Presentation of the Colors – NFB of Virginia Veterans Pledge of
Allegiance – Jimmy Cunningham, , Prince George, Virginia
* Star Spangled Banner – Charles Stanley, Member, Peninsula Chapter,
Newport News, Virginia.
* Recognition of Veterans – Jimmy Cunningham
* Federation Pledge – Uricka Harrison, president, Peninsula Chapter,
Newport news, Virginia
Greetings from Mayor Shannon Glover, Portsmouth, Virginia
* Greetings from Our Host Chapters – Stewart Prost, President, Tidewater
Chapter, Norfolk, Virginia; and Uricka Harrison, President, Peninsula
Chapter, Newport News, Virginia
* Convention Arrangements – Joe Orozco, Chairperson, Convention
Organization and Arrangements, Arlington, Virginia
9:25 AM National Report – Anil Lewis Executive Director, Blindness
Initiatives, National Federation of the Blind, Atlanta, Georgia.
9:55 AM Seniors In charge: Life After Silver Bells.
* Sandy Halverson, Moderator, Arlington, Virginia
10:05 AM Accessible Prescription Labels: Take the Meds You Want
* Bonnie O’Day, Legislative Committee Chair, NFB of Virginia,
Alexandria, Virginia
* Caroline D. Juran, RPh, Executive Director, Virginia Board of
Pharmacy <https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Pharmacy/> , Virginia
Department of Health Professions, Richmond Virginia
* Jenna Reed, Director of Marketing, En-Vision America
<https://www.envisionamerica.com/> , Palmetto, Florida
Hear about the Accessible Prescription Labeling Act and some options for
accessible medication labeling. Learn how to work with your pharmacist to
obtain accurate information about the medications you take.
10:25 AM Action Auction.
10:35 AM Rehabilitation Services for the Blind in Virginia – Rick Mitchell,
Commissioner, Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired
<https://www.dbvi.virginia.gov/>
10:50 AM Protecting the Rights of All Blind People: Ensuring Equal Access
and Effective Communication for Blind Prisoners. Monica Basche, Attorney,
Brown Goldstein <https://browngold.com/> & Levy Baltimore, Maryland and
Mary Durbin, Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Prison is meant to be a place where individuals have the opportunity to
better themselves before being released back into society, but that isn’t
usually the case for blind prisoners. Instead, blind prisoners are routinely
denied access to programs and services that their sighted peers receive,
including jobs, recreation opportunities, and safe and appropriate housing.
As a result, blind prisoners are punished twice–once for their crime and a
second time for being blind.
11:10AM The Convention Rollercoaster – Reflections from Virginia’s 2024
McDonald Fellows and Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship Fund Winners.
* Moderator: Mary Durbin, Chairperson, McDonald Fellowship Committee,
and NFB of Virginia Liaison, Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship Fund,
Virginia Beach, Virginia
* Andrew Barksdale, Suffolk, Virginia
* Nikita Razinkov, Bridgewater, Virginia
* Renee Valdez, Alexandria, Virginia
11:30 AM Building a Brighter Financial Future.
* Jeremy Grandstaff, Consultant,
<https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/projects/264331-penny-forward> Penny
Forward, Burke, Virginia
* Brittany Bullock, Relationship Marketing Specialist,
<https://www.virginia529.com/learn/saving-with-virginia529/saving-with-ablen
ow-a-disability-savings-program/> Virginia 529 ABLENow, North Chesterfield,
Virginia
This session will demystify the power of ABLE accounts in transforming
financial independence. Through a dynamic interview, discover the key
benefits, eligibility criteria, and diverse possibilities ABLE accounts
offer, from everyday expenses to life–changing investments. Gain valuable
insights and explore how ABLE accounts can pave the way for a more secure
financial future.
11:45 AM Demonstrating for Our Rights with Uber and Lyft.
* Julie Orozco, First Vice President, Potomac Chapter, Arlington,
Virginia
* Lizzy Mohammed, Board member, Potomac Chapter, Arlington, Virginia
11:55 AM Reports and Announcements.
12:00 PM General Session Adjourns.
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Registration – Portsmouth Registration Desk.
12:00 PM to 5:00 PM Exhibits – Portsmouth Foyer
Immerse yourself in a vibrant showcase of innovative products, services, and
technology designed to empower and enhance the lives of blind and low vision
individuals. From cutting–edge assistive devices to helpful community
resources, our exhibitors offer a unique opportunity to connect with
like–minded individuals, explore new horizons, and discover the latest
advancements in accessibility. Don't miss this chance to be informed and
empowered!
12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Box Lunch Pickup – Portsmouth Foyer (Please bring your
meal ticket.)
12:30 PM to 1:00 PM Virginia Sports & Recreation Group Interest Meeting –
Portsmouth 6. Nathan Green, Member, At Large Chapter, Lexington, Virginia.
National Sports & Rec division board member, Nathan Green, will facilitate a
discussion for anyone interested in joining and helping to form a Sports &
Rec group for the Virginia affiliate. Anyone who is even slightly interested
should join us as we decide the next steps.
12:30 PM to 1:45 PM Practical Tips for using ride share, grocery delivery,
and meal delivery services using assistive technology – Portsmouth 5.
Domonique Lawless and Jimmy Morris
Learn both the technology and the practical tips for ordering your food or
car and getting to the delivery person or the vehicle. Learn how to
de-escalate conflicts and make the experience easy and lower stress.
1:00 PM Nauticus Maritime Discovery Center and the Battleship Wisconsin Tour
– Hotel Lobby
Join us for an exciting tour of the Nauticus Maritime Discovery Center and
the Battleship Wisconsin. The tour departs from the lobby of the Renaissance
Hotel at 1:00 PM. Participants should come prepared to climb stairs and
ladders aboard the Wisconsin. We should return by 5:30 PM, but participants
may be able to see more of the museum before taking the ferry back to
Portsmouth and our hotel. Please purchase passes for this tour as part of
your convention registration <https://nfbv.org/register> .
Friday Afternoon Concurrent Seminars
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Elevate Your Career Workshop – Portsmouth 4. Cindy
Roberts, Director of Business and Corporate Initiatives Department for the
Blind and Vision Impaired and Julia ford, Manager, IMPACT Operations, DC
Public Schools, Co-Chairs
It’s time to elevate your Career! Please come and meet the DBVI Business
team and attend interactive workshops designed to provide you with
additional skills to move forward in your profession.
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM Elevate Your Career Breakout Sessions – Portsmouth 1, 2,
3, and 4.
Regardless of where you are in your career, there is always something to
learn. For example, do you know that DBVI offers paid work-based learning
experiences? Are you familiar with the S.T.A.R. framework that enables you
to provide clear, concise, and engaging answers to interview questions? Are
you thinking about requesting reasonable accommodation but don’t know where
to start? Have you updated your LinkedIn profile and want to learn how to
leverage it to land your next career? Or perhaps you need a headshot and
help writing your professional bio for use in advertising your small
business. No matter where you are in your career, there will be something
that you can take away from the Elevate Your Career interactive workshops.
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Possibilities and Resource Fair–Portsmouth 7. Sandy
Halverson, Program Coordinator, Silver BELLS; and Patty Droppers, President,
NFB of Virginia Senior Division
Have you stopped reading the newspaper or books, writing checks or other
correspondence, or completing other tasks that require vision? If the
answer is yes to any of the above, join us to learn about low– or no–cost
solutions to these and other aspects of your daily life. This program is
made possible through the generous funding by the Virginia Board for the
Blind.
2:00 PM to 4:45 PM Orientation and Mobility Mini Lab: Your O&M Tune Up –
Portsmouth 8. Domonique Lawless and Jimmy Morris.
Could your cane skills use a tune up? Would you like to learn to use a cane
for the first time? Many of us could improve our travel skills with some
coaching and guidance from an O&M instructor. We are arranging for 30-minute
hands on sessions by appointment only. Please sign up for one of our O&M
Mini Sessions to work on specific indoor challenges. We all can benefit by
refining our skills with one of the talented O&M staff members from the
Virginia Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired and the Alabama Freedom
Center. These 30-minute sessions are by appointment only. Secure your time
slot here!
<https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0A44A5A72CA1FC1-51645922-nfbv#/>
2:00 PM to 3:15 PM – Blind Parents meet Up: Sharing Techniques that Work–
Portsmouth 6. Julie Orozco, Arlington, Virginia.
Being a parent is hard. Being a blind parent can appear impossible. Whether
you are a current or prospective parent, join the blind parent’s group as we
exchange techniques and continue to build community and connection which
will empower us in our parenting journeys.
3:30 PM to 4:45 PM Resolutions Committee – Portsmouth 6. Deepa Goraya,
Chairperson
We encourage the participation of all members in setting Federation policy,
and the best way to influence policy is through resolutions. As a grassroots
organization, we serve our movement through collective action, and such
action begins with policy making and debate. Come help shape the policies of
the NFB of Virginia.
3:30 PM to 4:45 PM Lessons from the Kenneth Jernigan Leadership In Service:
Growing In your Leadership Journey – Commodore Room.
* Anil Lewis, Executive Director – Blindness Initiatives, National
Federation of the Blind
* Charles Tate, First Vice president, National Federation of the Blind
of Arkansas, Harrisburg, Arkansas
* Renee Valdez, Secretary/Treasurer, Greater Alexandria Chapter,
Alexandria, Virginia.
Chapter members and leaders wanting to grow in their leadership potential
should join us for this interactive session where participants in the
national Kenneth Jernigan Leadership In Service Program will share some of
the insights gained through their participation in the program. We will
address the challenges faced by many affiliates, chapters, and divisions
where leaders want more people to help run the organization and many members
want to help in manageable ways to contribute but don’t know how. We invite
members on the chapter or divisions board, committee members, and anyone
wishing to find ways to be involved in our movement to learn from this
dynamic team and share your own ideas.
Friday Evening Concurrent Sessions and Hospitality
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Registration – Portsmouth Registration Desk.
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM Public Meeting on DBVI Divisions, Programs and Services –
Portsmouth 5, Deborah Collard, Senior Program Analyst, Virginia Department
for the Blind and Vision Impaired
Zoom <https://zoom.us/j/8297256345?pwd=SFAyamlQNU44ZTJ6dUZNMTV4RmhCQT09>
Meeting ID: 829 725 6345
We are grateful that DBVI will hold a public meeting where attendees can ask
questions and speak with agency leadership. DBVI wants to hear from you, so
come and share your thoughts and ideas on how DBVI can better meet the needs
of blind and low vision Virginians. Let your voice be heard. Virtual
participants can email questions and comments for the public meeting at
help at nfbv.org <mailto:help at nfbv.org>
5:30 PM to 6:30 PM At–Large Chapter Meeting – Portsmouth 7. Patrick Johnson,
President, At Large Chapter
Are you interested in joining the NFB but do not live near a chapter? Join
our At Large Chapter that meets virtually throughout the year but meets for
a great community gathering at the state convention. Join our Federation
team!
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Student Dinner Party: Commodore Room. Noah White,
President, Virginia Association of Blind Students.
Join the Virginia student division leaders, scholarship finalists, and
members for fellowship with old and new friends to kick off the convention
weekend. Open and free to all students over the age of fourteen.
6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Youth Track: Game Social for Families – Portsmouth 6
Calling all blind kids ages 0–13, siblings and parents! Join us for snacks
and a chance to meet other families from across the state. Email
louisewalch at gmail.com <mailto:louisewalch at gmail.com> with questions and any
food allergies we need to be aware of).
7:00 PM to 8:30 PM Students’ Feet on the Street– Renaissance Lobby
Join us for an instructional night out on the town. Project RISE
participants, members of the student division, and scholarship finalists are
invited for an evening of interactive learning in a real-world scenario.
7:00 PM to 10:00 PM Take Me to the River: Tidewater and Peninsula Convention
Hospitality – Portsmouth 4.
Brought to you by En-Vision America <https://www.envisionamerica.com/> , our
premier Vanguard sponsor! The Tidewater and Peninsula Chapters invite you to
join us for an evening of music, food and conversation. Come connect with
friends old and new. Listen to music by DJ “Melody Man” Charles Stanley from
the Peninsula Chapter featuring music from the 60s to the present. Enjoy a
variety of snacks selected by our host chapters. Even though the event is
free to enter, you must choose “Yes” when registering for the convention to
attend this activity. We are looking forward to hosting this evening, which
will give members an opportunity to take a break and reunite with old
friends and make new ones.
9:30 PM to 10:30 PM Scholarship Mixer – Commodore Room. Jimmy Morris,
Chairperson
This event is limited to the NFB of Virginia 2024 Jimmy Nelson Scholarship
Finalists and the members of the Scholarship Committee.
10:00 PM to 11 PM Game night and socializing with the Virginia Association
of Blind Students – Portsmouth 6
Saturday, November 2, 2024
8:00 AM to 8:50 AM Registration – Portsmouth Registration Desk.
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM Parents with Young Children Overflow – Portsmouth 6
General Session
Portsmouth 5 Ballroom
Zoom <https://zoom.us/j/8297256345?pwd=SFAyamlQNU44ZTJ6dUZNMTV4RmhCQT09>
Meeting ID: 829 725 6345
9:00 AM Call to Order – Tracy Soforenko, President, NFB of Virginia
Invocation – Stewart Prost, Member, Congregation beth El, Norfolk, Virginia.
9:05 AM Blind Tennis – Break Point and Breaking Misconceptions – Jennifer
Roth, PhD, board member, United States Blind Tennis Association
<https://playtennis.usta.com/usbta> , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
9:15 AM Advancing Inclusivity in Architecture with Non–Visual Teaching
Methods – Andrew Gipe-Lazarou, PhD, Assistant Professor, Virginia Tech,
School of Architecture <https://arch.vt.edu/> , Blacksburg, Virginia.
9:30 AM Accessible Video Games within Reach – Chad M. Bouton, President,
<https://unsyted.com/> Unsyted LLC, Bradenton, Florida.
Level up the way you think about blind gamers playing video games.
9:45 AM <https://nfb.org/programs-services/nfb-bell-academy> NFB BELL
Academy® : Growing Possibilities for Students throughout Virginia.
* Louise Walch, NFB BELL Academy Coordinator, Virginia Beach Virginia.
* Nora Nadeem, NFB BELL Academy Participant, Staunton, Virginia
* Michelle Nadeem, Staunton, Virginia
* Jodi Nicholson, NFB BELL Academy Teacher, Orange, Virginia.
10:00 AM Advancing Advocacy, Breaking Barriers, Creating Change: The
Virginia Report – Tracy Soforenko, President, NFB of Virginia.
10:30 AM Making the Right Move – Empowering Student Success – Noah Carver,
Board Member, <https://nabslink.org/> National Association of Blind
Students, Rochester, New York.
10:40 AM Action Auction.
10:45 AM Students Depart for Youth Track programming. (A parent or guardian
must be present at drop-off and children six years old and younger must be
accompanied by an adult.)
10:55 AM Introducing the 2024 NFB of Virginia James F. Nelson, Jr.
Scholarship Finalists. Jimmy Morris, Chair, Glen Allen, Virginia.
11:10 AM The Future of Disability Rights after the Overruling of Chevron –
Monica Basche, Attorney, <https://browngold.com/> Brown Goldstein & Levy,
Baltimore, Maryland.
The Supreme Court recently issued an opinion, Loper Bright Enterprises v.
Raimondo, which eliminated the requirement that courts give deference to a
federal agency’s interpretation of the laws that it is tasked with
enforcing–sometimes called “Chevron deference.” But why is this such a big
deal? What does this mean for disability rights moving forward?
11:30 AM Action Auction.
11:40 AM Stuck in the Middle with You: Discussing Low Vision and the NFB
* Domonique Lawless, Director of Low Vision and Orientation & Mobility
Services, Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired,
Mechanicsburg, Virginia, Moderator.
* Renee Valdez, Secretary/Treasurer, Greater Alexandria Chapter,
Alexandria, Virginia.
* Chris Infante, Member, Richmond Chapter, Henrico, Virginia
11:55 AM Reports and Announcements.
12:00 PM General Session Adjourns.
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Youth Track – Latitude, 1st Floor
Youth Track registration required <https://nfbv.org/youth> . Students 13 and
younger will connect with national student leaders in a small group session
to learn about our positive philosophy and share what they wish their
parents really knew. Plus, get creative with accessible art and make
something uniquely you!
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM – Parent Track Part I – Portsmouth 6
Parents, join us for a fun and interactive session featuring multiple guest
speakers! The first part will include an introduction round and a panel of
experienced parents who will address your questions and share their
insights.
12:00 PM to 12:30 PM Box Lunch Pickup – Portsmouth Foyer (Please bring your
meal ticket.)
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Registration – Portsmouth registration Desk
12:00 PM to 4:30 PM Always In Control: Accessible Gaming Showcase –
Portsmouth 8. Chad M. Bouton, President, Unsyted LLC, Bradenton, Florida
Harness the power of accessibility in gaming by going hands on with blind
accessible games. When everybody plays, everybody wins! Choose your time
slot here!
<https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0A44A5A72CA1FC1-51645922-nfbv#/>
12:00 PM to 5:00 PM Serving Up Fun and Possibility – Try Your Hand at Blind
Tennis – Portsmouth 1, 2, and 3. Jennifer Roth, board Member, United States
Blind Tennis Association. Choose your time slot here!
<https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0A44A5A72CA1FC1-51645922-nfbv#/>
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Parent and Youth Track Lunch – Portsmouth 6.
Join us for lunch and connect with other parents. This is a great
opportunity to learn about resources for your children and ask questions
about our programs, which cater to students from toddlers to graduate
school. Whether you grab a boxed lunch or bring your own, we encourage you
to participate in our informal roundtable discussion. This conversation is
open to parents of children of all ages with low vision, blindness,
deaf–blindness, or multiple disabilities. Discover year–round and summer
mentoring, skill–building, and social programs we offer across Virginia and
nationwide.
12:30 PM to 1:45 PM Seniors Division Luncheon and Business Meeting –
Portsmouth 7. Patty Droppers, President, NFB of Virginia Senior Division
12:30 PM to 1:45 PM Virginia Association of Blind Merchants Division
Luncheon and Business Meeting– Commodore Room, Yasiah Hurtado, President,
Alexandria, Virginia.
Empower your future and discover your destiny by building your
entrepreneurial business. Learn from others in our NFBV Merchants division
so you can explore a profitable and engaging future.
12:30 PM to 1:45 PM Virginia Association of Blind Students Business Meeting
– Portsmouth 4. Noah White, President, Virginia Association of Blind
Students, Annandale, Virginia. All students, including Project RISE
participants, are invited.
12:30 to 1:45 PM Community Lunch – Portsmouth 5
Make friends and build your network in this informal community lunch.
Saturday Afternoon
Breakout Sessions
1:15 PM to 4:15 PM Parent Track Part II – Portsmouth 6.
Parents, please join us for another fun and interactive session featuring
multiple guest speakers! In this second part, we'll provide a sneak peek
into our IEP Academy program and explore key topics such as inclusive
education in public schools, transitioning to college with blindness, low
vision, or multiple disabilities, and the latest in accessible technology.
Additionally, don't forget to bring any Braille or large print books your
child no longer needs, and take advantage of our free Braille book exchange
table to pick up some new books for your child. A brief 20–25 minute
business meeting will also be held.
1:15 PM to 4:15 PM Youth Track – Latitude, 1st Floor
Youth Track registration required. <https://nfbv.org/youth> Bring your
sighted siblings and join us at interactive stations: 1) Adaptive Sports
like Blind Tennis; 2) Hands on Blind Design; 3) accessible Video Games; 4)
Drawing Braille pictures using a slate and stylus; and 5) audible scavenger
hunt. (Children six years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult).
2:00 PM to 4:15 PM Silver Bells and Senior Track – Making Your Silver Years
Golden: Wellness and Happiness Moments Seminar– Portsmouth 7. Patty
Droppers, President, NFB of Virginia Senior Division.
Join fellow seniors for this exploration of Health, Wellness, and Fitness
topics. Learn approaches to care for yourself. Build your community of peers
and positive role models across Virginia. This program is made possible
through the generous funding by the Virginia Board for the Blind.
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Using AI at Work: – Portsmouth 4.
Is AI really for you? Unlock the potential of AI in your personal and
professional life with this dynamic workshop. We'll dive into how AI works;
explore its applications in communication, creativity, and productivity; and
engage in hands–on activities designed to bring AI concepts to life. Our
expert presenters will guide you through the basics and beyond, answering
your burning questions and helping you harness AI's power to enhance your
daily work. Don't miss this chance to gain practical AI skills and insights
that can transform your approach both at work and in your overall life!
Presenters:
Yadiel J. Sotomayor, MA, NOMCT, NCRTB, NCUEB, Access Technology Instructor,
Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired, Richmond,
Virginia.
Harry Staley, CISSP, Senior Software Engineer / Senior Data Scientist, M1
Technology, Sterling, Virginia.
Teisha Gillespie,
Jeremy Grandstaff, Program Director, Penny Forward & VP of Business
Development, CurbCutOS
2:00 PM to 4:15 PM Blind Design Hands on Sessions– Commodore Room. Andrew
Gipe–Lazarou, PhD. Assistant Professor, Virginia Tech, School of
Architecture.
2:00 PM Student Track Only
2:45 Pm Open to All
3:45 PM Youth Track Only
The first two sessions will introduce the architectural design process using
AI and hands–on modeling techniques.
The Youth Track program will have students building structures which will be
load tested and we will discuss the results.
2:00 PM to 4:15 PM Informed Choice: Exploring Your Alternative Skills
Training Options – Portsmouth Registration Desk. Melody Roane, Director,
Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired
<https://www.vrcbvi.virginia.gov/> , Richmond, Virginia.
Accessing great training can be the bridge to a better future. You have many
choices including training in your community, at the Virginia rehabilitation
Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired, and at one of the structured
discovery training centers. We will arm you with the information to make an
informed choice that is right for you. Sign up for a 20-minute appointment
with our team to understand your options and create your own change. Choose
your time slot here!
<https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0A44A5A72CA1FC1-51645922-nfbv#/>
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM First Timers Reception – Commodore Room. Jacki Bruce and
Tracy Soforenko, Coordinators.
NFBV Membership Chair Jacki Bruce and President Tracy Soforenko welcome
first time Virginia convention attendees to an informal gathering. We want
to help you get connected with your Federation Family. Due to space
constraints, this Rookie Reception is best suited for first timers.
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM Sighted Partner Meet Up – Portsmouth 6. Becky Keller,
Diane Johnson, and Sharon Soforenko, facilitators.
Share and learn techniques and strategies to support your loved one while
ensuring their independence and your own sanity.
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM Families by the Poolside – Indoor Pool.
Grab the kids and join your new friends by the pool, or if the mood strikes
you, in the pool, as the hotel has a nice indoor pool for your convenience.
It is the perfect way to relax before the evening's festivities. All
children must be accompanied by a supervising adult.
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM Project RISE Meet Up, Portsmouth 7
2024 Convention Banquet
Portsmouth 4 and 5 Ballrooms
Zoom <https://zoom.us/j/8297256345?pwd=SFAyamlQNU44ZTJ6dUZNMTV4RmhCQT09>
Meeting ID: 829 725 6345
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Pre–Banquet Reception (Cash Bar) – Portsmouth Foyer.
7:00 PM to 10:00 PM Banquet Program – Portsmouth 4 and 5 Ballrooms, Joe
Orozco, Master of Ceremonies.
Invocation –Rev. David Andrews, Pastor, Faith Temple Newport News, Hampton,
Virginia.
En-Vision America, Vanguard Sponsor
Banquet Address – Anil Lewis, Executive Director – Blindness Initiatives,
National Federation of the Blind.
2024 James F. Nelson Scholarship Awards Presentation – Jimmy Morris,
Scholarship Committee Chairperson.
Action Auction – Jacki Brown, Chairperson and Auctioneer.
Sunday, November 3, 2024
7:30 AM Project RISE – Commodore Room
7:30 AM to 8:15 AM Chapter Building in Loudoun County Planning Meeting –
Portsmouth 6. Tracy Soforenko and Jacki Bruce.
We are excited to begin building a chapter in Loudoun County. If you are
interested in being part of building the Federation in Loudoun County or
understanding the steps to build a new chapter, we welcome you to
participate.
General Session
Portsmouth 4 and 5 Ballrooms
Zoom <https://zoom.us/j/8297256345?pwd=SFAyamlQNU44ZTJ6dUZNMTV4RmhCQT09>
Meeting ID: 829 725 6345
8:30 AM Call to Order – Tracy Soforenko, President, NFB of Virginia.
Invocation – Naim abu el Hawa, Member, McLean Islamic Center, McLean,
Virginia.
8:35 AM Business Session.
* Audit Committee Report – Sean McMahon, Chairperson, Arlington,
Virginia
* Treasurer’s Report – Mark Roane, Treasurer, Richmond, Virginia
* Nominating Committee Report, Chris Walker, Chair
* Elections
* Resolutions – Deepa Goraya, Chairperson, District of Columbia
* Committee Reports
* 2025 Richmond and Washington Seminars – Bonnie O’Day, Alexandria,
Virginia, Legislative Director
* Communications – Teisha Gillespi, Reston or Herndon, Virginia
* Public Outreach – Chris Walker, Winchester, Virginia and Uricka
Harrison, Newport News, Virginia, Co–chairs
* Membership, Jacki Bruce, Williamsburg, Virginia
* Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – Renee Valdez, Alexandria,
Virginia
* Fundraising – Renee Valdez, Alexandria, Virginia
* 2025 National Convention
* 2025 NFB of Virginia Convention
9:35 AM Action Auction.
9:50 AM Brag & Steal – Federation Chapters and Divisions Sharing Their
Successes.
10:20 am Ask the President Town Hall Discussion:
* Annette Carr, Moderator, Fairfax, Virginia
* Anil Lewis, Executive Director – Blindness Initiatives, Atlanta,
Georgia.
* Tracy Soforenko President, NFB of Virginia, Arlington Virginia
Our Town Hall team will pose a set of questions about our work in the
Federation and related topics. Questions must be submitted in advance to the
Town Hall Committee by October 15.
11:00 AM Action Auction.
11:15 AM Project RISE <https://nfbv.org/rise-calendar> : Resilience,
Independence, Self–Advocacy and Employment. Joe Orozco, Project RISE Program
Coordinator, National Federation of the Blind of Virginia, Arlington,
Virginia.
11:25am Reports and Announcements.
11:30 AM General Session Adjourns.
Convention Notes:
Virtual Meeting Access over Zoom
The 2024 National Federation of the Blind of Virginia convention is an
in–person event with a limited virtual experience. We will be streaming the
following convention sessions over Zoom:
* Friday (11/1 – 9 AM to 12 PM) General Session
* Friday (11/1 – 5 PM to 6 PM) DBVI Public Meeting
* Saturday (11/2 – 9 AM to 12 PM) General Session
* Saturday (11/2 – 7 PM to 10 PM) Banquet
* Sunday (11/3 – 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM) General Session
We have embedded the Zoom links into the agenda to make it easy to just
select the link and access your meeting.
Standard Virginia Zoom Room:
Zoom link:
<https://zoom.us/j/8297256345?pwd=SFAyamlQNU44ZTJ6dUZNMTV4RmhCQT09>
https://zoom.us/j/8297256345?pwd=SFAyamlQNU44ZTJ6dUZNMTV4RmhCQT09
Meeting ID: 829 725 6345
One Tap Mobile: + <tel:+13017158592,,8297256345> 13017158592, 8297256345#
For those using a land line telephone to access the meeting, we have kept
the information the same.
The telephone number to call for all meetings is: 301 715 8592
The Meeting ID is 829 725 6345
If prompted, the Password is always 2020 1940
Convention Registration & Information
Convention registration and information will be held at the Portsmouth
Registration Desk, located on the 2nd Floor outside the Portsmouth
ballrooms. The cost of on–site registration is $30. Pre–registration packet
pick up and on–site registration will be open the following times:
* Thursday, October 31 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
* Friday, November 1 from 8:00 AM to 8:50 AM, and from 12:00 PM to
1:00 PM and then again from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
* Saturday, November 2 from 8:00 AM to 8:50 AM and 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Door prizes and auction items can be brought to the information desk
beginning on Thursday evening.
Meal Functions
Tickets for all meal functions are available via the online registration
form <https://nfbv.org/register> and can be picked up at the registration
desk as part of your registration packet. Banquet and box lunch tickets must
be purchased by 8:50 AM on Saturday, November 2.
The $30 Late On–site registration does not include meal functions.
For more information about registration or meal functions, please contact
the NFBV Membership Line at: 757-354-4170.
Door Prizes
Door prizes will be drawn periodically throughout convention sessions on
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and at the banquet. To be eligible for door
prizes, you must be registered for the convention and present in the room.
Additionally, participants in the convention virtual experience will be
eligible for door prizes. When participants in the convention virtual
experience hear their name, they should email doorprizes at nfbv.org
<mailto:doorprizes at nfbv.org> within 10 minutes to claim their prize.
Action Auction
Throughout the convention we will be holding an Action Auction to raise
money for the affiliate. The auction will be great fun with many valuable
items up for bid. You will have a chance to preview auction items on Friday
afternoon in the exhibit area. For more information, go to
<https://nfbv.org/auction> https://nfbv.org/auction.
Information Table
If you need assistance from the NFB of Virginia (such as helping a blind
child get a good education, getting access to blindness skills training,
learning to use NFB–NEWSLINE®, or resolving an employment discrimination
problem), please go to the information table located at the rear of the
Portsmouth ballroom. After the convention, a member of the NFB of Virginia
will contact you. In addition, if you would like to sign up to receive any
of our publications or would like to get regular updates about our programs
and legislative efforts, please also visit the information table. The table
will be open after the opening ceremonies on Friday, during General Session
on Saturday, and all morning Sunday.
DOG Relief Area
The Renaissance Hotel has designated a place for dog relief by proceeding
out the doors across from the front desk in the lobby of the hotel. The
designated place has a trash receptacle near the hotel entrance. Please do
not use the terrace on the 2nd floor for dog relief.
Assistive Listening Devices
A limited number of assistive listening devices are available during all
convention sessions and during the banquet. For an assistive listening
device, please go to the information table located at the rear of the
Portsmouth Ballroom during all convention general sessions. A credit card or
identification card is required as a deposit for the equipment.
Daylight Saving Time
Don’t forget to set your watches back one hour for the change that occurs
early Sunday morning. Smart phones, of course, should handle this change
automatically.
Hospitality Room
The Convention Hospitality Suite is the Commodore Room on the 2nd floor. The
Commodore Room is located just off the elevator bank, in the opposite
direction of all other conference rooms. Please review the schedule for
pre–planned activities by invitation in this space.
Thank you to our Tidewater and Peninsula Chapters for hosting the 2024 NFB
of Virginia State Convention. Your hospitality made us feel like family and
it made the convention one of our best.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Exhibitors
Please thank this year’s Convention Sponsors and Exhibitors located in the
Portsmouth Foyer on Friday, November 1 from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Vanguard
* En-Vision America
En-Vision America partners with thousands of pharmacies throughout the U.S.
and Canada to provide free accessible prescription labels to patients who
need them. These labels include ScripTalk Talking, Large Print, Braille,
Dual Language/Translated and Controlled Substance Safety Labels (CSSLs).
Call us at 1-800-890-1180 to get signed up. Learn more at
<http://www.envisionamerica.com> www.envisionamerica.com
Innovator
* Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired
The Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) is an agency of the
Commonwealth of Virginia that is dedicated to its mission of providing
quality services to assist Virginia's citizens who are blind, vision
impaired or deafblind in achieving their desired level of employment,
education, and personal independence. The Department provides a wide array
of specialized services and programs for Virginia residents of all ages who
are experiencing significant vision impairments attain the skills,
confidence and positive outlook that are critical to independence.
Our primary focus is to assist blind Virginians in achieving quality
employment outcomes. Vocational evaluation, job training, job development,
placement, follow-up and other services are provided to assist consumers in
obtaining jobs in the public and private sectors. Training for and
employment as food service managers and vendors is available in cafeterias,
snack bars, and other vending facilities in public and private buildings.
The Virginia Industries for the Blind provides another employment option for
blind Virginians at its two plant locations in Charlottesville and Richmond,
its satellite store operations and administrative service positions across
the Commonwealth.
Learn more at https://www.dbvi.virginia.gov/
Trailblazer
* Vanda Pharmaceuticals
Vanda Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to raising awareness of Non-24-Hour
Sleep-Wake Disorder (Non-24) and supporting the blindness community. Non-24
is a rare circadian rhythm disorder affecting people who are totally blind.
People living with Non-24 experience excessive daytime sleepiness and
nighttime sleeplessness, which leads to impaired social and occupational
functioning.
Learn more at vandapharma.com
* Penny Forward
Penny Forward is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization offering accessible
financial wellness education and counseling programs for people who are
blind or disabled. Our self-paced online courses will provide you with tools
and techniques you can use to navigate the complicated landscape of personal
finance.
In addition, you will also have access to exclusive member-only Zoom chats
where you can ask questions and practice your growing money management
skills with other members and our instructors. You can also schedule
one-to-one sessions for more personalized help. If that isn’t enough, you’ll
also get early access to all Penny Forward podcast episodes, A members only
newsletter, and bonus content created exclusively for our members. All of
this costs just $9.99 a month or $99 a year.
Learn more at https://www.pennyforward.com
Pioneer
* Dxdt Engineering and Research- Farmer Noah Team
Farmer Noah is a new system and approach for teaching and refining
orientation and mobility skills.
In the children’s version of this system, eight electronic “farm animals”
are positioned randomly within a room or any indoor or outdoor environment.
There are four different types of farm animals. The orientation and
mobility (O&M) trainee is challenged to find the pairs of animals. When one
animal is found, and tapped with a cane, it makes the sound of the animal it
represents. The system registers the animal. If the next animal the trainee
“finds” is the same kind of animal, those animals have been paired and are
taken out of play (they are put on the ark). The paths between the animals
are characterized by different objects, scents, sounds and sensations that
most sighted people take for granted. While the trainee is completing the
exercise- which seems like a game - our system is challenging and training
them to detect and use all of the characteristics of the environment to make
mental maps that they can then use to navigate with more safety and
confidence.
Learn more at www.farmernoah.com <http://www.farmernoah.com>
* Volunteers for the Blind
Volunteers for the Blind is a nonprofit that provides volunteer readers and
shopping assistants
Learn more by visiting volunteersfortheblind.org
* Vispero
Vispero® is the world’s leading assistive technology provider for the
visually impaired. We have a long history of developing and providing
innovative solutions for blind and low-vision individuals that help them
reach their full potential.
Learn more at www.vispero <http://www.vispero>
* PS You Are Fabulous
PS You Are Fabulous is a nonprofit organization that helps the blind and
visually impaired with the clothing and organization of the closets. A
Fashion Stylist for the blind.
Learn more at psyouarefabulous.org
* Integration Technologies Group
ITG is a distributor, trainer, and authorized repair facility of adaptive
technology from HumanWare, Vispero, and OrCam
For more information, visit www.itgonline.com <http://www.itgonline.com>
* ABLEnow
ABLEnow is a tax-advantaged savings program for individuals with
disabilities that empowers them to save and invest money without
jeopardizing eligibility for public benefits.
Learn more at ABLEnow.com
* SelvasBLV
Manufacturers and providers of the leading blindness and low vision products
on the market.
Learn more at SelvasBLV.com
* Telegrocers
Bill Socki started TELEGROCERS in October of 2004. The idea came to him
while working for an internet grocery delivery service. He would receive
calls daily from people that didn't have computers that wanted to place
grocery orders by phone. Most of the calls were from people that were
elderly or disabled and didn't have computers or had a difficult time
getting to the store themselves. He decided to open a business and take
calls from people that needed their groceries delivered. They accept orders
by phone and through a partnership with Giant, place them through online
grocery delivery websites. Orders can usually get delivered the next day in
most cases.
Bill is a disabled man himself due to a diving accident that happened in
1990, so he understands the difficulties of getting out to the store. He
enjoys getting a chance to help people in need while also fulfilling his own
goals of living a productive life as a disabled man.
Learn more at Telegrocers.com
Dream Makers Circle
You can help build a future of opportunity for the blind by becoming a
member of our Dream Makers Circle (DMC). It is easier than you think. You
can visit your bank and convert an account to a P.O.D. (payable on death)
bank account, which is payable after your passing to the National Federation
of the Blind or one of our affiliates. Your legacy gift to the National
Federation of the Blind or the National Federation of the Blind of {insert
state} can be made in the form of a will or living trust, an income
generating gift, or by naming us as the beneficiary of a retirement plan,
IRA, pension, or a life insurance policy. You can designate a specific
amount, a percentage, or list the NFB as one of several beneficiaries. For
additional information, please contact Patti Chang at 410-659-9314,
extension 2422 or at pchang at nfb.org <mailto:pchang at nfb.org> .
Vehicle Donations
The National Federation of the Blind uses car donations to improve the
education of blind children, distribute free white canes, help veterans, and
so much more. We have partnered with Vehicles for Charity to process donated
vehicles. Please call toll-free 855-659-9314, and a representative can make
arrangements, or you can donate online by visiting:
https://nfb.org/vehicledonations.
Preauthorized Contributions (PAC)
Can you help the National Federation of the Blind on a regular basis? Please
consider joining our preauthorized contribution (PAC) plan. Starting at $5
monthly, you can help us turn dreams into reality and raise expectations.
Call 877-632-2722, visit:
https://nfb.org/pac
to fill out the online form, or email pac at nfb.org <mailto:pac at nfb.org> for
additional information.
You can leave a legacy through planned giving. Please consider including us
in your estate planning. It is easier than you think.
Can you help the National Federation of the Blind on a regular basis? Please
consider joining our preauthorized contribution plan. Starting at $5
monthly, you can help us turn dreams into reality and raise expectations for
blind people. Visit <https://nfb.org/pac> nfb.org/pac to fill out the
online form or email <mailto:pac at nfb.org> pac at nfb.org for additional
information.
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