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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link="#0563C1" vlink="#954F72"><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>Hi Virginia Federation Friends,<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Please find below and attached a draft agenda for the 2019 National Federation of the Blind of Virginia convention. We hope this agenda will encourage you to act today to join us in Portsmouth . We will publish a revised draft in a week or 2 after we adjust some room locations with the hotel and lock in a final speaker or two.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Please make your reservations for the hotel and pre-register before October 8 to secure a room and obtain pre-registration pricing.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>All convention details can be found at:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://www.nfbv.org/convention/">http://www.nfbv.org/convention/</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Please find the agenda below:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:.5in'><img border=0 width=624 height=265 style='width:6.5in;height:2.7569in' id="Picture_x0020_1" src="cid:image002.jpg@01D578AB.DAAB5560"><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Empowerment: Owning Your Future<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>61st ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF VIRGINIA<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'>Tracy Soforenko, President<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Friday, November 1 — Sunday, November 3, 2019<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Renaissance Portsmouth <o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'>425 Water Street<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'>Portsmouth, Virginia 23704<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'>(757) 673-3000<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Co-Hosted by The Tidewater and Peninsula Chapters OF THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND OF VIRGINIA</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Stewart Prost and Uricka Harrison, Presidents <o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Our National Representative:<o:p></o:p></b></p><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b>Ron Brown, Second Vice President, National Federation of the Blind <br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'><o:p></o:p></b></p></div><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><div class=WordSection2><h1><a name="_Toc306629355"></a><a name="_Toc306629425"></a><a name="_Toc20862892"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Toc306629425'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Toc306629355'>Table of Contents</span></span></a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoToc1>Table of Contents 2<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc1>The Federation Pledge 4<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc1>Convention Registration & Information 4<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Meal Functions 4<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Door Prizes 5<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Action Auction 5<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Information Table 6<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Childcare 6<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Dog Relief Area 7<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Assistive Listening Devices 8<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Hospitality Suite 8<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Daylight Saving Time 8<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc1>Thursday, October 31, 2019 9<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc1>Friday, November 1, 2019 9<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>General Session 9<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Friday Afternoon Concurrent Seminars 12<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc1>Saturday, November 2, 2019 16<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>General Session 16<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>Saturday Afternoon Breakout Sessions 20<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>2019 Convention Banquet 22<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc1>Sunday, November 3, 2019 24<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc2>General Session 24<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc1>Dream Makers Circle 27<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoToc1>Vehicle Donations 27<span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;font-weight:normal'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h1><a name="_Hlk494658206"></a><a name="_Toc20862893"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494658206'>The Federation Pledge</span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494658206'><o:p></o:p></span></h1><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494658206'>“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.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494658206'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494658206'></span><h1 align=left style='text-align:left'><a name="_Toc20862894">Convention Registration & Information</a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoNormal>Convention registration and information will be held at the Portsmouth Registration Desk, located on the 2<sup>nd</sup> Floor outside the Portsmouth ballrooms. The cost of on-site registration is $25. Pre-registration packet pick up and on-site registration will be open at the following times:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1'>Thursday, October 31 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. <o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1'>Friday, November 1 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.; from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, and <br>5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1'>Saturday, November 2 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. <o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Door prizes and auction items can be brought to the registration desk beginning on Thursday evening. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862895">Meal Functions</a> <o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Tickets for all meal functions are available at the registration desk while supplies last. The only way to ensure a ticket for meal functions is to pre-register. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Banquet:</b> Banquet tickets may be purchased, while supplies last, onsite for $37. Seating will be open, so come early to get seats together. Do not forget to bring your ticket because tickets will be checked at the door.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Box Lunch:</b> If you did not pre-register for a boxed lunch, tickets may be purchased onsite, while supplies last, for $17.50. Box lunch tickets will be sold for both Friday and Saturday and must be used for the specific day purchased. In addition, a very limited number of student lunch tickets may be available for those who did not pre-register for $8. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><b>Note: </b>For more information about hotel, registration or meal functions, please contact Joe Orozco at <span style='color:black'>(202) 810-4023 or via email at jsorozco@gmail.com<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862896">Door Prizes</a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>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 when your name is called.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862897">Action Auction</a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>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, contact Jacki Brown, Chairperson and Auctioneer.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Hlk493361837"></a><a name="_Toc20862898"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493361837'>Information Table</span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493361837'><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493361837'>If you need assistance from the NFB of Virginia (such as helping a blind child get a strong education, getting access to blindness skills training, learning to use NFB-NEWSLINE®, or resolving an employment discrimination problem), please go to the information table in the back of the Portsmouth 5 Ballroom. Additionally, if you have questions concerning accessing services from the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired, the information table can be a resource for guidance. 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 during the board meeting, after the opening ceremonies on Friday, during General Session on Saturday, and all morning on Sunday. For more information, please contact Alex Castillo at (917) 532-7439.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493361837'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493361837'></span><h2><a name="_Toc20862899">Childcare</a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Childcare is available for infants through fifth graders whose parents are registered for the convention. It is available throughout the day on Friday and Saturday. Childcare is in the Jefferson Room, 1<sup>st</sup> Floor. We have activities and games for the children. For more information, please contact Uricka Harrison at (757) 349-9234.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Childcare is offered at the following times:<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'>Session 1: Friday, 8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'>Session 2: Friday, 12:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. <o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'>Session 3: Friday, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'>Session 4: Saturday, 8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'>Session 5: Saturday, 12:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. <o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l2 level1 lfo2'>Session 6: Saturday, 6:45 p.m. to one half hour after the banquet ends <o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Snacks will be provided during Sessions 1, 2, 4 and 5. Even though childcare will be open and fully staffed during lunch on both Friday and Saturday, lunch will not be provided. Parents should either pick their children up for lunch at the end of Session 1 and Session 4 or provide a lunch for their children in the childcare room. Also, dinner will not be provided on Friday or Saturday evening. Parents should feed their children dinner prior to bringing them to Session 6. The cost of childcare is $10 per family per session. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Hlk493362204"></a><a name="_Toc20862900"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493362204'>Dog Relief Area</span></a><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493362204'> <o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493362204'>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 2<sup>nd</sup> floor for dog relief.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493362204'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493362204'><a name="_Toc20862901">Assistive Listening Devices</a><o:p></o:p></span></h2><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493362204'>A limited number of assistive listening devices are available during all convention sessions and at the banquet. For an assistive listening device, please go to the contact table located in <a name="OLE_LINK36"></a><a name="OLE_LINK35"><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK36'>the back of the hall</span></a> during all convention general sessions. A credit card or identification card is required as a deposit for the equipment. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493362204'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493362204'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862902">Hospitality Suite</a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>The Convention Hospitality Suite is the Commodore Room on the 2<sup>nd</sup> floor. The Commodore Room is located just off the elevator bank, in the opposite direction of all other conference rooms.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc496561203"></a><a name="_Toc20862903"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Toc496561203'>Daylight Saving Time</span></a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>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.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;text-transform:uppercase'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><h1><a name="_Toc20862904">Thursday, October 31, 2019</a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Virginia Chapter Leadership Institute (CLI) Wrap Up / Ramp Up: Commodore Room; Joe Orozco and Domonique Lawless, Co-Chairs. By invitation only. We are continuing the Virginia Chapter Leadership Institute. This weekend’s CLI event both completes year one and starts year two.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Registration: Portsmouth Registration Desk.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h1><a name="_Toc20862905">Friday, November 1, 2019</a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Registration: Portsmouth Registration Desk.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. NFB of Virginia Board of Directors Meeting and Chapter Reports (Open to All): Portsmouth 5 Ballroom.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862906">General Session</a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'>Portsmouth 5 Ballroom<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>10:00 a.m. to 10:20 a.m. Opening Ceremonies:<o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'>Call to Order - Tracy Soforenko, President, NFB of Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'><a name="_Hlk494028906">Invocation - Cantor Wendi Fried, Congregation Beth El, Norfolk Virginia<o:p></o:p></a></li><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494028906'></span><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'>Presentation of the Colors <o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'>Pledge of Allegiance <o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'>Federation Pledge<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'>Star Spangled Banner –Julie McGinnity, President, NFB Performing Arts Division, Baltimore, Maryland<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'>Welcome to Portsmouth, Mayor John Rowe, Portsmouth, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'>Greetings from Our Host Chapters – Stewart Prost, President, Tidewater Chapter, Norfolk, Virginia and Uricka Harrison, President, Peninsula Chapter, Newport News, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'>Convention Arrangements - Joe Orozco, Chairperson, Convention Organization and Arrangements<o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>10:20 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Introducing the Portsmouth Regatta. Christopher Walker and Earl Everett, Fundraising Committee<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>10:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. Betting on Success: Reflections from Virginia’s 2019 McDonald Fellows and Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship Fund Winners:<o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'>Moderator: Mary Durbin, Chairperson, McDonald Fellowship Committee, and NFB of Virginia Liaison, Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship Fund Committee, Virginia Beach, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'>Lois Fritz, Newport News, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'>Andrea Ortiz, Burke, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'>Kassahun Sahilu, Alexandria, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo4'>Yvette Williams, Newport News, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>10:50 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Action Auction.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk526371653"></a><a name="_Hlk493852508"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526371653'>11:00 a.m. to 11:10 a.m. Cane, Punch, Choke, and Throw: Martial Arts and Fitness as a Blind Person.<o:p></o:p></span></a></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l4 level1 lfo3'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493852508'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526371653'>Alex Castillo, Potomac Chapter, Washington DC<o:p></o:p></span></span></li></ul><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493852508'></span><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526371653'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526371653'></span><p class=MsoNormal>11:10 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. Serving My Country – Building My Business. Jimmy Cunningham, Vice President, Virginia Merchants Division and Vice Chair, Virginia Business Opportunities for the Blind Board, Prince George, Virginia. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>11:20 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. Action Auction.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>11:25 a.m. to 11:35 a.m. Disability Partnership in Action. Colleen Miller, Executive Director – Virginia Disability Law Center, Richmond Virginia.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>11:35 a.m. to 11:50 p.m. Open Slot TBD.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>11:50 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Announcements.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:00 p.m. General Session Adjourns.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Registration: Portsmouth Registration Desk.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Box lunch pick-up: Portsmouth Foyer.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Exhibits: Portsmouth Foyer. Annette Carr, Exhibits Coordinator.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Embracing Our Diversity: Empowering Our Community: Portsmouth 4BallRoom. Evelyn Valdez– Coordinator<o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraph style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;line-height:105%;mso-list:l5 level1 lfo5'>The National Federation of the Blind recognizes that our diversity is a core strength. This lunch, featuring Jean Brown as our keynote, will feature the stories from across the Virginia Federation Family and will discuss ways we can make our community more inclusive and vibrant. <span style='font-size:11.0pt;line-height:105%;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=Default align=center style='text-align:center'><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862907">Friday Afternoon Concurrent Seminars</a> <o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;line-height:105%'><a name="_Hlk526504984"><o:p> </o:p></a></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;line-height:105%'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526504984'>2:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Owning Your Finances Seminar - Joe Orozco, Chair, Portsmouth 5 Ballroom. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;line-height:105%'>From financial scams to strategic budgeting, from buying a home to building your retirement fund. Come learn how to secure your financial future.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Seniors Possibilities Fair – Nancy Yeager, President, Seniors division, Portsmouth 1 and 2 Ballrooms. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>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.</span> <span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=Default><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=Default><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>4:00p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee: Portsmouth 6 Ballroom, Deepa Goraya, Chairperson. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=Default><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:windowtext'>We encourage the participation of all members in setting Federation policy, and the best way to influence policy is through resolutions. As a grass roots 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. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Registration, Portsmouth Registration Desk.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Public Meeting on DBVI Divisions, Programs and Services: Portsmouth 5 Ballroom, Susan K. Davis, Policy and Training Coordinator, Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;line-height:105%'>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. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk493852179">5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. At-Large Chapter Meeting and Reception: Commodore Room, Patrick Johnson, President.<o:p></o:p></a></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493852179'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>6:30 p.m. to 7:30p.m. Student Dinner Party: Commodore Room, Elizabeth Schoen, Coordinator, Virginia Association of Blind Students. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join the Virginia student division leaders 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 14.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Convention Hospitality: Portsmouth 4 Ballroom. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Hosted by the Tidewater and Peninsula Chapters, Stewart Prost and Uricka Harrison, Presidents. All registered convention attendees are welcome to join us for this fun evening of fellowship and hospitality featuring music and fun. Don’t forget your ticket provided with your registration to enter this event. Mix, mingle, and network with Federation members and distinguished guests, all while enjoying appetizers and a cash bar.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Student Meet & Greet, Kelly Jones, Coordinator, Virginia Association of Blind Students, Portsmouth 6 Ballroom. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>If you are a student of any age, this evening item is for you! Think interactive icebreakers, engaging discussion, and high energy programming all in one session! Join students across the Commonwealth to share, learn, and grow until late hours of the evening.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>7:45 to 8:45 PM Friday Evening Cookie Social for Families of Blind Children <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Commodore Room, Beth Sellers, President, Virginia Parents of Blind Children <span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>Calling all blind kids ages 0-13, siblings and parents! Join us for cookies and drinks and a chance to meet other families from across the state. Bring any Braille or large print books your child no longer needs and pick up some free books from our free Braille book exchange table. (Email bsellers31@gmail.com with questions and any food allergies we need to be aware of.)<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Young Professional Reception, Susie D’Mello and Evelyn Valdez, Coordinators, Commodore Room. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Are you a young professional looking for something exciting to do on Friday evening? Come mingle, make new connections, and enjoy a drink or two at the Young Professionals reception in the commodore Room.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>10:15 p.m. to 11:15 p.m. Scholarship Mixer: Commodore Room, Patrick Johnson, Chairperson.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:20.0pt;text-transform:uppercase'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><h1><a name="_Toc20862908">Saturday, November 2, 2019</a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>8:00 a.m. to 10:00a.m. Registration: Portsmouth Registration Desk.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862909">General Session</a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'>Portsmouth 5 Ballroom<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>9:00 a.m. Call to Order -Tracy Soforenko, President, NFB of Virginia.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk526608851">9:00 a.m. to 9:05 a.m. Invocation – Reverend Chris Coleman, Assistant Minister, Gethsemane Baptist Church, Peninsula Chapter, Hampton Virginia.<o:p></o:p></a></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526608851'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk526373050">9:05 a.m. to 9:35 a.m. National Report – Ron Brown, Second Vice President, National Federation of the Blind, Indianapolis, Indiana.<o:p></o:p></a></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'>9:35 a.m. to 9:40 a.m. Action Auction.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'>9:40 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Blind Parents Get It Done.<o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l5 level1 lfo5'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'>Jessica Reed, Panel Moderator, Fredericksburg, Virginia<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l5 level1 lfo5'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'>Yasiah Hurtado, Richmond, Virginia<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l5 level1 lfo5'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'>Nikki Jeffords, Arlington, Virginia<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l5 level1 lfo5'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'>Louise Walsh, Virginia Beach, Virginia<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526373050'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>10:00 a.m. to 10:10 a.m. A Friend in Congress. The Honorable Robert “Bobby” Scott, Member of the U.S. House of Representatives, 3<sup>rd</sup> Congressional District of Virginia.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk493365836">10:10 a.m. to 10:20 a.m. Advocating for Our Children: Addressing Our Kid’s Needs. Beth Sellers, President, Virginia Organization of Parents of Blind Children, Harrisonburg, Virginia</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk492844004"></a><a name="_Hlk526448359"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk492844004'><o:p> </o:p></span></a></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526448359'><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk492844004'>10:20 a.m. to 10:40 a.m. Celebrating Our Members - Sandy Halverson, First Vice President, National Federation of the Blind of Virginia, Arlington, Virginia.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk492844004'></span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526448359'></span><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk526768480"><o:p> </o:p></a></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk526768480'></span><p class=MsoNormal>10:40 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Open Doors and New Beginnings-The Future Really Is Mine: A Panel Discussion with Seniors Who Are Living the Lives They Want: Melody Roane, Director, Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired, Moderator, Richmond Virginia<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk493364493">11:00 a.m. to 11:05 a.m. Introducing the 2019 NFB of </a><a name="_Hlk493364428"><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493364493'>Virginia James F. Nelson, Jr. Scholarship Finalists</span>. Patrick Johnson, Chairperson.<o:p></o:p></a></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493364428'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>11:05 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. Rehabilitation Services for the Blind in Virginia. Raymond Hopkins, Commissioner, Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>11:20 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. Announcements.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>11:25 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Action Auction.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Presidential Report, Tracy Soforenko, President, NFB of Virginia.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:00 p.m. General Session Adjourns.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Box Lunch Pickup: Portsmouth Foyer.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. 2019 Welcome Luncheon, Joanne Wilson and Jimmy Morris, Co-Coordinators, Portsmouth 4 Ballroom. Whether you are a member who wants to get more out of your membership, are a new member, or just want to learn from others in this interactive lunch-based discussion session, the Welcome Lunch is for you.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Learn more about the Federation and our positive philosophy on blindness, understand how you can better tap the broad Federation network, and be inspired to take ideas home from positive role models in our movement.<span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Seniors Division Luncheon and Business Meeting, Portsmouth 7 and 8 Ballrooms. Nancy Yeager, President. Join other seniors for lunch and conversation, followed by a short business meeting.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Virginia Association of Blind Merchants Division Luncheon and Business Meeting: Portsmouth 6 Ballroom. Harold Wilson, President. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Virginia Parents of Blind Children Luncheon and Business Meeting: Portsmouth 3 Ballroom. Beth Sellers, President. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Grab the boxed lunch or bring your own, but please join us for our business meeting and parents’ lunch. Our lunch hour is an informal roundtable conversation for parents of children of all ages with low vision, blindness, deaf-blindness, and multiple disabilities. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Student Luncheon and Virginia Association of Blind Students Business Meeting: Commodore Room. Gerald Meredith, President, Virginia Association of Blind Students.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Student Lunch pick up will be held in the Commodore Room starting at 12:05 p.m. Students are the leaders of tomorrow. During our annual luncheon, our members will elect the officers and board members for the upcoming year, as well as reflect and brainstorm on the work of our statewide division. Pre-register online for the $8 lunch by October 25.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Registration, Portsmouth Registration Desk.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862910">Saturday Afternoon Breakout Sessions</a> <o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Chapter Leadership University: Portsmouth 4 Ballroom, Tracy Soforenko and Kathryn Webster, Coordinators.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-bottom:8.0pt;line-height:105%'><a name="OLE_LINK3">Chapter Presidents, Treasurers, membership coordinators, and participants in the chapter leadership institute will participate in a Saturday afternoon workshop on how to make our chapters more engaging, welcoming, and dynamic. Role play real life scenarios and bring home ideas that can be applied in your chapter in 2020.</a><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'>2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The ABCs of Life</span><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'>Portsmouth 5 Ballroom, Nicky Jeffords, John Bailey, Martha Macias, and Rich Sorey, Co-Coordinators. </span><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoListParagraph><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'>The ABCs of Life</span><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:.5in'><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'>A = Attitude, B = Breaking Down Barriers, C = Creating Connections</span><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'>Come and learn about strategies necessary to earn, retain, and advance your brand in the professional and personal spheres. This interactive session will provide you with tips and techniques to meet your full potential.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:OLE_LINK3'></span><p class=MsoNormal>2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. – Student Seminar: Surpassing Our Limitations. Commodore Room, Gerald Meredith, Virginia Association of Blind Students, President. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Every blind student faces barriers; and every blind student overcomes obstacles. But not every blind student has a nationwide network of role models who conquered greatness given society’s limitations. During this seminar, you will be introduced to successful and ambitious blind professionals and students, confident and independent throughout their lives. This afternoon will afford all students with an opportunity to ask questions, learn from others, and engage in hands-on activities to learn how to excel in and out of the classroom.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk494865073">2:00 p.m. to 4:30p.m. Parent Track: Encouraging Success in All Ages and Stages. Portsmouth 3 Ballroom, Beth Sellers, President, Virginia Parents of Blind Children. </a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Join us as we dig into resources that are available in Virginia to promote success for blind children and young adults in all stages of development. Topics discussed will include IEPs, Transition, and Community Based Services through DD Waiver. Question and Answer time will be available for topics relevant to participants.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk492816999">2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Senior Track: Seniors in Charge: Portsmouth 7 and 8 Ballrooms, Nancy Yeager, President. </a>Our exciting senior seminar will cover a broad range of topics including health and fitness, grocery shopping, new mobile phone options specifically targeting seniors, how to use easy to use reader services through a smartphone, programs of our national senior division, and much more.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Project RISE Open House for Virginia students and parents: Portsmouth 6 Ballroom, Kathryn Webster, Project RISE Program Coordinator. Learn more about Project RISE, meet our team and ask your questions. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sighted Spouse/Significant Other/Partner Get Together, Diane Bibb (wife of Dr. Patrick Johnson) and Sharon Soforenko (wife of Affiliate President Tracy Soforenko) Coordinators, Commodore Room.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoPlainText><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'>Come join us for an informal, candid and open conversation between sighted partners of Virginia Federationists. To encourage sharing, this meeting is for sighted spouses only.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862911">2019 Convention Banquet</a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Portsmouth 4 and 5 Ballrooms.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>In Federation fashion, come dressed to impress as we celebrate our Banquet on the Waterfront with a keynote address by National Representative Ron Brown.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pre-Banquet Reception (Cash Bar): Portsmouth Foyer.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Banquet Program – Charlie Brown, Master of Ceremonies and Past President, NFB of Virginia:<o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>Invocation—David Andrews, New Beginnings Outreach Center, Peninsula Chapter, Hampden, Virginia.<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>2019 James F. Nelson Scholarship Awards Presentation—Patrick Johnson, Scholarship Committee Chairperson, Christiansburg, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>Banquet Address – Ron Brown, Second Vice President, National Federation of the Blind<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>Portsmouth Regatta<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>Action Auction - Jacki Brown, Auctioneer<o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal> <o:p></o:p></p></div><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><div class=WordSection3><h1><a name="_Toc20862912">Sunday, November 3, 2019</a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>8:00 a.m. to 8:50 a.m. Devotions: Portsmouth 6 ballroom.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Mark and Melody Roane, Coordinators<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h2><a name="_Toc20862913">General Session</a><o:p></o:p></h2><p class=MsoNormal>Portsmouth 5 Ballroom.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>9:00 a.m. to 9:05 a.m. Invocation – Deborah Prost, Board Member, Tidewater Chapter, Norfolk, Virginia. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>9:05 a.m. to 9:25 a.m. Be Your Own Boss.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Annette Carr, Moderator, Fairfax, Virginia<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Have you ever considered if you have what it takes to be your own boss? Make your own hours. Answer to no one. Bring in the big bucks. Hear what this panel of entrepreneurs have to say about the myths and facts of being your own boss.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>9:25 a.m. to 10:10 a.m. Business Session:<o:p></o:p></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>Audit Committee Report—Sean McMahon, Chairperson<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>Treasurer’s Report—Mark Roane, Treasurer<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>SUN Committee Report: Sandy Halverson, Chairperson<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>2020 Richmond and Washington Seminars—Deepa Goraya and Derek Manners, Legislative Directors<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>2020 National Convention, June 30 - July 5, Hilton Americas Hotel, Houston, Texas<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>2020 NFB of Virginia Convention, October 30 – November 1, Westin Tyson’s Corner, Falls church, Virginia<o:p></o:p></li><li class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast style='margin-left:0in;mso-add-space:auto;mso-list:l3 level1 lfo6'>Resolutions—Deepa Goraya, Chairperson<o:p></o:p></li></ul><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>10:10 a.m. to 10:20 a.m. Action Auction.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>10:20 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Project RISE: Resilience, Independence, Self-Advocacy, Employment. Kathryn Webster, Project RISE Program Coordinator, National Federation of the Blind of Virginia, Arlington, Virginia.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk493936210">10:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. Breaking the Ropes: an interactive session on owning your future, Joanne Wilson, Federation Leader, Alexandria, Virginia. An interactive session to build your individual beliefs about blindness for future growth. <o:p></o:p></a></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk493936210'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a name="_Hlk494665372">10:50 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Students are Paving the Path for Our Future – Sied Rizvi, First Vice President, National Association of Blind Students, Austin, Texas.<o:p></o:p></a></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494665372'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494665372'>11:00 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. Interactive Town Hall Discussion with Ron Brown, Second Vice President, National Federation of the Blind and Tracy Soforenko, President.</span><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494665372'><span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoPlainText><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494665372'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494665372'>11:40 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. Virginia Association of Blind Students Update, Gerald Meredith, President.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494665372'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494665372'>11:50 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Reports and Announcements.<o:p></o:p></span></p><span style='mso-bookmark:_Hlk494665372'></span><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:00 p.m. General Session Adjourns.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>12:00 to 1:00 PM Student Lunch Pick Up – Commodore Room<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Thank you to our Tidewater and Peninsula Chapters for hosting the 2019 NFB of Virginia State Convention. Your hospitality made us feel like family and made our convention a success.<o:p></o:p></p></div><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;mso-fareast-language:EN-US'><br clear=all style='page-break-before:always'></span><div class=WordSection4><h1><a name="_Toc20862914">Dream Makers Circle</a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class=MsoNormal>You can help build a future of opportunity for the blind by becoming a member of our Dream Makers Circle. Your legacy gift to the National Federation of the Blind or the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia 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 NFB as one of several beneficiaries. For additional information, please contact Patti Chang at (410) 659-9314, extension 2422 or at pchang@nfb.org.<span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><h1><a name="_Toc20862915">Vehicle Donations</a><o:p></o:p></h1><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:12.0pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal>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 <a href="http://www.nfb.org/vehicledonations"><span style='color:windowtext;text-decoration:none'>www.nfb.org/vehicledonations</span></a>.<span style='font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Tracy Soforenko<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>President, National Federation of the Blind of Virginia<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>202 285-4595<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="mailto:Tracy.soforenko@gmail.com"><span style='color:#0563C1'>Tracy.soforenko@gmail.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://www.nfb.org"><span style='color:#0563C1'>www.nfb.org</span></a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://www.nfbv.org"><span style='color:#0563C1'>www.nfbv.org</span></a><o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>National Federation of the Blind. Live the Life You Want<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>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.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>