2023 National Conference & Convention Program

American Association of Blind Teachers

President: Tabitha Brecke
Program Chair: Carla Hayes
Affiliate Donation: $10 ($12)

Saturday, July 1

7:30 am - 9:00 am: AABT Breakfast and Program $30 ($33)

7:30 am - 8:15 am: Breakfast

8:15 am - 9:00 am: AABT Program Broadcasting: Past, Present and Future.
Learn about the fascinating history of broadcasting, explore the current state of broadcasting, and speculate about future trends and changes in the field.

Presenter:  Andrea Darlas, Board member of the Museum of Broadcast Communications, Chicago, IL and Senior Director of Constituent Engagement, University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, IL

Monday, July 3

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Learn About all the Ways that Hadley Can Help
After reinventing ourselves back in 2020, Hadley has quite a few things that can be offered to help those managing vision loss.  Learn about discovering new ways to do things that have become more difficult with vision loss, including figuring out new braille curriculum.  Hadley creates personalized learning opportunities that empower people to thrive at home, at work and in their communities.

Presenter:  Marc Arneson, Director of Community, Hadley, Winnetka, IL

Tuesday, July 4

2:30 pm – 3:45 pm:  Library Users of American meet with Jason Yasner, NLS Deputy Director, and any colleagues he chooses to bring with him.
Co-sponsored by LUA, BRL, and AABT

American Association of Visually Impaired Attorneys

President: Chris Prentice
Co-Program Chairs: Steve Blow and Charles Nabarette  
Affiliate Donation:  40 ($45)

Saturday, June 24

2:30 pm - 5:15 pm: AAVIA business meeting

Sunday, July 2

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Breaking In: A Young Disabled Lawyer's First Year; Jeremy Millard will discuss his job-seeking experiences and his job with Disability Rights New York.

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Are We Really Here: Online and Zoom Lawyering
Two attorneys will discuss making court appearances and the remote practice of law.

Presenters: Chris Prentice, Levelland, TX; and Angelina Hollingsworth, Bentonville, AR.

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: The Supreme Court's Term in Review
Professor Bill Piatt will, as he has for several years, discuss important cases from the term and the Supreme Court's work generally.

Presenter: Professor Bill Piatt, St. Mary’s Law School, San Antonio, TX

Monday, July 3 

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Accessible Documents Provided by the IRS
Learn how the IRS is improving access to information for people with print disabilities and explain how to request access to notices in one's preferred alternate format as well as how to get accessible tax forms and publications.

Presenter: Kim Carmichael, Senior Distribution Analyst, Internal Revenue Service, Talladega, AL 

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: An Overview of Equipped for Equality's Work Under the ADA for Those Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
Hear about cases Equipped for Equality has handled on behalf of people who are visually impaired.

Presenter: Barry Taylor, Vice President, Civil Rights and Systemic Litigation, Chicago, IL

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: Running to Win: A Blind Attorney’s Experience Seeking Public Office 
Ollie Cantos, a blind City Council person, will speak on his experiences in the political field and his legal career.

Presenter: Ollie Cantos, West Covina, CA

Tuesday, July 4

1:00 pm - 3:45 pm: Perspectives from the UK
Barristers Ibrar and Indaba will discuss various legal issues in the UK.
Presenters: Adal Ibrar, London, England; and Jessikah Indaba, London, England

Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss

President: Doug Powell
Affiliate Donation: $10

Friday, June 23

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: Match Wits with Next Generation and the Boomers
AAVL and Next Generation members are facing off. Trivia questions will cross generations as we try to stump each other’s knowledge of the eras. Come join the fun - even if you aren't a member of either group yet. Smirks to laughter are mandatory!

Sponsored by the Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss (AAVL) and ACB Next Generation.

Sunday, July 2

12:15 pm - 1:00 pm: AAVL lunch $40 ($43)
Break bread and socialize with AAVL members. No agenda, just eat, talk, and enjoy.

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's
A speaker from the Alzheimer's Association of Illinois will help us:
•    Describe typical age-related memory, thinking or behavior changes,
•    Recognize common warning signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia,
•    Discuss the tips for approaching someone about memory concerns,
•    Explain the importance of early detection and benefits of diagnosis,
•    Identify possible tests and assessments for the diagnostic process, and
•    Name the resources available through the Alzheimer’s Association.

Sponsored by the Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss (AAVL) and the Mental Health and Wellness Committee (MHWC)

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Defining the New Normal
In this post-pandemic era, it seems as if everything has changed. This interactive workshop will enable you to design and implement your personal version of the New Normal.

Presenter: Pam Shaw, Philadelphia, PA
Sponsored by the Alliance on aging and Vision Loss (AAVL) and the Mental Health and Wellness Committee (MHWC)

ACB Diabetics in Action

President: Tom Tobin
Program Chair: Larry Gassman 
Affiliate Donation: $25 (Those paying the affiliate donation will receive handouts upon request)

Thursday, June 22

10:00 am - 11:15 am: Best Practices for Managing Type I and Type II Diabetes
Diabetes professionals will discuss current best 
practices and latest changes/recommendations in managing Type I and Type II Diabetes.

Presenters: Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, BC-ADM, CDCES, FADCES, FCCP, Endocrine Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Co-Director, Endocrine Disorders in Pregnancy, Cleveland Clinic Endocrinology & Metabolism Institute, Cleveland, OH; Beth Zeleznikar, Pharm.D., BCACP, Primary Care Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Strongsville Family Health Center, Strongsville, OH; Dr. Natalie Bellini, DNP, FNP-BC, BC-ADM, Program Director Diabetes Technology, University Hospitals Diabetes and Metabolic Care Center, Shaker Heights, OH

Sunday, July 2

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: ACBDA mixer ($25)
Join friends and meet new people. Your ticket entitles you to one free drink from the cash bar.

Wednesday, July 5 

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Medicare Demystified 
Come join us and hear from a licensed insurance broker who specializes in helping clients on Medicare sort out the best option for their particular situation.
You will learn all about Medicare Part A, Part B, Part C, Part D, Medicare advantage plans, Original Medicare, Medicare supplements/Medigap, and how to compare the many options to determine which one fits your needs the best. He will also discuss where you can get professional, unbiased advice at no charge, no matter where you live in the country. 
Don’t miss this event.

Erik Nelson, Clinic and Broker Relations Manager, Medicare Help Now, Vancouver, WA

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Educate, Empower and Excel in your Journey with Diabetes 
Many of us have a health journey with diabetes. ACBDA is pleased to bring two vibrant and compelling organizations that provide training, education, and motivation to everyone with diabetes in helping them to manage their health through empowerment. Diatribe will join us to fill us in on handling time in range for those with diabetes with a specific focus on continuous glucose monitoring solutions along with other tips and techniques.

Taking Control of Your Diabetes® will join us to talk more about what glucose ranges are safe and for how long it is safe to stay within these ranges. Is the A1C the ultimate goal here or is it more complex than that? We get additional information about both organizations’ training opportunities and how you can get involved. 

TCOYD will also feature their educational podcast entitled: When Do High and Low Blood Sugars Start to Cause Complications? Hosted by Dr. Steve Edelman and Dr. Jeremy Pettus. Because they will be recorded on the podcast, they will not be available for questions later.

Presenters: Britany Carney, Director of Marketing and Communications, Taking Control of Your Diabetes®, Solana Beach, CA; Julie Keller Heverly, Senior Director, Time in Range Coalition, The diaTribe Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA; Steven V. Edelman, MD (living with Type 1 Diabetes), Founder & Director, TCOYD, Endocrinologist, Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of California, San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine, Director, Diabetes Care Clinic, VA Medical Center, San Diego, CA; Jeremy Pettus, MD (living with Type 1 Diabetes), Type 1 Track & Professional Education Director, Endocrinologist, Associate Professor of Medicine, UCSD School of Medicine

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: Testimonials from our members about their diabetes journey 
We feature 4 of our members as they share their own personal journeys with diabetes.  Some are type 1, others type 2. Some use insulin, others take oral medications. 
The treatment and individual journeys are usually fascinating, riveting, and inspiring, with stories that are very specific to our member/panelists. 
This panel is usually packed with emotion and inspirations, so please join us to learn more.
Veronica Elsea, Santa Cruz, CA; Theresa Breeden, Fredericksburg, VA; Elizabeth Oleksa, Macungie, PA; Sugar Lopez, Fresno, CA

American Council of Blind Families

President: Carla Ruschival
Affiliate Donation: $15
Donate to ACB Families and be eligible to win door prizes. Lots of fun and lots of winners!

Saturday, June 24

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: ACBF Business Meeting and Elections

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: Writers Workshop: Writing fiction for Young People
Co-sponsored by FIA and ACBF 

5:30 pm – 6:45 pm: ACB Families Goes to Camp
It's summertime - time to sit around the virtual campfire and eat hotdogs and s'mores. Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, camp is a special experience. Tell stories, sing songs, play games; a convention tradition for the entire family. 

Monday, July 3

7:00 am - 8:15 am: ACB Family Breakfast: Growing Our International Family $26 ($28)
Jeff and Leslie Thom have hosted 18 foreign exchange students over the years. Learn about the amazing world of being a foreign exchange family as they share some of their prize stories and tell us how to become part of this wonderful program. 

Presenters: Jeff Thom, Member, ACB Board of Directors, and Leslie Thom, Vice President, ACB Families, Sacramento, CA

7:15 pm - 9:00 pm: Bingo - It's a Families Tradition $8 ($10)
Braille cards, large print cards, and lots of great prizes! Bring yourself, bring a friend, bring the kids - fun for all ages!

American Council of Blind Lions

President: Ray Campbell
Affiliate Donation: $10
Donate to ACB Lions to be eligible to win our special door prizes.  Winners will be drawn following the close of the ACB Conference and Convention.  

Thursday, June 22 

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: Lessons in Leadership - Getting Off to a Good Start
Participating in a Lions Club or other organization can be very rewarding, but it can also prove to be frustrating. Sighted members with no idea of the capabilities of a person with vision loss may be reluctant to include the blind member in club meetings and projects. When our panelists joined their local clubs, they were each the only blind member. They will share their stories and advice as to how to become accepted by their peers and begin that journey into leadership in Lionism. True lessons in leadership that can apply to any organization.
Facilitator: Past District Governor Mary Lee Turner, Portland, OR

Panelists: Rick Boggess, President, Owensboro Lions Club, Owensboro, KY; Yvonne (Dolly) Sowder, Past President, Bedford Noon Lions Club, Bedford, IN; and Mitch Pomerantz, Past President, Pasadena Lions Club, Pasadena, CA

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: ACBL Business Meeting and Elections 

Saturday, July 1

12:15 pm - 2:15 pm: ACB Lions Reverse Visit Lunch $38 ($40)
Meet Lions from Illinois and discover how blind Lions are making a difference all across America. Open to active Lions, former Lions, and anyone interested in learning more about becoming a Lion.

ACB Next Generation

President: Amanda Selm
Program Co-Chairs: Melanie Alt Sinohui and Cassie Trosper
Affiliate Donation: $10

Thursday, June 22 

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: What is advocacy? 
Join us for part one of our advocacy series. Together we will define advocacy and our panelists, ACB Next Generation’s Greg Lindberg and Vika Trussell, ACB of Oregon’s James Edwards, and ACB’s Advocacy and Outreach Specialist, Swatha Nandhakumar, will share various ways you can advocate at any place, any time, and in any situation, as well as starting to break down the legislative process. Come to part two on Monday, July 3rd at 2:30 p.m. CT as we further explore how to advocate for yourself.

Facilitator: DJ McIntyre, Georgia Council of the Blind’s (GCB) Legislative Committee Co-Chair, Loganville, GA

Panelists: Greg Lindberg, Media Content Manager, Enrollment Marketing and Communication for Saint Leo University, Wesley Chapel, FL; Vika Trussell, ACB Next Generation Public Relations Committee Co-Chair, Peachtree City, GA; Swatha Nandhakumar, ACB Advocacy and Outreach Specialist, Alexandria, VA; James Edwards, ACB of Oregon Immediate Past President and Legislative Committee Chair, Lakeside, OR

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: ACB Next Gen meet and greet 
Framily: Friends who are family - Whether you've been with NextGen from the beginning or you're hearing about us for the first time, come hang out and mingle with new and old friends to kick off this year’s convention; you might even win a door prize!

Friday, June 23

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: Match Wits with Next Gen and the Boomers
AAVL and Next Gen members are facing off. Trivia questions will cross generations as we try to stump each other’s knowledge of the eras. Come join the fun - even if you aren't a member of either group yet. Smirks to laughter are mandatory!

Sponsored by the Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss (AAVL) and ACB Next Generation.

Saturday, June 24 

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: You’ve Got the Job, Now What?
Have you been looking for a job or seeking out a promotion and were unsure of how to negotiate for the accommodations you require to be successful? Have you felt like you deserved a promotion but didn’t know what to do next? Whether it’s figuring out what accommodations are needed, how to take those brave steps to move up in your company, or how to set yourself up for a successful career, our panelists will provide guidance for your journey.

Co-sponsored by ACBL and the ACB Employment Committee.
Facilitators: Melanie Sinohui, ACB Employment Committee member, Phoenix, AZ; Peter Altschul, ACB Employment Committee Co-Chair, Columbia, MO.
Panelists: Steven Salas, Tax Examiner – U.S. Treasury Department, Austin, TX; Kim Paulk, Retail Technology Sales Representative, New York, NY; Lillian Goodman, Accounting Support Specialist, Hillsboro, OR

Co-sponsored by the ACB employment committee and ACB Next Generation

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: ACBS and ACB Next Generation Convention Pep Rally
Who’s got spirit? We do! Let’s get fired up for the 2023 ACB Conference and Convention. Join ACB Next Generation and ACB Students for our Convention Pep Rally. Enjoy meeting new friends, fun icebreakers, and learn about all our amazing events, as well as important information you will need to make your virtual or in person convention experience a great one. Bring your favorite snacks and get ready to cheer, 2023 will be a great year. We can’t wait to share our spirit with you! 

Co-sponsored by ACB Next Generation and ACB Students

Saturday, July 1

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Confidently Communicate with Care
Communication takes time and practice. Did you know you cannot, not communicate?  The first step to communicating effectively is to focus on ourselves and the way we talk and listen to each other. Join us as we learn about communication styles and methods at all levels, from exchanges in a professional setting, to advocating for your individual needs. As communicators, we're always a work in progress, and by joining us today we hope you will be inspired to better communicate and be better heard. 

Facilitator: Terri-Lynn Higashi, Social Worker at the State Department of Health and Hawaii Association of the Blind Internal Support Chair, Ewa Beach, HI

Panelists: Zelda Gebhard, ACB Board of Publications Director, Edgeley, ND; Leslie Spoone, Certified Aerobics and Personal Trainer, Orlando, FL; Greg Lindberg, Media Content Manager, Enrollment Marketing and Communication for Saint Leo University, Wesley Chapel, FL

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: ACB Next Generation Meet and Greet Framily: Friends who are family - Whether you've been with NextGen from the beginning or you're hearing about us for the first time, come hang out and mingle with new and old friends to kick off this year’s convention; you might even win a door prize!

Sunday, July 2

1:00 pm – 2:15 pm: Organize Yourself: How to Get and Keep Your Ducks in a Row
Ever watch someone seem to get everything done, all the time, without breaking a sweat? Wonder how they work, take care of the kids, travel, volunteer for everything, and seem to meet every deadline? How do they do it? Join us as we learn the methods that Kenneth Semien Sr., Michael Babcock, and Hindley Williams, use to get everything done and not lose their marbles.

Facilitator: Melanie Sinohui, ACB NextGen Convention Co-Chair, Phoenix, AZ

Panelist: Kenneth Semien Sr., ACB Director, Beaumont, TX; Michael Babcock, Founder of Payown Media, LLC., Coquille, OR; Hindley Williams, ACB Next Generation Director, Towson, MD

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Speed Networking: The Vendor Game
Co-sponsored by RSVA, ACBS, and ACB Next Gen

9:00 pm - 10:15 pm: Prose and Poetry
Co-sponsored by FIA and ACB Next Generation

Monday, July 3 

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Advocate for Yourself Any Place, Any Time, and Any Situation.
Did you know that you are already advocating? You are advocating with every small conversation about blindness or when asking for accessible items. Join us to hear a little bit more on how to advocate with a guide dog, traveling alone, daily life and work areas. You too can be an advocate for yourself and others in this community.

Facilitator: DJ McIntyre, Georgia Council of the Blind’s (GCB) Legislative Committee Co-Chair, Loganville, GA

Panelist: Greg Lindberg, Media Content Manager, Enrollment Marketing and Communication for Saint Leo University, Wesley Chapel, FL; Vika Trussell, ACB Next Generation Public Relations Committee Co-Chair, Peachtree City, GA

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Showcase of the Performing Arts
Co-sponsored by FIA, ACB Next Generation and BPI

10:00 pm – midnight: Open Mic
Co-sponsored by FIA, ACB Next Generation and BPI

ACB Radio Amateurs

President: Harvey Heagy
Program Chair: Marcia Moses

Thursday, June 22

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: ACBRA business meeting

American Council of Blind Students

President: Olivia O’Connell
Program Chair: Tatyana Tolliver-Hughes 

Friday, June 23

11:30 am - 12:45 pm: Perfecting Professionalism on Paper
Entering and navigating the hiring process can be challenging for current students. Let’s review the basics and some well-kept corporate secrets of what makes a good resume. During this virtual event, students will be able to ask questions about do’s and don’ts to help create a strong resume that tackles the needs of specific employers. 
Hosted by Tatyana Tolliver, ACB Students Vice President, Charleston, WV 
Guest Speakers: Ahmar Ursani, Career Center Specialist, Washington University, St. Louis, MO; Sara Freeman Smith, HR Recruiter, Houston, TX

Co-sponsored: Employment Committee/ACB Students 

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: ACBS Business Meeting and new board members elections. Descriptions of each open position on the board will be provided. Individuals interested in running will be required to give a 1- to 3-minute speech.
Constitutional amendments will be proposed and voted on as well. 

Saturday, June 24

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: ACBS and ACB Next Generation Convention Pep Rally
Who’s got spirit? We do! Let’s get fired up for the 2023 ACB Conference and Convention. Join ACB Next Generation and ACB Students for our Convention Pep Rally. Enjoy meeting new friends, fun icebreakers, and learn about all our amazing events, as well as important information you will need to make your virtual or in person convention experience a great one. Bring your favorite snacks and get ready to cheer, 2023 will be a great year. We can’t wait to share our spirit with you! 

Co-sponsored by: ACB Next Generation and ACB Students

Friday, June 30

8:00 pm -10:00 pm: Friday Night Bash 
After the opening dinner of the ACB Convention, ACB Students and Next Gen will be hosting our annual Friday Night Bash! Members from both groups will be able to mix, mingle, and unwind with a series of social games to reconnect with old friends and make new ones.

Saturday, July 1

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Do You Mind?
Life as a Student Can Be Stressful, Let's Take Some Time to Talk About It and Practice Mindful Solutions. At this event, students will be encouraged to take a breath, acknowledge their current accomplishments, and learn practices to protect their peace. 

Sunday, July 2

12:15 pm - 1:30 pm: Got Your Tongue $25
Join ACB Students for a business professional style lunch. Practice your table manners, learn new social skills, and get more comfortable meeting, greeting, and eating while making professional connections.  Our own social chair and political dinner extraordinaire, ACB Students Board Member Malia Thibado, Pell City, AL, will showcase all the ins and outs of blind etiquette and elaborate on professional skills to showcase what you bring to the table and how to succeed. 

2:30 pm – 3:45 pm:  Speed Networking: The Vendor Game
Co-sponsored by RSVA, ACBS, and ACB Next Gen

Monday, July 3

2:30pm - 3:45 pm: Speak Up
Do you ever feel unheard or at a loss for words when advocating for yourself? Are you seeking guidance and understanding from fellow ambitious individuals? Join a panel of ACB Student Executives and award-winning author Hannah Fairbairn, "When You Can’t Believe Your Eyes: Vision Loss and Personal Recovery," from Newton, MA, for a panel discussion on self-advocacy both in the classroom and around campus.

Blind Information Technology Specialists

President: Earlene Hughes
Affiliate Donation: $10

Thursday, June 22

10:00 am - 11:15 am:  Envision - A Look at the Past, the Present, and the Future

Presenter: Karthik Kannan, Envision - Chief Technology Officer/Co-Founder, The Hague, Netherlands

11:30 am - 12:45 pm:  Web Accessibility, Defining the Problem
Co-sponsored by IAC and BITS

Friday, June 23

11:30 am - 12:45 pm:  Identifying Web Accessibility Standards, Principles and Guidelines
Co-sponsored by IAC and BITS

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm:  Lost in Space iBug Today
•    How do I get out of here?
•    Where did my teddy bear go?
•    Who let the dogs out?
•    Where’s my mommy?

Want to learn the answers to these questions and more, then join the iBUG (iBlind Users Group) Today team as we explore ways to find stuff that’s lost or missing, including ourselves.

Presenters: Presenters: Sandhya Rao, Vice President of iBUG, Houston, TX; Brad Snyder, BITS Board member and advanced member of iBUG, Dallas, TX

Saturday, June 24

11:30 am - 12:45 pm:  Overcoming Common Pitfalls and Tools to Assist in Finding Gaps in Web Accessibility
Co-sponsored by IAC and BITS

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Solutions That Make You More Productive and Efficient Throughout Your Work Day

Presenter: Brian Hartgen, Hartgen Consultancy, Caerphilly, South Wales

Braille Revival League

President: Denise Colley
Affiliate Donation: $10 

Monday, July 3

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Up close and personal with Jake Williams
Co-sponsored by LUA and BRL

Tuesday, July 4

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Library Users of American meet with NLS Deputy Director Jason Yasner and any colleagues he chooses to bring with him.

Co-sponsored by LUA, BRL, and AABT

Wednesday, July 5

7:00 am - 8:15 am: BRL Breakfast $32
Special guest, Martine Abel-Williamson, President, World Blind Union, Auckland, New Zealand

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Braille Graphics and Devices
Learn about new devices that, for the first time, will allow us to use braille to show graphics and pictures.

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Braille Graphics and printers
How braille printers can enable people who are sighted or blind to produce printed tactile graphics.

Blind LGBT Pride International

President: Gabriel Lopez Kafati 
Program Chair: Anthony Corona
Affiliate Donation: $10 

Saturday, June 24

10:00 am - 11:15 am: Who Are You?: Blind, Queer, they, and other identifiers
There have never been so many ways to identify yourself, or for others to identify themselves as right now. But which words do you use to refer to others and how do you know you're using the right words? This panel explores self-identifiers and their effect on disability, GLBTQIA+ and other communities/cultures.

The purpose of this panel is not to provide definitive answers, but rather to lay the foundation for attendees to start exploring these ideas. Whether you are deeply involved with these communities or are looking to learn how to be a good ally, this panel will give you something to think about.

Saturday, July 1

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: First They Came For: Why “Don’t Say Gay” Affects All of Us
As anti-LGBTQ Plus legislation is introduced and passed around the United States, we will examine how this affects our community and the larger implications for all of our bodily autonomy  rights, our individual freedoms and how the slippery slide will make it easier to come for Disability rights.

Presenters: Tristan Snyder, LGBTQ+ & Disability Rights Advocate, Phoenix, AZ; Anthony Corona, LGBTQ+ & Disability Rights Advocator, Miami, FL

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: 3D Immersive Sound Experience
Back by popular demand, come with Tristan Snyder as he takes you on another 3D audio excursion to places real and fantastic. Put on your headphones and tune in to ACB Media to get the full 3D sound experience. Sit back and journey with us as we go from the ordinary to the unbelievable. We’d tell you what to expect, but where would be the fun in that? Life is an adventure, and this is one you won’t want to miss!

Sunday, July 2

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Releasing Pain from the Past Allows You to Age Gracefully: Conversations with LGBTQ+ Healing Practitioners
This session will focus on journeys with healing pain from the past, which will include various modalities, such as Reiki, myofascial release, tapping, yoga, talk therapy, medication, meditation, and EMDR therapy.

You can literally feel lighter and younger than ever opening up to ancient and modern holistic healing practices. The quest to release pain from the past is universal.

In the LGBTQ+ community, dealing with homophobia, anti-wokeness, and the regressive laws being enacted in almost every state, have led us to exist in a communal state of trauma.

We will ask a panel of practitioners from the LGBTQ+ community if it is possible to heal pain from the past, all while dealing with the unprecedented hostility and injustice our community is facing in these modern times.
Led by Miss Ruth Williams, LGBTQ Plus Ally 

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm: BPI Mixer $20
Come one and all and dance over the rainbow with us. BPI is known for bringing fun, entertainment, and surprises! So whether you’re an ally, friend or BPI member, let’s celebrate together!! 

Monday, July 3

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Making Gay History
From the early days of the Stonewall Riots to the HIV/AIDS crisis, marriage equality to Trans Rights, we will discuss the successes of the LGBTQ+ Community and how we can apply certain lessons to our advocacy. We will also touch on how reaching across marginalized communities and presenting united fronts can boost all our causes and visibility. 

Presenters: Anthony Corona, Vice President, BPI, Miami, FL; Eric Marcus, Host and Creator, Making Gay History the Podcast, New York, NY

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: Wine Tasting $30
We’ll pop the cork; you be ready to sip! Gabriel will walk us through the vineyard so to speak as we sip red’s, Whites, and some bubbly ones. While you sip and learn, there will be fabulous pairings and, as always with Gabriel, a few laughs to compliment your learning experience.
Join Gabriel Lopez Kafati, Wine Consultant, Miami, FL

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Showcase of the Performing Arts
Co-sponsored by FIA, ACB Next Generation, and BPI

10:00 pm – midnight: Open Mic 
Join BPI as we open the MIC for the talents of our affiliate and our Allies!! Do you sing or play an instrument? Have you ever dreamed of taking your comedy to the MIC? Slam poetry and playing magic tricks and so much more. Bring your talent and drop BPI’s MIC!!

Co-sponsored by FIA, BPI, and ACB Next Generation

Tuesday, July 4

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: Wine tasting $30
We’ll pop the cork; you be ready to sip! Gabriel will walk us through the vineyard so to speak as we sip red’s, Whites and some bubbly ones. While you sip and learn there will be fabulous pairings and as always with Gabriel a few laughs to compliment your learning experience.

Join Gabriel Lopez Kafati, Wine Consultant, Miami, FL

Wednesday, July 5

7:00 am - 8:15 am: FIA and BPI breakfast
Speaker: Jason Castonguay, performer, composer, and tech geek, Manchester, CT

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Aging Over the Rainbow
It ain’t easy getting old, and it sure ain’t pretty either, but in this session, we will explore resources for aging with grace and vitality. Come one and all, because no one can escape Father Time or Mother Nature as they drag us towards the finish line.

Presenters: Miss Ruth Williams, BPI Ally, NJ; Anthony Corona, Vice President, BPI, Miami, FL 

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: The Art of Origami 
Jade has patented a set of stencils designed to teach blind and low vision folks how to enjoy the ancient art of origami. In this session learn to craft an Origami Rainbow and one of the following; Hummingbird, Rose or Model T using these stencils. We will discuss how to modify and personalize our creations all while enjoying the relaxing benefits of crafting. We will also discuss the history of the art of Origami.

Jade Alexander, Inventor and Artist, Denver, CO

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: Wine tasting $30
We’ll pop the cork; you be ready to sip! Gabriel will walk us through the vineyard so to speak as we sip red’s, Whites, and some bubbly ones. While you sip and learn there will be fabulous pairings and as always with Gabriel a few laughs to compliment your learning experience 

Join Gabriel Lopez Kafati, Wine Consultant, Miami, FL

Council of Citizens with Low Vision International

President: Patti Cox
Program Chair: Sara Alkmin 
Affiliate Donation: $15

Saturday, June 24

2:30 pm - 5:15 pm: CCLVI Annual Business Meeting

Sunday, July 2

1:00 pm – 2:15 pm: CCLVI Vendor Showcase
Can’t wait to experience new tech at the exhibit hall? Whet your appetite for accessibility as vendors demonstrate new assistive technology. Play with gadgets, ask questions, and plan your time in the exhibit hall. 

Monday, July 3

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: The Four "I"s of Low Vision
Identifying as a person with low vision or blindness has its challenges. This session discusses identity, individuality, independence, and inclusion as you walk through the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual journey of life. Come share your experiences, support others, and learn.

Facilitator: Cassie Trosper, Mental Health and Wellness Committee member, North Bend, OR

Co-sponsored by CCLVI and MHWC

Tuesday, July 4

8:00 pm - 12 am: Dance into the Roarin’ ‘20s with CCLVI $10
Pull out your flapper dresses, hats, and dancing shoes and a cut a rug into the ‘20s. Bring a partner or friend for a dance, sip themed cocktails, and win prizes. Along with door prizes, we will award the best dressed individual, best dressed couple, best dancer, and more!

Wednesday, July 5

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: Explore the Levels of Low Vision Technology
Do you love the flashiest new tech? Maybe you prefer no-tech options or something in between. Come explore high tech, low tech, and no tech solutions for people with low vision.

Facilitator: Mikey Wiseman, Senior Job Developer, Hialeah, FL

Panelist: Cheryl McNeil-Fisher, 2nd Vice President, Guide Dog Users, Inc. (GDUI) and MacGyver, Wallkill, NY; Zelda Gebhard, CCLVI 1st Vice President and Membership Chair, Edgeley, ND; Charles R. Cronin Jr., Computer Operator, Hempstead, NY

Friends-in-Art of ACB

President: Mike Mandel
Program Chair: Peter Altschul
Affiliate Donation: $10

Thursday, June 22

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: FIA business meeting

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: Digital Musicmaking: Hardware and Software to Make and Mix Music on Keyboard. 
Presenters: Derek Lane, Owner, Lane's Audio, Morganton, NC; Jason Castonguay, composer/performer/producer, Manchester, CT; and Peter Altschul, composer/percussionist/author, Columbia, MO 

Friday, June 23

4:00 pm – 5:15 pm: AD Across the Arts
Co-sponsored by ADP and FIA

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm: Writing, Composing, and Performing  
Learn about how a poem got set to music and performed without anyone meeting in person. 

Annie Chiappetta, author and therapist, New Rochelle, NY; Peter Altschul, composer/percussionist/author, Columbia, MO; Jason Castonguay, composer/performer/producer, Manchester, CT; Joan Miles, poet, Salem, OR; and Abbie Taylor, author, Sheridan, WY. 

Saturday, June 24

4:00 pm – 5:15 pm: Writers Workshop: Writing Fiction for Young People
Children's author Feather Chelle will take us through her creative process and what motivates her to write for children, followed by a question-and-answer period. 
Anne Chiappetta, author and therapist, New Rochelle, NY; Feather Chelle, Merkel, TX; and Peter Altschul, Columbia, MO

Co-sponsored by FIA and ACBF
 
7:30 pm – 9:15 pm: Virtual Showcase of the Performing Arts.
Lay back and groove to a mix of music and poetry through the power of ACB Media.

10:00 pm - 11:15 pm: Showcase After Hours 
Participate in our celebration of the Showcase with performers and those behind the scenes who put it all together. 

Peter Altschul, Columbia, MO; Nancy Pendegraph, FIA Vice President (VP), Huntsville, AL 

Sunday, July 2

9:00 pm - 10:15 pm: Prose and Poetry Reading
Share some of your original work or just come listen. Material must be family friendly.
Facilitator: Carla Hayes, McMurray, PA 

Co-sponsored by FIA and ACB Next Generation  

Monday, July 3

8:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Showcase of the Performing Arts $20 ($20)
Get ready for another outstanding panoply of performances from musicians, poets, and others. The pinnacle of diversity, creativity, and professionalism. Cash bar available. 

Co-sponsored by FIA, ACB Next Generation and BPI

10:00 pm – midnight:  Open Mic
Co-sponsored by FIA, ACB Next Generation and BPI

Wednesday, July 5

7:00 am - 8:15 am: FIA and BPI breakfast $30 ($32) 
Speaker: Jason Castonguay, performer, composer, and tech geek, Manchester, CT

Guide Dog Users, Inc.

President: Sarah Calhoun
Program Chair: Maria Hansen
Affiliate Donation: $10 (GDUI donors will be entered into a drawing for prizes on July 5)

Thursday, June 22

11:30 am - 2:15 pm: Guide Dog School Updates 
Double session of the ever-popular updates from all the guide dog schools.  Are operations returning to normal from covid disruptions?  

Friday, June 23

11:30 am - 12:45 pm: Focusing on Eye Health in Guide Dogs
How and what do dogs see? Do humans and dogs share some eye diseases?  Do breeds commonly used as guide dogs have a predisposition to certain eye conditions? Learn the answer to these and many other questions.

Dr. Alexandra Van Der Woerdt, DVM, MS, DACVO, DECVO, Senior Veterinarian, Specialist in Ophthalmology, Service Head of Ophthalmology, Director of the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Institute for Postgraduate Education, Schwarzman Animal Medical Center, New York, NY

Saturday, June 24

11:30 am - 12:45 pm: The Unique Matching Process
A presentation discussing the unique matching process and things to consider while matching a Leader Dog to a client.  Also covered will be how instructors go about this complex process.

Alyssa Otis, GDMI/Outreach Specialist, Leader Dogs for the Blind, Rochester Hills, MI

Tuesday, July 4

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Crossing “the Big Pond” to Hawaiian Paradise with your Guide Dog:  
Hawaii is blessed in so many, many ways.  Being the only state in our nation that does not have rabies is one of them.  It aims to keep it that way with strict animal admittance procedures administered by its Department of Agriculture.  At first blush, the process may appear quite daunting.  But Vickie Kennedy knows how to smoothly “navigate those waters,” whether you’re traveling by jet or by cruise ship.  A resident of Hawaii for many years, she loves sharing her experience, helping to ensure that your trip to paradise is nothing but the delightful experience it should be!

Vickie Kennedy, Ewa Beach, HI  

Wednesday, July 5

12:15 pm – 1:00 pm: GDUI Luncheon $40 ($42) 

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Wrap-up: Awards, Drawing Winners, and Blessing of the Animals
Presentation of Awards, Margie Donovan, Awards Chair, Folsom, CA

Drawing of winners for plush pups in harness.
The Blessing of past, present and future guide dogs, puppy raisers, handlers, and those who love them.  By Audrey Gunter and Laurel Jean Walden, Charleston, SC

Independent Visually Impaired Entrepreneurs

President: Ardis Bazyn
Program Chair: Carla Hayes
Affiliate Donation: $10 ($12)

Friday, June 23

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm:  IVIE Business Meeting

Friday, June 30

9:00 pm – Midnight: RSVA and IVIE Mixer 

Tuesday, July 4

12:15 pm - 2:15 pm: IVIE Luncheon and Program $40 ($43)

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Learning About IRS Accessibility Services
Come join us for a discussion about all the ways that IRS is improving access to information for people with print disabilities.  We will tell you how to request access to notices in your preferred alternate format as well as how to get accessible tax forms and publications.

Kim Carmichael, Senior Distribution Analyst, Internal Revenue Service, Talladega, AL 

Link Up with the All New APH CareerConnect: Inform, Empower, Impact
For nearly three decades, CareerConnect has been a reliable go to source for career education, enrichment and trusted knowledge on all things employment.  Hear from staff of the APH ConnectCenter on recent offerings available through APH CareerConnect.  CareerConversations, Employment Connections, our TransitionHub and the all-new Job Seekers Toolkit are just a few of our latest interactive tools and resources for career curious job seekers and entrepreneurs.

Richard Rueda, Digital Content Manager, APH CareerConnect, Sacramento, CA; Lori Scharff, CareerConnect Lead Content Contractor, Waynesboro, VA

2:30 pm - 5:15 pm: IVIE Business Expo
Blind and visually impaired business owners will showcase their products and services and answer your questions.

Library Users of America

President: Judy Wilkinson
Program Chair: Brian Charlson
Affiliate Donation: $10 (By donating you will be eligible for door prize drawings)

Thursday, June 22 

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: LUA Business Meeting
Come for our elections and stay for the rest of our action-packed, information-filled business meeting.

Sunday, July 2

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Text to Speech, Artificial Intelligence and You
The future is quickly approaching and now is the time to learn just how it will be affecting you. Come learn from our panelists what the near future of audio production holds for those of us who rely on audio to read, access video and interact with the world around us. What will Talking Books become? Will we continue to rely on live describers? Join the conversation and give a listen to just how far we have come.

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: AI and the Big Boys
What do Microsoft, Google, Apple and Amazon have in common other than they are well funded, massive and have an incredible workforce at their disposal? They are all looking to reinvent themselves to remain relevant.
Come hear what each company is up to in the artificial intelligence space and what they hope the future will hold. We hope for samples of what they have achieved and some blue skying on how all of this will play out for those of us who are blind.

Monday, July 3

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Up close and personal with Jake Williams
Library Users of America and Braille Revival League once again join to sponsor our visit with ACB narrator; this year it’s Jacob Williams, Books to Life, Denver, CO

Tuesday, July 4

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm:  Library Users of American meet with Jason Yasner, NLS Deputy Director, and any colleagues he chooses to bring with him.
Co-sponsored by LUA, BRL and AABT

Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America (RSVA)

President: Scott Eggen
Convention Chair: Ardis Bazyn 
Affiliate Donation:  RSVA - Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America $20 (entitles donors to a ticket into a drawing occurring on Friday, July 23)

Saturday, June 24 

1:00 pm - 3:45 pm:  RSVA Business Meeting (for members only)

Friday, June 30 

9:00 pm - Midnight: RSVA and IVIE Mixer $20 ($25)

Saturday, July 1

1:00 pm - 2:15 pm: RSVA: All about the Illinois Business Enterprise Program
This session will highlight the Business Enterprise Program in Illinois so participants will learn how they train vendors, the types of facilities they have in the program, and some statistics of relevance: gross sales, number of facilities, number of vendors, etc. They will also learn how blind people can become vendors in the state. 

Presenter: Kim Borowicz, Esq. Bureau Chief, Bureau of Customer & Community Blind Services Division of Rehabilitation Services Illinois Department of Human Services

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: RSVA: Tech It Out! 
This session will have speakers talking about gadgets and tech used by blind persons. We'll ask the audience for their favorite ones. 

Moderators: Scott Eggen, RSVA® President, Maplewood, MN; Patrick Martin, RSVA® Convention Committee Member, Tallahassee, FL

4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: RSVA: Tips and Tricks for the iPhone and MAC
Listeners will hear about using the iPhone more easily. Some great apps for the phone will also be discussed. You'll also learn about programs on the MAC. 

Presenter: Diane Scalzi, Blind Information Technology Specialists Treasurer, Saint Clair Shores, MI 

Sunday, July 2

12:15 pm – 2:15 pm: RSVA® Awards Luncheon and Cooking Without Looking: Celebrating Over Fifty Years of Achievement and Advocacy $43 ($45)
The Cooking Without Looking TV Show: How We Can ALL change the Way We See Blindness Together. 

Speakers: Renee Rentmeester, Creator/Executive Producer, Albany, GA; Allen Preston, Host, West Palm Beach, FL; Annette Watkins, Host, Plantation, FL

2:30 pm - 3:45 pm: Speed Networking: The Vendor Game
In this session, career options will be explored, including Randolph-Sheppard opportunities available.

Facilitators: Scott Eggen, RSVA® President, Maplewood, MN; Ardis Bazyn, RSVA® First Vice President, Burbank, CA

Co-sponsored by RSVA, ACB Next Generation and ACBS

7:30 pm - 8:45 pm: RSVA Comedy: Enjoy Some Laughs with Comedian, Michelle Krajecki $20 
Specializing in “clean comedy”

9:00 pm - 12:00 am: RSVA® Karaoke $15 ($20)
Show your talent.

Monday, July 3

6:15 pm – Midnight: RSVA® casino trip $35 ($40)
Take a break and enjoy visiting the Horseshoe Casino

Visually Impaired Veterans of America

President: David Dowland
Affiliate Donation: ($10)

Thursday, June 22 

10:00 am - 11:15 am: VIVA Business Meeting