Bridges to Opportunity - American Council of the Blind
Christopher Gray, President
45TH Annual National Convention and Special-Interest Affiliate Meetings
Jacksonville, Florida
July 8-15, 2006
Hosted by Florida Council of the Blind
Debbie Grubb, President
Table of Contents
From the President
Abbreviations Used in this Program
Medical Care and Grocery
Info for Guide Dog Users
HOTEL MINI-GUIDE
Registration Q&A
Communication Center Services
ACB Cafe
Youth Activities Center
Affiliate Caucuses
Religious Activities
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
CONVENTION STANDING RULES
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND 45TH ANNUAL CONVENTION General Sessions Agenda
ACB Board and Committee Meetings
ACB Committee Programs and Activities
Durward K. McDaniel First-Timers' Committee
Employment Issues Seminar
Information Access Committee
Membership Committee
Multicultural Concerns Committee
Sight and Sound Impaired (SASI) Committee Scholarship Committee
Women's Concerns Committee
Other ACB Seminars and Events, ACB Roadmaps, First-Timers' Seminars, Speakers' Receptions, Recreation Zone, International Conversations
SPECIAL-INTEREST AFFILIATE MEETINGS
Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss
American Association of Visually Impaired Attorneys
ACB Diabetics in Action
ACB Government Employees
ACB Human Service Professionals
ACB Lions
ACB Radio Amateurs
Blind Friends of Lesbians and Gays
Blind Information Technology Specialists
Braille Revival League
Council of Citizens with Low Vision International
Council of Families with Visual Impairments
Friends-in-Art of ACB
Guide Dog Users, Inc.
Independent Visually Impaired Enterprisers
Library Users of America
National Alliance of Blind Students
National Association of Blind Teachers
Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America
Visually Impaired Veterans of America
MORE SPECIAL EVENTS
Careers, Employment and Rehabilitation: AFB and NIB
Technology Training and Focus Groups
Guide Dog Events
Families and Parenting
ACB CONVENTION TOURS
MORE CONVENTION ENTERTAINMENT
2006 EXHIBITS
MAJOR CONVENTION SPONSORS
Jacksonville Gems
Sapphire Sponsor
Opal Sponsors
Pearl Sponsors
2005-2006 ACB Officers
ACB Board of Directors
Board of Publications
ACB Enterprises and Services Board of Directors
ACB National Office Staff
ACB Enterprises and Services Staff
ACB Convention Committees
2006 Convention Coordinating Committee
2006 Convention Program Committee
2006 FCB Host Committee
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Conventioneers:
Welcome to the 45th annual convention of the American Council of the Blind and to the beautiful city of Jacksonville! We're meeting this week in a city famous for its rivers and bridges. The St. John's River is one of only three rivers in the world that naturally flows north. (The second one is the Nile.) Jacksonville is connected across this river by water taxis and a series of bridges. The theme of the 2006 convention focuses on building bridges of understanding and for future opportunities for the membership of ACB.
The convention committee, convention program committee and the many hard workers from the Florida Council of the Blind all deserve thanks for the many hundreds of hours spent in making this a memorable experience for all of us. I wish each of you a great convention on behalf of myself and the entire ACB board of directors. We hope to offer fun, information and education during this next week. Through ACB Radio, the education and information will be shared around the world. Finally, I could not close this welcome without thanking our staff in Washington, D.C. and Minneapolis, Minn., for all they have done and will continue to do in Jacksonville.
Best Wishes,
Christopher Gray, ACB President
ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THIS PROGRAM
ACB - American Council of the Blind
ACBES - American Council of the Blind Enterprises and Services
AAVL - Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss
AAVIA - American Association of Visually Impaired Attorneys
ACBDA - ACB Diabetics in Action
ACBGE - ACB Government Employees
ACBHSP - ACB Human Service Professionals
ACBL - ACB Lions
ACBRA - ACB Radio Amateurs
AFB - American Foundation for the Blind
BFLAG - Blind Friends of Lesbians and Gays
BITS - Blind Information Technology Specialists
BRL - Braille Revival League
CCLVI - Council of Citizens with Low Vision
CFVI - Council of Families with Visual Impairments
DVS(R) - Descriptive Video Service
FCB - Florida Council of the Blind
FIA - Friends-in-Art of ACB
GDUI - Guide Dog Users, Inc.
IVIE - Independent Visually Impaired Enterprisers
LUA - Library Users of America
NABS - National Alliance of Blind Students
NABT - National Association of Blind Teachers
NAPVI - National Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments
NCI - National Captioning Institute
NELDS - National Education & Legal Defense Service
NIB - National Industries for the Blind
RSVA - Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America
SASI - Sight and Sound Impaired Committee
VIVA - Visually Impaired Veterans of America
WCC - Women's Concerns Committee
YAC - Youth Activities Center
FOR MEDICAL CARE AND GROCERY
For medical emergencies, dial 0 on a hotel phone or 911 on any other phone. Stay calm and speak distinctly. Give your name, exact location and a description of the emergency.
TRAUMA HOSPITAL
Shands Jacksonville Hospital - 655 W. 8th St.; (904) 244-0411
NEARBY HOSPITAL
Baptist Hospital - 800 Prudential Dr.; (904) 202-2000
GROCERY AND PHARMACY
Winn Dixie (about 6 blocks from the hotel) - 777 Market St. Grocery (6:00am to 10:00pm) - (904) 353-6810 Pharmacy (8:00am - 8:00pm Mon.-Fri.; 9:00am - 6:00pm Sat.; 1:00pm - 6:00pm Sun) - (904) 632-0844
Walgreen's (open 24 hours; 15 to 20 minutes from hotel) - 6006 Beach Blvd.; (904) 727-3553
INFO FOR GUIDE DOG USERS
Guide dog relief areas are located on the ground, second and third levels. ACB volunteers and hotel staff will be happy to assist you to locate the areas.
The GDUI Convention Area Orientation (Sunday, July 9 at noon and 5:00 p.m.) will also help you learn the best routes in and around the hotel. Meet in River Terrace 2.
If you need daytime veterinary care, contact Dr. Phillip Hightman at Brentwood Animal Clinic, 4605 Brentwood Avenue; (904) 354-0547.
Another option for daytime care is Drs. Rossi and Esser at Riverside Animal Hospital, 2641 Park Street at Kings; (904) 388-3494.
For emergency veterinary care between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., call Central Veterinary Emergency Clinic, 1546 San Marco Boulevard; (904) 399-8800.
HOTEL MINI-GUIDE
The following information is intended to serve only as a sketch of the lobby and meeting spaces.
Trellis's Restaurant and the Plaza III Kansas City Steakhouse are located on the first floor in the lobby. A gift shop, Jaxx sports bar, Current's (Starbuck's coffee and desserts), and escalators to the second and third floor meeting areas are also found there.
ACB general sessions will be held in the Grand Ballroom on the second floor. The ACB registration desk and the ACB Thompson West Information Desk are also on 2.
Exhibits, the ACB Cafe, the Communication Center, and most meetings, focus groups, seminars and other events will be on the third floor. The Daytona, Orlando, St. Johns, and Clearwater rooms, as well as Board Rooms 1 through 4, are located on the hotel side with the elevators and escalators. Exhibits are across the breezeway in the Terrace Pavillion. Hallways lead around the outside of the Exhibit Hall. As you face exhibits, go around to the left to find River Terrace 1, 2 and 3; go right to find City Terrace 4 through 12.
Three hospitality rooms, numbered 4104, 4106 and 4108, are located across the pedway on 4. Many mixers and some workshops will be held there.
The pool, health center and sauna are located on the 19th floor. The pool is rather shallow, and there is no lifeguard. It is open between 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. daily. The health center is available 24 hours a day; use your room key for access.
The laundromat is on 4, across the pedway near the hospitality rooms. It is available 24 hours a day; use your room key for access.
REGISTRATION Q&A
Convention registration is located on the second floor. Registration hours are as follows:
Thursday, July 6 (pre-reg. pick-up only): 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Friday, July 7: 11:00am - 8:00pm
Saturday, July 8: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 9: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Monday - Thursday, July 10 - 13: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Friday, July 14: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
You must register and pay the administrative fee to receive your convention ID badge and a convention program, purchase tickets, receive a convention goody bag filled with information and surprises, and be eligible for some great door prizes. Wear your badge at all times, as it will admit you to the exhibit area, permit you to vote (if you are an ACB member), and assist hotel personnel and volunteers to provide better service.
If you are pre-registered for the convention, your packet will be waiting at the Registration Office. You may not pick up any packets other than your own. If you have any questions, comments or concerns with regard to your registration packet, or need to purchase additional tickets, go to the Registration Office.
No administrative fee will be charged for a name badge and voter certification. A daily visitor's badge is available at the Exhibit Hall entrance.
REFUNDS - ACB will make NO refunds for the convention administrative fee, sweepstakes donation, or tickets that you just don't want. Refunds will be issued ONLY for affiliate registration fees, meals, events, and tours provided that:
1. An individual has pre-registered; AND
2. The individual requests the refund in writing to the American Council of the Blind, 120 South 6th Street, Suite 1005, Minneapolis, MN 55402-1839, or calls (612) 332-3242, ON OR BEFORE June 23, 2006; AND
3. The individual DOES NOT ATTEND any part of the convention. In case of illness during the convention which requires you to return home or to be hospitalized, refunds will be issued only for the meals, events, and tours which take place AFTER your absence begins. (If the guarantee has already been given for a meal function or a tour, no refund for that function will be given.)
LOST TICKETS - ACB will NOT replace tickets that are lost during the convention. All ticket packets are checked before they are distributed at the convention, and tickets that are lost or misplaced must be purchased again.
SELLING UNWANTED TICKETS - If you have purchased a ticket that you would like to sell, you may leave it at the convention Registration Desk along with your name and room number. Tickets are resold on a first-come, first-serve basis, and ONLY if the event or tour is currently closed or no unsold tickets remain. In general, meal functions and social events at the hotel DO NOT sell out.
EVENTS SOLD OUT: If you are trying to purchase a ticket for an event or tour that is sold out, check daily in person at the Registration Desk for tickets returned for resale. If a tour or event was sold out before your pre-registration form was processed, a refund will be included with your pre-registration packet. ACB is not responsible for notifying you if you have paid for a ticket through pre-registration for an event or tour that is already sold out. Your name will be put on a waiting list in the event of cancellations, or in case additional tickets become available.
COMMUNICATION CENTER SERVICES
The Communication Center, in the Clearwater Room on the third floor, is open from 8:00am to 5:00pm Friday, July 7 through Wednesday, July 12. This is the place to sign up for "home delivery" of the convention newspaper, place ads in the paper, make copies, convert disks to braille, or volunteer to help produce the paper.
CONVENTION NEWSPAPER - This year's newspaper is "The Jacksonville Sun." It will be published each day, Saturday through Thursday, in braille, large print, and on cassette. Pick up a copy at the ACB Thompson West Information Desk on the second floor.
The National Alliance of Blind Students (NABS) will deliver the newspaper to your hotel room door. For $5.00 (pre-registration) or $10.00 (registration), your paper will be waiting for you each morning when you wake up. After you sign up for delivery of the paper at the registration office, you must drop by the Communication Center to give us your room number and specify your preference of braille, large print or cassette.
Hang onto the Saturday issue of the "Sun"; it will include important suite numbers, phone numbers, and last-minute program changes.
ADS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS: Ads and other items for publication must be in the Communication Center by 2:00pm each day. The Board of Publications allows ads to run for only three days in order to give important convention announcements more space. Ads must be no longer than 100 words. Board of Publications editorial policy prohibits the production or distribution of campaign materials by the Communication Center.
Cost of advertising in the newspaper is as follows: for-profit businesses - $35 per day or $100 for three days; non-profit organizations and ACB affiliates - $10 per day (maximum of three days); individuals - $5 per day (maximum of three days). Ads will appear in all three editions of the newspaper.
BRAILLING AND PHOTOCOPYING: Photocopying is available at the Communication Center for 10 cents a copy. Please pay the registration office.
If your committee or affiliate needs something in braille or large print, bring disks with your files to us early in the day so we can fit your job in during the quiet time between other jobs. Make certain to label your disk(s), and tell us how many of each format you need, and by what time.
THANKS to Enabling Technologies for donating the use of the braille printers, and to Star Continuous Cards for their generous donation of braille paper.
Please remember that the Communication Center is a working room. While we understand that convention is a great place to see old friends and new, loud conversations make it difficult to hear the speech synthesizers on the computers which enable us to get the newspaper out to you, the readers. Help us help you get the information you need.
ACB CAFE
Look for the ACB Cafe on the third floor breezeway from Saturday, July 8 through Friday, July 14. Watch the convention newspaper for hours and menu information.
YOUTH ACTIVITIES CENTER (YAC)
Kids 6 to 17 can enjoy a great week of fun and activities in the YAC.
The YAC Ticket includes a whole week of activities. The YAC goes to Adventure Landing on Tuesday; a full day of fun featuring a water park, miniature golf, laser tag, go-carts, and an arcade. Sponsored by the Council of Families with Visual Impairments (CFVI).
YAC rides the monorail to fun places around town on Wednesday, and rides the water taxi to the interactive science museum on Thursday morning. There's plenty of swimming, crafts, games, and movies, and a special party is planned for Friday evening during the banquet.
To make it easier for parents to purchase tickets for their children to other events, each child must complete his or her own convention registration form. The YAC ticket has been reduced to $5 (pre-registration) and $10 (registration), and the remainder of the cost is covered in the administrative fee.
Open from 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday; closed for lunch from 12:15 to 1:30 (except on Tuesday and Wednesday, when kids bring lunch money).
Attention, teens 14 and up! Want to be more than just a YACster? Be a YAC counselor! Stop by the YAC for more details; requires YAC registration and signed parental consent forms.
Parents must accompany children to the YAC the first time in order to sign permission slips, waivers, etc. Children may not participate in any YAC activities or events if forms are not completed and signed in advance.
Children must be picked up on time. While the YAC volunteers love children, they need breaks for lunch and have other commitments after the YAC ends each day. Please be respectful of their time and other obligations.
For more information, or to find out how you or your affiliate can become a YAC sponsor, contact Patti Cox, YAC Coordinator.
AFFILIATE CAUCUSES
Make reservations for affiliate caucus rooms at the ACB Thompson West Information Desk on the second floor. Caucus rooms are available on a first-come basis on Wednesday and Thursday from 12:00 noon to 1:15pm and after 4:00pm.
The following caucuses are scheduled as of the printing of this program. Refer to the convention newspaper for announcements of additional caucuses, and be sure to listen for announcements each morning in the general session.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
7:00 a.m. - California Council of the Blind Breakfast - City 4
1:30 p.m. - SASI "Meet the Candidates" - City 11
5:00 p.m. - Midwest States Caucus - Orlando
THURSDAY, JULY 13
7:00 a.m. - Pennsylvania Council of the Blind Breakfast - City 6
7:00 a.m. - Washington Council of the Blind Breakfast - City 5
2:15 p.m. - GDUI caucus - River 2
5:00 p.m. - Missouri Council of the Blind Caucus - City 4
5:00 p.m. - Mid-south Caucus - Orlando
FRIDAY, JULY 14
7:00 a.m. - ACB of Ohio Breakfast - City 5
RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES
SATURDAY, JULY 8
5:00 p.m. - Jewish Service - City 8
5:00 p.m. - Roman Catholic Mass - City 11
SUNDAY, JULY 9
9:30 a.m. - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Sacrament Meeting - City 8
10:00 a.m. - Interdenominational Church Service - Orlando
MONDAY, JULY 10
7:00 p.m. - Gospel Sing - City 4
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
THURSDAY, JULY 6
6:00 p.m. Pre-registration pick-up until 8:00 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 7
7:15 a.m. St. Augustine Tour
11:00 a.m. Registration open until 8:00 p.m.
6:15 p.m. Baseball Game Tour
7:00 p.m. Convention Committee Meeting -Orlando
SATURDAY, JULY 8
8:00 a.m. Registration open until 7:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. ACB Caf‚ open until 3:30 p.m.
8:30 a.m. ACB Pre-convention Board of Directors Meeting - Orlando
8:45 a.m. Jacksonville City Tour
9:00 a.m. RSVA Subcommittee Meetings - RSVA Suite
9:45 a.m. Sun Cruise Casino Tour
1:00 p.m. ACB Credentials Committee - Board 1
1:00 p.m. Exhibits open until 5:00 p.m. - Terrace Pavillion
2:00 p.m. ACB Constitution and Bylaws Committee - Board 2
2:00 p.m. ACB Information Access Committee - Positives and Progress - City 7
3:00 p.m. RSVA Pre-Convention Board Meeting - Orlando
4:00 p.m. CCLVI Board Meeting - City 6
4:30 p.m. BITS Pre-Convention Board Meeting - Board 1
5:00 p.m. First-Timers' Seminar - City 7
5:00 p.m. Jewish Service - City 8
5:00 p.m. Roman Catholic Mass - City 11
6:00 p.m. AAVIA Board Meeting - City 10
6:00 p.m. BFLAG Board Meeting and Dinner - off-site
6:00 p.m. Exhibitors' Reception (by invitation) - 4104
6:30 p.m. ACB Tracfone Scholarship Winners' Dinner (by invitation) - City 5
7:00 p.m. CCLVI Nominating Committee - City 6
7:00 p.m. FIA Board Meeting - 4108
8:00 p.m. FCB Welcome to Jacksonville Party - River 1
8:00 p.m. LUA Board Meeting - Board 1
8:00 p.m. NABS Welcome Party - 1840
9:00 p.m. ACB Resolutions Committee - Board 2
9:00 p.m. RSVA Mixer - RSVA Suite
9:00 p.m. ACBL Milly's Place Pin Swap - 4106
SUNDAY, JULY 9
7:30 a.m. NELDS Board Meeting - 1840
7:30 a.m. ACB Cafe open until 3:30 p.m.
8:00 a.m. Registration open until 5:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. NABT Breakfast: "Don't Sit; Be Fit" - City 5
8:45 a.m. Jacksonville City Tour
9:00 a.m. Exhibits open until 5:00 p.m. - Terrace Pavillion
9:00 a.m. ACBES Managers' Meeting - City 11
9:00 a.m. RSVA Program - City 7
9:30 a.m. BOP Meeting - Board 2
9:30 a.m. LDS Sacrament Meeting - City 8
9:45 a.m. NABT Business Meeting - City 5
10:00 a.m. Interdenominational Church Service - Orlando
10:00 a.m. ACB Legislative Seminar - Daytona
10:00 a.m. BFLAG/CCLVI Program - City 9
10:00 a.m. BITS Program - City 10
10:30 a.m. ACBL Board Meeting - Board 1
10:30 a.m. NABT Board Meeting -City 5
11:15 a.m. Ocean Fishing Tour
12:00 p.m. GDUI Convention Area Orientation - River 3
12:00 p.m. NABS Scholarship Winners Luncheon - City 6
12:30 p.m. Sports Fanatics Luncheon - St. Johns
1:00 p.m. ACB Credentials Committee - Board 2
1:00 p.m. Focus Group: JAWS for Windows 3.x - City 4
1:30 p.m. AAVIA Program - City 10
1:30 p.m. BITS Technology Vendors' Showcase - City 9
1:30 p.m. CCLVI Program - City 12
1:30 p.m. NAPVI Parents' Workshop - Orlando
1:30 p.m. RSVA Program - City 7
2:00 p.m. ACBDA Diabetes Seminar - Daytona
2:00 p.m. WCC Program - City 8
2:15 p.m. GDUI Affiliate Roundup - River 2
3:00 p.m. ACBGE Mixer - 1840
3:00 p.m. BFLAG Welcome Party - 4106
3:00 p.m. BRL Board Meeting - Board 1
3:00 p.m. Seeing Eye Ice Cream Social - River 1
3:30 p.m. Newsreelers' Get-together - Executive Director's Suite
4:00 p.m. CCLVI Mixer - 4104
4:00 p.m FIA Mixer/Showcase Sign-up - 4108
4:00 p.m. First Timers' Seminar - City 4
4:00 p.m. GDUI Board Meeting - River 2
5:00 p.m. GDUI Convention Area Orientation - River 3
5:00 p.m. NAPVI Family Pool Party and Ice Cream Social - Pool
5:30 p.m. FIA Chorus Rehearsal - 4108
6:30 p.m. ACB Pre-Convention Entertainment - Grand Ballroom
7:00 p.m. ACB General Session - Grand Ballroom
10:00 p.m. CCLVI Welcome Dance - River 1
10:00 p.m. RSVA Mixer - RSVA Suite
10:30 p.m. BFLAG President's Reception - 4106
11:00 p.m. ACB Resolutions Committee - Board 2
MONDAY, JULY 10
7:00 a.m. GDUI Breakfast Club; meet in lobby
7:00 a.m. IVIE Breakfast and Business Meeting - City 5
7:00 a.m. NIB Breakfast - Daytona
7:30 a.m. ACB Cafe open until 3:30 p.m.
7:30 a.m. BFLAG Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
8:00 a.m. Registration open until 2:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. ACB Pre-Convention Entertainment - Grand Ballroom
8:15 a.m. YAC open until 4:00pm - 4104
8:30 a.m. ACB General Session - Grand Ballroom
11:00 a.m. Exhibits open until 5:00 p.m. - Terrace Pavillion
12:30 p.m. Martin Coffee Company Tour
12:30 p.m. AAVL Luncheon and Program - St. Johns
12:30 p.m. Multicultural Luncheon - City 5
12:30 p.m. RSVA Luncheon and meeting - Daytona
1:00 p.m. Focus Group: New Features of MAGic 10.0 - City 11
1:30 p.m. AAVIA Program - City 10
1:30 p.m. BFLAG/CCLVI Program - Disaster Preparedness -- City 7
1:30 p.m. BITS/IVIE Program - City 9
1:30 p.m. FIA Music Arranging Made Easy - 4108
1:30 p.m. GDUI Program - River 2
1:45 p.m. LUA Program - Orlando
2:00 p.m. GDUI/NABS Program - City 12
2:30 p.m. Busch Brewery Tour
3:15 p.m. LUA/NABT Program - Accessible Textbooks -- Orlando
3:30 p.m. BITS - What's New in Windows VISTA? -- City 9
3:30 p.m. FIA Showcase Rehearsal - 4108
3:45 p.m. IVIE - To Market We Go -- City 8
4:00 p.m. ACB Roadmap - City 4
4:00 p.m. WCC/Recreation Zone - Pilates - City 12
5:00 p.m. ACB Constitution and Bylaws Committee - Board 2
5:00 p.m. Braille Bunco - River 1
5:00 p.m. Kurzweil Users Group - City 7
5:30 p.m. ACB Nominating Committee - City 12
6:00 p.m. Speaker's Reception - Executive Director's Suite
6:00 p.m. RSVA Auction Preview - Daytona
7:00 p.m. Alaska Hospitality - 4104
7:00 p.m. BFLAG Annual Meeting - 4106
7:00 p.m. Gospel Sing-a-long - Orlando
7:00 p.m. RSVA Auction - Daytona
7:30 p.m. DVS Movie Night - Cheaper by the Dozen 2 -- Orlando
8:00 p.m. ACB Resolutions Committee - Board 2
8:00 p.m. Hospitality Bytes with BITS - 1840
8:00 p.m. GDUI "Dogs on the Street" Reception - River 1
9:00 p.m. BFLAG Pizza Party - 4106
9:00 p.m. FIA Prose and Poetry Reading - City 8
9:00 p.m. RSVA Karaoke - Daytona
10:00 p.m. FIA Chorus Rehearsal - 4108
TUESDAY, JULY 11
7:00 a.m. GDUI Breakfast Club; meet in lobby
7:00 a.m. AFB Breakfast - Daytona
7:00 a.m. Guide Dogs for the Blind Breakfast (graduates and prospective students) - St. Johns
7:00 a.m. Seeing Eye Breakfast - City 9
7:30 a.m. ACB Cafe open until 3:30 p.m.
7:30 a.m. BFLAG Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
8:00 a.m. Registration open until 2:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. ACB Pre-Convention Entertainment; Grand Ballroom
8:15 a.m. CFVI Day at the YAC; meet at ACB Cafe for Adventure Landing
8:30 a.m. ACB General Session; Grand Ballroom
11:00 a.m. Exhibits open until 5:00p.m. - Terrace Pavillion
12:30 p.m. Okefenokee Swamp Tour
12:30 p.m. Blind Services Tour
12:30 p.m. AAVIA Luncheon and Meeting - City 10
12:30 p.m. ACBL Luncheon and Meeting - City 5
12:30 p.m. BITS Luncheon and Program - St. Johns
12:30 p.m. FIA Luncheon and Meeting - City 6
12:30 p.m. GDUI Program - River 2
1:30 p.m. ACB Employer Tips for Success Seminar - Daytona
1:30 p.m. CCLVI Program - City 9
1:30 p.m. NABS/NABT program - City 7
1:30 p.m. VIVA Program - 4104
1:45 p.m. BRL Program - City 8
2:00 p.m. BFLAG Program - City 11
2:00 p.m. i.d. mate OMNI Focus Group - Orlando
3:00 p.m. FIA Designer Choice: Hands-on Flower Arranging - 4106
3:15 p.m. NABS Business Meeting - City 6
3:15 p.m. NABT Using Powerpoint with Access Technology - City 7
3:30 p.m. i.d. mate OMNI Focus Group - Orlando
4:00 p.m. ACB Roadmap - City 5
4:00 p.m. IVIE/RSVA Business Card Exchange/25th Anniversary Party - RSVA Suite
4:00 p.m. Recreation Zone - City 12
4:30 p.m. BFLAG Spaghetti Dinner - off-site
5:00 p.m. ACB Constitution and Bylaws Committee - Board 2
5:00p.m. ACB Agency Directors' Reception (by invitation) - 1840
5:00 p.m. Guiding Eyes for the Blind Wine and Cheese Reception (welcome all guide dog users) - St. Johns
5:00 p.m. International Conversations - City 8
6:00 p.m. ACB Speakers' Reception - Executive Director's Suite
6:30 p.m. ACB Scholarship Winners Reception - 4104
7:00 p.m. NCI Family Film Night - Orlando
7:00 p.m. Southeastern Guide Dogs Ice Cream Social - River 1
8:00 p.m. FIA Showcase of the Performing Arts - Grand Ballroom
8:00 p.m. GDUI River Walk - TBA
8:00 p.m. RSVA Casino Night - Daytona
8:30 p.m. ACB Resolutions Committee - Board 2
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
7:00 a.m. GDUI Breakfast Club; meet in lobby
7:00 a.m. California Council of the Blind Breakfast Caucus (members only) - City 4
7:30 a.m. ACB Cafe open until 3:30 p.m.
7:30 a.m. BFLAG Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
8:00 a.m. Registration open until 2:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. ACB Pre-Convention Entertainment - Grand Ballroom
8:15 a.m. Regal Cinemas Day at the YAC open until 4:00 p.m. - 4106
8:30 a.m. ACB General Session - Grand Ballroom
11:00 a.m. Exhibits open until 5:00p.m. - Terrace Pavillion
12:30 p.m. Martin Coffee Company Tour
12:30 p.m. GDUI Luncheon - Daytona
12:30 p.m. WCC Red Hat Luncheon - City 4
1:00 p.m. Museum of Science and History Tour
1:30 p.m. AAVL/ACBDA program - City 12
1:30 p.m. CCLVI Program - City 7
1:30 p.m. FIA Advanced MIDI Workshop - 4108
1:30 p.m. SASI Program - City 11
1:45 p.m. LUA Program - City 9
2:15 p.m. GDUI Auction - Daytona
2:30 p.m. Busch Brewery Tour
3:00 p.m. ACBDA Business Meeting - City 12
3:00 p.m. ACBHSP Program - City 10
3:00 p.m. FIA/NABT "Chopping Off the Chaff" Editors' Workshop - City 8
4:00 p.m. AAVL Musical Mixer - 4104
4:30 p.m. BFLAG Club 616 Social
5:00 p.m. ACB Constitution and Bylaws Committee - Board 2
5:00 p.m. ACBDA Mixer - City 5
5:00 p.m. FIA Round Sing - 4108
5:00 p.m. Midwest Caucus - Orlando
5:00 p.m. Recreation Zone: Water Aerobics - Pool
5:45 p.m. Hanna Beach Party Tour
6:00 p.m. ACB Speakers' Reception - Executive Director's Suite
7:00 p.m. SASI Rap - City 12
8:00 p.m. ACB Resolutions Committee - Board 2
8:00 p.m. GDUI "Waggable Tales" - River 2
8:30 p.m. CCLVI Game Night - River 1
9:00 p.m. Multicultural Mid-week Jam - 1840
10:30 p.m. BFLAG Men's Discussion Group - BFLAG Suite
10:30 p.m. BFLAG Women's Discussion Group - TBA
THURSDAY, JULY 13
7:00 a.m. GDUI Breakfast Club; meet in lobby
7:00 a.m. Pennsylvania Council of the Blind Breakfast Caucus (members only) - City 6
7:00 a.m. Washington Council of the Blind Breakfast Caucus (members only) - City 5
7:30 a.m. ACB Cafe open until 3:30 p.m.
7:30 a.m. BFLAG Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
8:00 a.m. Registration open until 2:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. ACB Pre-Convention Entertainment - Grand Ballroom
8:15 a.m. YAC open until 4:00 p.m. - 4106
8:30 a.m. ACB General Session - Grand Ballroom
9:00 a.m. Exhibits open until 1:00 p.m. - Terrace Pavillion
12:00 p.m. ACBL Local Club Visit and Lunch - meet in lobby
12:00 p.m. BFLAG Beach Party - meet in lobby
12:15 p.m. St. Augustine Ghost Tour
12:30 p.m. ACBGE Luncheon and Program - City 5
12:30 p.m. GDUI Meeting - River 2
12:45 p.m. Cummer Museum Art and Garden Tour
1:30 p.m. AAVL Program - City 10
1:30 p.m. NELDS Workshop: Social Security ABC's - City 9
1:30 p.m. Star Trek Seminar and Mixer - City 7
1:30 p.m. SASI - Purchasing Hearing Aids: The Real Scoop - City 11
1:45 p.m. BRL Program - City 8
2:00 p.m. ACB Membership Seminar - Orlando
2:00 p.m. ACB Radio Amateurs Meeting - Board 1
2:00 p.m. CFVI Business Meeting - City 6
2:00 p.m. WCC Program - City 12
4:00 p.m. ACB Presidents' Meeting - Daytona
4:30 p.m. Ski for Light Mixer - 1840
5:00 p.m. Mid-South Caucus - Orlando
5:00 p.m. Missouri Caucus - City 4
5:00 p.m. Recreation Zone: Water Aerobics - Pool
6:00 p.m. ACB Resolutions Committee - Board 2
6:00 p.m. DKM Orange Blossom Festival - 4104
7:00 p.m. ACB Candidates' Forum - Grand Ballroom
8:00 p.m. GDUI "Downward Dog" - River 2
9:00 p.m. NABS Comedy Club - River 1
9:30 p.m. ACB Resolutions Committee - Board 2
FRIDAY, JULY 14
7:00 a.m. ACB of Ohio Breakfast/Caucus (members only) - City 5
7:30 a.m. ACB Caf‚ open until 2:00 p.m.
7:30 a.m. BFLAG Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
8:00 a.m. Registration open until 11:00 a.m.
8:00 a.m. ACB Pre-Convention Entertainment - Grand Ballroom
8:15 a.m. YAC open until 5:00 p.m. - 4106
8:30 a.m. ACB General Session - Grand Ballroom
5:30 p.m. ACB Life Members Reception - 4104
6:30 p.m. Doors open for ACB Banquet - Terrace Pavillion
6:45 p.m. YAC Party - 4106/Pool
7:00 p.m. ACB Banquet - Terrace Pavillion
10:30 p.m. BFLAG/CCLVI Farewell Dance - River 1
SATURDAY, JULY 15
9:45 a.m. Sun Cruise Casino Tour
10:00 a.m. ACB Post-convention Board of Directors Meeting - Orlando
5:45 p.m. Alhambra Dinner Theater Tour - "Beauty and the Beast"
CONVENTION STANDING RULES
Adopted July 4, 2005
1. Each debatable issue before the convention shall be limited to approximately twenty (20) minutes with a three minute time limit per speaker alternating between affirmative and opposing speakers unless a majority of the members agree to extend debate for an additional period of time.
A. Motions to close debate will not be recognized by the chair during the first debate period. After the first debate period, properly moved motions such as "I call for the question" or "I move the previous question," will be handled by the chair and voted on by the assembly.
B. The chair may close debate when no one seeks the floor.
C. Each member is respectfully urged to speak directly to the issue before the assembly and avoid unnecessary and time consuming dialogue.
D. No member will be recognized a second time to debate until all who wish to debate have been recognized.
E. The Parliamentarian will act as time keeper.
2. Recognition to speak will be given to those members who properly address the chair using the microphones and giving their names. Motions that may interrupt a speaker may be called from your seat, responded to by the chair, and explained by the mover at a microphone. (Point of Order, Point of Information, Parliamentary Inquiry, Question of Privilege, etc.)
3. Registration badges are required to be worn at all convention meetings and only those members with an orange dot are allowed to vote during the business meeting.
4. Convention Program changes may be made as deemed necessary by the chair or his appointee unless objected to by a member.
5. Nominating and seconding speeches shall be limited to five minutes per candidate with the speaking time to be allocated according to the candidates wishes. A person nominated for an office for a second time shall be limited to two minutes.
6. When no candidate for office receives a majority vote, the election shall be dropped to the top two candidates. Affiliate votes will be given in whole or half numbers.
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND
45TH ANNUAL CONVENTION
GENERAL SESSIONS AGENDA
SUNDAY, JULY 9
6:30 p.m. Entertainment: TBA
7:00 p.m. Call to Order: Christopher Gray, President, American Council of the Blind, San Francisco, CA
Invocation: Rev. Carmen Johns, Beaches United Methodist Church, Jacksonville Beach, FL
Presentation of the Colors
Pledge of Allegiance: Michael Taylor, member of the FCB Host Committee, Orange Park, FL
"The Star-Spangled Banner:" Sarah Alawami, Las Vegas, NV
Welcome: Jack Gillrup, Chief, Disabled Services Division, City of Jacksonville
Welcome: Debbie Grubb, President, Florida Council of the Blind, Bradenton, FL
7:20 p.m. ACB President's Report, Christopher Gray
7:45 p.m. Presentation of M.C. Migel Lay Volunteer Award Medal: Carl Augusto, President and CEO, American Foundation for the Blind, New York, NY
7:55 p.m. Charter Presentation: Sue Ammeter, ACB Membership Committee Chair, Port Hadlock, WA
8:15 p.m. ACB First-Timers: Carol Ann Ewing, Chair, Durward K. McDaniel Fund Committee, Las Vegas, NV
8:20 p.m. Life Membership Presentations
8:45 p.m. Credentials Committee Report: Jerry Annunzio, Chair, Kansas City, MO
8:55 p.m. Roll Call of Affiliates, Donna Seliger, ACB Secretary, Des Moines, IA
MONDAY, JULY 10
8:00 a.m. Entertainment: Brenda and Dan Dillon, Nashville, TN
8:30 a.m. Pledge of Allegiance: Paul Kaminski, Treasurer, Blinded Veterans of America and member, FCB Host Committee, Middleburg, FL
Invocation: Pastor Douglas Axtell, Murray Hill Baptist Church, Jacksonville, FL
8:35 a.m. ACB Business including Final Credentials Report Presiding Officer: MJ Schmitt, ACB First Vice President, Rochester, NY
Awards Presentations:
Affiliate Growth Award
Robert S. Bray Award, Nola McKinney, Chair, Awards Committee, Bonnerdale, AR
Ned E. Freeman Award and Vernon Henley Media Award, Mike Duke, Chair, Board of Publications, Jackson, MS
10:15 a.m. Break
10:30 a.m. Striving to Be a Model Workplace for People with Disabilities -- CDCs New Initiative: Ruth M. Martin, Chief Management Officer for Environmental Health and Injury Prevention, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA
11:00 a.m. Medicare Part D: What You Need to Know About Prescription Drug Coverage, representative of Northeast Florida Area Agency on Aging, SHINE Program
11:30 a.m. NIB Update: Jim Gibbons, President and Chief Executive Officer, National Industries for the Blind, Alexandria, VA
11:40 a.m. Making Tomorrow Look Brighter Today: A Report from the Monthly Monetary Support Committee, Ron Milliman, Chair, Bowling Green, KY
11:50 a.m. Recreation Zone Update: Oral O. Miller, Washington, DC
11:55 a.m. Announcements
TUESDAY, JULY 11
8:00 a.m. Entertainment: Nancy Pendegraph, Huntsville, AL
8:30 a.m. Pledge of Allegiance: John Fleming, President, Visually Impaired Veterans of America, Portland, OR
Invocation: Rev. William Hamilton, St. John's Lutheran Church, Jacksonville, FL
8:35 a.m. ACB Business Presiding Officer: Mitch Pomerantz, ACB Second Vice President, Pasadena, CA
9:15 a.m. 2006 American Council of the Blind Scholarship Presentations: Patty Slaby, Chair, ACB Scholarship Committee, River Falls, WI
10:15 a.m. Break
10:30 a.m. Emergency Preparedness Panel Moderator: Day Al-Mohamed, ACB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs, Washington, DC The Role of the American Red Cross - Victoria Melvin, American Red Cross, Washington, DC Access Alerts Project - Mary Watkins, Outreach Director, WGBH's Media Access Group, Boston, MA
11:15 a.m. Congresswoman Corrine Brown, Third District, Jacksonville, FL
11:35 a.m. The U.N. Treaty on Rights of People with Disabilities: Kathy Martinez, Executive Director, World Institute on Disability
11:50 a.m. Announcements
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
8:00 a.m. Entertainment: Deanna Scoggins, Louisville, KY
8:30 a.m. Pledge of Allegiance: Children and Teens from the Youth Activities Center, Patti Cox , YAC Coordinator, Louisville, KY
Invocation: TBA
8:35 a.m. ACB Business Presiding Officer: Mike Godino, ACB Treasurer, Malverne, NY
9:15 a.m. Implementing the Help America Vote Act: The State of the States A panel discussion moderated by Day Al-Mohamed, ACB's Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs, Washington, DC; Ardis Bazyn, member of the California Secretary of State Voting Systems and Procedures Panel, Burbank, CA; Paul Edwards, Miami, FL; Pat Sheehan, Silver Spring, MD; and Mike Godino, New York State Independent Living Council Vice Chair, Malverne, NY
10:15 a.m. Break
10:30 a.m. News from NLS: A Library of Congress Digital Overview; Frank Kurt Cylke, Director, and Alice Baker, Digital Contract Coordinator, NLS, Washington, DC
11:00 a.m. Louis Braille: A Touch of Genius, Michael Mellor, Brooklyn, NY
11:30 a.m. Notes from a Talking Book Narrator: Jim Zeiger, Talking Book Publishers, Denver, CO
11:55 a.m. Announcements
THURSDAY, JULY 13
8:00 a.m. Entertainment: Janiece Petersen Kent, Washington, DC
8:30 a.m. Pledge of Allegiance: Darren Hatch, Louisville, KY
Invocation: Apostle C.D. Martin, The Church of the Living God and Unity, Jacksonville, FL
8:35 a.m. ACB Business Presiding Officer: Donna Seliger, ACB Secretary, Des Moines, IA
9:15 a.m. "Don't Toss Out Your Cell Phone & TV Yet! News You Can Use," Jenifer Simpson, Senior Director, Telecommunications & Technology Policy, American Association of People with Disabilities, Washington, DC
10:00 a.m. Ralph Neas, President, People for the American Way, Washington, DC (invited)
10:15 a.m. Break
10:30 a.m. ACB Business
Executive Director's Report: Melanie Brunson, ACB Executive Director, Washington, DC
ACB Treasurer's Report: Mike Godino, ACB Treasurer, Malverne, NY
National Convention Report: Carla Ruschival, Chair, National Convention Committee, Louisville, KY
FRIDAY, JULY 14
8:00 a.m. Entertainment : TBA
8:30 a.m. Pledge of Allegiance: Charles S.P. Hodge, ACB Life Member, Arlington, VA
Invocation: TBA
8:35 a.m. ACB Business Presiding Officer: Christopher Gray, ACB President, San Francisco, CA
ACB Radio Report: Chrissie Cochran, United Kingdom
ACB Enterprises and Services Report: Michael Garrett, Chair, ACBES Board of Directors
9:15 a.m. Elections
10:15 a.m. Break
10:30 a.m. ACB Business
12:00 p.m. Lunch Break
1:15 p.m. ACB Business
2:45 p.m. Break
3:00 p.m. ACB Business
5:00 p.m. Adjourn
7:00 p.m. AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND ANNUAL BANQUET -- Terrace Pavillion
Durward K. McDaniel Ambassador Award Presentation
George Card Award Presentation
Program TBA
ACB BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Many ACB boards and committees meet during convention week. Check the information below and the Calendar of Events for meeting dates and times.
FRIDAY, JULY 7
7:00 p.m. Convention Committee - Orlando
SATURDAY, JULY 8
8:30 a.m. Board of Directors Pre-convention Board Meeting - Board 1
1:00 p.m. Credentials Committee - Board 1
2:00 p.m. Constitution and Bylaws Committee - Board 2
9:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee - Board 2
SUNDAY, JULY 9
9:30 a.m. Board of Publications - Board 2
1:00 p.m. Credentials Committee - Board 2
11:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee - Board 2
MONDAY, JULY 10
5:00 p.m. Constitution and Bylaws Committee - Board 2
5:30 p.m. ACB Nominating Committee - City 12
8:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee - Board 2
TUESDAY, JULY11
5:00 p.m. Constitution and Bylaws Committee - Board 2
8:30 p.m. Resolutions Committee - Board 2
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
5:00 p.m. Constitution and Bylaws Committee - Board 2
8:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee - Board 2
THURSDAY, JULY 13
6:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee - Board 2
9:30 p.m. Resolutions Committee - Board 2
SATURDAY, JULY 15
10:00 a.m. Board of Directors Post-convention Meeting - Orlando
ACB COMMITTEE PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES
DKM FIRST-TIMERS' COMMITTEE
Chair: Carol Ann Ewing
THURSDAY, JULY 13
6:00 p.m. DKM Orange Blossom Festival - 4104 Wonderful opportunity to meet the 2006 Durward K. McDaniel First-timers while helping raise money to bring more new ACBers to the 2007 convention in Minneapolis. $10 - $12
EMPLOYMENT ISSUES COMMITTEE SEMINAR
Chair: Mitch Pomerantz
TUESDAY, JULY 11
1:30 p.m. ACB Employment Issues Seminar - Daytona "What Do Employers Look For in an Applicant and Other Tips for Success in the Job Market". See schedule below for more details. $10 - $10
1:30 p.m. Opening Remarks/Introductions - Mitch Pomerantz, ADA Compliance Officer, City of Los Angeles Department on Disability, Los Angeles, CA
1:45 p.m. Activity/Preparing Your Questions - Peter Altschul, Senior Consultant, Organization Develop.m.ent, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, Washington, DC
2:15 p.m. Employer Panel - Facilitator, M.J. Schmitt, Retired Programmer, Rochester, NY; Panel Members - Hillery Cunningham, Manager of Internship and Co-Op Programs, CSX Transportation; Casee Wegehoft, Assistant Vice President, Recruiting, Merrill Lynch; Nina Richter, Director of Human Resources, Freedom Scientific
3:30 p.m. Starting and Running Your Own Business - Carla Hayes, CEO, Lengua-Learn Communications, Pittsburgh, Pa
4:00 p.m. A Career Option to Consider, National Industries for the Blind, Business Leaders Program - Karen Pal, Manager, Business Leaders Program, National Industries for the Blind, Alexandria, VA
4:30 p.m. Wrap-Up and Feedback - Mitch Pomerantz
INFORMATION ACCESS COMMITTEE
Chair: Susan Palmer Mazrui
SATURDAY, JULY 8
2:00 p.m. "Positives and Progress" - City 7 Good news for Bloggers and Googlers! PLUS resources for accessible appliances and cell phones.
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
Chair: Sue Ammeter
THURSDAY, JULY 13
2:00 p.m. ACB Membership Seminar - Orlando Great tips and ideas to help your chapter or affiliate all through the year. The benefits of membership in ACB, and how to run a successful meeting. Door prizes, too.
MULTICULTURAL CONCERNS COMMITTEE
Committee Chair: Peggy Chavis
MONDAY, JULY 10
12:30 p.m. Multicultural Concerns Luncheon - City 5 Join us for lunch as we continue the topic "Diversity in Leadership in ACB". An international guest will lead discussion as they share how they overcame barriers to become leaders. $25 - $27
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
9:00 p.m. Multicultural Midweek Jam - 1840 The perfect time to relax and enjoy music and socializing with special friends. Also an opportunity for all candidates to mingle and get to know other ACB members prior to elections on Friday. Stop by Suite 1840 and join us for music, refreshments and fun!!! $15 - $15
SIGHT AND SOUND IMPAIRED COMMITTEE
Committee Chair: Patty Sarchi
Program Chair: Karyn Campbell
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
1:30 p.m. Meet the Candidates - City 11
1:55 p.m. MSU Update - City 10 News about research into the needs of seniors with both a vision and hearing loss. Presenter: B.J. LeJeune, Mississippi State University Rehabilitation Research and Training Center
2:45 p.m. SSP National Pilot Project Update and the AADB Learn about the national pilot project for Support Service Providers (SSPs) and what you can do to get a program in your area. Also news from the American Association of the Deaf-blind (AADB).
3:30 p.m. World of Independence through Technology Assistive Listening Devices, amplified telephones, smoke detectors and alert systems, and other communication ideas for the hearing-impaired.
7:00 p.m. SASI Rap - City 12 Share your challenges with other SASI folks and get advice on how to cope. Facilitator: Jessie Rayl, President, ACB Human Service Providers, Martinsburg, WV
THURSDAY, JULY 13
1:30 p.m. Purchasing Hearing Aids: The Real Scoop - City 11 Answers to questions such as what to consider when choosing hearing aids and how trial periods work. Janet Shelfer, Audiologist, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
2:30 p.m. Break
2:45 p.m. Beyond Hearing Aids Make your home more accessible; live independently or with minimal assistance. George Elwell (invited), President, Silent Call
4:00 p.m. Closing and Wrap up
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE
Chair: Patty Slaby
SATURDAY, JULY 8
6:00 p.m. ACB Tracfone Scholarship Dinner (invitation only) - City 5
TUESDAY, JULY 11
6:30 p.m. ACB Scholarship Winners Reception - 4104 Each affiliate is invited to send two representatives to meet the scholarship winners.
WOMEN'S CONCERNS COMMITTEE
Chair: Bernice Kandarian
SUNDAY, JULY 9
2:00 p.m. Mammacare - City 8 Discussion of national breast cancer screening trends for women with disabilities. Identify barriers to breast health services for women who are blind or visually impaired and methods to remove these barriers. Demonstration of the Adaptive MammaCare (R) Personal Learning System, developed with the support of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in response to the need for an accessible and effective breast self-examination (BSE) program for women who are blind or visually impaired. Presenter: Mary Ann Mehn, Ph.D., Director of Education, MammaCare
MONDAY, JULY 10
4:00 p.m. Pilates - City 12 Joint session with the Recreation Zone. Pilates is an exercise program focusing on the core postural muscles that help keep the body balanced and are essential for providing support to the spine. Learn about the benefits of Pilates; some surprises, too.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
12:30 p.m. WCC Red Hat Luncheon - City 4 Poems, songs, games, door prizes, good food and good times to be had by all! Wear your red hat and purple dress, or your pink hat and lavender dress if you haven't reached your "birthatude" (age 50) yet! $28 - $29
2:00 p.m. "What Message Are You Getting from ME?" Communication through appearance, tone of voice and body language. Panel and audience participation. Panelists: Marlaina Lieberg, Director of Marketing and Outreach, ACB Radio, Burien, WA; Lori Scharff, LMSW, Malverne, NY; Debbie Hazelton, ED.S, MA
THURSDAY, JULY 13
2:00 p.m. "Puzzle Pieces That Keep Us in Balance" - City 8 Presentation by Debbie Hazelton, ED.S; state licensed in mental health counseling and nationally certified in massage therapy. Also presentation by Reiki Master, practitioner of magnified healing, certified in level one Bach Flower and Emotional Freedom technique; ordained minister and author of "Solving the Self-Esteem Puzzle," Margate, FL. Bach Flowers, aromatherapy, emotional freedom technique, aid in stress reduction and joyously support well-being.
OTHER ACB SEMINARS & EVENTS
SATURDAY, JULY 8
5:00 p.m. ACB First-Timers' Seminar - City 7 Get an overview of what to expect at an ACB convention and how to get the most out of the week's activities.
6:00 p.m. ACB Exhibitors' Reception (by invitation) - 4104
SUNDAY, JULY 9
4:00 p.m. ACB First-Timers' Seminar - City 4 Get an overview of what to expect at an ACB convention and how to get the most out of the week's activities.
MONDAY, JULY 10
4:00 p.m. ACB Roadmap - City 4 Members of our leadership facilitate these conversations and listen to your thoughts and ideas.
4:00 p.m. Recreation Zone: Pilates - City 12 Joint session with the Women's Concerns Committee. Pilates is an exercise program focusing on the core postural muscles that help keep the body balanced and are essential for providing support to the spine. Learn about the benefits of Pilates; some surprises, too.
6:00 p.m. Speakers' Reception - Executive Director's Suite Each affiliate is invited to send two members per reception. A wonderful opportunity for ACB members to meet and talk personally with the convention presenters of the day.
TUESDAY, JULY 11
4:00 p.m. ACB Roadmap - City 5 Members of our leadership facilitate these conversations and listen to your thoughts and ideas.
4:00 p.m. Recreation Zone - City 12
5:00 p.m. Agency Directors' Reception (by invitation) - 1840
5:30 p.m. International Conversations - City 8 Meet our international guests! This forum offers a venue for recognizing guests from other parts of the world, gives them an opportunity to make a few remarks about their countries and organizations, and welcomes them warmly to the ACB national convention. If you are one of our foreign guests, or for more information, contact Oral Miller, member of the ACB Board of Directors.
6:00 p.m. Speakers' Reception - Executive Director's Suite Each affiliate is invited to send two members per reception. A wonderful opportunity for ACB members to meet and talk personally with the convention presenters of the day.
6:30 p.m. Scholarship Winners' Reception - 4104
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
5:00 p.m. Recreation Zone: Water Aerobics - Pool Led by Gerry Koors, certified water aerobics instructor, Indianapolis, IN
6:00 p.m. Speakers' Reception - Executive Director's Suite Each affiliate is invited to send two members per reception. A wonderful opportunity for ACB members to meet and talk personally with the convention presenters of the day.
THURSDAY, JULY 13
4:00 p.m. Affiliate Presidents' Meeting - City 9
5:00 p.m. Recreation Zone: Water Aerobics - Pool Led by Gerry Koors, certified water aerobics instructor, Indianapolis, IN
7:00 p.m. Board of Publications Candidates' Forum - Grand Ballroom Candidates answer questions on a wide variety of topics.
FRIDAY, JULY 14
5:30 p.m. Life Members' Reception - 4104
7:00 p.m. Annual Banquet - Terrace Pavillion Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
SPECIAL-INTEREST AFFILIATE MEETINGS
ALLIANCE ON AGING AND VISION LOSS
President and Program Chair: Nola McKinney
Registration: $8 - $8
MONDAY, JULY 10
12:30 p.m. AAVL Luncheon - St. Johns Laugh about the funny side of life as you enjoy the parodies and songs of Michael Byington, President, Kansas Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired, Topekk, KS. $29 - $30
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
1:30 p.m. "Recognizing the Signs of Senior Diabetes" - City 12 Co-sponsored by ACB Diabetics in Action.
4:00 p.m. AAVL Musical Mixer - 4104 A musical good time provided by George Coorey of Cincinnati, OH. $8 - $10
THURSDAY, JULY 13
1:30 p.m. "Finding Hope in Today's World" - City 10 Roundtable and audience participation; a great time for sharing.
3:00 p.m. AAVL Business Meeting
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF
VISUALLY IMPAIRED ATTORNEYS
President: Gary Austin
Program Chair: James Kracht
Registration: $35 - $40
SATURDAY, JULY 8
6:00 p.m. AAVIA Board Meeting - City 10
7:30 p.m. Dinner for members and guests - location TBA
SUNDAY, JULY 9
1:30 p.m. Welcome - City 10 Opening remarks, roll call and introduction of attendees
1:40 p.m. "Challenges and Opportunities: Building and rebuilding A Criminal Practice from a Blind Solo Practitioner's Perspective" John Edward Eagen, Esq., Tallahassee, FL
2:20 P.M. "Westlaw Update: What's New with Westlaw and Accessibility" Katie Hauck
3:05 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m. "Involving Lawyers with Disabilities in Identifying Issues and Developing Solutions for Problems Faced by Individuals with Disabilities in the Legal System" Danielle Strickman, Coordinator, The Disability Independence Group and the Disability-Diversity Initiative
3:55 p.m. "Practicing with the Internal Revenue Service: The Review of a Successful Career of a Blind Tax Practitioner" Stephen R. Doroghazi, Esq., Senior Attorney, Internal Revenue Service, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
4:30 p.m. "Consumer Law, the Yeas and Nays of Visually Impaired Consumers Signing Documents They Have Not Read" Professor Christopher Peterson, Esq., University of Florida Law School, Gainsville, FL
5:10 p.m. "Update on USABA" Jim Neppl, Esq., Rock Island, IL and Oral O. Miller, Esq., Washington, DC
MONDAY, JULY 10
1:30 p.m. Announcements and Introduction of Attendees - City 10
1:40 p.m. "What's New with Our Supreme Court" A review and discussion of the Court's recent decisions. Dr. Otis Stephens, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
2:35 p.m. "Sensitivity Training for Coworkers v. Disability Based Accommodations" When should the lawyer with visual disabilities ask his employer for accommodations and when should he/she be entitled to sensitivity training for coworkers. A panel discussion and interaction with the audience of common problems and experiences faced by practitioners. Panel participants: Danielle Strickman, James Kracht, and Pshon Barrett
3:30 p.m. Break
3:40 p.m. "Pro Bono Involvement of Lawyers in Our Community" Florida's experience with the delivery of legal services to the poor. Kimberly Rodgers, Esq., Director, Community Law Program, St. Petersburg, FL
4:20 p.m. "Employment Opportunities with the Antitrust Division and Diversity Efforts of The Department of Justice" Frederick Parmenter, Esq., Senior Trial Attorney, Department of Justice
4:45 p.m. "Reopening the ADA to Achieve Consensus: New Efforts, Ideas and Hopes" Day Al-Mohamed, Esq., Director of Governmental Affairs, American Council of the Blind, Washington, DC
TUESDAY, JULY 11
12:15 p.m. AAVIA Annual Luncheon - City 10 Henry M. Coxe III, President, Florida Bar Association. $30 - $33
2:15 p.m. Keynote: "Climbing to the Top - Practicing Law with the Federal Department of Justice in Berlin, Germany" Experiences of and opportunities for blind lawyers in Germany. Dr. Alexander Dorrbecker, Esq., Berlin, Germany
3:15 p.m. Break
3:30 p.m. Annual Business Meeting
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF BLIND
DIABETICS IN ACTION
President: Dee Clayton
Program Chair: Carol Edwards
Registration: $8 - $10
SUNDAY, JULY 9
2:00 p.m. ACBDA Diabetes Seminar - Daytona The latest news you can use and a great chance to share ideas and tips. $3 - $5
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
1:30 p.m. "Recognizing the Signs of Senior Diabetes" - City 12 Co-sponsored with Alliance on Aging and Vision Loss.
3:00 p.m. ACBDA Business Meeting - City 12
5:00 p.m. ACBDA Mixer - City 5 $12 - $15
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF BLIND
GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES
President: Catherine Skivers
Program Chair: Billie Jean Keith
Registration: $8 - $10
SUNDAY, JULY 9
3:00 p.m. ACBGE Wine and Cheese Mixer - 1840 $10 - $12
THURSDAY, JULY 13
12:30 p.m. ACBGE Luncheon and business meeting - City 5 $20 - $22
1:15 p.m. "The Changing Government Career" Government employment is no longer a stable career. Downsizing, office closures and outsourcing are creating hardships for state, local and federal workers, particularly for people with disabilities. Ralph G. Neas, President, People for the American Way, will address the issues that foster this uncertain climate.
2:00 p.m. "Section 508 Revised" Doug Wakefield, author of the implementing regulations for Section 508, suggests what might be included in revisions to give more definitive guidance to employees who are blind.
3:00 p.m. Business Meeting
ACB HUMAN SERVICE PROFESSIONALS
President: Jessie Rayl
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
3:00 p.m. "What Color Is Your Personality?" - City 10 Did you know personalities have colors? In this workshop, you will discover the color of your personality and of those around you, and how each color enhances the others and can clash in teamwork and relationships. Presenter: Jessie L. Rayl, MA, LPC, Martinsburg, WV
4:00 p.m. ACBHSP Business Meeting Let's talk about the future of this affiliate.
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF BLIND LIONS
President: Adam Ruschival
Registration: $10 - $12
SATURDAY, JULY 8
9:00 p.m. Milly's Place Pin Swap - 4106 Meet fellow Lions from across the country; great hospitality. $8 - $8
SUNDAY, JULY 9
10:30 a.m. ACBL Board Meeting - Board 1
TUESDAY, JULY 11
12:30 p.m. ACBL Luncheon and Business Meeting - City 5 Get involved and help shape the future of ACBL. $27 - $29
THURSDAY, JULY 13
12:00 noon Local Club Visit - meet in lobby Meet some Jacksonville Lions over lunch. Ticket includes transportation. Contact Adam Ruschival for details. $26 - $28
ACB RADIO AMATEURS
President: John Glass
Program Chair: Mike Duke
Registration: $5 - $7
THURSDAY, JULY 13
1:30 p.m. ACB Radio Amateurs Program and Business Session - Board 1 A discussion of small antennas, followed by the annual business meeting.
BLIND FRIENDS OF LESBIANS AND GAYS
President and Program Chair: Butch Arnold
Registration: $35 - $35
SATURDAY, JULY 8
6:00 p.m. Board Meeting (Dinner) - Off site, TBA
SUNDAY, JULY 9
10:00 a.m. "It Ain't Easy Being Green" - City 9
10:00 a.m. "It Ain't Easy Being Green" As Kermit the Frog says, "It ain't easy being green." Our panelists will tell how they dealt with their low vision and other identity issues. Introduction: Coletta Davis, Program Chair and Second Vice President, Anaheim, CA; Moderator: Dr. Edwin Druding, Psychologist, Board Member, CCLVI, Glendale, AZ Panelists: Barbara Milleville, President, National Capitol Citizens with Low Vision and Board Member, CCLVI, Vienna, VA; Butch Arnold, licensed real estate broker and President, BFLAG, Baltimore, MD; Dr. James Nolan, Director of Special Projects and Research, Envision, Wichita, KS; Pam Shaw, MSW, Philadelphia, PA. Co-sponsored with Council of Citizens with Low Vision International
3:00 p.m. Welcome Party - 4106 $16 - $16
10:30 p.m. President's Reception - 4106
MONDAY, JULY 10
7:30 a.m. Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
1:30 p.m. "Disaster Preparedness" - City 7 Introduction: Patricia Beattie, President; Panelists: Day Al-Mohamed, ACB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs, Washington, DC; Don Hall, Senior Emergency Preparedness Planner, Jacksonville Fire Department, Jacksonville, FL. Co-sponsored by Council of Citizens with Low Vision International
7:00 p.m. BFLAG Annual Meeting - 4106
9:30 p.m. BFLAG Pizza Get-together - 4106 $16 - $16
TUESDAY, JULY 11
7:30 a.m. Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
2:00 p.m. "Understanding and Using Resources" - City 11
4:30p.m. BFLAG Spaghetti Dinner - meet in lobby Off-site at St. Luke's MCC Church. $21 - $21
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
7:30 a.m. Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
4:30 p.m. BFLAG Club 616 Social - Meet in Lobby $16 - $16
10:30 p.m. BFLAG Men's Discussion Group - BFLAG Suite
10:30 p.m. BFLAG Women's Discussion Group - TBA
THURSDAY, JULY 13
7:30 a.m. Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
12:00 noon BFLAG Beach Event - TBA Off-site social; limited attendance. Must sign up by Tuesday, July 11 at noon. Contact BFLAG President Butch Arnold for more information.
FRIDAY, JULY 14
7:30 a.m. Morning Get-together - BFLAG Suite
10:30 p.m. Farewell Dance - River 1 Co-sponsored with Council of Citizens with Low Vision International. $10 - $10
BLIND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SPECIALISTS
President: Earlene Hughes
Program Chair: John Farina
Registration: $12 - $15
SATURDAY, JULY 8
4:30 p.m. BITS Pre-convention Board Meeting - Board 1
SUNDAY, JULY 9
10:00 a.m. Opening Remarks - City 10 Earlene Hughes, President
10:10 a.m. Announcements and opening remarks John Farina, Program Chair
10:20 a.m. Introduce Yourself Share brief remarks with fellow BITS members
10:30 a.m. GPS and Wayfinding Solutions Panel moderated by John Farina, Albany, NY; presenters: BrailleNote - Michael May, President, Sendero Group, Davis, CA; PAC Mate StreetTalk - Brad Davis, Vice President, Hardware Product Management, Freedom Scientific, St. Petersburg, FL; Trecker - Harold Abraham, Technology and Low Vision Services, Leader Dogs for the Blind, Rochester, MI
11:45 a.m. Announcements and Closing Remarks
1:30 p.m. BITS Technology Vendor Showcase - City 9 Get the latest news from more than a dozen leading producers of blindness products. Hosted by Frank Welte, San Carlos, CA
MONDAY, JULY 10
1:30 p.m. "Cell Phone Access And Software" - City 9 Panel moderated by Richard Villa, Austin, TX; Presenters: Talks Software, Seth Leblond, Beyond Sight Sales and Technical Support, Littleton, CO; Owasys Screenless Phone, Janina Sajka, Partner, Capital Accessibility LLC, Washington DC; Mobile Speak Software, Jim Denham, Director of Software Solutions, Optelec USA, Inc., Chicago, IL. Co-sponsored by Independent Visually Impaired Enterprisers
3:30 p.m. Open Forum: Microsoft, What's New in Windows Vista?
8:00 p.m. Bytes with BITS Hospitality - 1840 $12 - $15
TUESDAY, JULY 11
12:30 p.m. BITS Luncheon - City 4 $30 - $33
2:00 p.m. Break
2:15 p.m. Business meeting
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
12:00 p.m. Lunch and Post-Convention Board Meeting - TBA
BRAILLE REVIVAL LEAGUE
President: Lynne Koral
Program Chair: Winifred Downing
Registration: $10 - $12
SUNDAY, JULY 9
3:00 p.m. BRL Board Meeting - Board 1
MONDAY, JULY 10
5:00 p.m. Braille Bunco - River 1 Lots of fun with lots of dots. Toss the dice and win. Door prizes, too! $10 - $12
TUESDAY, JULY 11
1:45 p.m. Welcome - City 8 Lynne Koral, BRL President
1:50 p.m. "Louis Braille: A Touch of Genius" Keynote address by Michael Mellor, Author and Braille Enthusiast; Brooklyn, NY
2:45 p.m. Behind the Scenes: The Real Story of Publishing "Louis Braille: A Touch of Genius" Diane Croft, Director of Marketing, National Braille Press, Boston, MA
3:00 p.m. BRL Business Meeting
3:30 p.m. Break
3:45 p.m. Changes in Braille Formats for the Future Lynette Taylor, BANA Braille Formats Committee Chair, Jacksonville, FL
4:45 p.m. Adjournment
THURSDAY, JULY 13
1:45 p.m. Welcome - City 8 Lynne Koral, President, Braille Revival League
1:50 p.m. Braille Services at the Florida Braille & Talking Book Library Cathy Johnson, Head, Materials Production Section; and Doug Hall, Head, Volunteer Services Section, Daytona Beach, FL
2:15 p.m. Howe Press: New Initiatives, Customer Service and Ideas David Morgan, General Manager, Howe Press, Perkins School for the Blind, Watertown, MA
2:45 p.m. Break
3:00 p.m. BANA Update Kim Charlson, Chair, Braille Authority of North America, Watertown, MA
3:30 p.m. My Life as a Braille Consultant, Linda Jacobson, NLS Contractor, Orange Park, FL
3:45 p.m. Visual Aid Volunteers of Florida (VAVF), An Overview
4:00 p.m. BRL Post-Convention Board of Directors Meeting
4:30 p.m. Adjournment
COUNCIL OF CITIZENS WITH LOW VISION INTERNATIONAL
President: Patricia Beattie
Program Chair: Coletta Davis
Registration: $8 - $10
SATURDAY, JULY 8
4:00 p.m. CCLVI Pre-convention Board Meeting - City 6
7:00 p.m. CCLVI Nominating Committee
SUNDAY, JULY 9
9:00 a.m. Welcome and introduction - City 9 Patricia Beattie, President, Alexandria, VA
9:15 a.m. Welcome and remarks Christopher Gray, President, American Council of the Blind
9:45 a.m. Committee Reports Nominating Committee, Constitution and Bylaws
10:00 a.m. "It Ain't Easy Being Green" As Kermit the Frog says, "It ain't easy being green." Our panelists will tell how they dealt with their low vision and other identity issues. Introduction: Coletta Davis, Program Chair and Second Vice President, Anaheim, CA; Moderator: Dr. Edwin Druding, Psychologist, Board Member, CCLVI, Glendale, AZ Panelists: Barbara Milleville, President, National Capitol Citizens with Low Vision and Board Member, CCLVI, Vienna, VA; Butch Arnold, Licensed real estate broker and President, BFLAG, Baltimore, MD; Dr. James Nolan, Director of Special Projects and Research, Envision, Wichita, KS; Pam Shaw, MSW, Philadelphia, PA. Co-sponsored with Blind Friends of Lesbians and Gays
1:30 p.m. Bioptic Driving: "Conflicting Rules Across the Country" - City 12 Learn about legislation that affects 38 states for people who drive with bioptic lenses. Hear experiences of our panelists with and without bioptic lenses. Introduction: Mike Godino, Treasurer of ACB and CCLVI; Moderator: Dr. James Nolan, Director of Special Projects and Research, Envision, Wichita, KS; Panelists: Bill Burgunder, CLU, ChPC, Board member, CCLVI; Michael Byington, Rehabilitation Support Worker, Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired, President, Kansas Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Topeka, KS.
4:00 p.m. CCLVI Mixer - 4104 $10 - $10
10:00 p.m. CCLVI Dance - River 1 Dancing and listening to the music of Gordon Kent; come and learn a new dance. $10 - $10
MONDAY, JULY 12
1:30 p.m. "Emergency Preparedness" - City 7 Introduction: Patricia Beattie, President; Panelists: Day Al-Mohamed, ACB Director of Governmental Affairs, Washington, DC; Don Hall, Senior Emergency Preparedness Planner, Jacksonville Fire Department, Jacksonville, FL. Co-sponsored with Blind Friends of Lesbians and Gays.
2:45 p.m. Break
3:00 p.m. "ADA and Low Vision" - Have there been new laws enacted within the ADA concerning persons with low vision? Introduction: Ken Stewart, Immediate Past President, CCLVI and President, Metropolitan Citizens of Low Vision Individuals, Warwick, NY; Presenter: Mitch Pomerantz, ADA Compliance Officer, City of Los Angeles and Second Vice President, ACB
4:00 p.m. "Get the Clutter Out of Your Life" Clutter, messy desks, papers all over the house that we can't find! Find out how we can have no more clutter in our home. Introduction: Joyce Kleiber, Editor, Vision Access, CCLVI; Presenter: Barbara Milleville, President, National Capitol Citizens with Low Vision and Board Member, CCLVI, Vienna, VA
TUESDAY, JULY 11
1:30 p.m. CCLVI business meeting - City 9 Election of officers; post-convention Board meeting
4:00 p.m. "What Is Low Vision and What Can We Do About It?" What does the future hold for low vision individuals? Is there new technology on the horizon? Examine some new low vision devices. Introduction: Coletta Davis Presenter: Dr. Christian Guier, Optometrist, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
1:30 p.m. "Project Insight" - City 7 Presenter: Joyce Kleiber, Editor, Vision Access, CCLVI
3:00 p.m. Support groups
8:30 p.m. Game Night - River 1 The Price is Right and the Battle of the Sexes. Join in the fun and cheer on the contestants. $10 - $10
FRIDAY, JULY 14
10:00 p.m. CCLVI Dance - River 1 Listen to the beautiful music of Gordon Kent while you say good-bye to Jacksonville. Co-sponsored by Blind Friends of Lesbians and Gays $10 - $10
COUNCIL OF FAMILIES
WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS
President and Program Chair: Cindy Burgett
Registration: $5 - $8
TUESDAY, JULY 11
8:30 a.m. CFVI Day at the YAC The Youth Activities Center enjoys a day at Adventure Landing, courtesy of CFVI. Kids 6 to 17 will have fun at the water park and arcade; there's laser tag, miniature golf, and go-carts, too!
THURSDAY, JULY 13
2:00 p.m. Business meeting - City 6
FRIENDS-IN-ART OF ACB
President: Nancy Pendegraph
Program chair: Peter Altschul
Registration: $5 - $6
SATURDAY, JULY 8
7:00 p.m. FIA Board Meeting - 4108
SUNDAY, JULY 9
4:00 p.m. FIA Mixer/Showcase Sign-up - 4108 Come meet old friends and make new ones; register for a Showcase audition slot. $10 - $12
5:30 p.m. Showcase Chorus Rehearsal - 4108
MONDAY, JULY 10
1:30 p.m. Musical Arranging Made Easy - 4108 Learn how to put together great sounding backing tracks, even if you are not a musical arranger. Presenters: Mike Mandel, New York, NY and Gordon Kent, Washington, DC. $5 - $6
3:30 p.m. Showcase Audition/Rehearsal - 4108 At scheduled times, performers rehearse their chosen material for length, polish, and appropriateness.
9:00 p.m. Prose and Poetry Reading - City 8 Writers are invited to read their original works to a receptive audience. Presenter: Teddie-Joy Remhild, Burbank, CA. $4 - $5
10:00 p.m. Final Showcase Chorus Rehearsal - 4108
TUESDAY, JULY 11
12:30 p.m. FIA Luncheon and Business Meeting - City 6 Bring your vote and your appetite! $28 - $30
3:00 p.m. Designer's Choice: Hands-On Flower Arranging - 4106 Materials provided. $14 - $15
8:00 p.m. Friends-in-Art Showcase of the Performing Arts - Grand Ballroom Celebrate good times and great timing! Emcees: Mitch and Donna Pomerantz, Pasadena, CA. $8 - $10
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
1:30 p.m. Advanced MIDI Workshop - 4108 Explore some exciting new breakthroughs in sampling and synthesis from the standpoint of creativity and accessibility. Presenters: Gordon Kent, Washington, DC and Mike Mandel, New York, NY. $5 - $6.
3:00 p.m. Chopping Off the Chaff: Hone Your Editing Skills - City 8 Presenters: Sharon Lovering and Peter Altschul, Washington, DC. $6 - $7
5:30 p.m. Round and Harmony Sing - 4108 Come and sing those beautiful rounds and harmony songs we all know and love and learn some new ones. Presenter: Lynn Hedl, Birmingham, AL
THURSDAY, JULY 13
7:30 a.m. FIA Board Meeting - 4108
GUIDE DOG USERS, INC.
President: Sheila Styron
Program Chair: Donna Permar
Registration: $10 - $12
The GDUI Suite will be open from Saturday, July 8 until Wednesday, July 12 in River Terrace 3. Dog-related items are sold in the suite rather than in the exhibit hall. The suite also serves as a place where guide dogs and their handlers can relax. There will be a vet tech to assist with nail trimming, ear cleaning, minor skin ailments, etc. Handlers can make an appointment for their guide dog to be massaged.
SUNDAY, JULY 9
12:00 p.m. Hotel and surrounding area orientation - River 3 Your favorite guide dog instructors teach you how to teach your dogs the best convention routes; guaranteed to get you where you need to be on time and in one piece.
2:15 p.m. Affiliate Roundup - River 2 GDUI affiliate reps must attend to be credentialed to vote at the business meeting. Jennifer Holladay, Burlington, KY
4:00 p.m. Board Meeting - River 2
5:00 p.m. Hotel and surrounding area orientation - River 3 Your favorite guide dog instructors teach you how to teach your dogs the best convention routes; guaranteed to get you where you need to be on time and in one piece.
MONDAY, JULY 10
7:00 a.m. GDUI Breakfast Club - TBA Take a stroll to a nearby restaurant, returning just in time to attend ACB's general session.
1:30 p.m. GDUI Opening Ceremonies - River 2
2:00 p.m. Utilizing GPS with Your Guide Dog - River 2 Would you like to experience the exhilaration of traveling almost as freely as a sighted person? Presenter: Harold Abraham, Leader Dogs for the Blind
2:00 p.m. Get to the Head of Your Class with Style, Grace and Freedom of Mobility - City 12 Panel discussion on incorporating a guide dog into student life. Moderator: Jennifer Holladay, Burlington, KY
3:30 p.m. Guide Dog School Updates - River 2 What's new and what you should be thinking about when choosing a training program.
8:00 p.m. GDUI reception: Dogs On The Street - River 1 Come hear what the chatty canine contingent really thinks about the Jacksonville convention. Moderator: DeAnna Quietwater Noriega. $10 - $12
TUESDAY, JULY 11
7:00 a.m. GDUI Breakfast Club - TBA Take a stroll to a nearby restaurant, returning just in time to attend ACB's general session.
12:30 p.m. Caring for Your Guide Dog - River 2 Have you considered everything when choosing traditional pharmaceutical treatment or acupuncture and other aspects of standard veterinary care? Presenter: Phillip Hightman, DVM, Small Animal Medicine, Jacksonville, FL
1:30 p.m. Emergency Preparedness in the Event of a Natural Disaster Do you have a plan that includes your guide dog's needs? Presenter: Rita Princivalli, Graduate Services, Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc.
2:45 p.m. GDUI business meeting
8:00 p.m. River Walk - TBA Enjoy walking along a relaxing riverside route under the sultry southern skies of Florida. $5 - $7
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
7:00 a.m. GDUI Breakfast Club - TBA Take a stroll to a nearby restaurant, returning just in time to attend ACBs general session.
12:30 p.m. GDUI Luncheon - Daytona Keynote: Seven Ways to Ruin a Relationship (or how training dogs can make us better people) - Sarah Wilson, renowned author, animal behaviorist and professional dog trainer. $28 - $30
2:15 p.m. GDUI Auction Get ready to raise your paws high in the air for a great cause; your bite (I mean bid) will really make a difference!
8:00 p.m. Waggable Tales - River 2 Come prepared to hear original presentations by handlers about their guide dogs. Experience a delightful medley of poetry, stories, song, and other performance pieces inspired by the incredible guide dog/human bond. Facilitator: Maia Scott. $8 - $10
THURSDAY, JULY 13
7:00 a.m. GDUI Breakfast Club - TBA Take a stroll to a nearby restaurant, returning just in time to attend ACBs general session.
12:30 p.m. To Retire or Not to Retire - River 2 Panel discussion on issues surrounding retirement decisions for your guide dog.
1:30 p.m. Triaging Immediate Care for your Guide Dog. Your dog is suddenly incapacitated by injury or illness. What can you do to stabilize your dog until you can get to the vet? Presenter: Robin Chambers, DVM, owner of the Companion Animal Hospital, Jacksonville, FL
2:45 p.m. GDUI Caucus
8:00 p.m. Downward Dog Learn how to stretch, do yoga and really breathe plus other techniques for a happier and healthier lifestyle. Be ready to "get down" with your guide (on the floor, that is). Presenter: Maia Scott. $5 - $7
INDEPENDENT VISUALLY IMPAIRED ENTERPRISERS
President: Ardis Bazyn
Program Chair: Carla Hayes
Registration: $6 - $8
MONDAY, JULY 10
7:00 a.m. IVIE Breakfast and Business Meeting - City 5 After enjoying a sumptuous meal, share your ideas and help us plan IVIE's exciting future! $23 - $25
1:30 p.m. "Cell Phone Access And Software" - City 9 Panel: Moderator - Richard Villa, Austin, TX; Presenters: Talks Software, Seth Leblond, Beyond Sight Sales and Technical Support, Littleton, CO; Owasys Screenless Phone, Janina Sajka, Partner, Capital Accessibility LLC, Washington DC; Mobile Speak Software, Jim Denham, Director of Software Solutions, Optelec USA, Inc., Chicago, IL. Co-sponsored with Blind Information Technology Specialists (BITS)
3:30 p.m. Break
3:45 p.m. Seminar: "To Market We Go: Effective Strategies for Marketing Your Business, - City 8 Marketing professional presents "gorilla" marketing tactics for businesses watching their budgets. Presenter: Dr. Ronald E. Milliman, Professor of Marketing, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY
TUESDAY, JULY 11
4:00 p.m. 25th Anniversary Reception and Business Card Exchange - RSVA Suite Meet old and new friends while celebrating IVIE's 25th Anniversary with wine, cheese, cake and a business card exchange! Co-sponsored with Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America. $10 - $12
LIBRARY USERS OF AMERICA
President: Barry Levine
Program Chair: Kim Charlson
Registration: $10 - $12
SATURDAY, JULY 8
8:00 p.m. LUA Pre-Convention Board Meeting - Board 1
MONDAY, JULY 10
1:45 p.m. Welcome - Orlando Barry Levine, President
2:00 p.m. Jacksonville Welcomes LUA! Jerry Reynolds, Manager, Talking Books/Special Needs, Talking Book Library, Jacksonville Public Library, Jacksonville, FL
2:15 p.m. LUA Business Meeting
3:00 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m. Florida Braille & Talking Book Library: An Overview Dr. Jane Karp, Head, Reader Services Section, Daytona Beach, FL
3:30 p.m. Understanding the Process of Accessible Textbooks & NIMAS Mark Richert, Director, Public Policy, American Foundation for the Blind, Washington, DC
4:15 p.m. Textbook Access: Florida Instructional Materials Center, Suzanne Dalton, Director
4:30 p.m. Adjournment
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
1:45 p.m. LUA Welcome - City 9 Barry Levine, President
2:00 p.m. "NLS: What's Happening and what is on the Horizon?" Frank Kurt Cylke, Director, National Library Service for the Blind & Physically Handicapped (NLS); Michael Martys, Head, Automation Section; Alice Baker, Digital Contracts Manager
2:30 p.m. "Meet the Narrator:" Jim Zeiger, Talking Book Publishers, Denver, CO
3:15 p.m. Break
3:30 p.m. What's New with Digital Books Panel moderator: Paul Edwards, Miami, FL
4:30 p.m. Adjournment
NATIONAL ALLIANCE OF BLIND STUDENTS
President: Rebecca Hodson
Program Chair: Rebecca Hodson
Registration: $5 - $5
SATURDAY, JULY 8
8:00 p.m. NABS Welcome Party - 1840 Join the students of ACB for food, fun, and fellowship. $8 - $10
SUNDAY, JULY 9
12:00 p.m. NABS Scholarship Luncheon - City 6 $28 - $32
1:45 p.m. NABS Business Meeting
MONDAY, JULY 10
2:00 p.m. Get to the Head of Your Class with Style, Grace and Freedom of Mobility - City 12 Panel discussion on incorporating a guide dog into student life. Moderator: Jennifer Holladay, Burlington, KY
TUESDAY, JULY 11
1:30 p.m. "Education Can Be Successful At Any Age" - City 6 Tips and suggestions to be successful students in higher education. Panelists: Dr. Ronald E. Milliman, Professor of Marketing, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY; Rebecca Hodson, President, National Alliance of Blind Students, Arlington, VA; Lisa Boettcher, Doctoral Student, Columbia, MO; co-sponsored with National Association of Blind Teachers
3:15 p.m. NABS Business Meeting - St. Johns
THURSDAY, JULY 13
9:00 p.m. NABS Comedy Night - River 1 Lots of laughs and good times. $8 - $10
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND TEACHERS
President: Marcia Dresser
Program Chair: Carla Hayes
Registration: $6 - $8
SUNDAY, JULY 9
8:00 a.m. NABT Breakfast and Program: "Don't Sit! Be Fit!" - City 5 How to exercise when you can't use your eyes. Techniques for burning off those calories and staying in shape. Presenters: Oral Miller, President, DC Council Of The Blind and member of the Executive Committee, International Blind Sports Association, Washington, DC; Gerry Koors, Certified Water Aerobics Instructor, Indianapolis, IN; $25 - $27
9:30 a.m. Break
9:45 a.m. NABT Business Meeting
10:30 a.m. NABT Board Meeting
MONDAY, JULY 10
3:15 p.m. Accessible Textbooks and More - Orlando Co-sponsored with Library users of America
3:15 p.m. Florida Braille & Talking Book Library: An Overview Dr. Jane Karp, Head, Reader Services Section, Daytona Beach, FL
3:30 p.m. Understanding the Process of Accessible Textbooks & NIMAS Mark Richert, Director, Public Policy, American Foundation for the Blind, Washington, DC
4:15 p.m. Textbook Access: Florida Instructional Materials Center, Suzanne Dalton, Director
4:30 p.m. Adjournment
TUESDAY, JULY 11
1:30 p.m. "Education Can Be Successful At Any Age" - City 7 Tips and suggestions to be successful students in higher education. Panelists: Dr. Ronald E. Milliman, Professor of Marketing, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY; Rebecca Hodson, President, National Alliance of Blind Students, Arlington, VA; Lisa Boettcher, Doctoral Student, Columbia, MO; co-sponsored by National Alliance of Blind Students
3:00 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m. "Harnessing The Power of Powerpoint with Access Technology" - City 7 Learn how to use this popular visual presentation tool with access technology such as JAWS and Window-Eyes. Presenter: Brian Charlson, Vice-President of Technology Services, Carroll Center for the Blind, Newton, MA; $10 - $12
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
3:00 p.m. Writers' Workshop: "Chopping Off the Chaff: Hone Your Editing Skills" - City 8 Presenters: Sharon Lovering, Editor, The Braille Forum, and Peter Altschul, Washington DC; co-sponsored by Friends-In-Art of ACB; $6 - $7
RANDOLPH-SHEPPARD VENDORS OF AMERICA
President: Richard Bird
Convention Coordinator: John Gordon
Registration: $20 - $20
Theme: Sharing the Vision
SATURDAY, JULY 8
9:00 a.m. Committee meetings - RSVA Suite
3:00 p.m. Pre-Convention Board Meeting - Orlando
9:00 p.m. RSVA Hospitality Mixer - RSVA Suite $15 - $15
SUNDAY, JULY 9
9:00 a.m. RSVA Program
Welcome: Richard Bird, RSVA President
Opening remarks and Announcements: Convention committee members
Roll Call: Donna Seliger, RSVA Secretary
9:30 a.m. RSVA Affiliates Share Accomplishments! Alabama President: Charles L. Carroll; California President: David Hanlon; Georgia President: Michael Lee
10:30 a.m. Break (door prizes)
10:45 a.m. More Affiliate Sharing Hawaii President: Myles Tamashiro; Illinois President: Janet Wetmore
11:30 a.m. Resolutions First reading: Ralph Sanders, Chair
11:50 a.m. Constitution and Bylaws First reading: Donna Seliger, Chair
12:00 noon Break for lunch
1:30 p.m. Announcements and door prizes
1:35 p.m. More from RSVA state affiliates Louisiana President: David Jarvis; Mississippi President: Morris Ward; Missouri President: Jack Lenk; North Carolina President: David Alexander Sr.
3:00 p.m. Break (door prizes)
3:15 p.m. More Affiliate Sharing Ohio President: Richard L. Bird; Oklahoma President: Rob Brown; Pennsylvania President: Michael "Brian" Weber; Wisconsin President: Sally Zenchenko
4:40 p.m. Wrap-up Sharing ideas about how affiliates and RSVA can help each other work together in the future: All participants
5:00 p.m. Nominating committee
10:00 p.m. Hospitality - RSVA Suite
MONDAY, JULY 10
12:30 p.m. RSVA luncheon - Daytona Speaker and Award presentations: Rick Petersen, Chair
2:45 p.m. Business meeting Resolutions, Constitution and Bylaws, elections, committee reports, legislative updates, and other issues concerning RSVA will be discussed.
6:00 p.m. Auction preview - Daytona
7:00 p.m. Auction - Daytona The RSVA auction is always packed with great items. Come early and stay late to be sure you don't miss any of those great deals.
9:00 p.m. Karaoke Night - Daytona Your chance to be a star! $15 - $15
TUESDAY, JULY 11
4:00 p.m. RSVA- and IVIE-sponsored business card exchange, Reception and IVIE 25th birthday celebration - RSVA Suite
8:00 p.m. Casino Night - Daytona $20 buys you a great evening of fun; maybe you'll win some super prizes, too.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
7:00 a.m. Post-convention board meeting - RSVA Suite
VISUALLY IMPAIRED VETERANS OF AMERICA
President and Program Chair: John Fleming
Registration: $5 - $7
TUESDAY, JULY 11
1:30 p.m. VIVA Business Meeting - Orlando Discuss issues important to VIVA's future and to blinded veterans.
MORE SPECIAL EVENTS
CAREERS, EMPLOYMENT AND REHABILITATION
Note: Be sure to watch "The Jacksonville Sun" for announcements of CareerConnect focus groups and other workshops on topics related to employment, job-related skills, and/or rehabilitation.
MONDAY, JULY 10
7:00 a.m. National Industries for the Blind Breakfast - Daytona NIB offers employment choices that maximize your skills. Find out about your options with National Industries for the Blind. $10 - $10
TUESDAY, JULY 11
7:00 a.m. American Foundation for the Blind Breakfast - Daytona Get the latest information on AFB's work on blindness-related issues. $10 - $10
THURSDAY, JULY 13
1:30 p.m. Social Security ABC's - City 9 What is SGA? How does Social Security figure earnings when deciding if you are eligible for benefits? What is the difference between SSDI and SSI? Which is better? Can you receive both? Bring your questions and ask people in the know. Sponsored by NELDS - the National Education and Legal Defense Service. $5 - $7
TECHNOLOGY TRAINING AND FOCUS GROUPS
A number of exhibitors are hosting focus groups during the convention. Be sure to check the Jacksonville Sun each day for announcements, and stop by your favorite exhibitor's booth for more information on dates, times and locations.
At this time, the following companies have scheduled training rooms:
Freedom Scientific - PAC Mate training (Board 3), service tech room (Board 4), and OpenBook and JAWS Focus Groups (Sunday and Monday only; see Calendar of Events)
Humanware - BrailleNote and other focus groups; check at Humanware booth for available times; Board 1
Kurzweil Users Group - Monday, July 10 at 5:00 p.m.; City 7
GUIDE DOG EVENTS
Below are events planned especially for guide dog users and sponsored by our friends at various schools.
SUNDAY, JULY 9
3:00 p.m. Seeing Eye Ice Cream Social - River 1
TUESDAY, JULY 11
7:00 a.m. Guide Dogs for the Blind Breakfast; graduates and potential future students welcome; St. Johns
7:00 a.m. Seeing Eye Breakfast; graduates and prospective students welcome; City 9
5:00 p.m. Guiding Eyes for the Blind Wine and Cheese Reception; welcome, guide dog users; St. Johns
7:00 p.m. Southeastern Guide Dogs Ice Cream Social; Southeastern says "thank you" to its graduates; River 1
FAMILIES AND PARENTING
There are many activities appropriate for parents and families throughout convention week. The exhibit area, the Youth Activity Center (for kids 6 to 17), and many of the tours provide opportunities for blind and visually impaired children to experience a fantastic convention week. Many of the workshops and seminars, as well as the general and special-interest affiliate program sessions, address topics of concern to parents. Examples of such options include the NELDS Social Security seminar on Thursday, library and accessible textbook topics on Monday and Wednesday (LUA and NABT), and the Diabetes Workshop on Sunday. The technology focus groups are great, and the various guide dog schools and GDUI are always willing to answer your questions.
NAPVI sponsors a parent workshop each year at the ACB convention; their schedule for this year follows. Contact Susan LaVenture for child care information during the NAPVI program session.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR PARENTS OF
CHILDREN WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS
President: Susan LaVenture
Program Chair: Sue Townsend
Registration: $5 - $8
NAPVI activities are co-hosted by the Florida Families of Children with Visual Impairments (FFCVI)
SUNDAY, JULY 9
1:00 p.m. Parent Meeting - Orlando
Welcome: Susan LaVenture, NAPVI Executive Director, Watertown, MA; Sue Townsend, FFCVI Executive Director, Ormond Beach, FL
1:15 p.m. "Current Research and Treatment for Eye Conditions Affecting Children" Dr. Lee R. Hunter, Division of Ophthalmology, Nemours Children's Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
2:30 p.m. Break
3:00 p.m. "What Parents Need to Know about Preparation for Employment for Youth with Visual Impairments" Susan LaVenture, NAPVI; Eric Bridges, Public Policy Specialist, National Industries for the Blind (NIB), Alexandria, VA
5:00 p.m. Pool Party and Ice Cream Social - Hotel Pool For families and friends; so-o-o-o much fun!
ACB CONVENTION TOURS
When planning for tours, remember that indoor facilities may be air-conditioned, but some tours include significant outdoor time. Dress appropriately and bring sunscreen, hat and water bottle for your comfort and safety.
Space is limited on all tours, so register early. ACB reserves the right to cancel a tour should ticket sales fall below required minimums.
You MUST have your ticket with you when boarding the bus; they will be collected before leaving the hotel. Buses will not be delayed while conventioners retrieve forgotten tickets.
All return times are approximate. If you have dietary scheduling concerns, bring along a light snack, just in case we are unavoidably delayed.
If you use a wheelchair and require a lift-equipped bus, you MUST inform us by checking the appropriate box on the pre-registration form.
FRIDAY, JULY 7
St. Augustine Tour
Depart: 7:15 a.m. Return: 6:00 p.m.
Cost: $98 - $98
Visit this beautiful historic community founded in 1565. Learn about the oldest city in the United States and the ghosts that are in residence there. Visit the old fort and the Florida museum, and enjoy a wonderful lunch at White's. End the day with shopping on St. George Street.
Baseball Game
Depart: 6:15 p.m. Return: After the game
Cost: $29 - $33
Enjoy an evening of AA baseball as the Jacksonville Suns face the Carolina Mud Slides. Order food and beverages without leaving your seat at one of the finest minor-league parks in the nation.
SATURDAY, JULY 8
Jacksonville City Tour
Depart: 8:45 a.m. Return: 11:45 a.m.
Cost: $25 - $30
A 3-hour lesson in the beauty and size of the nation's largest city (in land mass). This city of about 844,000 has many colleges and corporate headquarters, and lots of water.
Sun Cruise Casino Tour
Depart: 9:45 a.m. Return: 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $17 - $20
Gaming on the high seas! A 5-hour cruise with slot machines, craps and blackjack tables, and other games of chance. Includes an all-you-can-eat buffet during the first hour of the cruise.
SUNDAY, JULY 9
Jacksonville City Tour
Depart: 8:45 a.m. Return: 11:45 a.m.
Cost: $25 - $30
See Saturday, July 8 for details.
Ocean Fishing Tour
Depart: 11:15 a.m. Return: 6:00 p.m.
Cost: $145-155
You and 5 other ACB companions will spend 4 hours trolling the Atlantic Ocean for fish. Your boat's captain and assistant will help with bating and netting the fish. Bring your own hat, sunscreen, and beverage. Not wheelchair accessible; extremely hot for dogs.
MONDAY, JULY 10
Martin Coffee Company
Depart: 12:30 p.m. Return: 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $17 - $20
Learn about the plant, observe some of the processing and purchase some delicious coffee; a family-owned regional company.
Busch Brewery Tour
Depart: 2:30 p.m. Return: 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $17 - $20
Find out how beer is produced. Enjoy 2 samples in the tasting room and find lots of Busch items in the large gift shop.
TUESDAY, JULY 11
Okefenokee Swamp Tour
Depart: 12:30 p.m. Return: 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $59 - $65
Travel by boat through the canals of this famous swamp while a park ranger explains the many kinds of living things that reside there. Gift shop and food service above the dock area. Not accessible for wheelchairs; extremely hot for dogs. Please wear long pants, long-sleeved light-colored shirt, hat, socks and shoes (no sandals); bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
Blind Services Tour
Depart: 12:30 p.m. Return: 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $25 - $30
Visit the 75-acre campus of the Florida School for the Blind in St. Augustine. Tour the grounds, have a light snack, and hear about blind services in Florida in the Ray Charles auditorium.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 12
Martin Coffee Company
Depart: 12:30 p.m. Return: 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $17 - $20
See Monday for details.
Busch Brewery Tour
Depart: 2:30 p.m. Return: 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $17 - $20
See Monday for details.
Museum of Science and History Walking Tour
Depart: 1:00 p.m. Return: 3:00 p.m.
Cost: $17 - $20
Observe many science projects and interact with some of them; learn about the national history of the area.
Hanna Beach Party
Depart: 5:45 p.m. Return: 10:00 p.m.
Cost: $22 - $25
How about a good old-fashioned BBQ and beach party! Our local hosts are partnering with ACB Tours to give you a wonderful evening of food, music and/or walking on the beach.
THURSDAY, JULY 13
St. Augustine Ghost Tour
Depart: 12:15 p.m. Return: 6:00 p.m.
Cost: $55 - $60
Visit the Florida Museum and see activities of the various cultures that have populated the area. Learn about the ghosts that have resided in the community over the years. Shop on St. George Street, one of the oldest streets in America.
Cummer Museum Of Art And Gardens Tour
Depart: 12:45 p.m. Return: 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $27 - $30
A hands-on tour of many of the museum's exhibits. Enjoy the sculpture and botanical gardens of this highly-respected museum.
SATURDAY, JULY 15
Sun Cruise Casino Tour
Depart: 9:45 a.m. Return: 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $17 - $20
See Saturday, July 8 for details.
Alhambra Dinner Theater Tour
Depart: 5:45 p.m. Return: 11:00 p.m.
Cost: $68 - $70
Your evening will begin with an all-you-can-eat buffet. Then sit back and enjoy a live production of Disney's "Beauty and the Beast." A wonderful way to wind up a busy convention week.
MORE CONVENTION ENTERTAINMENT
You will be ready for a break and a little fun after all those meetings, workshops, seminars and business meetings. Below are some activities and events that take place at the hotel. For more fun ideas, see "Convention Tours," and check the agendas for the many affiliates and groups for more mixers, luncheons and parties.
SATURDAY, JULY 8
8:00 p.m. Welcome to Jacksonville Party - River 1 Great music, great prizes, great fun! Get convention week off to a roaring start as the Jacksonville Host Committee welcomes us to their great city.
SUNDAY, JULY 9
12:30 p.m. - ACB Sports Fanatics Luncheon - St. Johns Great sports food and fun with two fantastic speakers. Brian Sexton, the voice of the Jacksonville Jaguars, will entertain us with some great stories. Joseph Aukward, a blind middle distance runner, will relate his experiences from the Paralympics in Greece and let us share his hopes for a repeat performance in the 2008 Paralympics. $25 - $27
MONDAY, JULY 10
7:00 p.m. Alaska Hospitality - 4104 A convention tradition from the land of the midnight sun.
7:30 p.m. DVS Movie Night - Orlando Free described screening of "Cheaper by the Dozen 2"; sponsored by Descriptive Video Services and WGBH Media Access Group
TUESDAY, JULY 5
7:00 p.m. Family Film Night with NCI - Orlando Free described screening of a great movie, courtesy of National Captioning Institute.
2006 EXHIBITS
The 2006 ACB Exhibit Hall is filled with everything from jewelry to information resources to the latest in appliances and technologies designed especially for people who are blind and visually impaired. Check it out in the Terrace Pavilion on the third floor.
Exhibit hall hours are as follows:
Saturday, July 8, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 9, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Monday through Wednesday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, July 13, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The following exhibitors were registered for the convention at the time the program went to press. Pick up a complete list at the front of the Exhibit Hall.
ACB Radio
ACB Store
AI Squared
All In Play
American Printing House for the Blind
Aurora Ministries
Beyond Sight Inc.
Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh
Bookshare.org/Benetech
California Canes
Capital Accessibility LLC
Christiansen Designs
Damar Travel
Descriptive Video Service
Duramed Solutions
Duxbury Systems Inc.
En-Vision America, Inc.
Enabling Technologies
Envision
Freedom Scientific
Future Alternatives
Gospel Light Foundation for the Blind
Guerrilla Technologies Inc.
Guide Dogs for the Blind
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
GW Micro
Hadley School for the Blind
Humanware
Independent Living Aids
IRTI
Kurzweil Educational Systems
Leader Dogs for the Blind
Level Star
Lutheran Braille Workers Inc.
Magnifying America
Magnasight, Inc.
Matilda Ziegler Magazine for the Blind
Maxi-Aids
Music for the Blind.com
National Braille Press
National Industries for the Blind
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
Optelec USA Inc.
Piano Boutique
Pilot Dogs Inc.
Plustek Inc.
Polara Engineering Inc.
Quietwater Jewelry and Gifts
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic
Sendero Group
Sighted Electronics Inc
Southeastern Guide Dogs Inc.
Talking Tabs
Triumph Technology, LLC
Vehicle Donation Processing Center
MAJOR CONVENTION SPONSORS
JACKSONVILLE GEMS
ACB has begun a brand-new sponsorship program this year. Offering varying levels of support, the program gives agencies and corporations an opportunity to reach clients and customers in many different ways.
We want to recognize our 2006 "gems" in this special section of the convention program. We will also recognize them in the convention newspaper, on ACB Radio, and by naming their chosen events and activities for them. Thanks are expressed for the following:
SAPPHIRE SPONSOR
Guide Dogs for the Blind -- for general support of the convention through an exhibitor sponsorship
OPAL SPONSORS
Freedom Scientific -- for sponsorship of the large print and braille Enhanced Exhibitor Listing; pick up your copy at the front of the exhibit hall
Maxi-Aids -- for underwriting the cost of the large print program
PEARL SPONSORS
Regal Entertainment Group (Regal Cinemas), 7132 Regal Lane, Knoxville, TN 37918; (865) 922-1123; fax (865) 922-3188 -- for sponsoring Regal Day at the Youth Activities Center on Wednesday, July 12
Thomson West, 610 Opperman Dr., Eagan, MN 55123 -- for sponsoring the information desk throughout the convention
Tracfone, 1-800- 867-7183 -- for their sponsorship of the 2006 Scholarship Winners' Dinner on Saturday, July 8
IN-KIND CONVENTION SUPPORT
Sometimes companies choose to provide things rather than dollars for the convention. Often these contributions are quite significant and save ACB large sums of money. We express thanks to our 2006 in-kind contributors for the following:
Star Continuous Cards/Braillepaper.com, 32 N. Bacton Hill Rd., Frazer, PA 19355; 1-800-458-1413 or (610) 644-3838; fax 1-800-637-6708 or (610) 647- 9210 -- for the generous donation of braille paper for "The Jacksonville Sun"
Enabling Technologies, 1601 NE Braille Place, Jensen Beach, Florida 34957; (772) 225-3687 or 1-800-777-3687; fax (772) 225-3299 or 1-800-950-3687 -- for the use of braille printers in the production of the "Jacksonville Sun"
Kurzweil Educational Systems, 100 Crosby Drive, Bedford, MA 01730-1402; 1- 800-894-5374 or (781) 276-0600 -- for the 2006 John Mattioli Memorial Kurzweil 1000 Software Award presented to our 2006 scholarship winners
Southwest Airlines, 1-800-435-9792 -- for providing round-trip transportation for two ACB scholarship winners
Sprint Corp., 1-800-777-4681 -- for donating the use of 22 two-way radios to assist with the operation of the convention
Talking Thermostats.com, PO Box 27145, Golden Valley, MN 55427, 1-800-838- 8860 -- for contributing two talking thermostats to be used as prizes at the convention
CONVENTION NEWSPAPER SPONSORS
Newsreel, Inc.
Blindskills, Inc.
2005-2006 ACB OFFICERS
President: Christopher Gray, San Francisco, CA
First Vice President: MJ Schmitt, Rochester, NY
Second Vice President: Mitch Pomerantz, Pasadena, CA
Secretary: Donna Seliger, Des Moines, IA
Treasurer: Mike Godino, Malverne, NY
Immediate Past President: Paul Edwards, Miami, FL
ACB BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Alan Beatty, Fort Collins, CO
Dr. Ed Bradley, Houston, TX
Brian Charlson, Watertown, MA
Carol Ann Ewing, Las Vegas, NV
Billie Jean Keith, Arlington, VA
Oral O. Miller, Washington, DC
Carla Ruschival, Louisville, KY
Patrick Sheehan, Silver Spring, MD
Naomi Soule, St. Louis, MO
David Trott, Talladega, AL
Ex Officio: DeAnna Quietwater Noriega, Colorado Springs, CO
ACB Board of Publications
Mike Duke, Chairperson, Jackson, MS
Cindy Burgett, Bremerton, WA
Rochelle Hart, Sioux Falls, SD
Charles Hodge, Arlington, VA
DeAnna Quietwater Noriega, Colorado Springs, CO
Ex Officios: Ralph Sanders, Las Vegas, NV
Janelle Edwards, Springfield, MO
ACB Enterprises and Services Board of Directors
Michael Garrett, Chairman, Missouri City, TX
Michael Godino, Malverne, NY
Oral Miller, Washington, DC
Doug Psick, Apple Valley, MN
Carla Ruschival, Louisville, KY
LeRoy Saunders, Oklahoma City, OK
MJ Schmitt, Rochester, NY
ACB NATIONAL OFFICE STAFF
Melanie Brunson, Executive Director
Patricia Moreira, Executive Assistant
Terry Pacheco, Director of Development, Membership & Affiliate Services
Sharon Lovering, Braille Forum Editor
Day Al-Mohamed, Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs
Krista Merritt, Policy Analyst
Philip Strong, Advocacy Specialist
ACB ENTERPRISES AND SERVICES STAFF
MINNEAPOLIS, MN
Quan K. Cu, Supervisor, Computer Operation
Le Chi T. Tran, Accountant/Supervisor
Elaine Vining, Secretary
Donald W. Gardner, Interim Controller
ACB CONVENTION COMMITTEES
2006 CONVENTION COORDINATING COMMITTEE
Coordinator: Carla Ruschival
Volunteers: Margarine Beaman
Youth Activities Center: Patti Cox
Tours: Berl Colley
Communication Center: Sharon Lovering
Convention Finances and Registration Office: Quan K. Cu
Convention Information Desk: Pam Shaw
Exhibits: Michael Smitherman
Publicity: Brenda Dillon
Recreation Zone: Oral O. Miller
Officer Representative: Donna Seliger
2006 CONVENTION PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Chris Gray, Chair
Melanie Brunson
Paul Edwards
Terry Pacheco
Mitch Pomerantz
Carla Ruschival
MJ Schmitt
2006 FCB HOST COMMITTEE
Barbara Brown and Dan O'Connor, Co-chairs
Debbie Drylie
Linda Jacobson
Paul Kaminsky
Bill and Bobbie Probst
Gloria Simmons
Lynnette Taylor
Michael Taylor