It's early November, and some members of the national convention committee just returned from a hectic planning weekend in sunny Phoenix. A brand-new hotel, not a drop of rain, and fantastic tours and programs will add up to a fun-filled, information-packed week with ACB. Don't miss it!
Conference and convention dates are July 9-17. Come early and stay late so you can take in all the great tours, workshops and other events that make convention week special.
We don't have tours set as of this date, but we have visited some incredible and unique venues. Imagine the thrill of visiting the home of architect Frank Lloyd Wright! When we asked what we could touch, the guide said, "You can touch everything; that's why we aren't a museum." Michael Smitherman and I even got to play the grand piano in the living room!
Other great possibilities will have you stuffing your own bear at America's only plush animal factory, learning how brass bells are cast, practicing your blackjack skills at a casino, riding in a Venetian gondola, visiting a candy factory, and stepping back 250 years in firefighting history. The popular city tour is back, and day-long trips to the Grand Canyon, Sonora and much more are being explored.
SPONSORSHIPS: Corporations, organizations and agencies are invited to become 2010 ACB gems. There's a sponsorship to fit every budget, from pearl ($1,000) to diamond ($25,000). Information and forms are available from Margarine Beaman, advertising and sponsorship coordinator, at (512) 921-1625 or [email protected].
PLANNING EVENTS: Each ACB committee and special-interest affiliate holding events at the upcoming conference and convention has a representative on the convention-planning e-mail list. This list is my way of distributing information to these affiliates and committees. A similar list, designed especially for exhibitors, sponsors, and non-affiliated groups holding events at the convention, is now being created.
RESERVATIONS: The home for ACB from July 9-17 is the Phoenix Downtown Sheraton. Room rates are $89 plus tax. Make reservations by calling 1-800-325-3535. Be sure to say you are with the American Council of the Blind.