[Arizona-students] Fwd: Convention Attractions at 2004 NFB Convention in Atlanta

[David Andrews]

> From Lorinda Riddle:




>Dear Friends and Federationists,
>
>I am sending this email to remind everyone that convention information is 
>available on the NFB Web site at <http://www.nfb.org>www.nfb.org. Click on 
>the Convention link and find a preconvention agenda, exhibitor and sponsor 
>information and hotel links.
>
>Additional information is available at the Publications link by clicking 
>on various issues of the Braille Monitor.
>
>The following is a listing of the 2004 Convention Attractions as printed 
>in the April 2004 Braille Monitor.
>
>2004 Convention Attractions<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = 
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>
> From the Editor: Every year's national convention is an absolutely unique 
> event. The agenda items, the exhibits, the new friends and business 
> acquaintances: all these give each convention its own character and 
> significance. Some activities lend a luster to the convention in part 
> because they do take place every year and provide helpful fixed points in 
> the whirl of events. In this category are the meetings of the Resolutions 
> Committee and the board of directors, the annual banquet, and the many 
> seminars and workshops of the various divisions and committees. Here is a 
> partial list of activities being planned by a number of Federation groups 
> during the 2004 Convention, June 29 through July 5. Presidents of 
> divisions, committee chairpeople, and event presenters have provided the 
> information. The preconvention agenda will list the locations of all 
> events taking place before convention registration on Wednesday, June 30. 
> The convention agenda will contain listings of all events taking place 
> beginning that day.
>
>The Agriculture and Equestrian Division
>
>by Fred Chambers
>
>The meeting of the Agriculture and Equestrian Division will take place 
>Thursday, July 1. Check-in starts at 5:30 p.m. We will hear from Bill 
>Gibson, a Utah vocational rehabilitation counselor and cattle rancher. We 
>are growing by leaps and bounds. Come snack on bioregional produce, 
>network, share stories, and meet some locals. Georgia is home to a diverse 
>agriculture industry. Learn about resources you can tap into to start or 
>expand a career in agriculture's myriad fields.
>
>Our membership has a wide array of interests and a wide geographic 
>distribution. From agroforestry, apiculture, and aquaculture to 
>composting, gardening, and landscaping; from firearms and hunting to 
>dairies and milk products; from ranching and riding to tack and tractors 
>and vermiculture and zymurgy--we cover the map. Blind people are working, 
>studying, and hobbying in every field, while feeding and clothing the 
>world. Put your boots on, roll up your sleeves, and join us!
>
>Tours:
>
>Tuesday, June 29, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.
>
>Saturday, July 3, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.
>
>We are going back to our two-tour format, one on set-up day and the other 
>on tour day. These tours are always a highlight and a bargain. Details of 
>our Atlanta Agriculture and Equestrian Division tours will be in the May 
>Braille Monitor (see end of article). Our past tours have included 
>horseback riding and touring historic homes, stables, carriage barns, 
>thoroughbred ranches, urban organic farms, microbreweries, and much more. 
>Stay tuned or contact the tour coordinator.
>
>President, Rancher, and Riding Instructor, Diane Starin, (530) 223-9084, 
>1042 Hawthorne Avenue, Redding, California 96002, email 
><iamhorseheart at yahoo.com>. Tour Coordinator and Aquaculturist, Fred 
>Chambers, (760) 505-8500, email <regenerative at earthlink.net>.
>
>BLIND, Incorporated, Karaoke Night
>
>by Shawn Mayo
>
>Come hear Dr. Maurer sing at BLIND, Incorporated's Karaoke night. Whether 
>you form a group, sing solo, or cheer on your fellow Federationists, you 
>will want to be part of this fun-filled night on Tuesday, June 29, from 
>8:00 p.m. to midnight. And, if that's not enough, come find out what song 
>the BLIND, Incorporated, staff and students will sing this year. Meet 
>current students and alumni as they share their experiences from training. 
>There will be a cash bar and many door prizes. Admission is only $5. Song 
>lists will be available in Braille that night, or you can check our Web 
>page at <www.blindinc.org>, where the song list will be posted when we get 
>closer to convention.
>
>The Colorado Center for the Blind Night
>
>by Julie Deden
>
>Have you wondered what it would be like to be a student at the Colorado 
>Center for the Blind? Are you interested in job training? Join the 
>students and staff Saturday, July 3, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. to 
>discover what your future could hold. Meet our employment specialist and 
>find out what career might be right for you. Try hands-on demonstrations 
>from cane travel to Braille. See what it's like to rock climb and create 
>sculpture. Consider blindness training; it can change your life.
>
>Braille Carnival Buddies
>Help Wanted
>
>by Melissa Riccobono
>
>Are you going to the national convention in Atlanta this summer? If so and 
>if you are at least eighteen, please consider helping as a buddy at the 
>annual Braille carnival on Tuesday, June 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
>
>This is a great opportunity to work with both blind and sighted children 
>while their parents attend meetings. The Braille carnival features many 
>unique and fun Braille reading and writing experiences for novice to 
>advanced Braille readers. Carnival buddies are responsible for guiding 
>children through the maze of Braille activities. There is plenty of help 
>even if you are still working on your own Braille reading skills.
>
>If you can help or have questions, please contact Melissa Riccobono at 
><maricco at verizon.net>, or call (410) 837-0707. Your help is greatly 
>appreciated. More details will follow for those who are interested in 
>helping at the Braille carnival, and an orientation meeting will be held 
>on the morning of the carnival.
>
>Editors Workshop
>Sponsored by the Correspondence Committee
>
>by Jerry Whittle
>
>The Correspondence Committee, the oldest NFB committee, presents an annual 
>workshop for newsletter editors and discusses issues concerned in editing 
>NFB affiliate and division newsletters. In an effort to allow more editors 
>to attend this workshop, we will hold it this year from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. 
>on Tuesday, June 29. Consult your preconvention agenda for the room. 
>Barbara Pierce, editor of the Braille Monitor, will be on hand to lead 
>many of the discussions and exercises. Other speakers will lend their 
>expertise in areas such as layout and using photographs. All NFB 
>newsletter editors are encouraged to attend.
>
>Deaf-Blind Division
>
>by Richard Edlund
>
>The National Federation of the Blind Deaf-Blind Division will conduct its 
>annual meetings July 2 and 3 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Registration will 
>begin at 6:15 p.m. on July 2 and at 6:30 p.m. on July 3. The meetings 
>begin promptly at 7:00. Check the convention agenda for the location.
>
>The meeting on July 2 will cover topics concerning deaf-blindness such as 
>Braille, computers, independent travel as a deaf-blind person, and 
>techniques for effective job searches and appropriate job placements. The 
>business meeting will take place on July 3. The first hour will focus on 
>division business, including elections. The second hour will be an 
>open-ended discussion by the audience on any issues associated with 
>deaf-blindness.
>
>Interpreter services will be provided on request to those who submit their 
>requests by May 15, 2004, to Maurice A. Mines. Send email to him at 
><mmines at mines-family.net>, or write him at 3805 West 26th Avenue, 
>Apartment 105, Denver, Colorado 80211, or phone (720) 855-0309.
>
>For more information about deaf-blindness and the activities of the NFB's 
>Deaf-Blind Division, contact President Dick Edlund, 6734 Montana Court, 
>Kansas City, Kansas 66111, call (913) 299-3201, or send email to 
><rjedlund at aol.com>.
>
>Division dues are $5 a year and can be sent to Treasurer Kimberley 
>Johnson, Colorado Center for the Blind, 2233 West Shepperd Avenue, 
>Littleton, Colorado 80120, call (303) 778-1130, (ext. 212), fax (303) 
>778-1598, or send email to <kjohnson at cocenter.org>.
>
>Come one and all, and learn what we are doing to change what it means to 
>be deaf-blind. See you in Atlanta from June 29 to July 5.
>
>Diabetes Action Network
>
>by Paul Price
>
>The Diabetes Action Network will hold its annual seminar on Thursday, July 
>1, 2004, in Atlanta from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. We have two keynote 
>speakers; Dr. Frank Vinicor, the director of diabetes translation at the 
>Centers for Disease Control, and Jinan Saaddine, an ophthalmologist at the 
>CDC. He is probably the most knowledgeable person in the world about 
>diabetes statistics and research. We will also have door prizes.
>
>Educators of Blind Children
>
>by Gail Wagner
>
>Attention educators of blind children. Often we are the only teachers in 
>our area and don't have others nearby to share with. Let's get together 
>and chat at the convention. When you get into Atlanta, call Gail Wagner's 
>room for day, time, and place. Please email her privately if you will be 
>attending the convention: <swagkat at att.net>. Hope to see you in Atlanta.
>
>Ham Radio Group Emergency Preparedness Seminar
>
>by Curtis Willoughby
>
>In accord with long-standing tradition, the first meeting of the 2004 
>convention will be the Emergency Preparedness Seminar conducted by the NFB 
>Ham Radio Group.
>
>The seminar will be held at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 29. We will discuss 
>frequencies to be used during the convention, especially those to be used 
>in the event of an emergency call-out during the convention. We will also 
>discuss those architectural features of the convention hotels and other 
>information that NFB hams need to know if an emergency response is 
>necessary. Any Atlanta hams who would be willing to do a little frequency 
>scouting before the convention are asked to contact Curtis, KA0VBA (303) 
>424-7373, <ka0vba at dimensional.com>.
>
>The Ham Radio Group has a Federation service project of handling the 
>distribution of the special FM receivers to allow hearing-impaired 
>conventioneers to hear a signal directly from the public address system, 
>which is much easier to understand than the sound that normal hearing aids 
>pick up in a meeting. These same receivers are used to allow Spanish 
>speakers (those who do not understand English fluently) to hear a Spanish 
>translation of the convention and the banquet.
>
>We will take some time at the Emergency Preparedness Seminar to prepare 
>for this project as well. It is important that all group members willing 
>to help come to the seminar.
>
>The annual business meeting of the NFB Ham Radio Group will be held at 
>noon on Sunday, July 4.
>
>Health Professionals Division
>
>by Abio Sokari
>
>Attention all Federationists in health professions or interested in 
>careers in the health professions. The Health Professional Division will 
>meet from 2 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 1, at our national convention. We 
>will conduct a division program and a business meeting, including 
>elections, at this time. For more information contact Abio Sokari, M.D., 
>Ph.D., at <Sokaria at umkc.edu.>
>
>The Human Services Division
>
>by Melissa Riccobono
>
>The Human Services Division will meet July 1, 2004, for our annual seminar 
>and business meeting. Registration will begin at 1:30 p.m., and the 
>seminar/business meeting will be held from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
>
>The Human Services Division was formed in order to allow blind 
>psychologists, social workers, counselors, other human service workers, 
>and those interested in human service fields to network, ask questions, 
>and share techniques with one another. This year our seminar will address 
>many topics involved in finding employment, including job interviews and 
>internships. We will also discuss techniques blind human service workers 
>use in order to get the job done.
>
>Please join us for this informative seminar. Dues are $5. If you have any 
>questions, contact Melissa Riccobono, president, National Federation of 
>the Blind Human Services Division, by phone at (410) 837-0707 or by email 
>at <maricco at verizon.net>.
>
>2004 IBTC-Sponsored Technology Seminars
>
>by Brad Hodges
>
>Last year at the convention in Louisville the International Braille and 
>Technology Center for the Blind sponsored a series of technology-related 
>seminars. These presentations covered a spectrum of technology topics at 
>different user-experience levels.
>
>We are pleased to announce that we will have a similar offering this year 
>in Atlanta. The seminars will be held on Tuesday, June 29. Anyone is 
>welcome to attend any of the eight ninety-minute presentations.
>
>Each seminar will be conducted in one of two rooms. For room locations and 
>to confirm topic details, consult your preconvention agenda, which you 
>will be able to obtain upon check-in at the Marriott Marquis.
>
>Session 1: 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.
>
>A: Microsoft Word XP for Beginners (beginning and intermediate users)
>
>B: Braille from the Ether (intermediate and advanced Duxbury users 
>interested in learning tips and tricks for formatting materials from the 
>Net and beyond)
>
>Session 2: 10:30 a.m. to noon
>
>C: Microsoft Word XP: The Rest of the Story (intermediate and advanced 
>users of Word XP and those moving from Word 2000 to XP)
>
>D: EBooks: Are Cassettes a Thing of the Past (for all interested in the 
>latest developments in playback equipment, sources, and the future of eBooks)
>
>Session 3: 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.
>
>E: Tactile Graphics: A Touching Experience (cosponsored by the IBTC and 
>NOPBC for parents, teachers, and all who are interested in learning about 
>specialized graphics technology intended for the blind)
>
>F: Excel for Beginners (beginning and intermediate users)
>
>Session 4: 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.
>
>G: Tactile Graphics: More Touching Experiences (for parents, teachers, and 
>all who are interested in using models, construction toys, and other 
>techniques to create hands-on experiences)
>
>H: Notetakers and your Desktop (beginner to intermediate users of Braille 
>notetakers who want to learn about connecting them to a desktop computer)
>
>The Louisiana Center for the Blind Players Present:
>The Long and Winding Trail
>
>by Jerry Whittle
>
>This original drama depicts a young blind man who must run away from home 
>to find trust and loyalty on the streets of New Orleans. Tickets are $5. 
>All proceeds are used to help fund the summer training programs for blind 
>children at the Louisiana Center for the Blind. You can see the play at 
>either 7:00 or 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 1.
>
>Mining Local Foundations for Your Affiliate
>
>by Mary Brady
>
>On Tuesday, June 29, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. Mary Brady, M.S., program 
>officer, National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute, will offer a 
>seminar on grant writing. Participants will receive current sources of 
>information on private foundations that want to fund projects in their 
>states. Ms. Brady will also circulate model applications for Radio Shack 
>Foundation, Wal-Mart Foundation, and Starbucks Foundation. We will discuss 
>information on application guidelines and the seven secret characteristics 
>of a winning proposal.
>
>National Association of the Blind
>in Communities of Faith
>
>by Tom Anderson
>
>The National Association of the Blind in Communities of Faith will hold 
>its annual meeting on Thursday, July 1, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. 
>Registration for this meeting will start at 12:30 p.m. This year's theme 
>for the meeting will be "Resources for Empowerment." We plan to have 
>representatives from various faith-based libraries and publishing houses 
>describe what their organizations do. There will be time for questions. We 
>will then have speakers who will discuss how they use their spiritual 
>resources to succeed in their endeavors.
>
>We may also have a discussion about problems members may be having with 
>full participation in their places of worship. A brief business meeting 
>will follow these discussions. In this business meeting we will work to 
>set goals for the next year.
>
>Please feel free to contact me with matters of concern regarding this 
>division. My address is 5628 South Fox Circle, Apartment A, Littleton, 
>Colorado 80120. My phone number is (303) 794-5006. My work number is (303) 
>778-1130, extension 220. My email address is <tanderson at cocenter.org>.
>
>As in recent years, the division will coordinate early morning devotionals 
>at the 2004 convention. These are intended to encompass all faiths and are 
>open to everyone. We will conduct these devotional services from Friday 
>through Monday, July 2 to 5. Consult the convention agenda for the time 
>and place. If you wish to take part in leading these devotionals, please 
>contact me at the above address. We are looking for people who wish to 
>sing or preach. You can also contact me at the 2004 convention in Atlanta.
>
>National Association of Blind Entrepreneurs
>
>by James R. Bonerbo
>
>The division's annual seminar will be held on June 29 from 1:00 to 5:00 
>p.m. We will discuss the formation and operation of small business 
>organizations, the business plan, financing, accounting, tax matters, etc. 
>Don Capps, who chairs the NFB's small business loans committee, will 
>address the seminar. We hope that you can join us.
>
>National Association of Blind Lawyers
>
>by Scott LaBarre
>
>Each year the National Association of Blind Lawyers (NABL) conducts its 
>annual meeting at the convention of the National Federation of the Blind, 
>and this year is no different. We will meet on Thursday, July 1, at the 
>Marriott Marquis from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., exact room to be announced. The 
>purpose of our annual meeting and seminar is multifaceted.
>
>We will examine emerging trends in the law that affect blind people and 
>others with disabilities. We will discuss how to practice law most 
>effectively as a blind or visually impaired legal professional. We will 
>have an update on the way legal research companies are making their 
>products accessible with screen readers and other assistive technology 
>used by blind lawyers. Undoubtedly we will hear from local law schools and 
>bar associations about their outreach efforts to blind and visually 
>impaired students and legal professionals. Because our agenda covers 
>substantive areas of the law and addresses the practice of law itself, 
>many of our members have applied for and received continuing legal 
>education credits for our seminar.
>
>At the conclusion of the seminar we will hold a reception for NABL members 
>and seminar participants to promote networking and fellowship within our 
>membership. If you are a lawyer, legal professional, or law student or are 
>interested in law, the NABL meeting in Atlanta on July 1 is the place to be.
>
>Mock Trial
>
>by Scott LaBarre
>
>The National Association of Blind Lawyers will sponsor its Seventh Annual 
>Mock Trial at the 2004 NFB convention. This trial will reenact an old 
>Federation case. Federation lawyers will be pitted against each other 
>arguing the merits of the two positions.
>
>Although the matter has not been firmly decided, we will very likely 
>revisit an employment discrimination case in which a blind factory worker 
>was fired because of his blindness. See your favorite Federation lawyers 
>strut their legal stuff.
>
>You, the audience, will serve as the jury. This year's trial promises to 
>be just as entertaining and thought provoking as the past trials. A 
>nominal charge of $5 per person will benefit the National Association of 
>Blind Lawyers. The trial will take place on Wednesday afternoon, June 30, 
>at 4:30 p.m. somewhere in the Marriott Marquis. Consult the convention 
>agenda for the exact place.
>
>National Association of Blind Merchants
>
>by Kevan Worley
>
>The National Association of Blind Merchants would like to thank our loyal 
>snack pack customers over the past seven years. Snack Pack has not only 
>been a lot of fun and a great fundraiser for our division; it has also 
>helped many conventioneers on a tight budget to snack pretty well. This 
>year we regret to say that we will be unable to provide snack packs, but 
>we are working on an exciting alternative. So come to our table in the 
>exhibit hall, enjoy a small cool drink, buy a raffle ticket for a chance 
>to win $1,000, and prepare to be surprised and delighted by our latest 
>entrepreneurial venture.
>
>The annual meeting of the National Association of Blind Merchants will 
>take place Thursday afternoon, July 1, at 1:00 p.m. Check the convention 
>agenda for location. This year registration for our division meeting will 
>begin approximately thirty minutes after adjournment of the board of 
>directors meeting. If you are involved in the Randolph-Sheppard Program or 
>operate a similar business, you won't want to miss this merchants' 
>meeting. On Saturday, July 3, from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m., we invite you to 
>our fourth annual Randolph-Sheppard reception. Socialize, network, and 
>learn more about Randolph-Sheppard opportunities. Check the convention 
>agenda for location.
>
>National Association of Blind Musicians
>
>by Linda Mentink
>
>The National Association of Blind Musicians (NABM) will hold its annual 
>seminar on Tuesday, June 29, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Bill McCann will give 
>an overview of the products available from Dancing Dots. Then he will do a 
>mini training session with those who want to learn to use GoodFeel, his 
>Braille Music Translation software program. If you'd like to be trained, 
>please contact me immediately so that we know how many computers to have 
>available.
>
>Our annual business meeting is scheduled for Wednesday evening, June 30. 
>Registration will begin at 6:30, and the meeting will begin at 7:00. This 
>is an election year.
>
>NABM will hold its annual showcase of talent on Friday evening, July 2. 
>This is our fundraiser and very well attended. Admission is $5 at the 
>door. If you wish to participate, please follow these guidelines:
>
>1. Sign up by 12 noon on the day of the showcase.
>
>2. Perform one number, no longer than four minutes.
>
>3. If you are using a taped accompaniment, please have it cued up. Do not 
>sing with the artist; you will be cut off while performing.
>
>4. If you need an accompanist, please make arrangements before the showcase.
>
>If you wish to register for the showcase before the convention, contact 
>Linda Mentink, 1740 Tamarack Lane, Janesville, Wisconsin 53545-0952; 
>telephone (608) 752-8749; email <lmentink at tds.net>.
>
>Membership dues are $5 per year. If you wish to renew your membership or 
>become a member before the convention, please make your check payable to 
>NABM and send it to Bee Hodgkiss, 1117 Marquette, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403.
>
>National Association of Blind Office Professionals
>
>by Lisa Hall
>
>The National Association of Blind Office Professionals (NABOP) will 
>conduct its annual meeting on Tuesday, June 29. Registration begins at 
>6:30 p.m., and the meeting begins promptly at 7:00 p.m. Plans are underway 
>to discuss interesting topics such as an update on Braille-transcription 
>training programs, an informative presentation on the Microsoft Office 
>User Specialist Certification Program, and a host of other topics. This is 
>an election year, so come one and all and give feedback on what you would 
>like to see change in NABOP. Consult your convention agenda for the 
>meeting location.
>
>Membership dues are $5 a year, and dues can be sent to Carol Clark, 
>treasurer, 10 Summitcrest Drive, Kansas City, Kansas 66101; home phone 
>(913) 621-3551; work phone (913) 281-3308. Her email address is 
><circa1944 at aol.com>.
>
>Anyone wanting more information about the National Association of Blind 
>Office Professionals can contact Lisa Hall, president, 9110 Broadway, 
>Apartment j-102, San Antonio, Texas 78217, (210) 829-4571, or send email 
>to <lhall10 at satx.rr.com>.
>
>See everyone in Atlanta during the week of June 29 to July 5.
>
>National Association of Blind Piano Technicians
>
>by Don Mitchell
>
>The National Association of Blind Piano Technicians will hold its annual 
>meeting on Thursday, July 1, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Please consult your 
>convention agenda for room location. Come learn about the new Veratuner 
>electronic piano-tuning machine, which has been developed by the piano 
>technicians division, Smith Kettlewell, and Veratuner, Inc. This is an 
>exciting new device developed for blind piano technicians. Join us at our 
>meeting and help us change what it means to be a blind piano technician.
>
>Also stop by the blind piano technicians' booth in the exhibit hall and 
>talk about piano technology. You can sign up to win a Type 'n Speak 
>notetaker. Hope to see you there.
>
>The National Association of Blind Rehabilitation Professionals
>
>by Shawn Mayo
>
>The National Association of Blind Rehabilitation Professionals will hold 
>our annual meeting Friday, July 2, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. As always, 
>this year's program will include practical ways to bring our Federation 
>philosophy into our work in the blindness field. We will also examine ways 
>of working with youth, find out what's new at RSA, look into how the 
>workforce centers are affecting rehabilitation, and discuss other critical 
>issues. Whether you are a rehabilitation teacher, counselor, agency 
>director, or advocate wanting to inform others back in your state, this 
>seminar is for you. Membership dues are $5.
>
>National Association of Blind Students
>
>by Angela Wolf
>
>The National Association of Blind Students will conduct its annual student 
>division meeting on Wednesday, June 30, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at 
>the NFB national convention. Registration will begin at 6:00 p.m. We will 
>also be hosting Monte Carlo Night on Saturday, July 3, from 8:00 p.m. 
>until midnight. Monte Carlo Night is a fundraiser for the student 
>division, and this year it will be bigger and better than ever. Come 
>support the students and have fun at the same time.
>
>For more information contact Angela Wolf, president, (512) 417-8190, 
><angela.wolf at nfbstudents.org>.
>
>National Association of Guide Dog Users
>
>by Suzanne Whalen
>
>The National Association of Guide Dog Users (NAGDU) invites all interested 
>convention attendees to its two meetings to be held at our national 
>convention in Atlanta. As always we will host two sessions this year. The 
>first will be held Tuesday, June 29. This meeting is our convention 
>business meeting. Although not all arrangements for our meeting have been 
>completed yet, one of our activities will be our biennial election of 
>division officers. Registration will be conducted from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., 
>and the meeting is scheduled to begin promptly at 7:00 and end at 10:00 p.m.
>
>As has been the case for several years, our second meeting is entitled "A 
>Guide Dog in Your Life." It will be held on Saturday, July 3, from 6:00 to 
>10:00 p.m. During the first two hours we will focus on questions of 
>primary interest to cane users contemplating becoming guide dog users, 
>although everyone is invited to participate. Experienced guide dog users 
>can answer questions posed by cane users, and potential guide dog users 
>can hear real-life stories from us in the division who use guide dogs 
>every day. We also expect that guide dog instructors will be available 
>from several schools to give Juno walks for those who want them. This is 
>the preliminary walk given to all new guide dog students before matching 
>is done with a guide dog.
>
>As many of you know from reading Harness Up, our newsletter, the Canine 
>Concerns Committee has undergone major changes. We are asking for 
>volunteers to help organize and supervise the relief areas. Anyone in the 
>Atlanta area who can make telephone calls for us would be especially 
>welcome. If you are interested in helping, please contact Suzanne Whalen, 
>president, at (214) 357-2829.
>
>We look forward to seeing all of you at this year's convention. We know 
>that, as always, we will all come away inspired.
>
>National Association to Promote the Use of Braille
>
>by Nadine Jacobson
>
>It's hard to believe that our national convention is just around the 
>corner. While you are considering which meetings to attend, we hope you 
>will choose NAPUB, the National Association to Promote the Use of Braille. 
>The time for the meeting is 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 1.
>
>We have an exciting agenda planned. If you want to know what's going on 
>with Braille, we hope you can come to our meeting. Before the meeting 
>begins, we will again this year conduct a Braille book flea market. It 
>will begin at 5:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served, and we are sure that 
>everyone will have as much fun as we did last year. If you have any books 
>you would like to contribute to the flea market, consult the first Monitor 
>Miniature in this issue for the exact address to which books should be 
>shipped. Remember, all of the proceeds from the Braille book flea market 
>will go to fund the Braille mentoring program. If you wish to learn more 
>about any NAPUB activities, I can be reached by telephone at (952) 
>927-7694. My email address is <Nadine.Jacobson at visi.com>. We look forward 
>to seeing all of you in Atlanta.
>
>NFB Camp: It's More Than Child's Play
>
>by Carla McQuillan
>
>Programs and Activities
>
>During convention week children six weeks through ten years of age are 
>invited to join in the fun and festivities of NFB Camp. NFB Camp offers 
>more than just childcare; it is an opportunity for our blind and sighted 
>children to meet and develop lifelong friendships. Our activity schedule 
>is filled with games, crafts, and special performances designed to 
>entertain, educate, and delight. If you are interested in this year's 
>program, please complete and return the registration form provided at the 
>end of this notice. Preregistration with payment on or before June 15, 
>2004, is mandatory for participation in NFB Camp. Space is limited, and 
>each year some families have to be turned away.
>
>About the Staff: NFB Camp is organized and supervised by Carla McQuillan, 
>the executive director of Main Street Montessori Association, operating 
>two schools, parent education courses, and a teacher-training program. 
>Carla is the mother of two children, the president of the National 
>Federation of the Blind of Oregon, and a member of the board of directors 
>of the National Federation of the Blind.
>
>Michelle Ros, NFB Camp's activities director since 1999, will not be 
>available this year because of the birth of her second child, due 
>mid-June. Michelle regrets her absence and promises to be with us next 
>year, babe in arms. Instead Alison McQuillan--camp worker and teacher 
>since 1998--will be our activities director this year. Over the years we 
>have recruited professional childcare workers from the local community to 
>staff NFB Camp. Recently we have determined that recruiting from our 
>Federation families results in workers with proper philosophy and 
>attitudes about our blind children. Carla and Alison will be supervising 
>camp workers and all related activities.
>
>Activities and Special Events: The children are divided into groups 
>according to age: infants and toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged 
>children. Each camp room is equipped with a variety of age-appropriate 
>toys, games, and books, and we will have daily art projects. In addition 
>school-aged children will have the opportunity to sign up for half-day 
>trips to local area attractions.
>
>The planned events include trips to underground Atlanta for ice cream, a 
>tour of the Coca Cola museum, a visit to the Atlanta Center for Puppetry 
>Arts, and more. Our field trip supervisor this year will be 2002 
>scholarship winner Nicolas Crisosto. Dates, times, additional fees, and 
>sign-up sheets for field trips will be available at NFB Camp. Space for 
>special events is limited to enrolled NFB Campers only, on a first-come, 
>first-served basis. On the final day of NFB Camp we will conduct a big toy 
>sale--brand new toys at bargain prices.
>
>Banquet Night: NFB Camp will provide dinner and activities during the 
>banquet. The cost for banquet activities is $15 per child in addition to 
>other camp fees.
>
>NFB Camp will be open during general convention sessions, division and 
>committee meeting day, and the evening of the banquet. Plenty of teens are 
>always available to baby-sit during evening and lunchtime meetings.
>
>Please use the NFB Camp registration form.
>
>NFB Camp Schedule
>
>NFB Camp will be open during general convention sessions, division and 
>committee meeting day, and the evening of the banquet. Times listed are 
>the opening and closing times of NFB Camp. Children are not accepted 
>earlier than the times listed, and a late fee of $10 will be assessed for 
>all late pick-ups. NFB Camp provides morning and afternoon snacks. You are 
>responsible to provide lunch for your child(ren) every day except Tuesday.
>
>Date                                        NFB Camp Hours
>
>Tuesday, June 29                      8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
>
>Wednesday, June 30                 Camp is closed.
>
>Thursday, July 1                       8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
>
>Friday, July 2                            9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30 
>p.m.-5:30 p.m.
>
>Saturday, July 3                        8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
>
>Sunday, July 4                          8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30 
>p.m.-5:30 p.m.
>
>                                                 Banquet: 6:30 p.m.
>
>Monday, July 5                         8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-5:30 p.m.
>
>You are required to provide lunch for your child(ren) each day except Tuesday.
>
>These times may vary, depending on the timing of the actual convention 
>sessions. NFB Camp will open thirty minutes before the beginning gavel and 
>close thirty minutes after session recess.
>
>
>
>NFB Camp Registration Form
>
>Completed form and fees must be received on or before June 15, 2004
>
>
>
>Parent's Name_________________________________________________________
>
>Address _____________________________________________________________
>
>City _______________________ State _____ Zip ________ Phone ______________
>
>Child(ren)'s Name(s)
>
>  _________________________________________Date of Birth _________ Age ____
>
>_________________________________________ Date of Birth _________ Age ____
>
>_________________________________________ Date of Birth _________ Age ____
>
>Include description of any disabilities/allergies we should know about:
>
>__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
>
>Who, other than parents, is allowed to pick up your child? 
>_____________________________________________________________________
>
>Per Week:      $80 first child; $60 siblings                # of children 
>_____    $ ________
>
>              (Does not include banquet)
>
>Per Day:        $20 per child per day                         # days  ____ 
>x $20/child    $ ________
>
>             (Does not include banquet)
>
>Banquet:        $15 per child                                     # of 
>children _____ x $15    $ ________
>
>                                        Total Due   $ ________
>
>We understand that NFB Camp is being provided as a service by the NFB to 
>make our convention more enjoyable for both parents and children. We 
>understand the rules we were given and agree to abide by them. We will 
>pick up children immediately following sessions. We understand that if our 
>child(ren) does not follow the rules or if for any reason staff are unable 
>to care for our child(ren), further access to childcare will be denied.
>
>Parent's Signature __________________________________ Date _______________
>
>Make checks payable to NFB Camp.
>
>Return form to National Federation of the Blind of Oregon
>5005 Main Street, Springfield, OR 97478, (541) 726-6924.
>
>National Federation of the Blind in Computer Science
>
>by Curtis Chong
>
>This year's meeting of the National Federation of the Blind in Computer 
>Science will be held on Thursday, July 1, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis 
>from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This being an even-numbered year, members of 
>the division will have an opportunity to elect officers and board members.
>
>Of late we have received disturbing information about difficulties blind 
>people have experienced with reasonable accommodations when trying to take 
>various computerized certification tests. In one instance a blind 
>test-taker was denied the opportunity to bring a Braillewriter and blank 
>paper into the testing area, and in another questions arose about whether 
>or not it was reasonable for screen-magnification software to be installed 
>on the testing computer to be used by a person with low vision. Another 
>issue that we are wrestling with in this area has to do with the 
>compatibility of testing software with screen-access technology and the 
>willingness of developers of testing software to ensure that the programs 
>they create work with the programs that the blind use to operate the 
>computer. Accordingly, at this year's meeting we will be speaking with 
>representatives from some of the larger testing companies such as 
>Prometric and Certiport.
>
>Other program items being considered include an update from Microsoft and 
>other companies about their continuing efforts to maintain or improve 
>accessibility to their products; a discussion with some of the more 
>egregious purveyors of the graphical text-verification technology, which 
>shuts out many blind people from important services; Java (as used with 
>Windows screen readers); and a technical roundtable for PC and mainframe 
>computer programmers.
>
>For more information about the meeting contact Curtis Chong, president, 
>National Federation of the Blind in Computer Science, 3000 Grand Avenue, 
>Apartment 916, Des Moines, Iowa 50312, phone (515) 277-1288, email 
><curtischong at earthlink.net>.
>
>The National Federation of the Blind in Judaism
>
>by Harold Snider
>
>The NFB in Judaism will meet on Friday, July 2, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. 
>This is a half-hour after the close of the general convention session. 
>During the business meeting we will discuss the situation of blind Jews in 
>their communities and the ongoing problems with JBI International. After 
>the meeting those members who wish to do so may join in an Oneg Shabbat 
>celebration and meal which will be kosher. The approximate cost of the 
>catered meal will be $30 a person, including tax and gratuity. Those 
>wishing to attend the Oneg Shabbat must make advance reservations by June 
>25, 2004, in order to guarantee a meal. Please contact Harold Snider, 
>chairman, NFB in Judaism, at 4921 Bel Pre Road, Rockville, Maryland 20853, 
>phone (301) 460-4142, or email <hlsnider at earthlink.net>.
>
>National Organization of Blind Educators
>
>by Sheila Koenig
>
>On July 1 the National Organization of Blind Educators (NOBE) will conduct 
>its annual meeting from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Registration begins at 1:00 p.m. 
>NOBE is a network of blind teachers and those interested in careers in 
>education. Our meeting will offer an opportunity to meet blind people 
>teaching in various grade levels and content areas.
>
>Many questions arise as people contemplate and realize their dreams of 
>teaching: how will potential employers react to a blind applicant? How 
>does a blind person manage students in a classroom? How does one 
>accomplish the daily duties as well as the "other duties as assigned" for 
>which teachers are contracted? During our seminar at the 2004 convention 
>in Atlanta, successful blind teachers will discuss such questions. Seminar 
>participants will also meet in small groups specific to grade level and 
>content areas of interest. In this way we can create a network of mentors 
>extending beyond our meeting.
>
>Education is a profession rich in possibility. As we continue to take on 
>additional roles both inside and outside the classroom, we must continue 
>to develop the alternative techniques essential to our success. Whether 
>you are currently teaching or are interested in the profession of 
>education, we invite you to our seminar on July 1 in Atlanta.
>
>National Organization of the Senior Blind
>
>by Judy Sanders
>
>Medicare defines a senior as someone who is over sixty-five, or is it 
>sixty-seven? RSA (the Rehabilitation Services Administration) says that 
>people are seniors when they are over fifty-five. AARP wants folks when 
>they reach fifty. The National Organization of the Senior Blind (NOSB) 
>wants you at any age.
>
>We will open the doors at 6:00 p.m. on June 30 to begin registration and 
>our ever popular somewhat silent auction. To make the auction work, we are 
>once again counting on generous contributions by Federationists both in 
>items for the auction and in emptying of wallets and checkbooks. Please 
>make sure your items arrive in time for consideration by eager bidders.
>
>Our meeting will be packed full of information from and for blind seniors. 
>Here's an example: Dr. Abio Sokario is employed as a medical consultant to 
>the Topeka Center for the Blind in Kansas. As an enthusiastic 
>Federationist he wants to share his knowledge. He will present an item 
>called "Memory Boosters or Busters." If you are wondering what this will 
>entail, you are not alone. I'm wondering too. We'll all have to show up to 
>find out.
>
>The meeting will adjourn no later than 10:00 p.m. If you have questions or 
>suggestions for the agenda, call Judy Sanders at (612) 375-1625. Email: 
><judysanders at usfamily.net>. One final thing: leave your ID in your hotel 
>room; you won't need it to get in.
>
>Public Employees Division
>
>by Ivan Weich
>
>The Public Employees Division will meet Wednesday, June 30, at 7:00 p.m. 
>If you have questions about the division or the program, you should 
>contact Ivan Weich, division president, at (360) 782-9575.
>
>Roman Catholic Mass
>
>Fr. Gregory Paul, C.P., plans to be with us again at this year's 
>convention and will celebrate Mass on Sunday morning, July 4, at 6:45 a.m. 
>The room assignment will be listed in the agenda.
>
>
>
>Shaping the Programs
>Of the Jernigan Institute:
>A Topical Conversation Among NFB Members
>
>Now that the Jernigan Institute is a reality, we want to be sure that 
>member ideas, concerns, and needs
>play a part in our planning. To this end we will conduct a series of 
>topical discussions on Tuesday, June 29. Moderators will be Executive 
>Director Betsy Zaborowski and Director of Programs Ruth Martin, National 
>Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute. Consult the preconvention 
>agenda for locations.
>
>1:00 to 2:00 p.m., Session I
>Topic: Seniors
>
>2:15 to 3:15 p.m., Session II
>Topic: Rehabilitation and Employment
>
>3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Session III
>Topic: Education
>
>4:45 to 5:45 p.m., Session IV
>Topic: Technology
>
>Where do your interests lie? What issues are important for us to consider? 
>Join us for the discussion.
>
>Social Security Seminar
>
>by James McCarthy and Teresa Uttermohlen
>
>An outreach seminar, "Social Security and Supplemental Security Income: 
>What Applicants, Advocates, and Recipients Should Know," will take place 
>Saturday afternoon, July 3. Conducted by the National Federation of the 
>Blind with the assistance of the Social Security Administration, the 
>seminar will provide information on Social Security and Supplemental 
>Security Income benefits for the blind. Seminar presenters will be James 
>McCarthy, director of governmental affairs for the National Federation of 
>the Blind, and his wife Teresa Uttermohlen, an NFB member and a training 
>and technical assistance liaison employed by Virginia Commonwealth 
>University. Social Security representatives will make helpful publications 
>available to those who attend and share useful information about 
>communicating with the Social Security Administration.
>
>Teen Hospitality Room
>
>by Gail Wagner
>
>Attention all teens! If you are between the ages of twelve and seventeen, 
>we have the place for you. Come to the Teen Hospitality Room to hang out, 
>eat snacks, play games, and visit with old and new friends. This room will 
>be open during most of the NOPBC meetings, plus other times throughout the 
>week. Check for fliers on information tables and at NOPBC activities. Or 
>call Gail Wagner's room at the hotel for last-minute information with 
>dates and times.
>
>Parents: this room will be discreetly chaperoned by NFB members.
>
>Travel and Tourism Division
>
>by Stephanie Scott
>
>You are cordially invited to convene with the Travel and Tourism Division 
>on Thursday, July 1, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. The order of business 
>will be as follows:
>
>1. Elections: all seats are vacant
>
>2. Reception
>
>3. Travel seminar
>
>Light refreshments will be served during the Travel and Tourism Seminar. 
>The seminar will feature a travel information table and a host of 
>distinguished speakers from governmental entities, Delta Airlines, 
>Greyhound, Amtrak, and Carnival Cruise Line.
>
>Seating is limited to Travel and Tourism members only, so become a member 
>today. Membership dues are only $10 a person and should be forwarded to 
>the attention of Travel and Tourism Division President Douglas M. Johnson, 
>P.O. Box 597, Manchester, Washington 98353, home phone (360) 871-3731, 
>email <dougmj1 at charter.net>.
>
>For more information about the festivities at convention, call Stephanie 
>Scott at (800) 449-6324 or email <stephanielscott at aol.com>.
>
>Webmasters Workshop
>
>by Chris Danielsen
>
>On February 1, 2004, just prior to the NFB's annual Washington seminar, 
>members from several states gathered to discuss how each NFB affiliate 
>could enhance its presence on the World Wide Web. The topics ranged from 
>registering domain names and shopping for a good Web host to the 
>particulars of exciting Web-development software, which Macromedia, Inc., 
>a leading manufacturer of such products, has generously donated to the NFB 
>for the use of its affiliates and divisions. The discussion was so lively 
>and productive that the group has planned a similar meeting for the 
>national convention.
>
>Our tentative agenda includes a discussion of how to use Macromedia's 
>powerful Contribute software to allow affiliate leaders to post material 
>to Web sites without having to become fluent in HTML; the kinds of content 
>members and guests may find useful on an affiliate Web site; and the way 
>NFB Web sites can achieve a uniform look and feel, while still insuring 
>that each affiliate's site reflects its own unique voice.
>
>If some of the terminology used here has left you scratching your head, 
>don't worry; you don't have to be a veteran Web jockey to attend. Join the 
>NFB Webmasters at convention and learn how this great movement of ours can 
>harness the power of the Internet to reach more people and make our 
>movement even stronger. Check the preconvention agenda for the details of 
>time and location.
>
>Writers Division
>
>by Tom Stephens
>
>The Writers Division will conduct a workshop on communications and media 
>at 1:45 p.m. on Tuesday, June 29. The objective will be to give 
>participants ideas about media coverage. The workshop will last until 3:00 
>p.m. The division will also hold a come-one-come-all poetry reading from 
>3:15 till 4:30 p.m.
>
>Agriculture and Equestrian Division Tours:
>
>In the April issue readers were promised that the May issue would include 
>more information about some special tours. Here it is:
>
>The Agricultural and Equestrian Division will sponsor two tours at this 
>year's convention. The first is Tuesday, June 29, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. We'll 
>visit a small hippotherapy/adaptive riding center, an alpaca ranch, and a 
>surprise destination, but we will not be riding at the hippotherapy 
>center. Suggested donation is $16, which includes transportation and snacks.
>
>Tour Day, Saturday, July 3, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Polo anyone? We've been 
>invited to take polo lessons. The Chukkar Farm and Polo Club is intrigued 
>by the idea of adapting the game of polo for blind riders. Be sure to 
>respond fast. This tour will sell out. Suggested donation is $23, which 
>includes transportation, polo lessons, and picnic.
>
>Deadline for tour registration is Monday, June 14. Some seats may still be 
>open, so please contact us before you leave for Atlanta or upon arriving 
>at the hotel. Reservations may be made by contacting the tour coordinator 
>below. Please make payments by charge or check using PayPal, to 
>regenerative at earthlink.net. He can also be contacted for additional 
>information. Tour coordinator and aquaculture researcher is Fred Chambers, 
>phone (760) 505-8500; email 
><mailto:regenerative at earthlink.net>regenerative at earthlink.net.
>
>