ACB Media Calendar

Click “Launch Event” to identify the ACB Media stream for each event.

Events in July 2022

  • Berl Colley Leadership: Moving from Safe Spaces to Brave Spaces – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    Berl Colley Leadership: Moving from Safe Spaces to Brave Spaces – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    This session will explore strategies to turn safe spaces into brave spaces. Thought-provoking conversations that help you discover what it means to have an inclusive culture; what it takes to sustain a culture that breaks down barriers and works for everyone.

    Launch Event

    What’s New with JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    What’s New with JAWS, Fusion, and ZoomText – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    Join Douglas Gerry for his annual User Group meeting. All skill levels are welcome. We’ll demonstrate and discuss the recent developments and look at what’s coming in 2023. Bring your questions and join the fun as we kick off the 2022 Convention with the JAWS teams from Training, Sales, and Marketing. Receive a special gift for attending!

    Launch Event

    Berl Colley Leadership – You Belong Here – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    Berl Colley Leadership – You Belong Here – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    How to Create A Culture of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. A panel of ACB Leaders share conference strategies and best practices for engaging diverse communities

    Launch Event

    Furry Tails – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 5

    Furry Tails – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 5


    July 2, 2022

    There have been so many Furry Skilled Professionals over the years who will always live in our hearts and memories. Sunday Edition and GDUI want to recognize some of these amazing Guides. Join us as we remember and honor these wonderful dogs and their handlers.

    Launch Event

    RSVA: All about the Nebraska Business Enterprise Program – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    RSVA: All about the Nebraska Business Enterprise Program – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    This session will highlight the Business Enterprise Program in Nebraska. Learn how vendors are trained, the types of facilities they have in the program, and some statistics of relevance: gross sales, number of facilities, number of vendors, etc. Also learn how blind persons can become a vendor in the state. Presenters: Eric Buckwalter, CVRCB, NBE Coordinator, Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Lincoln, Nebraska; Jim Jirak, Owner Jirak Enterprises, Omaha, Nebraska.

    Launch Event

    411 From the IAC: Low Tech, High Tech Fitness Journey – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    411 From the IAC: Low Tech, High Tech Fitness Journey – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    The Information Access Committee in conjunction with the Get Up and Get Moving Campaign will present on both low tech and high tech options for exercise and tracking your fitness. You’ll hear as members share their journey to better fitness and the devices that helped them along the way. So whether it is a scale, blood pressure cuff, common household item, personal wearable, smart app, or the latest and greatest piece of exercise equipment, there is sure to be something for everyone to help you on your journey to better health.

    Launch Event

    RSVA: The Value of Randolph-Sheppard Business Enterprises as Career Opportunities – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    RSVA: The Value of Randolph-Sheppard Business Enterprises as Career Opportunities – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    Learn the benefits of this career option and how states find recruits. Also learn the skills needed and the education and training that is provided. Presenters: Eric Buckwalter, CVRCB, NBE Coordinator, Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Lincoln, Nebraska; John Gordon, Bureau Chief and Acting BEP Director, Illinois Department for the Blind, Chicago, IL; Patrick Martin, RSVF Vendor, Tallahassee, Florida. Co-sponsored by the ACB Rehabilitation Task Force.

    Launch Event

    411 From the IAC: Unlocking the secrets of shopping – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    411 From the IAC: Unlocking the secrets of shopping – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    We all do it. We all need to buy things and do it in a way that allows us to be independent and efficient. Learn tips and techniques from top technology experts that they use both for in-person shopping and shopping on the internet. Whether you are looking for managing your store coupons, shopping via Shipt or Instacart, it doesn’t matter. We reveal key things to consider as a part of making you more polished in achieving your everyday shopping tasks.

    Launch Event

    RSVA: Outlook Enrichment Assistance – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    RSVA: Outlook Enrichment Assistance – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    What is Outlook Enrichment Assistance? Learn about the differing technologies and skills training that assist those entering the vending program and other careers. Paulette Monthei BSW, MPA, Enrichment Executive Director, Omaha, Nebraska; Alex Curtis, NE Vendor Trainee, Omaha, Nebraska.

    Launch Event

  • LUA: Up Close and Personal with NLS Director, Jason Broughton – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    LUA: Up Close and Personal with NLS Director, Jason Broughton – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 3, 2022

    Mr. Broughton presented at morning general session, here is your chance to learn more from him and ask questions about NLS.

    Launch Event

    On Site and Streamed: RSVA Virtual Awards Lunch Celebrating over 50 years of achievement and advocacy – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3

    On Site and Streamed: RSVA Virtual Awards Lunch Celebrating over 50 years of achievement and advocacy – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3


    July 3, 2022

    Our speaker will be Deb Cook Lewis, ACB 1st Vice President, retired technology specialist

    Launch Event

    Not Your Mother’s Library – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    Not Your Mother’s Library – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 3, 2022

    The Modern, Public Library – What awaits you there.

    Launch Event

    Providing Quality and Affordability: APH High-tech Refreshable Braille Solutions – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    Providing Quality and Affordability: APH High-tech Refreshable Braille Solutions – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 3, 2022

    At APH, our Mantis Q40 and Chameleon 20 refreshable braille devices have set a standard for high quality and affordability. Join members of our APH team and decide for yourself what makes these innovative solutions effective for work, school, and home. Learn how our braille-reading customers have benefited and what the future holds.

    Launch Event

    ACBF: Everyone Can Play! – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    ACBF: Everyone Can Play! – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 3, 2022

    Resources and ideas for accessible toys and games; share family-tested tips from parents, grandparents and teachers alike.

    Launch Event

  • BRL Virtual Breakfast – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3

    BRL Virtual Breakfast – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3


    July 4, 2022

    Guest Speaker Marc Workman, President, World Blind Union

    Launch Event

    Voices From Around the World Virtual Luncheon: A Tapestry of Stories: Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success in the US – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    Voices From Around the World Virtual Luncheon: A Tapestry of Stories: Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success in the US – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 4, 2022

    We all know how difficult it can be to find successful employment as people who are blind or low vision. Hear from a group of panelists who have achieved success, with the additional layer of being immigrants. Get ready to be motivated and inspired! Presenters: Aditi Shah, Senior Data and Applied Scientist, Microsoft, Redmond, WA; Merisa Musemic, Interpreter, Language Line Solutions, Sterling Heights, MI; Gabriel Lopez Kafati, Access Resource Advisor, Miami Dade College, Miami, FL.

    Launch Event

    Smart Home Living – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    Smart Home Living – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 4, 2022

    A myriad of products that make your life and home more comfortable, cleaner, safer, and independent will be demonstrated and discussed.  Spnsored by ACB Next Genand CCLVI.

    Launch Event

    How to Not be Afraid of your Kitchen 101 – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    How to Not be Afraid of your Kitchen 101 – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 4, 2022

    Does the thought of undercooked meat scare you? Are you nervous when chopping your veggies? Do you want to learn how to prep and meal plan for your budget? Join Herbie Allen as he goes in depth into kitchen and food safety and Janeen Lea as she focuses on making your money go further and meal prepping to make your busy nights easier.

    Launch Event

    What’s new with Braille at HumanWare – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    What’s new with Braille at HumanWare – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 4, 2022

    Join Rachel Feinberg, HumanWare’s West Region Blindness Product Specialist for an in-depth look into whats new with Braille products at HumanWare. We will look at the newly released KeySoft update for the BrailleNote Touch Plus, that includes integration with cloud storage through the File Manager, and a brand-new PowerPoint viewer, among many other exciting features! We’ve also been working hard to bring you the best new software to the Brailliant BI X series, which includes a Braille editor, shortcuts to switch efficiently between internal applications, and audio support, among other exciting enhancements.

    Launch Event

    Community Karaoke – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 5

    Community Karaoke – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 5


    July 4, 2022

    Who needs fireworks when you have karaoke done community style? This will be one of the biggest social events in person, and our Zoom event will be just like any other karaoke night in community. All those participating in this event must submit a recording of their performance and be in attendance to introduce their song, whether on Zoom or in person in Omaha. Songs must be family-friendly. Submit recording, song title and artist to community at acb.org no later than June 30 to be included.

    Launch Event

  • AAVIA Virtual Lunch – Perspective from an attorney from the UK – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3

    AAVIA Virtual Lunch – Perspective from an attorney from the UK – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3


    July 5, 2022

    Hear from a Visually Impaired Attorney in the UK. Our guest will talk about key experiences and observations of his training and career in the law. Through discussion with AAVIA members, it is hoped that illuminating contrasts and similarities will emerge.

    Launch Event

    Choosing Where to Live as You Age. Downsizing Part 1 – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    Choosing Where to Live as You Age. Downsizing Part 1 – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 5, 2022

    How can we know when the time is right? Our panel will offer expert guidance on making important decisions on where we might live as we grow older. Co-sponsored by: AAVL and ACB Women

    Launch Event

    Ten Ethical Issues Lawyers Face Today – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3

    Ten Ethical Issues Lawyers Face Today – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3


    July 5, 2022

    This session led by a law professor AAVIA member will offer an expert perspective on key ethical issues facing lawyers and affecting public perceptions of the legal profession.

    Launch Event

    Accessible Covid 19 Testing – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    Accessible Covid 19 Testing – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 5, 2022

    Dr Jill Heemskerk, Deputy Director, NIBIB, and co-lead on the RADx program.

    Launch Event

    Choosing Where to Live as You Age. Downsizing Part 2 – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    Choosing Where to Live as You Age. Downsizing Part 2 – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 5, 2022

    How to choose what’s right for us. A conversation with a panel of ACB members who have made a variety of choices about where to live as they grow older. Co-sponsored by: AAVL and ACB Women.

    Launch Event

    Me to the Third Power: Finding, Working and Sharing Myself; Our Journey with Mental Health and Emotional Well Being – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    Me to the Third Power: Finding, Working and Sharing Myself; Our Journey with Mental Health and Emotional Well Being – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 5, 2022

    Its been said we hear parts of our own stories in others. This panel of speakers will share the highs and lows of their individual journeys through emotional well being.

    Launch Event

  • Convention Connect Show

    Convention Connect Show


    July 6, 2022

    ACB General Session – found in room CHI Grand Ballroom and heard on ACB Media 1

    ACB General Session – found in room CHI Grand Ballroom and heard on ACB Media 1


    July 6, 2022

    It Takes A Village: Working Together to Prepare Students in Transition – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)

    It Takes A Village: Working Together to Prepare Students in Transition – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 3 (CEU Eligible)


    July 6, 2022

    There are a lot of expectations for schools to provide all the essential academic skills to prepare for life beyond secondary education. There is often not enough funding to meet all the need. We know that technology is an integral part of our daily life. Nancy Flearl from the Nebraska Foundation for Visually Impaired Children, will share how a simple non-profit is working in partnership with school districts and Vocational Rehabilitation to support students in transition.

    Launch Event

    Understanding where our writing system Braille has been. – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    Understanding where our writing system Braille has been. – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 6, 2022

    Speakers: Philippa Campsey, Ontario Canada, new information about the early history of braille; Tamara Rorie, Arlington Virginia, new braille archives; and Judy Dixon, Arlington Virginia, who will discuss methods of doing research about braille and where people can find documents of interest.

    Launch Event

    New uses for Braille in Periodicals – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)

    New uses for Braille in Periodicals – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 5 (CEU Eligible)


    July 6, 2022

    Brian Charlson Watertown, MA, and Judy Dixon, Arlington, VA: Using UEB for cooking in magazines and books. Judy Wilkinson, San Leandro, CA and Tamara Rorie, Arlington, VA: New knitting magazines and how to use knitting charts. Ralph Smitherman, Brandon, MS and Jane Carona, Silver Spring, MD: Crossword puzzle magazines Chaired by Paul Edwards.

    Launch Event

    The History and Current Role of Fraternal Benefit Societies – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 3

    The History and Current Role of Fraternal Benefit Societies – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 3


    July 6, 2022

    This session will feature representatives of a major Omaha-based fraternal benefit society, explaining the historical and contemporary importance of these organizations.

    Launch Event

    Accessibility Updates from Instagram and Facebook – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 5

    Accessibility Updates from Instagram and Facebook – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 5


    July 6, 2022

    Learn about how Instagram is empowering people with disabilities to connect with people and interests they care about through accessible experiences. We will also share what’s new for accessibility with Facebook, Messenger and Whatsapp. Speakers: Kiran Kaja (Accessibility Program Lead, Instagram)

    Launch Event

    Audio Description Award Winners – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3

    Audio Description Award Winners – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3


    July 6, 2022

    Get to know more about the 2022 Audio Description Project Award Winner

    Launch Event

    DKM Reception – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 5

    DKM Reception – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 5


    July 6, 2022

    Attend the 26th annual DKM First-Timers Reception to meet the Classes of 2020, 2021 and 2022. You also get to witness the first-ever induction ceremony of the Durward K. McDaniel (DKM) Leadership Select Honor Society.

    Launch Event

    GDUI: Wrap-up and Awards – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3

    GDUI: Wrap-up and Awards – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 3


    July 6, 2022

    GDUI Awards (Margie Donovan, Awards Chair, Folsom, CA), Drawing of four winners of plush pups in harness, The Blessing of past, present and future guide dogs, puppy raisers, handlers, and those who love them – Audrey Gunter and Laurel Jean Walden, Charleston, SC

    Launch Event

    It’s Play Time! – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 5

    It’s Play Time! – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 5


    July 6, 2022

    If you’re looking for social, fun, games, and laughter, we have it all at It’s Play Time. This is where, whether in person or via Zoom, you can play, you can cheer, and you can be guaranteed a night to remember! Teams will be created on the fly, participation may or may not be dependent on volunteering, and winners will not only earn the right to boast, but may even receive prizes. Join us for all the fun!

    Launch Event

  • Spanish Language Wrap-up

    Spanish Language Wrap-up


    July 7, 2022

    Convention Connect Show - heard on ACB Media 1

    Convention Connect Show - heard on ACB Media 1


    July 7, 2022

    ACB General Session – found in room CHI Grand Ballroom and heard on ACB Media 1

    ACB General Session – found in room CHI Grand Ballroom and heard on ACB Media 1


    July 7, 2022

    BOP Convention Wrap-up – found in room CHI Grand Ballroom and Heard on ACB Media 1

    BOP Convention Wrap-up – found in room CHI Grand Ballroom and Heard on ACB Media 1


    July 7, 2022

    Launch Event

    Kids Explorers Club Dinner – found in room HH Paxon

    Kids Explorers Club Dinner – found in room HH Paxon


    July 7, 2022

    ACB Banquet – found in room HH Grand Ballroom A/B/C/D and Heard on ACB Media 1 (CEU Eligible)

    ACB Banquet – found in room HH Grand Ballroom A/B/C/D and Heard on ACB Media 1 (CEU Eligible)


    July 7, 2022

    Keynote speaker: Judy Heumann. Judy has been involved in the Disability Rights movement since the early 1970’s. She was instrumental in establishing the independent living movement, and was a key player in fighting for the passage of the landmark Rehabilitation Act of 1973. She is considered the mother of disability rights, and because of her ongoing and tireless efforts, she is an internationally recognized disability advocate. Judy served as the highest official for the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services at the Department of Education under President Bill Clinton, and served under Barack Obama as the senior official for International Disability Rights at the State Department. In 2020, she published her memoir Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist. As a true advocate and civil rights activist, she is well familiar with the needs of people with all disabilities, including those who are blind and low vision. Judy Heumann is making a difference for all of us in the 21st century. Presentation of BOP and ACB Awards, ACB Braille Forum Raffle drawing.

    Launch Event