Click “Launch Event” to identify the ACB Media stream for each event.
Events in June 2025
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Affiliate Role Call Affiliate Role Call
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June 23, 2025Nominating Committee Room Opens Nominating Committee Room Opens
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June 23, 2025Nominating Committee Nominating Committee
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June 23, 2025Session closes and Nominating committee begins in delegate room Session closes and Nominating committee begins in delegate room
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June 23, 2025 -
Resolutions and First Reading of Constitution and Bylaws Report Resolutions and First Reading of Constitution and Bylaws Report
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June 24, 2025 -
Guide Dog School Updates Guide Dog School Updates
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June 26, 2025Double session (with no break) of the ever-popular North American guide dog school updates.
Accessible Diagnostic Testing National & International Best Practices Guidelines Update Accessible Diagnostic Testing National & International Best Practices Guidelines Update
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June 26, 2025This session will share information and Best Practices for Designing Accessible At-Home Diagnostic Test Kits. ACB advocacy efforts has collaborated with the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation® (AAMI), a global leader for the development and production of national and international consensus standards. This initiative includes work done by the National Institutes of Health and RADX on accessible COVID-19 home tests and other diagnostic testing. Come and hear from members of the Task Group that championed and developed this accessibility guidance for future production by pharmaceutical companies.
Guide Dog School Updates Guide Dog School Updates
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June 26, 2025Continuation of Double session (with no break) of the ever-popular North American guide dog school updates.
Microsoft Copilot for Work Microsoft Copilot for Work
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June 26, 2025Learn how AI enhances skills and productivity for the blind community. Discover Copilot tools that streamline workflows, foster collaboration, and equip the community with digital skills for the modern workplace. Speaker: Crystal Jones, Microsoft
Audio Description Best Practices in Movie Theaters Audio Description Best Practices in Movie Theaters
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June 26, 2025Did you know that most theatrical releases are audio described? Learn from a blind movie goer, AMC Theaters, the National Alliance of Theater Owners, and others on how to make your visit to the movie theater a successful one by enjoying the magic of cinema with the help of audio description. Moderator: Carl Richardson, Co-Chair, ACB Audio Description Project, Boston, MA Presenters: Alex Howard, Enthusiastic Blind Theater-Goer and Co-Creator of The Dark Room Podcast, Burbank, CA; Cinema United (formerly known as National Association of Theater Owners (Invited); AMC Theatres (Invited)
Christian Nationalism 101 Christian Nationalism 101
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June 26, 2025Join us for a discussion of Christian Nationalism, what it is and its growing impact on civil, legal and religious life within the United States. Presenters: Mariko Hirose, Chief Program Officer, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, Washington, DC; Reverend Peter Heide, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and ACB Board Member, Baraboo, WI.
LUA Presents the New DA2 Player and the NLS My Talking Books Smart Speaker Skill LUA Presents the New DA2 Player and the NLS My Talking Books Smart Speaker Skill
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June 26, 2025Don Olson, customer service specialist and Zhe Huang, Patron Education and Training Specialist will familiarize us with the new DA2 talking book player which will shortly be available and will allow an NLS patron to download books directly from BARD. We will also learn about the My Talking Books smart speaker skill which gives a patron hands-free access to BARD through the Amazon Alexa devices. Presenters: Don Olson, Customer Service Specialist and Zhe Huang, Patron Education and Training Specialist, National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), Washington, DC. Facilitator: Jane Carona, LUA Vice President, Silver Spring, MD
Expert Advice on Retirement Planning and Investing for the Future Expert Advice on Retirement Planning and Investing for the Future
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June 26, 2025Are you worried that you might live longer than your money? How do we plan for an uncertain future? The Royal Bank Of Canada investment manager and financial planner has the answers to these questions and many more. Please join the ACB Resource Development team and our ACB investment advisor for this informative session on how to plan for your retirement and make the right choices for your Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Presenter: Mike Dickson – RBC Wealth Management Financial Advisor
LUA Presents the Journey from Print Book to Talking Book LUA Presents the Journey from Print Book to Talking Book
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June 26, 2025Presenters from NLS detail the process a book goes through in its journey to becoming available as an audiobook on BARD. Presenter: Alice Baker O’Reilly, NLS, Washington, DC. Facilitator: Brian Charlson, Watertown, MA.
Writing Audio Description with AI Tools Writing Audio Description with AI Tools
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June 26, 2025Discussion and demonstrations of audio description AI writing and assessment tools and how they work on their own and with essential human collaboration Moderator: Renee Arrington-Johnson Presenters: JOEL SNYDER, PhD., Author of The Visual Made Verbal, President, Audio Description Associates, LLC, Takoma Park, MD; Caroline Desrosiers, Founder and CEO, Scribely, Truckee, CA; Brett Oppegaard, Ph.D., Professor, School of Communication and Information, College of Social Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Manoa, HI; Professor Sri Kurniawan, University of California-Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA; and Rick Morin, ACB Media and IT Manager, Burlington, MA
Easy Chair Yoga with Leslie Spoone Easy Chair Yoga with Leslie Spoone
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June 26, 2025Come and enjoy some Easy Chair Yoga with certified aerobics instructor and personal trainer, Leslie Spoone. We will be doing some stretches and poses that will leave your body relaxed and centered after the first day of zoom convention sessions.
Update on Legal Advocacy Impacting People with Disabilities Update on Legal Advocacy Impacting People with Disabilities
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June 26, 2025Learn about the legal landscape in what many on all sides of the political spectrum view as an unprecedented period in our history. Experts in disability advocacy law will cover a spectrum of issues important to our community. Be prepared with your questions about the latest happenings in disability law. Panelists: Matthew Handley, Partner, Handley Farah and Anderson, Washinton, DC; Rachel Weisberg, Supervising Attorney, Disability Rights Advocates, Chicago, IL; Madeleine Reichman, Staff Attorney, Disability Rights Advocates, New York, NY Facilitators: Claire Stanley, ACB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs, Alexandria, VA; Jeff Thom, ACB Advocacy Steering Committee Chair, Sacramento, CA
Using Technology to Help Those Living with a Dual Sensory Loss Live to the Fullest Using Technology to Help Those Living with a Dual Sensory Loss Live to the Fullest
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June 26, 2025Join Scott Davert, Coordinator of the Technology Research, and Innovations Center for the deaf blind at HKNC, as he explains how we can use technology to live without dual sensory loss to the fullest.
Low Vision Research with Dr. Soltau Low Vision Research with Dr. Soltau
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June 26, 2025Join us in welcoming Dr. Joern Soltau, Professor and Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Louisville, as he shares the latest findings and insights on low vision research. Sponsored by: CCLVI
SASI Social SASI Social
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June 26, 2025The title says it all, this is strictly a social where individuals with a dual sensory loss of vision and hearing join together to meet each other, learn and gather inspiration on how to live our lives to the fullest.
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Audio Description and Sports Audio Description and Sports
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June 27, 2025Presenters discuss and explore how audio description for sports events is different from play-by-play on radio and what is being done in other countries with AD for sporting events. Moderator: Clark Rachfal, Former ACB Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs, Beverton, OR Presenters: Rhys Lloyd, Studio Head, Descriptive Video Works, Vancouver, BC Canada; Sonali Rai, Senior Manager, Media, Culture and Immersive Technologies, RNIB, United Kingdom; Jerred Mace, CEO, OneCourt, Seattle, WA; Stasha Boyd, President/Creative Director, Q Media Productions Inc., and Founder/Executive Director, Audio Description Initiative (ADI Foundation, Inc.), Orlando, FL
The World of Windows: Microsoft Tools for the Blind Community The World of Windows: Microsoft Tools for the Blind Community
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June 27, 2025Explore the latest advancements in Windows assistive technologies, including powerful AI-driven features and updates to Narrator and Magnifier. Learn how these tools are transforming digital experiences for blind and low vision users, from improved navigation and task efficiency to rich image descriptions and fundamental enhancements. This session showcases the innovations driving inclusive productivity forward. Speaker: Nidhi Jain, Microsoft
Author Talk by a Survivor of the World War II Nazi Atrocities Author Talk by a Survivor of the World War II Nazi Atrocities
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June 27, 2025Simone Arnold-Liebster has been a lifelong advocate to ensure that future generations never forget past religious atrocities. She actively promotes an environment where peace, tolerance and human dignity can flourish. The condensed version of Simone’s book, ‘Facing the Lion: Memoirs of a Young Girl in Nazi Europe,’ is available from Audible, narrated by the author. The full version is available on Bookshare. This promises to be a very moving and meaningful author presentation. Presenters: Simone Arnold-Liebster, author, Tresserve, France; Greg Milakovich, Arnold-Liebster Foundation, Davenport, IAFacilitator: Janet Parmerter, Loganville, GAPresented by: LUA
The Coaching Roundtable The Coaching Roundtable
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June 27, 2025Join ACB Women and IVIE for a conversation with three women coaches. You will learn about their training, their coaching philosophies, and their experience as coaching entrepreneurs. One of them might be the perfect coach for you. Facilitator: Linda Porelle, Retired Social Worker and Life Coach, Westbrook, ME. Presenters: Ardis Bazyn, CEO, Bazyn Communications, Thornton, CO; Dr. Cathy Schmidt Whitaker, Empowerment and Energy Leadership Coach, E3 Coaching and Speaking LLC, Diamond Bar, CA; Darian Slayton Fleming, Certified Happiness Trainer, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Portland, OR.
LUA Business Meeting LUA Business Meeting
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June 27, 2025Updates and reports on LUA programs, consideration of amendments to the LUA Bylaws, and election of officers.Conducted by Carla Ruschival, LUA President, Louisville, KY
Happy Hour Cardio with Leslie Spoone Happy Hour Cardio with Leslie Spoone
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June 27, 2025Join us for an energizing cardio session sprinkled with some laughs with certified aerobics instructor and personal trainer, Leslie Spoone. You can either dance around for your cardio or you can jump on your treadmill, elliptical or bike. This class will leave you pumped and happy as the convention begins.
LUA Business Meeting LUA Business Meeting
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June 27, 2025Telephone Film Screening Telephone Film Screening
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June 27, 2025A Documentary on Audio Description and Dance co-directed by Krishna Washburn and Heather Shaw. Moderator: Kim Charlson Presenter: Following the film screening (approximately 45 minutes) co-directors Krishna Washburn and Heather Shaw will answer questions about audio description and dance and the work they do in this space.
Boomers vs Next Gen Battle of the Ages Boomers vs Next Gen Battle of the Ages
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June 27, 2025These Trivia questions will cross generations. Non-members welcome. Prepare to be stumped, fun is the name of the game.
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Leadership Linkup Leadership Linkup
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June 28, 2025Step into the Leadership Arena and network with leaders of the American Council of the Blind. This is your opportunity to connect directly with the heart of ACB leadership. You’ll be paired with an emerging leader and move through fast-paced and meaningful conversations with dynamic ACB leaders all in one Zoom event. This is an invitation only event, and signing up ahead of time is required as space is limited. Zoom details will be shared with confirmed participants prior to the event. This session is sponsored by ACB Next Generation and ACB’s Berl Colley Leadership Institute. Facilitators: Donna Brown, Romney WV and Amanda Selm, Louisville KY
Understanding Trauma During Changing Times Understanding Trauma During Changing Times
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June 28, 2025There are all kinds of trauma. In this session, we will explore some of the types of trauma and suggest ways to cope. Sponsored by: ACB Mental Health and Wellness Committee
Using Your Phone and Smart Glasses to Describe the World Around You Using Your Phone and Smart Glasses to Describe the World Around You
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June 28, 2025Learn from experts how to use smart phone apps to help describe images, photos, and videos to help you better understand the world around you. Several apps will be demonstrated including Ally, Gemini, PiccyBot, Seeing AI and more. Moderator: Carl Richardson, Co-Chair, ACB Audio Description Project, Boston, MA Presenters: Cory Kadlik, Assistive Technology Manager, Perkins Library, Framingham, MA; Michael Babcock, American Council of the Blind Member Services Administrative Assistant, Coos Bay, OR; and Jeff Bishop, BITS President, Tucson, AZ
AAVIA Business Meeting AAVIA Business Meeting
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June 28, 2025Introducing BlueSky and Mastodon Introducing BlueSky and Mastodon
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June 28, 2025Join BITS, and presenter Merv Keck as we take a look at these exciting and popular social media platforms. We will begin with an introduction to the Skeets app for BlueSky, which will be followed by an overview of the Mona app for Mastodon. Presenter: Mervin Keck, BITS Mentoring Technology Specialist, Hamburg, PA.
Together We Thrive Families Embracing Vision Challenged Members Together We Thrive Families Embracing Vision Challenged Members
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June 28, 2025Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt program that highlights the power of family resilience, and support in the face of vision-related challenges. This session feature the unique journeys of three families who have navigated life with vision loss and emerged stronger together. The Carpenter Family will share how they rally around their mom and wife, offering steadfast support and love through every challenge. The Nipper Family will explore a mother’s role in empowering her daughter’s independence, leadership aspirations, and personal growth. The Allen Family will discuss how they balance life with two daughters, challenging preconceptions, fostering advocacy skills and navigating their community with strength and grace. Each story reflects a different perspective, but all speak to the importance of family, understanding and perseverance. This event is especially for families of individuals experiencing vision loss and anyone seeking encouragement, connection, and hope. This session is sponsored by ACB Next Generation. Speakers: The Carpenter Family – Moe, Robert, and their boys, West Des Moines, Iowa; The Nipper Family – Cecily and her mom; The Allen Family – Lauren, Derek, and their girls, Louisville, KY Facilitators: Megan Meigs, San Leandro, CA and Amanda Selm, Louisville, KY
When the Road Gets Rough When the Road Gets Rough
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June 28, 2025There are often challenges on the road to mental health. This session will feature three presenters who will share their experience, strength and hope. Sponsored by: ACB Mental Health and Wellness Committee
CCLVI Business Meeting CCLVI Business Meeting
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June 28, 2025Using Braille in the Workplace Using Braille in the Workplace
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June 28, 2025Come here from a panel of braille users about how they are using braille every day as a vital part of their job. How important is it in improving job productivity? Explore how braille is being used now versus 40 years ago. Co-sponsored by: Braille Revival League, ACB Employment Committee and AABT
CCLVI Business Meeting continued CCLVI Business Meeting continued
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June 28, 2025Poems of Protest Resistance and Empowerment Poems of Protest Resistance and Empowerment
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June 28, 2025Poetry is meant to be read aloud. In this session, poems written by Langston Hughes, Mya Angelou, Denise Levertov, Alan Ginsberg, and other powerful talents will be performed and discussed. Facilitated by: Annie Chiappetta.
Sister Power Happy Hour Sister Power Happy Hour
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June 28, 2025Always a convention favorite; join ACB Women for another inspiring conversation with two dynamic ACB women leaders, Regina Brink and Cecily Laney Nipper. Facilitator: Rachel Schroeder, ACB Board Director, Assistive Technology Specialist, Springfield, IL. Presenters: Regina Marie Brink, Director of Governmental Affairs for CCB, Founding Director of Innervision Theater, Sacramento, CA; Cecily Laney Nipper, ACB Board Director, Medical Transcriptionist, Assistive Technology Instructor ACB Board member, Covington, GA.
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Individual vote for Resolutions, Constitution, and Bylaws Individual vote for Resolutions, Constitution, and Bylaws
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June 30, 2025