ACB Media Calendar

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

Week of Jun 26th

  • Henry Doorly Zoo – found in room Left Outside Hilton Lobby

    Henry Doorly Zoo – found in room Left Outside Hilton Lobby


    July 1, 2022

    Consistently ranked one of the world’s best zoos, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is the ultimate interactive zoo experience. During your visit you’ll enjoy a catered lunch and guided tours through 3 of our immersive exhibits. Inside the Lied Jungle you will hear waterfalls crashing, see gibbons swinging and feel the tropical rainforest environment surround you. Journey through the Desert Dome and experience the plant and animal life in the world’s largest indoor desert. The Kingdoms of the Night unearths the mysteries and animals of the darkness. Day-night cycles are reversed, so guests can experience creatures in their natural nocturnal activity patterns. Explore exotic locations and underground caves to see hundreds of animals from across the globe in their natural habitat.

    ACB Board Meeting – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 1

    ACB Board Meeting – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 1


    July 1, 2022

    Launch Event

    CCLVI/BITS: Vendor Showcase – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 2

    CCLVI/BITS: Vendor Showcase – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 2


    July 1, 2022

    If you use a screen reader and/or magnification in your daily life, this showcase affords you the opportunity to see what is new in the Exhibit Hall later in the week. Several products will be demonstrated with time for questions and answers. This gives you the opportunity to prepare your questions in advance of your visit to these vendors’ booths, in-person or virtually.

    Launch Event

    Scholarship Winner’s Dinner (by invitation only) – found in room CHI 215

    Scholarship Winner’s Dinner (by invitation only) – found in room CHI 215


    July 1, 2022

    ACBS/Next Gen Friday Night Bash – found in room CHI 202

    ACBS/Next Gen Friday Night Bash – found in room CHI 202


    July 1, 2022

    Come Together! Welcome to Omaha – found in room HH Blackstone B

    Come Together! Welcome to Omaha – found in room HH Blackstone B


    July 1, 2022 July 2, 2022

    Beatles tribute band Come Together will Help! you rock and dance the night away as the Nebraska Host Committee helps welcome the ACB National Conference. In the great words of the late Beatles singer, John Lennon, All You Need Is Love! Free snacks and a cash bar will also be available. We look forward to seeing you Twist and Shout at an event that conveniently is not Across the Universe!

    RSVA/IVIE Mixer – found in room CHI 204

    RSVA/IVIE Mixer – found in room CHI 204


    July 1, 2022 July 2, 2022

  • Come Together! Welcome to Omaha – found in room HH Blackstone B

    Come Together! Welcome to Omaha – found in room HH Blackstone B


    July 1, 2022 July 2, 2022

    Beatles tribute band Come Together will Help! you rock and dance the night away as the Nebraska Host Committee helps welcome the ACB National Conference. In the great words of the late Beatles singer, John Lennon, All You Need Is Love! Free snacks and a cash bar will also be available. We look forward to seeing you Twist and Shout at an event that conveniently is not Across the Universe!

    RSVA/IVIE Mixer – found in room CHI 204

    RSVA/IVIE Mixer – found in room CHI 204


    July 1, 2022 July 2, 2022

    On Site and Streamed: AABT Virtual Breakfast & Program: The Statue of Liberty – The Rest of the Story. – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 2

    On Site and Streamed: AABT Virtual Breakfast & Program: The Statue of Liberty – The Rest of the Story. – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 2


    July 2, 2022

    The history of the Statue of Liberty – A humorous and insightful program from the most requested historical speaker in Nebraska! Presenter: Darrel W. Draper, Plattsmouth NE.

    Launch Event

    On Site Event: AABT Breakfast and Program: The Statue of Liberty – The Rest of the Story. – found in room CHI 215

    On Site Event: AABT Breakfast and Program: The Statue of Liberty – The Rest of the Story. – found in room CHI 215


    July 2, 2022

    The history of the Statue of Liberty – A humorous and insightful program from the most requested historical speaker in Nebraska! Presenter: Darrel W. Draper, Plattsmouth NE.

    Goal Ball – found in room CHI 203 (CEU Eligible)

    Goal Ball – found in room CHI 203 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    Up For Some Exciting Fun? Try Goalball! Start your day with the premier team sport for the VI/Blind, the sport of GOALBALL! This three on three sport can be played recreationally or competitively. Yes, it’s challenging. Yes, it’s physical. And you better bet it is extremely fun! During this three hour session we will learn how to play, what are the adaptations to the game, and even will give you plenty of opportunity to strap on some pads and give it a try in a real game. Bring the entire family!!!

    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

    BITS: Navigating Your World – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 2 (CEU Eligible)

    BITS: Navigating Your World – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 2 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    Do you get frustrated because you have trouble getting help with reading labels or scanning documents? Come to this enlightening presentation where you can learn about the SuperSense and the Voice Dream Suite. You may be surprised to find out how much these apps can help with everyday tasks.

    Launch Event

    Boys Town – found in room Left Outside Hilton Lobby

    Boys Town – found in room Left Outside Hilton Lobby


    July 2, 2022

    Experience the History of Hope at Boys Town. Father Edward J. Flanagan purchased the Overlook Farm in 1921 and it became the new, permanent site of Boys Town. In the decades that followed, schools, churches and homes were built, and tens of thousands of young lives were transformed. Visit the Village of Boys Town, a National Historic Landmark District, and get an unforgettable glimpse into the history of an organization that has given new hope to so many at-risk children. Your day at Boys Town will include a guided, walk-thru tour of Dowd Memorial Chapel where Father Flanagan is entombed. You will be surrounded by the lovely Gothic architecture of the chapel, or what Father Flanagan liked to call a prayer in stone. Take a step back in time with a guided tour of Father Flanagan’s Historic Home where he lived for over a decade. In addition to his original living quarters, you will also be able to step into recreations of Father Flanagan’s office, the original chapel and dining room and more. Immerse yourself in the 100+ years of Boys Town history in the Hall of History Museum and hear our guides tell of Boys Town’s humble beginnings and how Father Flanagan’s mission is still being carried out today. Several exhibit stations will be set up throughout the museum where you can have a hands-on encounter with Boys Town history. The tour includes a boxed lunch and time for browsing the Gift Shop. Boys Town…where miracles of the heart happen every day!

    BrailleSense 6, Productivity has Never Been More Fun! – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 4 (CEU Eligible)

    BrailleSense 6, Productivity has Never Been More Fun! – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 4 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    Join HIMS Inc. as we discuss and demonstrate the newest addition to our flagship line of Braille notetakers, the BrailleSense 6 and BrailleSense 6 Mini. Whether you are interested in a highly intuitive and efficient tool for getting work done, or hours of fun and entertainment, the 6 has you covered! The BrailleSense Mini offers the same processor speed, memory and storage as the 32 cell model, but in a much smaller form factor and at a much smaller price. Have anytime access to cloud based storage with support for Google Drive, OneDrive and Dropbox right from within the File Manager. Connect third party peripherals such as cameras, mixers, microphones and storage devices and take your notetaking experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re looking to improve your workflow, keep in touch with family and friends via the many third-party meeting and social media platforms, or enjoy hours of entertainment and fun, the BrailleSense 6 has something for everybody.

    Launch Event

    City Bus Tour with a Twist – found in room Left Outside Hilton Lobby

    City Bus Tour with a Twist – found in room Left Outside Hilton Lobby


    July 2, 2022

    Travel by Olly the Trolley on your guided tour of Omaha! Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the city. This tour is sold out, so if you sign up for this tour you will be placed on the waiting list.  However,  it is not unusual for some people on the waiting list to make it onto the tour.

    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

    AAVIA and Advocacy Committee: Civil Rights Panel – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 4 (CEU Eligible)

    AAVIA and Advocacy Committee: Civil Rights Panel – found in room CHI 215 and Heard on ACB Media 4 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    We discuss recent achievements, ongoing legal efforts, current risks and opportunities in the courts concerning issues of importance to members of ACB.

    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

    BITS: On the Go – Laptops and Tablets – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 2 (CEU Eligible)

    BITS: On the Go – Laptops and Tablets – found in room CHI 213 and Heard on ACB Media 2 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    Have you ever wondered about the differences between laptops and tablets? Confused about which one to buy? Enjoy this informative presentation so you can decide which device is right for you.

    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

    City Bus Tour with a Twist II – found in room Left Outside Hilton Lobby

    City Bus Tour with a Twist II – found in room Left Outside Hilton Lobby


    July 2, 2022

    Travel by Olly the Trolley on your guided tour of Omaha! Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the city.

    Community Hospitality – found in room HH St Nicholas

    Community Hospitality – found in room HH St Nicholas


    July 2, 2022

    Here’s your opportunity to meet up with those you’ve only met virtually or to see friends you haven’t been with for a few years or more. Games, crafts, chatting with friends on Zoom or those in person, and maybe even connecting with someone for a meal are what await you. Drop in for a few minutes or the entire time. You’re sure to find some midday convention cheer here.

    Exhibit Hall Opens – found in room CHI Exhibit Hall A

    Exhibit Hall Opens – found in room CHI Exhibit Hall A


    July 2, 2022

    Making Gay History – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 2

    Making Gay History – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 2


    July 2, 2022

    Friend to BPI and frequent collaborator, Eric Marcus of Making Gay History Podcast joins us to highlight the moments in the LGBTQ fight for equality that changed our world and the course of our history.

    Launch Event

    National Library Service Focus Group (by appointment only) – found in room HH Rome

    National Library Service Focus Group (by appointment only) – found in room HH Rome


    July 2, 2022

    Join one of four NLS special sessions and provide your feedback on a variety of Collection Development Questions, Text To Speech Options, the NLS Braille Displays, and many other topics. Alice O’Reilly, Chief of the Collection Division and Tamara Rorie, Head of the newly formed Patron Engagement Section and formally the Braille Development Officer, will be gathering information to assist in shaping the future of NLS. We will be discussing upcoming Beta test opportunities, showing the two NLS eReaders, and conducting mini focus groups to obtain your feedback on several upcoming initiatives. To join a session email [email protected].

    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

    Safety Education Empowering Defense Intro Workshop – found in room HH Merchant (CEU Eligible)

    Safety Education Empowering Defense Intro Workshop – found in room HH Merchant (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    Reservations about traveling independently? Do you avoid using your white cane simply because you fear it places a target on your back? Are you one of thousands of Americans who have been physically or sexually attacked? Well you’re not alone, and the team at STRIVE4YOU want to share our one-of-a-kind safety education & self-defense program that has been specifically designed by and for people with disabilities during one of two introductory workshops. The SEED program of STRIVE4YOU’s mission is to create a culture of safety and security for all, implementing a holistic circle of services training body, mind, and spirit. Join us as we explore essential techniques for keeping us safe at home and while we are getting out and active in our communities. Learn how what we say and how we say it can empower us. You will also be introduced to some of our hands-on techniques, the SEED Functional Foundations, situational awareness, and various other important self-defense topics. These in-person workshops give participants an opportunity to see how practical and efficient our SEED system of techniques are, while providing a welcoming environment for truly meaningful safety education discussions, especially as they pertain to specific concerns within the disability community.

    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

    ACBS, Blind Activism and Advocacy Panel – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 2 (CEU Eligible)

    ACBS, Blind Activism and Advocacy Panel – found in room CHI 208 and Heard on ACB Media 2 (CEU Eligible)


    July 2, 2022

    Join ACB Students for our panel on blind activism and advocacy with blind life coach Charlie Kramer and blind video editor, producer, and podcaster Lance Johnson! Come learn just how beautiful self-advocacy can be. Charlie and Lance will discuss their life experiences, outlooks on blindness, and advice for blind students with us.

    Launch Event

    Pitch in an Elevator: Talking It Up When You Are Going Down – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 4

    Pitch in an Elevator: Talking It Up When You Are Going Down – found in room CHI 211 and Heard on ACB Media 4


    July 2, 2022

    Many of us find it difficult to talk about ourselves, but being able to make a lasting impression in a few short seconds is an integral part of networking and sometimes even landing that job opportunity. Join the ACB Employment Committee as we work with participants in a workshop setting to fine tune and share your elevator pitch.

    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

    ACB Next Generation: Meet the Framily – found in room CHI 211

    ACB Next Generation: Meet the Framily – found in room CHI 211


    July 2, 2022

    Friends who are family – Whether you’ve been with NextGen from the beginning or you’re hearing about us for the first time, come hang out and mingle with new and old friends to kick off this year’s convention; you might even win a door prize!

    BPI Movie: Rocky Horror Picture Show – found in room CHI 208

    BPI Movie: Rocky Horror Picture Show – found in room CHI 208


    July 2, 2022

    Grab your toast points, popcorn, noise makers and water bottles and prepare to Time Warp with us again! There will be surprises, songs and of course all the classic hijinks this beloved movie offers including some members dressed up as movie characters. There will be a prize for the best costume as well.

    Catholic Mass – found in room HH Prague

    Catholic Mass – found in room HH Prague


    July 2, 2022

    CCLVI: Fred Scheigert Scholarship Winner’s Reception – found in room HH Cozzens

    CCLVI: Fred Scheigert Scholarship Winner’s Reception – found in room HH Cozzens


    July 2, 2022

    We finally have an opportunity to meet and greet several of the last few year’s Sheigert Scholarship winners. These men and women with low vision are our future leaders. We will also present the Bernice Kandarian Memorial Award during this special event.

    Friends of Bill W – found in room HH Flatiron

    Friends of Bill W – found in room HH Flatiron


    July 2, 2022

    Interdenominational Church Service – found in room HH Mercer

    Interdenominational Church Service – found in room HH Mercer


    July 2, 2022

    Reverend Peter Heide, Baraboo, WI

    Jewish Service: Temple Israel, Omaha NE – found in room HH Flat Iron

    Jewish Service: Temple Israel, Omaha NE – found in room HH Flat Iron


    July 2, 2022

    KEYS to the Convention – found in room HH Hill

    KEYS to the Convention – found in room HH Hill


    July 2, 2022

    This is a session for first time convention attendees and also for people who have not attended a convention recently. Presentations will explain various sessions, business meetings and voting, as well as guide dog info, exhibit info, and some social events. Tips hand-outs will be available in Braille and large print. Facilitated by Ardis Bazyn, ACB Membership Committee Chair

    National Library Service Focus Group (by appointment only) – found in room HH Rome

    National Library Service Focus Group (by appointment only) – found in room HH Rome


    July 2, 2022

    Join one of four NLS special sessions and provide your feedback on a variety of Collection Development Questions, Text To Speech Options, the NLS Braille Displays, and many other topics. Alice O’Reilly, Chief of the Collection Division and Tamara Rorie, Head of the newly formed Patron Engagement Section and formally the Braille Development Officer, will be gathering information to assist in shaping the future of NLS. We will be discussing upcoming Beta test opportunities, showing the two NLS eReaders, and conducting mini focus groups to obtain your feedback on several upcoming initiatives. To join a session email [email protected].

    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

    Come Tailgate with ACBDA – found in room HH Grand A/B

    Come Tailgate with ACBDA – found in room HH Grand A/B


    July 2, 2022

    Join ACB Diabetics In Action Sugar Warriors, the Get Up and Get Moving Campaign and the Brenda Dillon Memorial Walk Team as we collaborate together for some fun, prizes, tasty snacks and a cash bar!  The tailgate party starts at 5:00 PM CST and will remain open during the walk and for a time after the walk concludes. This will be a great time to hear from some of our Health Heroes, socialize with members of ACBDA, Get Up and Get Moving and Brenda Dillon Walk organizers and friends! So, register for the walk and join the fun!

    Walking Everywhere! – found in room HH Grand Ballroom Foyer and Heard on ACB Media 1

    Walking Everywhere! – found in room HH Grand Ballroom Foyer and Heard on ACB Media 1


    July 2, 2022

    Lace up your shoes, grab your water bottle, and be ready to be energized. Join the ACB Walk committee as we gather to raise money for ACB and its affiliates, get some exercise by traversing the halls of the convention hotel and the convention center, and make a grand entrance to kick off the opening general session of the convention.

    Launch Event

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

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


    July 2, 2022

    Launch Event