by Janet Dickelman
What an exciting time to be involved with the American Council of the Blind! Our 63rd annual conference and convention is fast approaching!
In-person convention dates are July 5th through 12th in Jacksonville, Fla. We are thrilled to be collaborating with the Blinded Veterans Association. We will share the exhibit hall and opening general session, and members from both groups are welcome to attend each other’s events.
During the in-person portion of the conference, some of our sessions will be hybrid; they will be available via Zoom and broadcast on ACB Media. We will also hold Zoom-only sessions, and in-person only sessions that will be available as podcasts. In addition to the in-person conference days, there is so much more that will be available via the Zoom platform and ACB Media.
Learn about candidates running for board positions at the Candidates’ Forum on Wednesday, June 19. Don’t miss the ACB virtual summer auction on Saturday, June 22 at 6 p.m. Eastern time, preceded by two days of appetizer auction items.
The convention will officially open virtually on ACB Media and the Zoom platform on June 24th with the reading of the convention standing rules and the first credentials report, followed by the nominating committee session. Beginning on June 27, we will offer three days of Zoom-only sessions for special-interest affiliates, ACB committees and our business partners. These sessions will be part of the convention and will be listed on the convention registration form, in the convention program and announced via telephone and on ACB Media. The Zoom-only sessions will also be broadcast on ACB Media. Those evenings will be dedicated to resolutions and bylaws. More information about those sessions will be forthcoming from the pertinent committees.
The Florida Host Committee has two outstanding events planned in-person in Jacksonville.
Friday, July 5, 8 – 11 p.m., Welcome to Jacksonville ($15, $20)
The Sunshine State eagerly awaits your arrival as we prepare to greet you with smiling faces and sandy beaches. Kicking our convention off with a blast as we hit it out of the park, in true Florida style, with a welcome party to remember that includes sports trivia and karaoke. Hands down, we’ve leveled the playing field so that we can all participate. Once you’ve registered for the welcome party, the ball is in your court to represent your favorite team. Florida invites you to party with us because it’s gonna be “All About Sports” on Friday, July 5th from 8 to 11 p.m. No matter the sport or team, a win is a win. See you there!
Thursday, July 11, Bon Voyage Party ($10, $15)
After hearing our phenomenal banquet speaker and finding out who received this year’s ACB awards and won the Braille Forum raffle drawing, join FCB for their Bon Voyage Party.
With the setting of the sun and the closing of the last session, we reflect on the days and moments well spent with each of you at this year’s convention. Bidding you safe travels back to your home until we meet again. As we round the corner to another great occasion and set sail to embark on the next journey. Join us for a Bon Voyage Party that is sure to have you cruising along for some much-needed fun, hugs and laughter to carry throughout your return trip.
Begin your Zoom convention experience with a Jacksonville historical presentation by Alan J. Bliss, Chief Executive Officer of the Jacksonville Historical Society on Thursday, June 27 at 9:30 a.m. Dr. Bliss holds a Ph.D. from the University of Florida. His research on modern Florida has won professional awards. Since 2006, Bliss has taught at the University of North Florida. His U.S. history courses include urban history, maritime history, the Great Depression and the New Deal, civil rights, and a seminar on public history — all emphasizing Jacksonville.
Conference and convention registration will remain open through June 17th, so don’t delay! Register and make your hotel reservations today! For all things registration, visit the April edition of “The ACB Braille Forum.”
Bring the Kids
We have great activities for our Kids Club (ages 5 to 13)! Our wonderful leaders will have craft projects, swimming, and a daily field trip. Check the convention registration form for all the details!
Hotel Details
Room rates at the hotel are $99 per night (single or double occupancy), $124 (triple occupancy), $149 (quadruple occupancy). The cost of a king room is $109 per night. Room tax is 14.64%. To ensure you receive the convention rate you must make your reservations prior to June 14, 2024. Upon check-in, a charge of $40 per night for incidentals will be charged to your credit or debit card. To make reservations online, go to https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/group-booking/JAXRJ/G-ACOB. If you prefer to make reservations by phone, call (800) 233-1234, and use code G-ACOB.
Staying in Touch
The convention announce list will be filled with information. If you received updates for the 2023 convention, you do not need to re-subscribe. If you are not subscribed to the list, send a blank e-mail to [email protected].