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🌟 ACBVA 2025 State Convention Program Agenda
📅 October 17–19, 2025
📍 Hilton Garden Inn – Madison Room
Fredericksburg, Virginia | (540) 548-8822
Theme: Together Again – Reconnect, Recharge, and Rise!
🐾 Pet-friendly hotel — welcoming guide dogs and support animals!
🔔 Please note: This is a preliminary agenda and subject to updates. Final details will be shared closer to the event.
🌼 Friday, October 17: Welcome & Warmth
5:30 PM – Hospitality Hour
Kick off the weekend with light refreshments, friendly faces, and the chance to reconnect in a relaxed setting.
6:30 PM – Icebreaker: “Oops, I Did What?”
Laughter guaranteed! Hear hilarious and humbling stories from fellow members about life’s blind moments. Hosted by the delightful Robin Hoerber and Margie DeMars.
7:00 PM – Workshop: Lead the Way – Igniting Leadership in ACB of Virginia
Led by ACBVA leader and President Doug Powell and experienced facilitator and leader Jeremy Grandstaff, this session will help you explore your leadership potential, gain practical tools, and connect with others passionate about making a difference. Whether you’re curious about getting involved or already guiding a team, this workshop is for you.
8:30 PM – Adjourn for the Day
Want to keep the conversation going? Join fellow attendees at the hotel bar for casual drinks and connection!
🌻 Saturday, October 18: Learn, Laugh & Lead
8:00 AM – Breakfast
Start your day with great food and even better company.
9:00 AM – Welcome & Agenda Overview
Doug Powell and RoseAnn Ashby will welcome everyone and preview what’s ahead.
🇺🇸 We’ll begin with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a live performance of the Star-Spangled Banner sung by ACBVA’s own Lisa Calhoun.
9:30 AM – Session 1: Advocacy in Action – Get Involved, Make an Impact
Ready to turn your passion into real change? This dynamic session will equip you with the tools, tips, and insider knowledge to become a powerful advocate—not just in your local community, but at the state and federal levels as well.
Facilitated by RoseAnn Ashby and Vinettea Freeman, you’ll learn how to navigate the advocacy landscape, amplify your voice, and make a lasting impact on policies that affect the blind and low vision community.
10:30 AM – Break
☕ Grab some coffee, stretch your legs, and be sure to visit our vendors in the Washington Room.
10:45 AM – Session 2: Household Management – Tips & Tricks
Make life at home easier and safer with smart strategies from Sam Joehl and Vicki Ratcliffe.
11:45 AM – Break
🛍️ This is another perfect time to meet with vendors or grab your chance to get a peek at the silent auction items—don’t miss those hidden gems!
12:00 PM – Vendor & Silent Auction Introductions
Facilitated by Donna Clarke.
Donna will kick things off with a quick highlight of the silent auction—what’s available, how it works, and why your bids matter—before introducing our amazing vendors.
You’ll then hear lightning-round intros from vendors so you know who to visit during lunch and throughout the day.
12:30 PM – Lunch & Vendor Showcase
Enjoy lunch while exploring innovative products and services tailored for the blind and low vision community.
🎁 Silent auction tables will also be open—place your bids before the evening ends!
2:00 PM – Session 3: Emergency Preparedness – Plan, Prepare, Protect
Donna Clarke walks us through critical safety planning that’s both practical and empowering.
3:00 PM – Break
📣 Vendors are standing by and auction items are calling—take a few minutes to explore!
3:15 PM – Session 4: Fall Prevention – Stand Tall, Stay Safe
Doug Powell shares techniques to reduce fall risks and increase confidence in mobility.
4:15 PM – Break
🛍️ Final chance of the day to visit vendors and place your silent auction bids before evening activities!
4:30 PM – Session 5: Tech That Talks Back – Everyday Strategies for Navigating AI & Assistive Technology
Facilitated by Jeremy Grandstaff and Stan Gowen
Discover how today’s smart tools can boost independence and simplify daily life. Whether you’re tech-curious or already plugged in, this session will explore how assistive technology and AI—from voice assistants to apps and smart home devices—can help you work smarter, navigate more confidently, and stay connected.
You’ll get real-life strategies, hands-on examples, and a chance to ask questions. No tech experience needed—just bring your curiosity!
5:30 PM – Free Time
Take a break, visit with friends, and prep for the banquet.
🎁 Need a quiet moment? Sneak in a last look at the auction tables or chat with a vendor.
6:00 PM – Celebration Banquet & Keynote Address
Join us for a delicious dinner and an evening of inspiration featuring Debra Hill, motivational speaker, singer, and proud member of ACBVA.
Debra will share her story, voice, and vision for resilience and empowerment.
🎤 Learn more about her work and music at debrahillsings.com
7:30 PM – Evening Fun: Entertainment, Social Hour & Silent Auction
Donna Clarke hosts an evening full of laughter, music, and last-chance bidding on fantastic auction items.
9:00 PM – Adjourn for the Day
Still buzzing? Head to the bar for a nightcap and more great conversation.
🌷 Sunday, October 19: Wrap-Up & Reflect
8:00 AM – Breakfast
Ease into the final day with breakfast and conversation.
🛍️ Take this final opportunity to claim your silent auction wins!
9:00 AM – Annual Business Meeting
All members are encouraged to attend. We’ll elect board members, vote on bylaws, and hear from our committees.
11:00 AM – DBVI Presentation
Updates and insights from the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired, presented by Rick Mitchell’s designee.
11:30 AM – DBVI Public Hearing
A public forum for questions, comments, and shared concerns. Your voice matters!
12:30 PM – Farewell & Adjournment
Grab lunch, exchange contact info, and travel safely home—until we’re together again!