September

Statewide Training Conference

September 11-12, 2026 – Statewide Training Conference, Logan
VISION BEYOND SIGHT: UNLOCKING YOUR POTENTIAL
The Utah Council of the Blind is excited to announce its upcoming State Training Conference, scheduled for September 11–12 in Logan, Utah. This year's event will take place at the Beautiful Riverwoods Conference Center, 635 Riverwood Parkway Logan Utah.

If you choose to opt out of reserving a hotel room, good news we are offering van services both Friday and Saturday from the Blind Center to the conference. Friday's Vans will leave at 7am from the blind center. Friday's van will leave Logan at 5:30 pm returning to the blind center. Saturday's van will Leave the blind center at 7:30 am and return after the banquet leaving around 7-7:30 pm back to the blind center. The cost is $5.00 each way to help with funds.

Vision Beyond Sight: Unlocking Your Potential

Utah Council of the Blind
2026 State Training Conference
September 11–12, 2026
Riverwoods Conference Center
615 Riverwoods Parkway, Logan, Utah

The countdown is on! The Utah Council of the Blind is thrilled to invite you to our 2026 State Training Conference, where you'll discover new ideas, explore innovative technology, connect with friends old and new, and unlock new possibilities for independence and personal growth. Whether you're attending your first conference or you're a longtime member, this year's conference promises something for everyone.

Conference Highlights

Throughout the conference you'll enjoy a variety of educational, interactive, and inspiring presentations,
including:
An update from the Utah State Library for the Blind, featuring the latest programs and services available. As well as an author trivia game.
An update from the American Council of the Blind (ACB) to keep you informed about national advocacy efforts, resources, and exciting initiatives.
Blind Information Technology Solutions will demonstrate innovative technology and practical solutions designed to make everyday life easier and more accessible.
Guide Dogs for the Blind will share exciting news about their new campus and expanded orientation and mobility training opportunities. Guide dog users and those interested in learning more will also have time to ask questions and connect with one another.
Unlocking Your Potential Through Service, an inspiring presentation exploring how serving others can strengthen our communities while enriching our own lives.
Experience the power of music and movement during our Rhythmic Sensory Circle an engaging session designed to awaken the senses, encourage participation, and simply have fun.

Ogden Association of the Blind OAB Sponsored Resource and Technology Fair

Resources and technology continue to change the way we live, work, and connect. Visit our hands-on Resource and Technology Fair to meet vendors, explore the latest assistive technology, ask questions, and try out new devices firsthand.

Outdoor Adventure

We're excited to continue our partnership with Common Ground Outdoor Adventures, who will provide accessible outdoor experiences designed for everyone. Participants will have the opportunity to try accessible archery along with another exciting hands-on activity to be announced soon.

Wild Encounters

Get ready for an unforgettable presentation from Scales and Tails! This interactive reptile zoo will introduce fascinating animals in a safe, educational, and hands-on experience that's sure to be one of the conference favorites.

Friday Night Fun

Staying Friday evening? Don't miss one of the best parts of the weekend! Join us for accessible games, laughter, prizes, great friends, and – of course – plenty of ice cream.

Conference Registration

Registration is $60.00 per person.
$55.00 for current UCB Members.
There are no partial registration options.
Your registration includes:
Full conference admission
Two box lunches
Friday evening reception
Saturday banquet meal
To register for the conference or arrange transportation, please call the Utah Council of the Blind office on or before August 25, 2026 to assure food and activity availability.

Registration and transportation for the conference can be made by following this link UCB Statewide Conference 2026: www.utahblind.org/ucbconference.html
Or calling our office:
801-245-9264 -Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

From inspiring speakers and hands-on activities to exciting technology and meaningful friendships, the 2026 Utah Council of the Blind State Training Conference will be a weekend filled with learning, laughter, discovery, and opportunity to unlock your potential. We Can't Wait to See You!

State Training Conference Agenda

Friday, September 11
8:00 am – Registration
9:00 am – Welcome
9:15 am – Key Note: The Key to Growth – Speaker Corrina Tanner PhD RN
10:00 am – Break
10:15 am – Common Ground Archery Session 1 Departure (by reservation)
10:15 am – The Journey of the Cane: Unlocking Your Mobility Freedom – Feng Yang, Mobility Specialist
11:00 am – Partners in Possibilities: How Guide Dogs for the Blind Unlock Independence – Brad Badger – Report from Guide Dogs for the Blind
12:00 pm – Lunch
12:30 pm – Common Ground Archery Session 2 Departure (by reservation)
1:00 pm – Unlock Your Imagination Through Accessible Books – Lisa Nelson, Utah State Library for the Blind – Report and Trivia
1:45 pm – Unlocking Collaboration – American Council of the Blind Update
2:30 pm – Unlocking Your Potential Through Service – Community Service Panel
3:00 pm – Break
3:15 pm – Unlocking Tomorrow's Technology Today – Kimberly Cline, Stirling Adaptive
4:00 pm – Beyond Sight, Beyond Limits: Technology That Empowers – Jeff Bishop, President of BITS (Blind Information Technology Solutions)
8:00 pm-10:00 pm – Unlocking Your Strategy or Just Embracing Your Luck – Appearance by Unicorn Soda Design Studio, Don't Break the Budget, and Accessible Game night

Saturday, September 12
9:00 am – Welcome
9:15 am-10:45 am – Unlock Your Adventure – Common Ground Guided Experience choose from Tandem Bike Riding, or a Guided River Nature Walk (weather permitted) or a service project.
11:00 am-1:45 pm – Small Group Experiences (Groups Assigned at Registration)
(1) Unlocking the Power of AI – Karl Smith – Meta Glasses Demonstration
(2) Beyond Sight, Discovering the Wild Through Touch – Scales and Tails Presentation and Hands-On Exploration
(3) Unlocking Potential Through Rhythm – Rhythmic Sensory Experience
12:30 pm – Lunch Break
2:00 pm-4:00 pm – Ogden Association of the Blind Sponsored Resource and Technology Fair
5:00 pm – Vision Beyond Sight: Unlocking Your Potential – Reflection and Wrap-Up – Formal Banquet

Accommodations:
AT THIS MOMENT, THE MOTEL MIGHT BE ALL BOOKED UP, BUT YOU CAN CONTACT Abby:
SpringHill suites may have available rooms
You may also call the hotel sales coordinator, Abby, at her direct line:
(435) 750-9395.
She is happy to help you with booking a room or answer any questions you might have. Be sure to tell her you are with the Utah Council of the Blind.

Utah State Fair

September 14 and 16, 2026, Utah State Fair – Fairpark
The Utah State fair is putting on a disability day where a blind person and their guide may enter the Utah State Fair and enjoy all that it has to offer for one dollar per person.
You may choose to attend on Monday, September 14, at 5 pm
or
Wednesday, September 16, at 9:30 am.
Please RSVP at 801-245-9264.
It is required that we meet and enter as a group at the discounted rate.
For those meeting on Monday, please come to the north State Fair parking lot. Meet at the ticket booth which is east of the DMV office building.
For those coming on Wednesday, please enter the north parking lot and head towards the stadium ticket booth west of the parking lot.

UCB Annual Business Meeting

The Annual Business Meeting of the Utah Council of the Blind will be held by Zoom at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

Reservations are required. Please call the business office at 801-245-9264
or
email utahblind@gmail.com with your name, the names of others in your party, and your telephone number and email address, no later than 5:00 p.m. Thursday, September 17th.
All voting will be done utilizing the ballot at the end of this mailing. You may return the completed ballot by mail to:
UCB Elections
PO Box 1415
Bountiful UT 84011-1415
or by email to:
utahblind@gmail.com
The completed ballot must reach the UCB business office no later than 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 17th.
Attendance at the Zoom meeting is not required in order to vote.
Candidates for President (unopposed, no vote needed)

Anna Jeffery

Dear Members of the Utah Council of the Blind,
It's that time again—election season! Don't worry, there won't be any campaign commercials interrupting your favorite TV show or awkward knocks at your door. Just one letter from someone who truly loves serving this organization.
For those who may not know me, I'm Anna Jeffery, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for re-election as President of the Utah Council of the Blind.
Serving as your president has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Over the years, we've laughed together, solved problems together, celebrated victories together, and occasionally discovered that technology has a mind of its own.
Together, we've accomplished a lot. We've expanded our Skills Development Program, grown our subsidized transportation program, strengthened partnerships across the state, and continued advocating for services that make a real difference in the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired. None of this happened because of one person. It happened because of an amazing team of members and volunteers who care deeply about each other and our mission.
I don't think we're finished yet.
There are still more doors to open, more people to reach, more programs to strengthen, and yes ... probably a few more meetings than any of us would like! Thankfully, we've proven that even meetings can be enjoyable when they're filled with good friends and good ideas.
If re-elected, I'll continue working to expand our programs, strengthen our advocacy efforts, build new partnerships, and make sure every member knows they belong and that their voice matters.
One thing I've learned over the years is that the Utah Council of the Blind isn't just an organization—it's a family. Families encourage each other, celebrate successes, lend a hand during challenges, and sometimes gently remind each other where they left their white cane. That's what makes this organization so special.
So, I'm asking for your support and your vote. Together, let's keep moving forward, keep making a difference, and keep proving that vision isn't measured by eyesight—it's measured by determination, service, and the willingness to help others succeed.
Thank you for your friendship, your trust, and your willingness to serve alongside me. It would be an honor to continue serving as your president.
With gratitude (and hopefully your vote!),
Anna Jeffery
Candidate for Secretary (unopposed, no vote needed)

Jeana Nielsen

My name is Jeana Nielsen. I am running for Secretary of the Utah Council of the Blind. I have been secretary for the organization since the beginning of 2022, and served as a general board member in the previous year. I believe that the UCB is an important organization, and I would like to continue to be involved in their work.
Thank you for your vote.

Candidates for Director (unopposed, no vote needed)

Dennie Clark

Dear Nominating Committee,
I respectfully submit my name for re-election to the Board of Directors of the Utah Council for the Blind. I remain committed to supporting the Council’s mission and advocating for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
I would be honored to continue serving and working with fellow board members to strengthen our organization and serve our members.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Dennie Clark

Mindi Larson

My name is Mindi Larson. I am running for a board of directors position with the UCB. I have been on the board for a few years now. I have loved meeting new people. I have also loved working with and getting to know other board members. I have chaired the 2023 Christmas party; I was the chair for the 2025 training conference; and I have helped with other tasks within the UCB. I have enjoyed helping others and being an active part of the blind community.
Thank you,
Mindi Larson

October

UCB Meeting of the Board

Thursday, October 1, 2026, 4:45 p.m., attendance by invitation only.

Members are invited and encouraged to attend meetings of the Board of Directors. Board of Directors meetings will typically be held the first Thursday of each month at 4:45 p.m. on Zoom.

Join us via ZOOM at
https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1602819329

Or call: 1(669)254-5252: Enter meeting id: 1602819329 then press pound twice.

November

UCB Craft Day

November 7, 2026, Craft Day – DSBVI – Watch for updates (Kira Larkin)

December

UCB Holiday Celebration "Polar Express"

December 5, 2026 – Holiday Celebration "Polar Express"
– DSBVI (Cordie Weed)

Christmas Boutique and Bake Sale

Christmas Boutique and Bake Sale – UCB Only (Kate Balzly and Sandy England)

January

UCB Meeting of the Board

Thursday, January 7, 2027, 4:45 p.m.

Members are invited and encouraged to attend meetings of the Board of Directors. Board of Directors meetings will typically be held the first Thursday of each month at 4:45 p.m. on Zoom.

Join us via ZOOM at
https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1602819329

Or call: 1(669)254-5252: Enter meeting id: 1602819329 then press pound twice.