From christellablue at gmail.com Wed Jul 1 02:48:09 2009 From: christellablue at gmail.com (Christella Garcia) Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:48:09 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] Sports and Recreation Events Message-ID: Hi, convention is fast approaching and the Sports and Recreation division is excited to bring three exciting events to all of you. However, we need to get some logistics out of the way so we can enjoy the fun. Therefore, I am attaching the liability waver which will need to be signed by anyone who wants to participate in any of our exciting events. Please note, you must sign a waver for each event. For example, if a person wants to participate in the swimming and judo events then they will need to sign a separate waver for each event. If you have difficulty accessing the form or if you have any other questions please email me off list at: christellablue at gmail.com or call me on my cell (916) 208-3213. and I will do my best to assist you. Below you will find the time and place for each event. The wavers will also be available at each event. Parents please sign a waver for any child under age eighteen. Thanks, and let the games begin. Christella Garcia Sports and recreation division vice president. Friday, July 3, 2009 1:00 - 4:00 pm?SWIM CLINIC: SPORTS & REC DIVISION Pool, Courtyard Marriott Annie Sawicki, part of the AdapTap team (that designed an award-winning device for blind swimmers), is conducting a swimming workshop. Take a break with a cool dip in the pool. Sunday, July 5, 2009 12:30 - 5:00 pm?SPORTS AND RECREATION DIVISION Skyline A Room, Courtyard Marriott 12:30 pm ? Registration; 1:00 pm ? Meeting begins Wear your sweats and come ready for hands-on presentations in yoga and much more! Lisamaria Martinez, President Sunday, July 5, 2009 5:00 - 8:00 pm?JUDO WORKSHOP; SPORTS & REC DIVISION Skyline B Room, Courtyard Marriott Join USA Judo Paralympic bronze medal winner Greg DeWall to learn about judo from people involved in the sport. See you on the mat! Monday, July 6, 2009 6:00 - 9:00 pm?INDOOR ROWING; SPORTS & REC DIVISION Skyline A and B Rooms, Courtyard Marriott Row your way into fitness and maintain a healthy lifestyle using an accessible rowing machine. Prizes plus plenty of fun! -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Liability Waiver with NFB1.doc Type: application/msword Size: 30208 bytes Desc: not available URL: From dandrews at visi.com Wed Jul 1 02:44:45 2009 From: dandrews at visi.com (David Andrews) Date: Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:44:45 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] 2009 Motor City March Info Packet Message-ID: The 2009 Motor City March for Independence: NFB in the D Before the March ? An information session for Marchers will be held on Saturday, July 4, at 6:45 p.m. in the Greco Room on Level 4. ? The ambassador briefing sessions will be held on Sunday, July 5, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. in Brul? B Room on Level 5. Those Federationists wanting to serve as ambassadors or wanting to familiarize themselves with the March and rally, can drop in any time during the three hour briefing session. The March route and tasks will be covered in detail. ? Marchers can register for the March, turn in donations, and pick up their March items (such as t-shirts and medallions) at the Imagination Fund table in the Renaissance Foyer on Level 4 near the Convention registration table during registration times. March Gathering Places and Times?Be Ready to Chant and Cheer ? Ambassadors and other March volunteers need to report at the Wintergarden entrance on Atwater Street by 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6. ? Appointed sign and banner carriers need to gather 100 yards to the left of the Wintergarden entrance by 6:30 a.m. to pick up their banners/signs. ? Torchbearers need to gather toward the front of the procession, at least 100 yards to the right of the Wintergarden entrance at 6:30 a.m. ? Rally coordinators and stagers need to report to Rivard Plaza by 6:30 a.m. ? Marchers need to gather at least 100 yards to the right of the Wintergarden entrance by 6:45 a.m. What will happen at the March At 6:45 a.m. the March for Independence will begin with opening remarks by Dr. Maurer. The Torch of Freedom will be lit and the March will begin by 7:00 a.m.! Around 7:30 a.m., as we are heading back toward the Renaissance Center, the ?mini-Marchers? will join the procession and we'll all march together toward the rally site at Rivard Plaza. By 8:00 a.m. we will reach Rivard Plaza and the rally will begin. Route description 1. Gather at the Wintergarden entrance on Atwater Street. Walk west on the south side of Atwater Street toward Renaissance Drive West. Be aware of potential traffic on the north side of the street. 2. Just after Bates Street (on your right), take a left back onto the RiverWalk. 3. Follow the RiverWalk until passing Hart Plaza (on your right) and the Detroit Princess Riverboat (on your left). 4. Return back to Atwater Street, which becomes Civic Center Drive. Follow Civic Center Drive to Joe Louis Arena. 5. At the intersection of 3rd Street and Civic Center Drive (with Joe Louis Arena on the right) make a left back onto the RiverWalk, and follow it back toward Hart Plaza. 6. Take the cobblestone path that leads up to Hart Plaza. 7. Go through Hart Plaza, past the fountain, and toward East Jefferson Avenue. 8. Just before East Jefferson Avenue, follow the large concrete path to the right that crosses a dead-end street (to the Ford Auditorium on the right) and leads to Bates Street. 9. Turn right onto Bates Street and continue southeast to Atwater Street. Make a left back onto Atwater Street and follow it east, back toward the Renaissance Center. We will then take the ramp to the RiverWalk. 10. Continue east along the RiverWalk the short distance to Rivard Plaza for the rally. 11. Join the rally at Rivard Plaza! The Mini-March For those who cannot walk the full 4 kilometer route (1 kilometer less than last year), there is a shorter route of approximately four blocks. This mini-March will join the main procession as it passes back by the Renaissance Center on the way to the rally site. To join the mini-March, please gather at 7:15 a.m. at the Wintergarden exit of the Renaissance Center. We will take the ramp down to the RiverWalk. If you choose to use the steps instead of the ramp to the RiverWalk, please note these steps are especially deep. There will be ambassadors on hand to make sure mini-Marchers connect with the main procession at the right time. The Rally Program The rally will begin at approximately 8:00 a.m. at Rivard Plaza. Water will be available at the rally site for all participants. The rally program will include speeches by Dr. Maurer, Senator Carl Levin of Michigan, and Dave McCurdy of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers. Three outstanding Imagination Fund grant programs will be featured, and be ready to dance in the streets when Martha Reeves performs some of her Motown hits. At about 8:45 a.m., Dr. Maurer and other VIPs will lead the procession out of the plaza back to the Wintergarden. Marchers should make their way to the opening of General Session in the Renaissance Ballroom on Level 4 by 9:30 a.m. Be sure to stay for the entire rally?there are bound to be lots of surprises throughout the morning! Transportation Those with wheelchairs or special transportation needs should come to the Imagination Fund table during registration times to make sure their needs are met. From dandrews at visi.com Wed Jul 1 19:37:03 2009 From: dandrews at visi.com (David Andrews) Date: Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:37:03 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] See and Win Orator for Blackberry Smartphones at NFB Convention Message-ID: Introducing Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones New screen reader software application provides blind and visually impaired customers with a solution to access BlackBerry smartphones With The National Federation of the Blind conference just around the corner, HumanWare is pleased to introduce its newest software solution called "Orator for BlackBerry for BlackBerry Smartphones" to the NFB members. Access to information through mobile devices is key in today's business world and the use of smartphones have become the predominant way of communication for business professionals and management. With over 21 million subscribers in 150 countries the BlackBerry Smartphones have grown in popularity to become the smartphone of choice to stay in touch with work, family and friends and important information while on the go. Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones is a innovative screen reader software that enables visually impaired users to access and operate BlackBerry Smartphones Issue from a joint collaboration with Code Factory, the leading provider of screen reader technology and maker of Mobile Speak, and Research In Motion (RIM), the maker of the award winning portfolio of BlackBerry products and solutions, Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones is design to convert the information visually display on the device screen into a voice output enabling people who are visually impaired to use BlackBerry smartphones to increase independence and productivity in today's competitive world. Available for the new QWERTY BlackBerry smartphones, Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones will provide you with greater freedom to manage your daily activities in the way that is most convenient for you with the ability to stay connected anytime, anywhere. If you are attending the National Federation of the Blind conference come visit us at the HumanWare booth to be amongst the first to get your hands on a personal demonstration and have a sneak peak at this coming solution for BlackBerry smartphones. Whether you are attending the conference or not don't miss the chance to win one of 4 BlackBerry smartphones with Orator software package. To register your name you must log on at www.orator4bb.com\draw and fill out the form. This will automatically enter your name in the draw. Winners will be announced on the HumanWare site on July 31 If you are interested in learning more on the Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones solution and find out why BlackBerry devices are so popular, be sure to attend the product presentation. Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones: blind access solution for BlackBerry Smartphones When: Friday July 3rd, 2009 Time: 4h00 to 4h50 PM Where: LaSalle A and B Room, Level 5 Speakers: Michel Pepin, Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones Product Manager, HumanWare From this session you will learn the features and benefits of this screen reader solution and find out more on the BlackBerry device applications that will be supported For those of you that will not be available to attend this presentation, be sure to visit us in the exhibit hall at the HumanWare booth during the following exhibit hours: Saturday July 4th, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday July 5th, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday July 6th, 12:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Tuesday July 7th, 12:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Come and discover if Orator for BlackBerry Smartphone is the solution for you to stay connected with what is important in your life. Visit our web site at www.orator4 bb.com to find out more about this unique mobile solution About HumanWare HumanWare (http://www.humanware.com/) is the global leader in assistive technologies for the print disabled. HumanWare provides products to people who are blind and have low vision and students with learning disabilities. HumanWare offers a collection of innovative products include BrailleNote, the leading productivity device for the blind in education, business and for personal use; the Victor Reader product line, the world's leading digital audiobook players, and SmartView Xtend, the first fully modular and upgradeable CCTV-based video magnifier. David Andrews and white cane Harry. From jsorozco at gmail.com Thu Jul 2 05:58:56 2009 From: jsorozco at gmail.com (Joe Orozco) Date: Thu, 2 Jul 2009 01:58:56 -0400 Subject: [Mabs] FW: [TABS] SOUTHERN STRUMS 2009 Message-ID: <9D4607FF996D4C5E89F22885B55BCDE5@Rufus> From: tabs_students at googlegroups.com [mailto:tabs_students at googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Jose Martinez Sent: Thursday, July 02, 2009 12:51 AM To: Members at nfb-texas.org; tabs_students at googlegroups.com Subject: [TABS] SOUTHERN STRUMS 2009 Repost! Repost! Repost! Repost! Southern Strums is fast approaching, and we wish to invite you to join us on Monday July 6 at Seldom Blues. One of the Premier restaurants in all of Detroit. The show starts at 6:00 pm, and it goes till 10:00. Come out and enjoy the pleasant sounds of Parnell Digs, Chris Danielsen, as well as a special guest appearance from Detroit's own, Brandy Faye Hawkins, and much much more live entertainment. All for just a 5 dollar donation. Make sure to get your presale tickets with a TABS representative. We look forward in seeing you out there! And to all, a great convention! THE TABS PROMOTIONS TEAM! http://www.myspace.com/tabstudent http://www.nfb-texas.org/tabs.html --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ The Texas Association of Blind Students Web Site: www.nfb-texas.org/tabs.html __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4206 (20090701) __________ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com From slabarre at labarrelaw.com Thu Jul 2 10:32:39 2009 From: slabarre at labarrelaw.com (Scott C. LaBarre) Date: Thu, 02 Jul 2009 05:32:39 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] Presenting the 12TH Annual Mock Trial Message-ID: PRESENTING THE 12TH ANNUAL MOCK TRIAL NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLIND LAWYERS Saturday, July 4th Ambassador 1 Ballroom, level 3, Marriott Renaissance Center 4:30--6:00 p.m. The National Association of Blind Lawyers is pleased to present the 12TH Annual Mock Trial featuring the case of Malus v. Malus in the District Court for the State of Federation, County of Whoseit, the Honorable Charles S. Brown, Presiding. This case pits a sighted father against a blind mother who are getting divorced and fighting over their three children. Randy Malus, the sighted father, alleges that the blind are incapable of safely taking care of young children. Angela Malus, the sighted mother, counter alleges that Randy is a dead beat dad who is incredibly irresponsible and that the children are far better off with her. Shockingly, Angela's own mother, Melissa Love Joy, intends to testify on behalf of Randy Malus. John Goodfellow, Angela's sighted neighbor, intends to tell the Court what a wonderful mom Angela is. Experts on both sides will tell the Court with whom the children should be placed. You the audience are the jury and will need to decide who is more competent to have custody of these three lovely children, ages 2, 4, and 7. All you have to do is pay your juror registration fee of $5.00 and you can help decide this important case. Scott C. LaBarre, Esq. President, NABL LaBarre Law Offices P.C. 1660 South Albion Street, Ste. 918 Denver, Colorado 80222 303 504-5979 (voice) 303 757-3640 (fax) slabarre at labarrelaw.com (e-mail) www.labarrelaw.com (website) From armckenzie at fsu.edu Sat Jul 4 16:42:06 2009 From: armckenzie at fsu.edu (Amy McKenzie) Date: Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:42:06 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] Online Survey Recruitment Message-ID: I have been asked to circulate the following: Dave Recruitment Message: Drs. Amy McKenzie and Susan Smedema of Florida State University are conducting an online survey social support and life satisfaction in persons with visual impairment. You are invited to participate in this survey if you are 18 years of age or older, and have a diagnosed visual impairment. Participation in the survey will take approximately 30 minutes. There are no anticipated risks beyond those encountered in daily living to completing the survey. Please click on the following link if you wish to participate: http://www.survey.coe.fsu.edu/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=n40Ln62 You may also email Dr. McKenzie at armckenzie at fsu.edu to have this link emailed to you directly or to receive a hard copy of the survey in regular print, large print, or braille. Thank you very much! Amy R. McKenzie, Ed.D. Assistant Professor Program in Visual Impairment and Susan M. Smedema, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Rehabilitation Counseling and Services -----Original Message----- From: David Andrews [mailto:dandrews at visi.com] Sent: Saturday, June 27, 2009 2:03 PM To: Amy McKenzie Subject: Re: Online Survey Recruitment It is ok with me. You can either write me some sort of announcement, that I will circulate, or I can draw from what you sent me. Dave At 12:13 PM 6/27/2009, you wrote: >Dear Mr. Andrews, > >My name is Amy McKenzie and I am an Assistant Professor in the >Program in Visual Impairments at Florida State University. Along >with my colleague, Susan Smedema, I am preparing to recruit for an >online survey regarding the relationship between social supports and >life satisfaction in adults with visual impairments. Dr. Smedema is >an Assistant Professors in the Rehabilitation Counseling Program at >FSU. We have received human subjects approval to conduct this study >through the Florida State University Office of Research. > >We would like to post recruitment messages in some format to the NFB >listservs and/or message boards due to its strong consumer >membership. We believe that we can reach the broadest group of >participants through your organization. Electronic recruitment >methods are being used since this is an online study. > >I have attached the proposed recruitment letter and consent letter >to this e-mail. Please let me know your thoughts! > >Sincerely, >Amy R. McKenzie > >Amy R. McKenzie, Ed.D. >Assistant Professor >Program in Visual Impairment >College of Education, Florida State University >850-645-6588 From dandrews at visi.com Mon Jul 6 15:02:02 2009 From: dandrews at visi.com (David Andrews) Date: Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:02:02 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] NFB Convention Stream Available Message-ID: Many of you have asked about watching and/or listening to a stream of the NFB national convention, now going on in Detroit. There is a audio/video stream that is available when general sessions of the convention are in session. I presume that it will also be available for the banquet. The address is: http://www.vbossengage.com/Engage/NFB/Index.aspx David Andrews and white cane Harry. From dandrews at visi.com Mon Jul 6 16:39:02 2009 From: dandrews at visi.com (David Andrews) Date: Mon, 06 Jul 2009 11:39:02 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] Updated Link for NFB Convention Stream Message-ID: Earlier today I posted a link to listen/watch a live stream of the NFB convention, now going on in Detroit. The link used an embedded Silverlight player that may not be accessible to all. Below is a new link that uses your default media player. We apologize for any problems that this has caused anybody. http://vbricksys.edgeboss.net/wmedia-live/vbricksys/58969/300_vbricksys-nfb_30241_090615.asx Dave David Andrews and white cane Harry. From jsorozco at gmail.com Tue Jul 7 22:42:33 2009 From: jsorozco at gmail.com (Joe Orozco) Date: Tue, 7 Jul 2009 18:42:33 -0400 Subject: [Mabs] Vote Organizing Job Opening Message-ID: Subject: Vote Organizing Job Opening DVP Logo JUST VOTE ARIZONA DISABILITY COALITION Looking for a Vote Organizer JUST VOTE ARIZONA DISABILITY COALITION: Looking for a Vote Organizer AAPD logoJOB DESCRIPTION COMMUNITY ORGANIZER I Project Description: The purpose of the Just Vote Arizona! (JVA) - Disability Coalition is to promote and support equal access, and individual and system advocacy, in order to maximize opportunities for the inclusion of individuals with disabilities into the electoral process. Just Vote Arizona believes that people with all types of disabilities should have the same civil rights as people without disabilities. JVA, therefore, works to change societal attitudes about people with disabilities away from a patronizing, pitying medical model towards empowerment, independence, and integration as fully contributing and voting members of their communities. The Just Vote Arizona! Disability Coalition is composed of various disabilities related organizations that seek to increase the number people with disabilities in Arizona who are registered to vote and turnout to vote. Additionally, the coalition seeks to promote and assess the implementation of the Help America Vote Act. II Position Description The primary focus of the community organizer position is to assist with coordinating, promoting, and supporting the goals of the Disability Coalition as directed by the JVA Coordinator. This position is part time - 20 hours weekly, with flexible scheduling and some working remotely possible. III Key Functions and Responsibilities include: 1. Assist with organizing and mobilizing a grassroots network in Arizona. 2. Implement actions steps that support voter registration drives and "Get out the Vote (GOTV) campaigns 3. Perform administrative and communications tasks necessary to grassroots organizing, such as, maintaining a database of contacts, creating and administering listservs, sending action alerts, and overseeing the project's website. 4. Assist with coordinating and integrating JVA activities with other disability related advocacy groups. 5. Develop contact lists for key reporters related to print and electronic media; plan and execute regular media hits 6. Write educational material, op ed and press materials for voter registration drives and GOTV campaigns. 7. Research project related issues in order to develop appropriate messaging in written materials and for public presentations. 8. Provide periodic written progress reports to the JVA Coordinator related to the completion of the JVA goals and objectives and other assigned activities. 9. Carry out the key functions and responsibilities of the position in compliance with federal state and local laws and ordinances. 10. And other duties as may be assigned. IV Position Requirements: 1. Bachelor's degree or sufficient related experience. 2. Proficient computer skills and experience working with MS Office software, in particular with database programs. 3. Good verbal and written communication skills with experience in presenting ideas clearly and persuasively. 4. Ability to exercise discretion and initiative in organizing and implementing multiple tasks with minimal supervision. 5. Demonstrated ability and commitment to work with diverse and multicultural populations. 6. Ability and willingness to travel around the state as needed. V Desired Attributes: 1. Knowledge of Help America Vote Act, the Voters Registration Act, American with Disabilities Act, the Rehab Act and/or other state and national laws regarding the rights of people with disabilities. 2. Personal experience with a disability and/or the disability community and a demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the philosophy and goals of the disability rights movement. 3. Creativity, leadership and initiative in carrying out assigned tasks and ability to exercise independent judgment. 4. Bilingual ability - English/Spanish VI Salary: $18,000 - 22,000 commensurate with experience. VII Term: This position is currently funded for one year only. Continued employment is contingent upon future funding VIII To Apply Please Submit: 1. A cover letter with a narrative description of your interest and experience, 2. Your resume and 3. Three professional references. Send your materials: Email tony at azsilc.org Mail Arizona Statewide Independent Living Council The Disability Empowerment Center 5025 E Washington Street, Suite 214 Phoenix, AZ 85034 Persons with disabilities & minorities are encouraged to apply. Submissions are due by 5:00 p.m. on July 31, 2009. The position will remain open until filled. About the Disability Vote Project DVP works in a non-partisan manner to eliminate the barriers to voting and, in close collaboration with coalition partners in states around the country, to increase political participation for individuals with disabilities. DVP aims to get people with disabilities registered to vote; strives to educate them on how to get to their polling places and what their rights are at the polling places; and works to make polling places accessible to voters with all disabilities. About AAPD The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is the largest national nonprofit cross-disability member organization in the United States. It organizes the disability community to be a powerful force for change - politically, economically, and socially - and recognizes the value of working in broad coalitions to foster unity, leadership and impact. AAPD is dedicated to achieving total equality for and full participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of society, recognizing that this is the social justice issue of our time. AAPD James Dickson Vice President, Government Affairs AAPD logo Forward email Safe Unsubscribe This email was sent to jsorozco at gmail.com by vote at aapd.com. Update Profile/Email Address | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe T | Privacy Policy . Email Marketing by AAPD | 1629 K Street NW | Suite 503 | Washington | DC | 20006 __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4222 (20090707) __________ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com From nabs.president at gmail.com Sat Jul 11 01:49:29 2009 From: nabs.president at gmail.com (Arielle Silverman) Date: Sat, 11 Jul 2009 11:49:29 +1000 Subject: [Mabs] NABS Leadership Update Message-ID: <85ff10070907101849x27d867b2wf956dac2cd1eb884@mail.gmail.com> Hello NABS members: ? ? ? ?Last weekend the National Association of Blind Students held our annual business meeting in conjunction with the NFB convention in Detroit. At this year?s business meeting we heard from several of our former presidents and they taught us a lot about the history and legacy of our organization and about how we can continue that legacy. We also got some updated information from RFB, BookShare and about recent developments regarding the Kindle DX issue. Finally, we conducted elections and I was elected to serve as the next president of NABS. I am deeply honored to continue serving this organization and to join the ranks of those who have come before me, and I would like to thank all of you for your support ?and for your assistance with making the business meeting and Monte Carlo Night fund-raiser run as smoothly as possible. Several others joined our NABS board for the first time. The complete list of officers and board members is: President: Arielle Silverman First Vice-President: Karen Anderson Second Vice-President: Sean Whalen Secretary: Janice Jeang Treasurer: Nijat Worley Board Member 1: Isaiah Wilcox Board Member 2: Meghan Whalen Board Member 3: Domonique Lawless Board Member 4: Darian Smith Congratulations to all who were elected. Additionally, we had several other NABS members who sought election to the board, and consequently ended up with more interested persons than we could include on the board. I see this as a good sign that we have a substantial group of students who care about NABS and helping us to achieve our goals. If you ran for a board position but were not elected or even if you didn?t run for a board position but still want to make a contribution to NABS, there is plenty of work to go around. Stay tuned for an announcement in the next week or two about NABS committees and ?how to join them. I would also like to set up some telephone focus groups in the next few months to get your feedback on how we can improve specific aspects of NABS such as the Student Slate, Website, convention activities, state division outreach and election policies. If you want ?your voice to be heard, stay tuned ?for more details about these conference calls. Also, from now on please direct all NABS inquiries to Nabs.president at gmail.com The official email address shown on our Website, president at nabslink.org also works, but email from both addresses will go to the same place. I will check this organizational email address daily, and I or another NABS board member will reply to your query within three days of receiving it. You can also call me with any questions or ?concerns at 602-502-2255 And again, someone will return all phone messages within three days. I will be sending out a president?s bulletin to the NABS listserv and the state division lists during the first week of each month. This bulletin will contain updates about NABS activities as well as other announcements of interest such as information about state and regional student division events and news from the NFB Jernigan Institute, RFB, BookShare, etc. If you ?have an announcement that ?you would like to appear in the next president?s bulletin, please send it to me before the first of the month at noon. Finally, if you are currently president of a state student division, please email me off-list with your state, phone number, email address and whether or not you?re subscribed to ?the NABS-Presidents listserv. I want to be sure the Website and my master state contact list is updated and that everyone gets on the Presidents list who should be on it. If you are in a state that doesn?t have a student division yet and you want to serve as the student contact for your state, also send me this information. I?m looking forward to an exciting and productive two years with NABS, and hope all ?of you will join me in making NABS as strong as it can be! On 7/8/09, Joe Orozco wrote: > Subject: Vote Organizing Job Opening > > > > > DokMOnYqSWDLYhJ2k-SH2ArKLIIFhnxeEjRvi9rMXNdEt2f3w_ZGVZtO3WYUrcqavOpOKXB4Y-Zs > 0Fyl5BqSqi8Ty8HegdOUDhnHJgJWfWgkKX9Tcey4n0XjPkTng==> DVP Logo > > > JUST VOTE ARIZONA DISABILITY COALITION > Looking for a Vote Organizer > > > > > > > JUST VOTE ARIZONA DISABILITY COALITION: > Looking for a Vote Organizer > > > > POt3N1sJFT5sGc0x211eqry3MWgYi0uv_LZ4h5HAevx6qh3QBIka6CIhZuiq_QdnmsOYu_LAj3VK > Lh_6d4=> AAPD logoJOB DESCRIPTION > COMMUNITY ORGANIZER > > I Project Description: > The purpose of the Just Vote Arizona! (JVA) - Disability Coalition is to > promote and support equal access, and individual and system advocacy, in > order to maximize opportunities for the inclusion of individuals with > disabilities into the electoral process. > > Just Vote Arizona believes that people with all types of disabilities should > have the same civil rights as people without disabilities. JVA, therefore, > works to change societal attitudes about people with disabilities away from > a patronizing, pitying medical model towards empowerment, independence, and > integration as fully contributing and voting members of their communities. > > The Just Vote Arizona! Disability Coalition is composed of various > disabilities related organizations that seek to increase the number people > with disabilities in Arizona who are registered to vote and turnout to vote. > Additionally, the coalition seeks to promote and assess the implementation > of the Help America Vote Act. > > II Position Description > The primary focus of the community organizer position is to assist with > coordinating, promoting, and supporting the goals of the Disability > Coalition as directed by the JVA Coordinator. > > This position is part time - 20 hours weekly, with flexible scheduling and > some working remotely possible. > > III Key Functions and Responsibilities include: > > 1. Assist with organizing and mobilizing a grassroots network in Arizona. > > 2. Implement actions steps that support voter registration drives and > "Get out the Vote (GOTV) campaigns > > 3. Perform administrative and communications tasks necessary to > grassroots organizing, such as, maintaining a database of contacts, creating > and administering listservs, sending action alerts, and overseeing the > project's website. > > 4. Assist with coordinating and integrating JVA activities with other > disability related advocacy groups. > > 5. Develop contact lists for key reporters related to print and > electronic media; plan and execute regular media hits > > 6. Write educational material, op ed and press materials for voter > registration drives and GOTV campaigns. > > 7. Research project related issues in order to develop appropriate > messaging in written materials and for public presentations. > > 8. Provide periodic written progress reports to the JVA Coordinator > related to the completion of the JVA goals and objectives and other assigned > activities. > > 9. Carry out the key functions and responsibilities of the position in > compliance with federal state and local laws and ordinances. > > 10. And other duties as may be assigned. > > IV Position Requirements: > > 1. Bachelor's degree or sufficient related experience. > > 2. Proficient computer skills and experience working with MS Office > software, in particular with database programs. > > 3. Good verbal and written communication skills with experience in > presenting ideas clearly and persuasively. > > 4. Ability to exercise discretion and initiative in organizing and > implementing multiple tasks with minimal supervision. > > 5. Demonstrated ability and commitment to work with diverse and > multicultural populations. > > 6. Ability and willingness to travel around the state as needed. > > V Desired Attributes: > > 1. Knowledge of Help America Vote Act, the Voters Registration Act, > American with Disabilities Act, the Rehab Act and/or other state and > national laws regarding the rights of people with disabilities. > > 2. Personal experience with a disability and/or the disability community > and a demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the philosophy and goals > of the disability rights movement. > > > 3. Creativity, leadership and initiative in carrying out assigned tasks > and ability to exercise independent judgment. > > 4. Bilingual ability - English/Spanish > > VI Salary: $18,000 - 22,000 commensurate with experience. > > VII Term: This position is currently funded for one year only. Continued > employment is contingent upon future funding > > VIII To Apply Please Submit: > 1. A cover letter with a narrative description of your interest and > experience, > 2. Your resume and > 3. Three professional references. > > Send your materials: > Email tony at azsilc.org > Mail Arizona Statewide Independent Living Council > The Disability Empowerment Center > 5025 E Washington Street, Suite 214 > Phoenix, AZ 85034 > > Persons with disabilities & minorities are encouraged to apply. > > Submissions are due by 5:00 p.m. on July 31, 2009. The position will remain > open until filled. > > > About the Disability Vote Project > DVP works in a non-partisan manner to eliminate the barriers to voting and, > in close collaboration with coalition partners in states around the country, > to increase political participation for individuals with disabilities. DVP > aims to get people with disabilities registered to vote; strives to educate > them on how to get to their polling places and what their rights are at the > polling places; and works to make polling places accessible to voters with > all disabilities. > > > About AAPD > The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is the largest > national nonprofit cross-disability member organization in the United > States. It organizes the disability community to be a powerful force for > change - politically, economically, and socially - and recognizes the value > of working in broad coalitions to foster unity, leadership and impact. AAPD > is dedicated to achieving total equality for and full participation of > people with disabilities in all aspects of society, recognizing that this is > the social justice issue of our time. > > > > AAPD > POt3N1sJFT5sGc0x211eqry3MWgYi0uv_LZ4h5HAevx6qh3QBIka6CIhZuiq_QdnmsOYu_LAj3VK > Lh_6d4=> > > James Dickson > Vice President, Government Affairs > > > 10ffDble837Lq3dz_HvAay_ofzGYEQHwn-yXaOR-ZX8fWIyyfUxfTTlD0gdmpDAbPzZ3JX3LzAcX > sL44LQ=> AAPD logo > > > > Forward email > il.com&a=1102633275540> > > DTRa_hUsifkKY-LeBnqc_8_Cw%3D%3D&p=un> Safe Unsubscribe > > This email was sent to jsorozco at gmail.com by vote at aapd.com. > Update Profile/Email Address > DTRa_hUsifkKY-LeBnqc_8_Cw%3D%3D&p=oo> | Instant removal with > SafeUnsubscribe > DTRa_hUsifkKY-LeBnqc_8_Cw%3D%3D&p=un> T | Privacy Policy > . > Email Marketing by > > AAPD | 1629 K Street NW | Suite 503 | Washington | DC | 20006 > > /ui.constantcontact.com/images1/s.gif> > > __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature > database 4222 (20090707) __________ > > The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. > > http://www.eset.com > > _______________________________________________ > Nabs-presidents mailing list > Nabs-presidents at nfbnet.org > http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nabs-presidents_nfbnet.org > -- Arielle Silverman President, National Association of Blind Students Phone: 602-502-2255 Email: nabs.president at gmail.com Website: www.nabslink.org From gwunder at earthlink.net Sat Jul 11 22:14:44 2009 From: gwunder at earthlink.net (Gary Wunder) Date: Sat, 11 Jul 2009 17:14:44 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] Fw: [Blindtlk] Fw: REFERENCE POINTS: Opportunities for Youth Message-ID: > FYI > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: > To: > Sent: Friday, July 10, 2009 8:23 AM > Subject: REFERENCE POINTS: Opportunities for Youth > > >> REFERENCE POINTS is an activity of TATRA, a project of PACER Center >> >> >> REFERENCE POINTS: Opportunities for Youth >> >> INTERNATIONAL FULBRIGHT OPPORTUNITIES >> The National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange and the Fulbright >> Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, strongly encourages >> more people with disabilities to apply for Fulbright scholarships for >> study, research, or teaching abroad. The Fulbright program promotes >> communication and respect between the people of the United States and >> other countries around the world through mutual understanding. The >> Fulbright Program selects participants based on their academic merit and >> leadership potential, and will provide disability-related accommodations >> as needed. Annual application deadlines occur late summer to early fall >> for travel the following year. For more information on Fulbright Programs >> and the application process, visit: http://fulbright.state.gov/. >> >> ADOBE YOUTH VOICES/WHAT KIDS CAN DO: INTERNATIONAL PHOTO COMPETITION >> Adobe Youth Voices and What Kids Can Do invite youth around the world to >> submit photographs based on the theme of "Crisis and Hope," expressing >> themselves on both what is challenging and what gives hope in today's >> difficult world. Maximum award: Winning photographs will be showcased >> online, in a traveling exhibit, and in a book. Eligibility: all young >> people -- anywhere in the world -- between the ages of 12 and 19. For >> more information go to >> http://www.whatkidscando.org/AYV_Photo_Competition/Home_.html >> Deadline: July 31, 2009. >> >> YOUTH VOICES: GLOBAL ESSAY CONTEST >> The World Youth Movement for Democracy has launched its 6th annual Global >> Essay Contest! If you or someone you know is between the ages of 18 and >> 30, why not make your voice heard. Questions include: What democratic >> spaces exist for young people in your society? Why is youth involvement >> in democracy important and how can it connect diverse cultures? Fifteen >> regional winners will participate in the 6th Assembly of the World >> Movement for Democracy in Jakarta, Indonesia. For more information go to >> http://voize.my/contests/youth-speak-out-engaging-in-democracy-and-grasping-opportunity >> Deadline: September 15, 2009 >> >> CAMPAIGN FOR DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT ANNOUNCES ONLINE VIDEO CONTEST >> Attention aspiring filmmakers! The Campaign for Disability Employment, a >> newly-formed collaborative of leading disability organizations, is >> sponsoring the What Can YOU Do? online video contest to promote the >> talent and skills that people with disabilities bring to America's >> workforce and economy. The contest is an opportunity for young - and >> young-at-heart - filmmakers to promote positive change by illustrating >> that at work, it's what people CAN do that matters. The Campaign is >> looking for creative, fun, compelling video public service announcements, >> of all genres, that will create positive images of people with >> disabilities at work and help viewers re-think their assumptions about >> people with disabilities and employment. Contest entries must be 60 >> seconds or less and reflect one or more of the campaign's key themes. >> The winner will receive a prize worth $1,500. Several selected videos >> may also be showcased on the campaign's Web site. For more information >> go to http://www.jan.wvu.edu/videocontest/ >> Deadline for entry: July 15, 2009 >> >> DO SOMETHING DISASTER GRANTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE >> Do Something and the Dunkin' Brands Community Foundation have teamed up >> to offer $500 Disaster Grants to young people across the US and Canada. >> Are you building houses down in New Orleans, planning an emergency coat >> drive for families in crisis this winter, or collecting toys for kids >> who've been through a natural disaster? Then they want to hear from you! >> Each week in 2009 they are giving out $500 to an awesome person with a >> project idea around the themes of disaster preparedness and emergency >> response. They want to recognize YOU for what you're doing in your >> community. For more information, visit: >> http://www.dosomething.org/grants/disaster >> >> >> >> >> * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * >> >> REFERENCE POINTS is administered by PACER Center http://www.PACER.org as >> a technical assistance activity of the TATRA Project. The TATRA Project >> is funded by the Rehabilitation Services Administration. >> >> To SUBSCRIBE to REFERENCE POINTS go to >> http://www.pacer.org/tatra/list/index.asp >> >> To UNSUBSCRIBE, please go directly to >> http://www.pacer.org/tatra/list/maildel.asp >> >> Readers are invited to send information about new resources on secondary >> education, transition and vocational rehabilitation topics to >> tatra at pacer.org. >> >> Reference Points received initial support from the National Center on >> Secondary Education and Transition http://www.ncset.org/. Visit their web >> site for a wealth of information related to secondary education and >> transition for youth with disabilities. >> >> Note: There are no copyright restrictions on this document. However, >> please credit the source and support of federal funds when copying all or >> part of this material. > > > _______________________________________________ > blindtlk mailing list > blindtlk at nfbnet.org > http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blindtlk_nfbnet.org > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for > blindtlk: > http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/options/blindtlk_nfbnet.org/gwunder%40earthlink.net From jsorozco at gmail.com Thu Jul 16 22:02:59 2009 From: jsorozco at gmail.com (Joe Orozco) Date: Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:02:59 -0400 Subject: [Mabs] FW: AmeriCorps Alumni Sought for Prestigious Eli Segal Fellowship Message-ID: <05AF1D06541942B5AECAAB8E68DB235C@Rufus> Subject: AmeriCorps Alumni Sought for Prestigious Eli Segal Fellowship AmeriCorps Alumni Sought for Prestigious Eli Segal Fellowship CONTACT: April Durrant Phone: 801-524-5411 x3 Email: elisegalfellowship at cns.gov Washington, DC - The Corporation for National and Community Service is seeking applications from former AmeriCorps members who are interested in serving as the 2009-2010 Eli Segal Fellow, a year-long leadership opportunity to help advance national service policy, operations, and strategy from the Office of the CEO at Corporation headquarters. This prestigious fellowship was created in 2006 to honor the legacy of Eli Segal, who was a key architect of the 1993 national service legislation and served as the first CEO of the Corporation from 1993 to 1995. Segal died in February 2006. The fellowship is open to AmeriCorps alumni who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, drive, and commitment to national service, and who are committed to advancing the mission and goals of the Corporation. The duties of the selected fellow will include helping to advance the mission of national service and the strategic goals of the Corporation while working closely with the CEO on projects that benefit the national service field. The 2009-2010 fellow will serve at moment of strong momentum for the Corporation and the larger service and volunteering movement. President Obama has made service a central cause of the Presidency and has called on all Americans to make service a part of their daily lives. The President's strong focus has resulted in several early achievements, including record turnout on the Martin Luther King Day of Service, Recovery Act funding to support 13,000 new AmeriCorps members, passage of the landmark Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, and the launch of the United We Serve initiative. The fellowship offers the opportunity for career development and gaining a first-hand understanding of national service and the workings of a Federal agency. The fellowship will last for a term of not more than 13 months beginning in September 2009 and includes a $27,000 salary, plus benefits. Eligible applicants for the fellowship include all AmeriCorps alums who served full-time in the past three years. Exceptions to the three-year limit may be made for candidates who have been in school full-time since serving in AmeriCorps, or who have been in military or other national service such as the Peace Corps. The Segal family will be represented in the selection process. The deadline to apply for the Eli Segal Fellowship is July 31. For further information, application instructions, and frequently asked questions, please visit: www.nationalservice.gov/pdf/09_0713_eli_segal.htm. For questions, please email elisegalfellowship at cns.gov. Visit https://applicationmanager.gov/Login.aspx?VacancyID=263049 to apply online. Also, on July 23, 2009, there will be a conference call dedicated to answering questions about the fellowship from 4 PM to 5 PM Eastern Time. Call Date: July 23, 2009 Call Time: 4:00pm Eastern Time Duration: 1 hour Toll Free Number: 888-769-9419 Pass Code: 9527552 The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. Each year, the Corporation engages four million Americans of all ages and backgrounds through its Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America programs. For more information, visit NationalService.gov. ### __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4251 (20090716) __________ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com From MRiccobono at nfb.org Sun Jul 19 00:57:53 2009 From: MRiccobono at nfb.org (Riccobono, Mark) Date: Sat, 18 Jul 2009 19:57:53 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] NFB Youth March for Independence Message-ID: Come join the National Federation of the Blind for a historic gathering to celebrate the next generation of blind innovators! On Friday, July 31, the blind students and their mentors from the 2009 NFB Youth Slam will gather in our nation?s capitol for an inspirational rally at the Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool followed by the NFB Youth March for Independence on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. After the march, blind students, blind mentors, and friends will gather for a celebratory program of the past week?s achievements in the United States Capitol Visitor Center. Members of congress will be in attendance, and speakers will include Dr. Marc Maurer (President of the NFB), NFB Youth Slam students, members of the United States Congress, and officials from NASA including one of the astronauts from the STS 125 shuttle mission--the same mission that carried two Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollars to space. We encourage Federationists and friends to come be part of these historic events?you will not want to miss it! Schedule of Events: The rally at the Lincoln Memorial will kick off at 2:45 p.m. just in front of the reflecting pool and at the foot of the steps where so many other revolutionary historic gatherings have taken place. The NFB Youth March is expected to leave the rally site at the Lincoln Memorial at approximately 3:20 p.m. proceeding down the National Mall to the National Air and Space Museum. Please note that the distance from the memorial to the museum is approximately 1.5 miles. The closing ceremonies at the Capitol Visitors Center will begin at 5:30 pm. (doors open) with the program beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Congressional Auditorium. The Capitol Visitor Center is closed to the public, so please let security know that you are attending the NFB event. We encourage you to get there early as there is a security screening before the entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center; the link to items that are not permitted is http://www.visitthecapitol.gov/Visit/Visitor%20Safety%20and%20Policies/. The Capitol Visitors Center entrance is on the East side of the Capitol near the intersection of First and Maryland streets. If you are coming to the concluding ceremony only, the easiest way to get there is by metro. The three closest stops are: * Union Station ? Located at First Street, NW, and Massachusetts Avenue * Capitol South ? Located at First Street between C and D Streets, SE * Federal Center, SW ? Located at the Southwest corner of Third and D streets, SW For more information about the metro, visit http://www.wmata.com/. Please join us for this historic event where the next generation of the blind is helping to change what it means to be blind! The NFB Youth Slam is one of the ways that the National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute is providing more opportunities for blind youth to pursue careers that were once falsely perceived as impossible and empowering the next generation to interject their voice into the leadership of this country. Let us celebrate the accomplishments of these youth and their mentors while looking forward to their future full of opportunities! If you have any questions, please call Mark Riccobono at 410-659-9314 ext. 2368 or e-mail mriccobono at nfb.org From JFreeh at nfb.org Thu Jul 23 08:42:39 2009 From: JFreeh at nfb.org (Freeh, Jessica) Date: Thu, 23 Jul 2009 03:42:39 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] National Federation of the Blind and Blind Business Owner File Complaint with Small Business Administration Message-ID: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Chris Danielsen Director of Public Relations National Federation of the Blind (410) 659-9314, extension 2330 (410) 262-1281 (Cell) cdanielsen at nfb.org National Federation of the Blind and Blind Business Owner File Complaint with Small Business Administration SBA's Inaccessible Web Site Discriminates Against the Blind Baltimore, Maryland (July 22, 2009): The National Federation of the Blind, the nation's oldest and largest organization of blind people and the leading advocate for equal access by the blind to information technology, and Virgil Stinnett, a blind business owner from Honolulu, Hawaii, filed an administrative complaint today with the Small Business Administration (SBA). The complaint asserts that the SBA's Web site violates Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act because it is inaccessible to blind people who use text-to-speech screen access technology or Braille displays to access information on the Internet. Because of the inaccessibility of the SBA Web site, blind people cannot fill out forms on the site or take online courses offered by the SBA. Mr. Stinnett was unable to apply for certification under Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act because of the inaccessibility of the Web site. Section 8(a) certification would provide Mr. Stinnett's business with access to federal and private procurement markets. Dr. Marc Maurer, President of the National Federation of the Blind, said: "Blind Americans have the same dreams, the same goals, and the same entrepreneurial spirit as all other Americans. If we are to have equal access to the tools and techniques needed to be effective business owners and to compete on terms of equality with our sighted peers, we must have equal access to the resources offered on the SBA Web site and other government sites. The National Federation of the Blind demands equality for blind business owners and will tolerate nothing less." Virgil Stinnett, owner of Good News HI, a business providing military dining services, said: "As a blind entrepreneur, access to the SBA Web site is critical in order for me to use its programs and services and expand my business. The fact that I could not access the Web site has cost me time and resources that I would not have needed to expend if I had been able to use the site like everyone else. I hope the action we are taking today will prompt the SBA to take immediate steps so that all Americans, blind and sighted, have equal access to the programs, training, and resources that it provides." Complainants are represented by attorneys Daniel F. Goldstein and Allison L. Harper of Brown, Goldstein & Levy, LLP, 120 E. Baltimore Street, Suite 1700, Baltimore, MD 21202, (410) 962-1030, fax: (410) 385-0869, dfg at browngold.com, ah at browngold.com, www.browngold.com. ### From slabarre at labarrelaw.com Fri Jul 24 03:24:38 2009 From: slabarre at labarrelaw.com (Scott C. LaBarre) Date: Thu, 23 Jul 2009 22:24:38 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] Looking for People Message-ID: Greetings: We are very interested in talking to anyone who is blind/visually impaired and interested in pursuing a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic. We are also interested in talking to any blind/visually impaired employees who either work directly for or through a contractor to provide switchboard/communication services for the Veterans Administration. Finally, we are interested in speaking with anyone, blind/visually impaired, who is planning on attending law school, is currently an undergrad, and who plans on taking the LSAT either this fall or in the next year. Please contact me at the below information. Thanks, Scott C. LaBarre, Esq. LaBarre Law Offices P.C. 1660 South Albion Street, Ste. 918 Denver, Colorado 80222 303 504-5979 (voice) 303 757-3640 (fax) slabarre at labarrelaw.com (e-mail) www.labarrelaw.com (website) CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message may contain confidential and privileged information. If you are not the designated recipient, you may not read, copy, distribute or retain this message. If you received this message in error, please notify the sender at 303) 504-5979 or slabarre at labarrelaw.com, and destroy and delete it from your system. This message and any attachments are covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C. ?? 2510-2521. From AZNOR99 at aol.com Mon Jul 27 00:20:19 2009 From: AZNOR99 at aol.com (by way of David Andrews ) Date: Sun, 26 Jul 2009 19:20:19 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] NFB Youth Slam Now on Twitter Message-ID: 200 blind high school students have just converged on the campus of the University of Maryland to spend a wild week learning about science, technology, engineering, and math. With more than 70 adult blind mentors, they will build greenhouses, dissect sharks, learn CSI techniques, and even drive cars. You can follow along through the week and learn breaking news from the NFB Youth Slam by going to www.twitter.com/NFBYouthSlam or follow ???NFBYouthSlam??? if you already have a Twitter account,. Two hundred blind and low vision students from all across the country will attend this five-day adventure that will engage, inspire, and encourage the next generation of blind youth to consider careers falsely believed to be impossible for the blind. Have you ever wanted to build and launch a rocket? Are you interested in learning about forensics? Or do you have an interest in journalism? The possibilities are plentiful at the NFB Youth Slam! While staying at the University of Maryland, College Park, students will be mentored by blind role models during fun and challenging activities designed to build confidence and increase science literacy. Participants Students and mentors dance during the closing party of the 2007 will also have the opportunity to attend workshops on topics such as leadership, career preparation, and blindness. In addition, students will have time for fun and mingling during social activities, such as extreme sports, recreation night, and a talent show. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 684e108.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 6791 bytes Desc: not available URL: From dandrews at visi.com Fri Jul 31 15:36:12 2009 From: dandrews at visi.com (David Andrews) Date: Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:36:12 -0500 Subject: [Mabs] How many children in America are not taught to read? Message-ID: From Dr. Maurer: Subject: [Brl-campaign] How many children in America are not taught to read? The answer is 90 percent if the children are blind. Most Americans are shocked to hear this statistic. And we should be. The blind read and write using Braille, so why is our educational system failing to teach Braille to so many children? Why are these children being denied the opportunities that come with a proper education? What if you could not read and write? Where would you be today? There are three primary reasons for this educational crisis: (1) there are not enough Braille teachers; (2) some teachers of blind children have not received enough training; and (3) many educators do not think Braille instruction is even necessary. To bring critically-needed attention to this educational crisis, the United States Congress authorized the minting of the 2009 Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar with a portion of the sale of each coin going toward a revolutionary and comprehensive Braille literacy campaign. Learning to read and write is fundamental to education, which in turn is paramount to full and equal participation in American society. This coin, the first U.S. coin to have proper tactile Braille, symbolizes independence, opportunity, and the potential of blind people to make significant contributions to society when they learn to read and write using Braille. To learn more, read our report The Braille Literacy Crisis in America, or watch our video Making Change with a Dollar. Please purchase this unique and beautiful coin now and help solve this educational crisis for blind children in America. The law authorizing this 2009 silver dollar requires that any coins not sold by midnight on December 31, 2009, be melted down. Time is of the essence??a 90 percent illiteracy rate is not acceptable and the opportunity to purchase this coin will soon be gone. Be part of the solution, give the gift of literacy, and create new opportunities. Please buy the Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar now. Marc Maurer, President NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND