[Nfb-editors] Virginia's Newsletter- "NFB Vigilant"

[Robert Leslie Newman]

26 pages 9,883 words

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

NFB Vigilant

 

National Federation of the Blind of Virginia

 


Fall 2010

 

“Voice of Virginia's Blind"

 

 

 

In This Issue:

 

·        From the President

·        52nd State Convention Rounds Out Dynamic Decade

·        NFB Announces Dr. Jacob Bolotin Awards

·        Annual Scholarship Program Recognizes Academic Excellence

·        Ski For Light

·        Musings of a Blind Cook

·        NFB/eBay Entrepreneurs Program

·        2011 Richmond Seminar

·        Washington Seminar

·        NFB Scholarship Program

·        Taking an Unparalleled Leap of Faith

·        Ruritans Promote Braille and NFB

·        NFB 2011 Youth Slam 

·        NFB Braille Reading Pals Club

·        For Mother’s Birthday, We Had a Floating Party of 22

·        Chapter/Divisions Roll Call

·        NFBV Calendar of Events

·        Vigilant Report

·        How You Can Assist Us

·        State Officers

·        Vigilant Production Staff

 

 

>From the President

Dr. Fred Schroeder

 

At our Virginia convention last November, our state president, Fred
Schroeder, made the following presentation:

 

            It is significant that we are meeting over the Veterans Day
weekend. We have a long history of honoring those who have given their lives
in defense of our nation. Veterans Day began with an observance of the
signing of the Armistice on November 11, 1918, bringing World War I to an
end. Yet more than a half century earlier, another conflict had threatened
our nation’s safety and ultimate survival as much as any struggle on a
foreign battlefield.

 

On November 19, 1863, on the battlefield near Gettysburg, President Lincoln
gave the following address:

            Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this
continent a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the
proposition that all men are created equal. 

            Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that
nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are
met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion
of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives
that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we
should do this. 

            But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate--we cannot
consecrate--we cannot hallow--this ground. The brave men, living and dead,
who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or
detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but
it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to
be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have
thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the
great task remaining before us--that from these honored dead we take
increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure
of devotion--that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died
in vain--that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom--and
that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not
perish from the earth. 

            These were Lincoln’s words. He called on all Americans to renew
their devotion to those principles on which our nation was founded: liberty,
equality, and justice. But Lincoln’s words apply to many more people than
those who fight and die on the literal battlefield of war. His words remind
us that we have many heroes whose sacrifices must not be forgotten, people
who give of themselves every day so that others will have the opportunity to
live and work and contribute on terms of equality with others. 

            Today, November 13, would have been Seville Allen’s 66th
birthday. Seville is one of those heroes who gave of herself freely and
without reservation. She gave all she had to expand opportunities for blind
people, children and adults, to help free them from society’s low
expectations and unwitting prejudice. To paraphrase President Lincoln:  The
world will little note, nor long remember, what we say, but we can never
forget what Seville did.

            It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the
unfinished work which Seville so nobly advanced. It is for us to be here
dedicated to the great task remaining before us--that from Seville’s example
we take increased devotion to that cause for which she gave the full measure
of devotion. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do
this--renewing our commitment--continuing in her footsteps until blind
people everywhere enjoy the same rights and opportunities as others.

            This evening I wish to present an award, an award honoring
Seville and her sacrifice and recognizing an individual who, like Seville,
has given tirelessly of his strength, time, imagination, and resources to
advancing opportunities for all blind people. I have in my hands a plaque.
The plaque reads:

National Federation of the Blind of Virginia

The Seville Allen Award

Presented to Charles S. Brown

In recognition of your dedication to improving opportunities for the blind
of Virginia and the Nation.  Your giving spirit, commitment to purpose, and
tireless advocacy are an inspiration to all.

November 13, 2010

 

Congratulations, Charlie. I cannot think of anyone more deserving, and I
know Seville would have agreed.

 

 

National Federation of the Blind Announces Dr. Jacob Bolotin Awards
National Federation of the Blind to Award $50,000 in 2011
By:  Chris Danielsen, Director of Public Relations, NFB

 

            The National Federation of the Blind today announced that
applications are now being accepted for the 2011 Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award
Program.  Each year the National Federation of the Blind presents cash
awards to individuals and organizations that have made outstanding
contributions toward achieving the full integration of the blind into
society on a basis of equality.
            Dr. Jacob Bolotin was a blind physician who lived and practiced
in Chicago in the early twentieth century.  He was widely known and
respected in Chicago and throughout the Midwest during his career, which
spanned the period from 1912 until his untimely death at the age of
thirty-six in 1924.  He was particularly recognized for his expertise on
diseases of the heart and lungs.  Bolotin used his many public speaking
engagements to advocate for the employment of the blind and their full
integration into society.
            Dr. Marc Maurer, President of the National Federation of the
Blind, said: "Dr. Jacob Bolotin was a pioneer who overcame low expectations
and discrimination to become a renowned member of the medical profession
without the benefit of the support services and civil rights protections
available to blind people today.  He was also a fierce advocate for greater
opportunity for the blind in his time, and doubtless would have been a
leader in the organized blind movement had he lived to see it come into
being.  The Jacob Bolotin Award Program celebrates his pioneering spirit by
recognizing and supporting outstanding programs, technologies, and
individual efforts that promote independence and opportunity for blind
Americans.  Following the example set by Dr. Jacob Bolotin, previous winners
of the award granted in his name represent the finest efforts being made
today by and on behalf of blind people throughout the United States."
            Recipients of the 2011 Dr. Jacob Bolotin Awards will be
determined by the Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award Committee of the National
Federation of the Blind.  Applications are due by March 31, 2011.
Individuals or organizations are encouraged to apply on behalf of themselves
or others.  The award recipients will be announced at the 2011 National
Federation of the Blind Convention in Orlando.  A total of $50,000 will be
distributed to the award recipients.
            The Jacob Bolotin Award Program is funded through the generosity
of Dr. Bolotin's nephew and niece, Alfred and Rosalind Pearlman.  In
addition to establishing the Alfred and Rosalind Pearlman Trust to endow the
awards, the late Mrs. Pearlman also wrote The Blind Doctor: The Jacob
Bolotin Story.  The book has been published by Blue Point Books and can be
ordered directly from the publisher at www.bluepointbooks.com.  Proceeds
from book sales will also benefit the award program.  For more information
or to fill out the online application, please visit www.nfb.org.

 

 

52nd State Convention Rounds Out Dynamic Decade

By: Joe Hobson, Co-Coordinator 

 

            The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia (NFBV) not only
achieved great progress in the first decade of the 21st Century, but capped
off the decade with a super duper state convention!  The 52nd gathering of
the NFBV was hosted Friday – Sunday, November 12 – 14, 2010, at the
luxurious Marriott Fairview Park Hotel, in Falls Church, Virginia.  If you
were there, and you were a part of the action, then you know firsthand the
experience, the enthusiasm and felt the vibes. If you were not able to
attend you were there in spirit!  Well planned logistics, organizational
details and technical, educational and business programming resulted in rave
reviews, in what has been declared by many as one of the best state
conventions in the NFBV’s history. 

            The Potomac Chapter was the host chapter, and did a truly
awesome job!  As per his well earned reputation and skillful mastery of
presiding and leadership, NFBV President Dr. Frederic Schroeder gaveled the
convention deliberations with an element of excitement piercing through the
meeting sessions and convention activities.  This same feeling prevailed in
the related events.  The NFBV was privileged to have Scott LaBarre,
President of the National Federation of the Blind of Colorado as our
national representative.  State Treasurer Mark Roane, Co-Coordinator Michael
Kasey of the Greater Fredericksburg Chapter, and Co-Coordinator Joe Hobson
of the Potomac Chapter organized the logistics with the tremendous
assistance of PCNFB members and others from throughout Virginia.  How do we
say thanks to everyone?  That said, appreciation goes to all those in all
chapters throughout the state who contributed to the success of this year’s
state convention.  Fairview Park General Manager Terrence Duvall presented
an official welcome letter received from Marriott Hotels and Resorts
Corporation senior executive Steve Marriott.  Virginians from throughout the
Commonwealth, as well as attendees from Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, and
Washington, D.C., truly experienced learning, innovation, sharing,
socializing, networking, and celebration as only the NFBV can do to the
utmost.  The door prizes were bountiful, and the auction as always was
filled with wonderful items, its usual fun and spirited timing throughout
the program.  The auction and the NFBV cruise raffle were both positive fund
raising initiatives.  

            The Board of Directors Meeting of the NFBV met on Friday morning
in a deliberative and productive session defining strategies for the future.
True to the emphasis this year on the student track and youth, the
invocation was offered by a senior seminarian student at Virginia
Theological Seminary in Alexandria, VA.  Then, the 2010 convention followed
the traditional Friday through Sunday noon format of educational and
business sessions, presenters providing information on timely and priority
issues, visits with exhibitor participation and vendor interaction, special
technology seminars, mobility and orientation opportunities, and great
networking and social opportunities.  Added attractions were featured via
new programming that was introduced this year and which was covered live by
the media!  Attendees anticipated and were not disappointed in that they
received and exceeded the usual excellence in the state convention
experience.  Child care was provided during the entire convention to the
children of convention attendees.  

The Potomac Chapter arranged for a guided tour of the National Air & Space
Museum in proximity to Dulles International Airport on Friday afternoon.  A
shuttle provided roundtrip transportation to those who registered and
attended. 

            The 2010 state convention attracted an exceptional number of 14
exhibitors representing 15 organizations, vendors, equipment manufacturers,
and services.  Another convention highlight, coordinated by PCNFB host
chapter president Tracy Soforenko, was held on Friday afternoon entitled
“Going Mobile:  Tales on the Road, A Technology Seminar.”  The seminar was a
tremendous success.  It was attended by 70 plus participants and provided
hands on information and interactive discussions regarding blind users
sharing their real world experiences on accessing books, magazines,
newspapers, podcasts, audio description for movies, and music from a variety
of free and paid services. 

            Throughout the convention, and paralleling general session, a
Student Track was held for students (grade 6 through graduate school) and
parents of blind students.  Corbb O’Connor has been president of the NFBV
Student Division since attending his first NFBV state convention in 2007.
Congratulations and best wishes to Corbb O’Connor as he graduates from
George Washington University and heads off to the next chapter in what will
be a very successful life and career ahead of him. Corbb O’Connor will be
succeeded by Brittany Savage of Staunton, VA, a student at Blue Ridge
Community College as president of the NFBV Student Division. 

            On Saturday, the 52nd State Convention Opening Ceremony included
the Call to Order by NFBV President Schroeder, the invocation by the
pastoral care team leader of Saint George Episcopal Church, presentation of
the National Colors carried by NFBV students, the Pledge of Allegence led by
a NFBV student, and presentation of the National Anthem by CJ Fish.  Welcome
remarks were given by PCNFB President Tracy Soforenko.  Remarks were also
given by Fairfax County Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross, and she
presented an official proclamation by the Fairfax County Board of
Supervisors.  The national report was offered by Scott LaBarre, President,
of the National Federation of the Blind of Colorado.  An excellent
educational program for the morning and afternoon sessions were coordinated
by NFBV President Schroeder.  Luncheon meetings for the Students Division,
the Parents Division, the Diabetics Division and the Merchants Division were
conducted midday.  The educational sessions resumed in the afternoon. 

            Parents and students together learned and explored to safely use
the Washington Metrorail and Metrobus system. The attendees participated in
using an out-of-service bus and learned about the subway with a certified
Orientation & Mobility Specialist, Brigit Doherty who works for the D.C.
Metro System.  This experience was significant because even if one does not
end up living in metropolitan Washington, D.C. or Northern Virginia, the
skills can be applied to any rail or bus system in the world.

            The evening was full of fellowship, memories, good cheer and
tributes beginning with the pre-banquet reception, and then the 2010 State
Convention Banquet.  An enthusiastic banquet crowd of 188 were in
attendance.  Immediate past NFBV President Charles Brown served as Master of
Ceremonies.  Rabbi Jack Moline offered the invocation.  National
representative Scott LaBarre presented a stimulating banquet speech.  NFBV
President Fred Schroeder offered a moving tribute to the late Seville Allen,
who passed away in February 2010, noting that the banquet event was being
held on what would have been her 66th birthday.  He then proclaimed the
establishment of a new and prestigious NFBV award, the Seville Allen Award,
and presented the first designation to Charles Brown.  The banquet was
followed by a social get together with great music in Tickets Lounge. 

            The convention continued on Sunday morning with the remainder of
the educational programming.  A special session was held in tribute to the
late Seville Allen, personal memories and thoughts were shared by the
members.  The state convention business session was also conducted Sunday
morning.  Resolutions were presented by C J Fish, Coordinator of the
Resolutions Committee, and all resolutions presented were approved for
adoption.  The treasurer’s report and financial reports were presented by
Mark Roane and accepted as presented.  Nominations for NFBV state affiliate
officers were presented by Nominations Committee Chair Charles Brown,
accepted and approved.  Officers are President Dr. Frederic Schroeder, First
Vice President Michael Kasey, Second Vice President Althea Pittman,
Treasurer Mark Roane, Recording Secretary Stewart Prost, and Corresponding
Secretary Mary Durbin. 

            The convention was adjourned at twelve noon.  A good time was
had by all, and thanks to all who attended, and all who assisted.  Next
year’s convention will be Friday – Sunday, November 4 – 6, 2011, at the
Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel, 5700 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia
Beach, VA 23451.  The host chapter will be the Chesapeake Bay Chapter.  

 

 

Annual Scholarship Program Recognizes Academic Excellence

By:  Corbb O’Connor

 

            Each year as part of its state convention, the National
Federation of the Blind of Virginia awards up to three scholarships to blind
students who show academic excellence, community service, and leadership
potential.  This year, the scholarship committee awarded this prestigious
honor to three students from around the Commonwealth.

            The annual scholarship program is named in memory of James F.
Nelson, Jr. who was one of the early leaders of the NFBV.  A man of strong
religious faith, honesty, and integrity, “Jimmy” Nelson was a dedicated
advocate of the Federation philosophy when hardly anyone else was, and he
was very effective in bringing people into the movement.  He also handled
much of the organization’s state government work in Richmond during the 60’s
and early 70’s.  Nelson worked hard at his job, hard for his church, and
hard for the NFBV.  Sadly, he met an untimely death that shocked and
saddened all in the Federation.  His love of a positive outlook on blindness
and his work to introduce the movement to young people made it a no-brainer
to name the (then one) state scholarship in his memory.

            As Nelson likely would have wanted, the cash award is only part
of winning a scholarship.  Chosen students are required to attend the state
convention, interact with the convention’s activities, and meet the
organization’s leadership.  The NFBV pays the transportation, lodging, and
food costs of the finalists.

            In a presentation during the convention’s Saturday evening
banquet, the finalists were welcomed as the 2010 scholarship class.

            From Virginia Beach, Christopher Fountain currently studies
Human Services at Old Dominion University in Norfolk.  He wants to help
children and parents through challenges that they may face by serving as a
counselor at a children’s hospital.  No stranger to challenges himself,
Christopher has been battling kidney disease for years.  However, that fight
has not held him back; he is also an Eagle Scout.

           Jaclyn Petrow, from Scotch Plains, N.J., studies Political
Science and English at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg.
Because of her experience with cancer, Jaclyn hopes to become a policy
analyst to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research.  In
fact, she advocates twice a year with those goals in mind at the New Jersey
state legislature.  Jaclyn loves to learn, and even goes so far as to say,
“Learning, to me, is like breathing.”

            Brittany Savage lives in Staunton and currently studies
Elementary Education at Blue Ridge Community College.  She is no stranger to
the organization, for she worked to start a junior chapter of the NFBV at
the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind.  Brittany is a member of the
Thunder Valley Cloggers—a dance group—and hopes to teach orientation and
mobility to blind students.  At the state convention in Falls Church this
year, Brittany was elected President of the NFBV Students Division.

            The Federation wishes to thank committee Chairman Corbb O’Connor
along with committee members John Bailey, C. J. Fish, Jennifer Kennedy,
Jessica Kostiw, and Althea P. Pittman for their time publicizing the
program, reviewing the applications, and mentoring the finalists.  One of
the scholarship program’s goals is to nurture up-and-coming leaders in the
blindness community.  We are sure that we will be hearing a lot more from
our outstanding 2010 winners as they help to change what it means to be
blind in Virginia.

 

 

Ski for Light 2011 Invites Applications
By:  Bob Hartt



            Are you a blind/visually impaired adult who cross-country skis
or is interested in learning the sport?  If your answer is yes, then join
some of your Virginia affiliate members along with 250+ active adults from
across the U.S. and around the world for the 36th annual Ski for Light
International Week.  Ski for Light attracts recreational cross-country
skiers from beginners to advanced competitors.  Skiers and guides come from
every adult age group and occupation.  You will be paired with a sighted
instructor/guide who will assist with skills, technique, and endurance while
describing the countryside and enjoying the trails with you.  Two sets of
parallel, groomed tracks are set in the snow, with the skier and guide
deciding together how far, how long, and on what kind of terrain they will
ski.  Many attendees report that the confidence, new skills and friendships
they develop is an experience of a lifetime that carries over into increased
confidence and independence back home.
            The 2011 Ski for Light event will be held from Sunday evening,
January 30, through Sunday morning, February 6, 2011 in the Rocky Mountains
at Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby, Colorado.  Snow Mountain Ranch, near
Winter Park, has 100 kilometers of groomed trails.  It is rated one of the
top Nordic venues in the country and has a variety of other recreational
facilities.  
            New this year will be on-site lodging so all participants can
ski directly on to the trails from just outside their room.  There will also
be a more affordable range of ski packages based on the type of
accommodations you select (1, 2, 3 or 4 person rooms), with prices starting
at $500 per person.  All rooms have private bathrooms with daily maid
service.  Prices also include all meals, round-trip transportation between
the Denver airport and the resort, as well as trail fees.  Skis, boots, and
poles will be provided free to first-time participants, and partial stipends
based on financial need are available for first timers.  
            The application deadline is November 1, 2010.  Applications
received after this date may be considered on a space available basis.
Visit the SFL website at www.sfl.org to learn more and to submit your
application for a fantastic week of fun.  Additional information can also be
obtained by contacting the VIP Recruitment Coordinator, Bob Hartt
(harttb11 at comcast.net or703-845-3436), or Lynda Boose, VIP Application
Coordinator, (lboose at up.net, 906-370-7541).



 

Musings of a Blind Cook III

By: Rick Holley

 

Rick is back with his signature dish, Italian Risotto, a yearlong
specialty.. Rick picked up this recipe from an alumnae of NCSU on a trip to
Switzerland, Italy and Austria.  He says his is as good as any he has come
across anywhere in Europe.  Once again the recipe has been tweaked and you
may also feel free to do likewise.  The ‘must’ ingredients are the arborio
rice, sautéed onion and olive oil with the others open to substitution.
Allow about one hour to prepare.

 

Risotto Ingredients

 

Basics: 

1 onion chopped and diced

1 green bell pepper chopped and diced

1 1/2 cups arborio rice

3 cans of broth (chicken or vegetable) 

½ cup of white wine

3 tbsp. Olive oil

3 cups of fresh vegetable chopped (broccoli, asparagus, peas etc.)

¾  cup of grated parmesan cheese

4 chicken breasts cooked and diced (pork or beef)

 

Procedure:

1.     Preheat broth in sauce pan and allow to simmer.

2.     Sauté onions and peppers in olive oil for 5 minutes.


3.     Add chicken and continue to sauté for 1 minute..

4.     Add rice and wine and continue to stir over medium heat until wine is
absorbed.

5.     Set timer for 20 minutes.

6.     Continue to stir while adding heated broth, one cup at a time as
broth is absorbed.  Broth should be almost fully absorbed after 20 minutes.

7.     Add vegetable and continue to stir 5 more minutes.  (If broth is
totally absorbed, you may add water to keep the rice from sticking to the
pan.)

8.     Mix in the cheese and let stand, off the heat, for 5 minutes or so.

9.     Serve and enjoy.

 

 

NFB/eBay Entrepreneurs Program

 

On September 15, in a joint press release, the NFB and eBay announced the
NFB/eBay Entrepreneurs Program.  We are now seeking blind people who want to
participate in this innovative pilot program.

Business Start Up Pilot
            The NFB/eBay Entrepreneur Project is looking for serious
entrepreneurs who want to create new eBay businesses or expand existing
businesses to include eBay selling.  We will offer successful applicants
intensive eBay training and connect them with successful blind business
people and other experts who will provide assistance in specific areas, such
as business planning, development, and working with accessible accounting
software.
            Individuals chosen for the Business Start Up Pilot will take
part in an intensive training program at the NFB Jernigan Institute in
Baltimore.  They will receive transportation, lodging, training classes,
accessible training materials, and ongoing mentorship support.
            If running your own eBay business appeals to you, please write
us at entrepreneurs at nfb.org and request an Entrepreneur Program package.
Your letter of interest should include:

·  a resume describing your employment and education history, with
particular emphasis on entrepreneurial projects;

·  a brief description of the product or service you intend to market using
eBay; (Is this a completely new enterprise, or are you intending to create
an eBay outlet for a business that already exists?)

·  a basic budget outline.

            Because this is a pilot program intended to demonstrate the
viability of eBay businesses run by blind individuals, we must select from
applicants those with the strongest plans and the greatest willingness to
mentor the blind people who will follow. 

Training the Trainers
            In order to provide opportunity to as many people as possible,
we will train interested blind people to be eBay certified education
specialists.  EBay Certified Education Specialists are people who buy and
sell on eBay themselves and want to create a business teaching others how to
do it.  The trainers we train will be equipped to teach other blind people
who use screen readers; they will also be certified to teach the sighted.
With ninety-two million people already using eBay and more joining the
community every day, the business opportunity for anyone who can teach them
how to be more effective is enormous!
            The Certified Education Specialist training will consist of a
program that will take place at the NFB Jernigan Institute in Baltimore,
plus follow-up individualized support and group teleconference training.
Those selected for the “Train the Trainers” program will receive
transportation, lodging, training classes, accessible training materials,
and ongoing mentorship support.

Is being an eBay Certified Education Specialist for you?
            If you have a deep desire to be of service to others, an
entrepreneurial spirit, the aptitude to teach, and basic computer literacy
using screen readers, we want to hear from you. 
            Because selling on eBay has not been readily accessible to blind
people in the past, you will not need to have experience as an eBay seller
to take part in the first “Train the Trainers” class.  However, you will
need to demonstrate success in buying and selling on eBay in order to
graduate and receive certification.  You will need some ability to use a
screen reader to access web sites, though it is not necessary to be a screen
reader power user. 
            To apply to enter the “train the trainers” inaugural class, send
a letter toentrepreneurs at nfb.org explaining your background, qualifications
(particularly your entrepreneurial and/or teaching experience), and telling
us why you want to become an eBay Certified Education Specialist. 

Testing the Waters
            Even if you do not yet have a perfectly developed business plan,
we still want to hear from you.  As eBay trainers receive certification, we
will help connect you with them so that you can get started on the path to
running your own eBay business.

Contact Mary Ellen Gabias, Coordinator of NFB/eBAy Entrepreneurs Project, at
entrepreneurs at nfb.org or phone (410) 878-2660 for further information or an
application package.



 

Be the Voice of Virginia's Blind

2011 Richmond Seminar 

By:  Michael Kasey and Tracy Soforenko



The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia is a powerful force
advocating for blind Virginians.  Please join us for the Richmond Seminar on
January 17 – 18, 2011 to ensure our voice is heard in the offices of the
General Assembly.

            If you have never attended a Richmond Seminar, we strongly
encourage you to attend and participate in representative democracy in
action.  Everyone is assigned to a team with an experienced leader.  The
General Assembly members and their staff are very receptive and welcoming.
They know we are organized, articulate, and well versed in the subject
matter.  We will put everyone on the team to work, sharing our issues and
answering the questions of legislators and their staff.  

            Chapter Presidents should make contact with their General
Assembly members in their local offices before the end of the year.  If you
need assistance in identifying them, contact Michael or Tracy.  A meeting
with them will go a long way in establishing the recognition that is needed
for our visit to Richmond.  All Chapter members are encouraged to
participate.  

            The affiliate will reimburse transportation expenses and hotel
expenses.  Chapter presidents should arrange cost effective transportation
for their chapter members.  Individuals are expected to share hotel rooms
and must obtain hotel reservations themselves at the NFB of Virginia rate.
If you need assistance identifying a room share, please contact Michael or
Tracy.

 

The issues we will bring to Richmond will most likely include:

·        The rights of Blind Parents to keep and raise their children;

·        Support of the state Rehabilitation program, Virginia Department of
the Blind and Vision Impaired (VDBI) as a separate agency; and

·        Effective Braille training for students.

 

            The list of issues will be presented at our Board meeting on
Monday January 17, 2011 in Richmond.  The Board meeting will be held from 3
to 5 PM in the Georgian Elizabethan Room at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Downtown,
550 East Canal Street, Richmond, VA 22319.  Hotel rooms can be reserved by
telephone at 804-788-0900.  The NFB rate is $75 plus tax per night.  The
deadline for booking hotel rooms is January 11, 2011.  

            Chapter presidents must provide the names of the individuals
planning to attend from their chapter to Michael and Tracy by January 11,
2011 so we can establish teams in advance.  If you have any questions,
please contact Michael Kasey at (540)760-3885 or michaelgkasey at verizon.net
or Tracy Soforenko at (703)635-2085 or PotomacNFB at verizon.net

 

 

Washington Seminar

 

            The deadline to make reservations for the Washington Seminar is
quickly approaching!  In order to accommodate everyone properly, please have
your reservation information to me by December 22, 2010.  Please do not
contact the hotel to make your reservations.  I submit all the reservations
for the Washington Seminar.  You may call (303) 778-1130, extension 219, to
make your reservation, or you may e-mail your reservations to Lisa Bonderson
at lbonderson at cocenter.org.  We will confirm receipt of your reservation
either by return e-mail or by telephone, so be sure to give us your
telephone number and your e-mail address.

The following is the information that I need to have to assure you of a room
at the Holiday Inn Capitol.

1.  Your date of arrival and departure.  Remember, the Great
Gathering-In will take place on Monday, January 31, 2011.  Congressional
appointments will take place February 1 through February 3.
2.  First and last names of any roommates who might be sharing with you.  If
you make the reservation by phone, please spell first and last names of each
person sharing the room.  Please include arrival and departure dates for
each person.

3.  Please specify if you wish to have:
A smoking or non-smoking room
An accessible room
Two beds, one queen bed, or one king bed

A rollaway bed (there will be a $10 charge per night)


            Per the hotel contract, individual cancellation must be made at
least seventy-two hours prior to the date of arrival to avoid
one-night's-room-plus-tax cancellation charge.  You must get in touch with
Lisa Bonderson or me to make changes to your reservation as soon as possible
to avoid such a charge.



            The rates are $164 for single, double, triple, or quad rooms,
and the tax is 14.5 percent per night.  When you check in you must be
prepared to cover at least the first night of your stay with either a credit
card or check, and then arrange to pay the balance by presenting a credit
card or a check for the remainder of the cost.



            If Divisions (i.e., Students, Parents, Merchants, Lawyers, etc.)
wish to have space for a meeting, I must have your requirements for meeting
space no later than December 6, 2010.  We want to be able to accommodate
everyone, and in order to do so we must have plenty of advance notice to
work with the hotel.

 

 

NFB Scholarship Program

By:  Patti Gregory-Chang

 

            Do You Need Money for College?  The NFB Scholarship Program
application is not available online.  The national scholarship program is
available to persons who are legally blind and living in the United States
and Puerto Rico.  There are 30 awards, from $12,000 to $3,000.  In addition
each winner will be assisted to attend the NFB Annual Convention for 2011 in
Orlando, Florida.  The annual contest began the first week of November 2010;
all documents required from the applications must be postmarked by the March
31, 2010, deadline.  Applications and fill details are available online at
www.nfb.org/scholarships.  Questions may be emailed to scholarships at nfb.org.


 

 

Taking an Unparalleled Leap of Faith:  A New Step in an Old World

By Paul D.J. Jenkins

 

*Paul D. J. Jenkins is a Robert MacDonald Fellowship Award recipient.

            

            In October 2009, the atmosphere was both joyful and exciting as
I met with several of my friends (and fellow blind locals) for the launch
meeting of the Greater Staunton Chapter of the National Federation of the
Blind of Virginia!  They came from several of the surrounding areas:
Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, other beautiful parts of the city of Staunton, and
even one from not so close by.  He became the man of the hour, (helping us
to lead the way), thank you Larry Povinelli.

            As we began the regiment of regularly-scheduled monthly
meetings, (first here at the Gypsy Hill House Apartments community room),
and later on at the reserved area in Shoney’s, talk turned to a very strange
sounding event to me--the NFB National Convention.  Dawn and I decided we
would try to attend the NFB National Convention in 2010.

            In preparation for Convention I both applied for (and received)
a Robert MacDonald Fellowship award!  In no time at all, off to Dallas we
went!  This couple, the luggage, and one guide dog traveled by bus.  We
don’t really care much for flying you see, so it seems lunacy was destined
to take over.  

            Seeming to be a surprise even to the valiant veteran Dawn was
that our first interaction with what the wary, wrong-footed world might
refer to as “someone like us” did not occur at the National Conventions
designated hotel.  After over twenty hours of you can only imagine what, we
soberly walked into the Dallas Downtown Greyhound terminal and found an
employee using a long NFB cane.  I “ain’t seen nothin’ yet.”

            Even now I can barely put into words how acceptable I feel it
now is for me to just be myself, and how much of this I soaked up while at
Convention.  There were meetings for Rookies like me!  I saw how appropriate
it was for me to be proud of my own presents, and then to not take advantage
of any resource I could get my hands on.  I met with a group who
brainstormed about making the Victor Reader Stream an even better, more
awesome player!  I watched awestruck as Dawn and I learned how to build up
our local chapter, and tips for fundraising!  Looking back I don’t think my
brain stopped taking it all in even when I lay down to sleep.  This was the
most action-packed time I had ever experienced!  There were dinners with
friends, colleagues, and fellow federationists on the Virginia state level.
My biggest highlight was the end of Convention banquet.  

            Lastly, there are several people I need to thank.  There are
some who deserve my praise that I will forget to mention completely, so
please allow me to apologize in advance for this offence.  While at the 2010
NFB National Convention, I was encouraged and led by several mentors whose
friendship to me was invaluable.  At the top of the list stands Tracy
Soforenko, (president of the Potomac chapter), whose guidance is a huge part
of why and how all of this happened in the first place.  There was Michael
Kasey, (president of the Fredericksburg Chapter), always ready to share his
thoughts on whatever he was asked, and I am privileged to have known him for
several years beforehand.  John Bailey, (President of the Fairfax chapter),
had many ideas that sounded both foreign and positive to my ears, and he
graciously attended our second Greater Staunton Chapter meeting representing
the affiliate.  Throughout preparation there was Mark Roane, (the states
treasurer), who kept in touch continually to make sure I had what I needed.
Finally, and I think this goes without saying, is Doctor Schroeder himself,
(our state president),  To my astonishment, I heard several at Convention
refer to him simply as “Fred.”  

            Please let me plead with all newcomers not to let the
preparation rush stop you from going.  Do not even let it take away from
your anticipation.  This was a major event, and clearly all were welcomed.

 

 

Ruritans Promote Braille and the NFB

By Tom Moffitt, a member of the Fredericksburg Area Chapter

 

            Early in 2010 I became a member of the King George Ruritan
International.  As with any community service organization we make every
effort to provide the residents of the county with support for various
function sponsored by King George.  Several years ago, the Ruritans
initiated a project that gave to every third grade student a special book.
This book is a combined dictionary, encyclopedia, and atlas.  I also include
a brief biography of all our presidents, a copy of the Bill of Rights, the
Constitution, and the alphabet for both American Sign Language as well as
Braille.  See a picture of Braille just didn’t seem right.  I contacted the
NFB National Headquarters in Baltimore MD, and they provided 500 Braille
alphabet cards.  Now over 400 students, teachers, and librarians in King
George County not only see the Braille alphabet, but can feel it.  I want to
thank the NFB National Headquarters for providing the Alphabet cards.  What
a great way to let the “light dependent people” learn Braille.

 

 

NFB Youth Slam

Taken from the NFB Imagineering Our Future Newsletter

 

Registration for the 2011 NFB Youth Slam has begun!

 

            On July 17-23, 2011 at Towson University in Towson, MD, the
National Federation of the Blind will have its third NFB Youth Slam, a
five-day experimental academy for blind high school students focusing on
science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.  Even if science
or technology is not “your thing,” there’s sure to be something for
everyone.  Learn the science behind building apps for your iPod, learn how
to be a journalist, use cutting-edge equipment, and technology to determine
chemical reactions in chemistry labs, build robots, or learn how to use
non-visual techniques to perform a real dissection!  We guarantee this
summer program will be like no other you’ve ever been to before!  While
staying on a college campus, blind high school students will be mentored by
blind adults, as they participate in hands-on activities that will show them
that STEM fields are possible as future careers.  In addition, students and
mentors will take part in a variety of social events throughout the week.
Come to the NFB Youth Slam and meet other blind and low vision students from
all over the United States!

            If you are interested in attending the NFB Youth Slam, either as
a student participant or as an adult volunteer.  Visit www.blindscience.org
to complete an online application, or call Mary Jo Hartle at 410-659-9314,
extension 2407.  Join us as we continue to make history at what promises to
be the best NFB Youth Slam yet!

 

 

NFB Braille Reading Pals Club

 

            Registration for 2011 is now open!   The NFB Braille Reading
Pals Club is an early literacy program that encourages parents to read daily
with their blind or low-vision child (ages infant to seven).   Sponsored in
part by the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC) and
the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults (AAF)

Participating club members will receive: 
• A print-Braille book and a plush reading pal 
• Monthly parent e-newsletter promoting tips for early Braille literacy 
• Quarterly Braille activity sheets for young children 
• Braille birthday cards for child participants 
• Access to a network of resources devoted to serving parents of blind
children 


Mission of the Program:
• Introduce young children and their families to Braille 
• Provide parents literacy strategies to use with their children 
• Direct parents to essential resources for promoting success for their
young blind children 
• Help parents promote early literacy skills, a love of reading, and a
positive attitude about Braille through daily reading with their blind
children

To learn more about this exciting program, or to register, please visit
www.nfb.org/readingpals, or call (410) 659-9314, extension 2295.

 

 

For Mother’s Birthday, We Had a Floating Party of 22

Taken from the Washington Post dated 09/16/2010

By Aimee Talentino Sanders



*This article outlines the exact itinerary for the NFB of Virginia cruise.
While you have to wade through the family dynamics of the author, the
itinerary is explained along with the ship and some of what the ship has to
offer. – Tracy Soforenko

 

The cruise was my mother's brilliant idea.

            Mom doesn't turn 70 until Nov. 9, but she wanted to celebrate
this milestone with the whole family.  The question was: Where could we go
and what could we do with 22 people?  (That would be Mom, her four adult
children and our spouses, and 13 grandchildren ranging in age from 4 to 22.)


            We weighed the options: We could rent a huge beach house, go to
an expensive resort or have a staycation here in the Washington area.  But
then Mom said: "What if I took everyone on a cruise?  We won't have to cook,
clean or shop for food.  And there's plenty of entertainment on the ship."

            It seemed perfect, my brothers and I agreed.  Plus, apart from
Mom, none of us had ever been on a cruise, so it would be a real adventure -
to say the least.

            I have to admit that the idea of 22 people traveling together
seemed a little overwhelming.  Try going anywhere with such a big crowd and
keeping everybody together , keeping everything straight and keeping
everyone from getting hurt or lost or otherwise misplaced.  The logistics
were daunting, right from the start.

            A travel agent booked us on a seven-day Carnival cruise from
Baltimore to Port Canaveral, Fla., and Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas,
and she needed documentation and information for everything.  She had to
have everyone's birth date and name as it appears on their passport or birth
certificate (and we had to make sure that everybody had a passport or birth
certificate to present when we embarked).  A lot of hunting for paperwork
ensued.

            We also had to work out our preferences for cabin assignments so
that the agent could figure out how many cabins to book.  Talk about
complicated!  We ended up with seven cabins, all on the same floor (whew!)
and down the hall from one another.  Three four-person cabins, two
three-person cabins and two two-person cabins.  Got that?  We made matching
tie-dyed T-shirts so we could always find each other easily.  I designed an
iron-on that read, "Talentino-Sanders 1st Annual Cruise 2010.  No Whining,
No Crying." That's a family code phrase, what my mother says to the
grandkids whenever they start begging for something or complaining because
they're not getting their way. I thought it would be a good motto for our
trip. We also numbered the shirts according to age: Mom was No. 1, and
Genevieve, the youngest, was No. 22.

            The cruise was really liberating.  Being on a big ship with
activities everywhere, for all ages, we could all go off in our own
direction without worrying too much about someone being left behind
somewhere or being forced into something they didn't want to do.  We decided
that the kids could go anywhere on the ship as long as they were with one
other family member.  There were no rules, no bedtimes, no real mealtimes.
(The kids loved it!)

            The ship was loaded with activities, which was a great thing
when you're traveling with a bunch of high-energy young people.  There was
basketball, dodge ball, table tennis, miniature golf, swimming and lots
more. 

            To honor my mother while on the cruise, we came up with 70-plus
things that we love about her, and one evening after dinner, we gathered to
present the list to her.  We told stories and laughed until we cried.  Like
the time my mother asked my brother John to go to the store and pick up some
Doo Dads snack mix, and her angry reaction when she saw the box he'd brought
back.  "What is this stuff called Spap oop?" she yelled.  "What are you
talking about, Mom?"  John said, laughing, as he turned the box right side
up.  You can imagine the reaction in our family whenever anybody says "Spap
oop" now.

            In Port Canaveral, our first stop, Mom and three others stayed
behind on the ship while the rest of us ventured ashore with most of the
other passengers.  My husband and I just wanted to get some items from the
drugstore, while the others wanted to hit Cocoa Beach.  Fortunately, there
was a town shuttle that took passengers around to various stops for $5 for
the entire day.  You could go to a mall, the beach or Wal-Mart, or all
three, then hop back on for the return trip to the ship.  This was a fairly
inexpensive way to travel with 18 people.  We were really grateful for that.
Slathered in sunscreen, everybody enjoyed a day of sun and surf.

            Next stop was Nassau. Everyone but Mom went ashore this time,
and we all wanted to explore the beaches, but once again we ran into our
numbers problem.  The taxi drivers we found wanted $15 per person for a ride
to a public beach.  Dream on!  Instead, we bartered with a transportation
company that approached us in the terminal and worked out a deal for $7 per
person to the beach and back.  That price was really worth it.  The kids
were amazed at how clear and blue the water was:  We could see the fish
swimming at our feet.  My daughter Monique negotiated a 15-minute jet-ski
ride for $20 and took her cousin Douglas along.  They can scratch "jet ski
in the Bahamas" off their bucket list.

            Freeport was more industrial, but it gave us a taste of the
island life.  The shops were overflowing with handmade purses, straw
baskets, woodcarvings, T-shirts, jewelry and gifts.  A band was playing in
the square, and my brother John enjoyed their music so much that he bought a
CD.  As we said farewell to Freeport and headed back to Baltimore, a strange
sense of sadness overcame us.  One reason was Carlos, our cabin steward.

            After dinner most nights we'd all head back to our rooms to find
the cute towel creatures that Carlos had created while we were dining.  He'd
turned down our beds and laid out the next day's list of activities and
chocolates.  He did anything we asked with a smile.  He'd been working for
Carnival for 13 years, but this cruise, he told us, would be his last.  So
we decided to give him a little retirement party.  On our last night, we
made a card that everybody signed, and we ordered a piece of cake.  My mom
put a $100 bill in the card as a thank-you for the wonderful service Carlos
had provided.

            But the main reason for our melancholy was that the cruise was
drawing to an end.  We'd had such a wonderful time being together, something
we rarely get to enjoy, except for a weekend here and there.  But during
those visits it seems that someone always has something to do or somewhere
to go.  On the cruise, we were all laid-back, with nowhere to go, no
schedule to follow, no carpooling, no video games.  Just relaxing and
playing with one another.  A priceless opportunity.

            So thanks, Mom. It really was a brilliant idea.  Now, how about
next year?  We're all looking forward to the Second Annual Talentino-Sanders
Cruise.

 

 

 

Chapter/Division Roundup

 

Blue Ridge Chapter – By:  Gwen Beavers

 

            Best wishes for a joyous holiday season from the members of the
Blue Ridge Chapter. 

            Our latest bit of news is that for Meet the Blind Month, Kathy
Owen and Gwen Beavers appeared on a local talk show hosted by Robb Schilling
to discuss blindness issues and Mr. Schilling invited us to return in the
future.  One problem that was mentioned was the lack of Braille instruction
for blind children and adults.  We plan to contact Mr. Schilling for a
future time on his program after the holidays. 

            Also, five of us attended our annual state convention this
month.  Besides the Beavers and the Owens, our newest member, Sharde Vaughan
came with us.  The chapter was able to help all of us with our expenses. 

            Now we are making plans for our Christmas party which will be
December 11th, a luncheon, and we will each bring a gift for not more than a
dollar which is a real challenge.  Also, we plan to help a chapter member
who is in need right now.  We feel this is what Christmas is about, giving
to those who have less. 

            Several of us will also be planning to attend the Richmond
seminar in January, and we hope to see many of you there.  In the mean time
have a safe and blessed holiday season. 

 

 

Fredericksburg Area chapter – By Michael Kasey, President

 

            Our Chapter supported two Lions Club charity White Cane Days in
front of Walmart during meet the Blind month.  The Spotsylvania Lions
donated $400 to the Chapter as their share of the collections.  We supported
a disability awareness event sponsored by the local Center for Independent
Living (CIL) at the Spotsylvania Town Center, an indoor mall.  We supported
the semi-annual “Pathways to the Future”, a student transition event at
James Monroe High School.  Each event was successful in meeting new contacts
in the community.  Twenty three members attended the superb 52nd NFBV
convention in Falls Church.  Two chapter scholarship winners, Jaclyn Petrow
and Greg Moffitt attended the convention with their families.  Jaclyn was
also a NFBV scholarship winner and Greg accepted his second chapter
scholarship.  We are proud of both of them.  Our December chapter meeting
was a celebration at Renatos Italian restaurant on Thursday, December 16th.
See you all in 2011 at Richmond Seminar.

 

 

Greater Williamsburg Chapter – By Corlis M. Jones, President

 

            Fist we applaud the Potomac Chapter for hosting a great
convention.  We say, thank you to all who gave of their time to plan and
lead our seminars as well as activities for our children and students.  We
have had some excellent conventions, however when activities and sessions
include our children/students there is a freshness with excitement in the
air.

            As the Greater Williamsburg Chapter takes a glance back over
this year we discovered that we were quite busy changing what it means to be
blind throughout our communities.  Some of our activities were participating
in the YMCA’s first Family, Fun and Fitness Day held at our outlet mall.
Our chapter president was a guest speaker for a group at Colonial Behavior
Health.  In May, John Bailey, NFBV membership chairperson, was our guest
speaker.  He talked to us about the five steps to membership building.  For
Meet the Blind month our chapter participated in St. Bede Catholic Church
community outreach/picnic and the Historic Triangle Senior Health Fair where
members passed out materials and answered questions about blindness.  We
welcomed Liz Johnson, a new member to our chapter.  The Greater Williamsburg
Chapter wishes all a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.  We look
forward to seeing everyone at the Richmond Seminar.

 

 

The Student Division – By:  Corbb O’Connor

 

Student Track Draws New Faces, Experiences
            Every year, the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia
strives to host one big event to draw students from around the Commonwealth.
At this year’s state convention, the organization featured events that
paralleled the convention designed just for students, including a pizza
dinner where students learned how to serve themselves from a buffet, a
hands-on exercise on the Washington MetroRail and MetroBus systems, and a
technology seminar presented by students to students.  A team of 16 mentors
and facilitators, from current students to licensed O&M professionals,
organized this year’s activities.

            One parent mentioned that her son “gained a new perspective on
life” after taking part in this year’s Student Track.  Twenty-five Virginia
students participated this year, and the organizing team wanted to make this
year different from years past.

            “Last year, [former Student Division Treasurer] C. J. Fish
envisioned an activity where students and parents would learn together and
be able to have a candid conversation about blindness,” said Corbb O’Connor,
who led the team that organized the student track.  “So, this year, we
worked to make that happen.”

            Without their parents in the room, students discussed some of
their frustrations about how their parents handled blindness and what they
wished their parents would do differently.  Later, at the NFBV Parents
Division luncheon, Fish anonymously shared what the students discussed with
parents.  That became the starting point for a conversation among parents
about more effective ways to work with their blind sons and daughters.

            As part of Saturday’s student luncheon, students learned about
the availability of residential training centers to learn the skills of
blindness, accessing alternative textbooks through the Association of
American Publishers’ Internet-based applications, and the resources of the
NFB’s national student division (the National Association of Blind
Students).  Students also elected a new group of leaders for their division,
including Brittany Savage, President; Chris O’Meally, Vice President; Kierra
Davis, Treasurer; Brittany Crone, Secretary; and Chelsea Cook, Board Member.
More than provide some lunchtime conversation, O’Connor said he hoped
participants learned techniques to study more efficiently.  “Because of what
Bruce Hildebrand [of the publishing industry] told us about a new website
where students can buy accessible versions of their textbooks straight from
the publishers, I have a hunch that there will be fewer headaches when next
semester starts,” said O’Connor, who is graduating from George Washington
University this year.

            On Sunday morning, Tracy Soforenko—President of the Potomac
Chapter—organized a technology seminar that was featured on WAMU News in
Washington, D.C.  He tapped six students to present to the others in small
groups about different pieces of assistive technology, such as Apple’s suite
of laptops and iPods, Braille note-taking devices, screen readers for
laptops, and how to obtain described movies.  Rather than passively
listening to these presentations, however, students and parents were
encouraged to ask questions and experiment with the technology.  “This was
such an innovative program for students,” said Joe Hobson, who co-organized
the convention logistics and arrangements. “I really do think this is a
great model that many other states can learn from.”

            Indeed, a representative from the Michigan Association of Blind
Students—Elizabeth Mohnke—did come to borrow ideas from Virginia’s
convention to take home with her.  “It was cool to see how there was a
student track where students weren’t sitting and listening to boring
speeches all day,” Mohnke said. “It was also great to see how many mentors
you had teaching other students.”  Many of those mentors who taught students
how to navigate around the hotel, through buffet lines, and on the Metro
system were teaching for the first time.  They were all experienced cane
travelers and confident blind people, but for many, this was their first
chance to coach somebody else through the process of walking with a long
white cane.

            The Federation wishes to thank all those who participated,
organized, and led activities at this year’s student track.  The newly
elected Board of Directors of the NFBV Students Division is already hard at
work planning an event for next fall.

 

 

Vigilant Report

 

The tape version of the Vigilant will no longer be available. Instead, the
full text of the Vigilant can be heard on NFB-NEWSLINE®.  One reason for
this change is that the time and expense required to create each audio issue
of the Vigilant are very costly.  A second reason is that many services that
produce audio tapes are switching over to alternative formats because
technology is changing and that change does not include the continued use of
audio tapes.  There are much better alternatives.

 

NFB-NEWSLINE® is a free service available to all Virginians.  It is as close
as your telephone and enables you to read not only the NFBV Vigilant, but
over 200 other publications from around the country.

 

If you are not already a NFB-NEWSLINE® subscriber, signing up is easy.  If
you have Internet access, go to www.nfb.org, and follow the directions.  You
may also call toll free:  1-866-504-7300.  Having the Vigilant available on
NFB-NEWSLINE® means that you will be able to read each issue as soon as it
is available.  You will not have any more long delays while the tapes are
being manufactured.  You will also get the great features that come with
being an NFB-NEWSLINE® subscriber.  For example, being able to select the
reading voice you want, having the ability to read the articles as fast or
as slowly as you want, the ability to read word by word or character by
character; and best of all, NFB-NEWSLINE® IS FREE.

 

Don’t hesitate to sign up for NFB-NEWSLINE® now and begin receiving the
Vigilant along with hundreds of other state and national publications!

 

 

How You Can Assist Us

 

The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia is a nonprofit organization
whose purpose is to improve the lives of the blind through education and
legislation.  The NFBV is the blind speaking for the blind.  Assistance from
those who share our mission is always welcome.  If you can offer time,
material resources, or financial help, it would be greatly appreciated.  

 

Another way to support the efforts of the NFB of Virginia is by means of
bequests.  Simply include the following information in your will: "I give,
devise, and bequeath unto National Federation of the Blind of Virginia, 702
Prince Edward Str. Apt. 5, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, a Virginia nonprofit
corporation, the sum of $___ (or "___ percent of my net estate" or "The
following stocks and bonds:___") to be used for its worthy purposes on
behalf of blind persons."

 

To learn of other ways in which you can support the organization, call Fred
Schroeder, President, NFBV, at (703) 319-9226. 

 

 


State Officers 

President, Fred Schroeder

First Vice President, Michael Kasey 

Second Vice President, Althea P. Pitman

State Treasurer, Mark Roane

Recording Secretary, Stewart Prost

Corresponding Secretary, Mary Durbin

Vigilant Staff 

Chief Editor/Print Production, Althea P. Pittman

Staff, Kathryn R. Hall 

Braille Production, Alan and 

Billie Ruth Schlank

 

NFBV Calendar of Events:

·   Tuesday, January 4, 2011 – Louis Braille’s Birthday

·   Monday-Tuesday, January 16-17, 2011 – Richmond Seminar, Richmond, VA

·   Saturday, January 29, 2011 – Blind Driver Challenge First Public
Demonstration at Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, FL

·   Sunday-Sunday, January 30-February 6, 2011 - Ski For Light, Granby, CO,

·   Monday-Thursday, January 31-February 3, 2011 – Washington Seminar,
Washington, DC 

·   Thursday, March 31, 2011 – Scholarship Applications Due 

·   Sunday-Friday, July 3-8, 2011 – National Convention, Orlando, FL

·   Wednesday-Sunday, July 13-23, 2011 – 2011 Youth Slam, Townson, MD

 

 

 

 

NFB Vigilant
FREE MATTER

Althea P. Pittman
FOR THE BLIND

15018 Par Place

Melfa, VA 23410

altheapittman at yahoo.com

(757) 414-0100 work

(757) 787-3853 home

 

 

 

 

Robert Leslie Newman

President, Omaha Chapter NFB

President, NFB Writers' Division

Division Website

 <http://www.nfb-writers-division.org/> http://www.nfb-writers-division.org

Chair, Newsletter Publication committee

Personal Website-

 <http://www.thoughtprovoker.info/> http://www.thoughtprovoker.info

 

-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image003.png
Type: image/png
Size: 6087 bytes
Desc: not available
URL: <http://nfbnet.org/pipermail/nfb-editors_nfbnet.org/attachments/20110407/a54bc74e/attachment.png>