<div dir="ltr"><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Dear Federation Family,<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="m_-6712932676647440722pf0" style="margin-right:0in;margin-left:0in;font-family:"Times New Roman",serif"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt"> </span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:14pt">National Convention:</span></p><h2 style="margin:0in;font-size:14pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u></h2><p class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><b style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12pt">2023 National Convention Resolutions:</b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">It seems like we just left New Orleans yesterday, but it’s already that time of year again. As we really kick into high gear with our convention preparations, we are asking you, the members of the National Federation of the Blind, to submit your completed resolutions by emailing them to<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="mailto:resolutions@nfb.org" target="_blank">resolutions@nfb.org</a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">. The deadline for resolution submissions is Thursday, June 1, 2023, so make sure you start writing as soon as possible.<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span><u></u><u></u></span></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b><span style="line-height:23px"><u></u> </span></b><b style="font-size:12pt"><span style="line-height:23px"> </span></b></h3><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>Volunteers Still Needed:<u></u><u></u></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Volunteers are what makes the Independence Market operate smoothly at our national convention each year. If your affiliate has members planning to be in Houston this July and willing to serve as demonstrators, storekeepers, pay-station representatives, and line marshals during all four days the market is open, we’d be pleased to have their names. The dates for the market are Sunday, July 2 through Wednesday, July 5. We will be open on July 2 and 3 for the entire day and July 4 and 5 during the lunch period only.  </span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:20px">The market will be open starting Sunday, July 2, through Wednesday, July 5. The first two days the market is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the following two days only during the lunch recess. We like to encourage folks who are able to volunteer to work one four-hour shift on one of the long days, and one lunch-time shift. We are certainly flexible with folks who may not be able to accommodate both days. Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><b style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:23px"> </span></b></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>National Association of Blind Veterans:<u></u><u></u></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">The NABV will be providing a grant for up to five first-time veterans to attend the national convention in Houston this year. The grant will be up to $750 for veterans who have never attended a national convention. They can apply by sending an email to</span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="mailto:mr_president@nabv.org" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:11pt">mr_president@nabv.or</span><span style="font-size:11pt">g</span></a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">. The grants will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. The email must contain the following: name, branch of service, time of service, chapter and state affiliate, local address, valid phone number, and email address.<u></u><u></u></span></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b><span style="line-height:23px"><u></u> <u></u></span></b></h3><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>Give $20 and AIRA Matching Gift:</b><b><span style="font-size:13pt;line-height:23px"><u></u><u></u></span></b></h3><p style="margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15pt;margin-left:0.25in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">Each year, thousands of Federation members contribute during national convention to various funds that support blind people. In 2023, your generosity is still needed to fund our great programs. When you give $20 or more between May 1 and July 6 (closing deadline 3:00 p.m., central time), you will be entered into the Give $20 Convention Drawing to win the following:<u></u><u></u></span></p><ul type="disc" style="margin-bottom:0in"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Round-trip transportation for two for the 2024 NFB National Convention<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Hotel at the convention<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Registration and banquet tickets for two<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">$1,000 in walking-around cash<u></u><u></u></span></li></ul><p style="margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15pt;margin-left:0.25in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">This drawing will be to support the following funds:</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black"><u></u><u></u></span></p><ul type="disc" style="margin-bottom:0in"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><strong><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Kenneth Jernigan Fund:</span></strong><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span>Funds donated to the Kenneth Jernigan Fund are designated by our board of directors for special projects such as getting first-timers to our national convention. The fund is named for Dr. Jernigan whose contributions to our movement are incalculable.<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><strong><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">SUN Fund:<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></strong><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">These funds are being set aside in the event that they are needed to support the Federation during difficult times.<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><strong><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">White Cane Fund:<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></strong><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">These dollars go directly to the general treasury of the Federation.<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><strong><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">tenBroek Fund:</span></strong><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span>These dollars go to the tenBroek Memorial Fund, which owns the property at 200 East Wells in Baltimore for the benefit of blind people.<u></u><u></u></span></li></ul><p style="margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15pt;margin-left:0.25in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">Each $20 donation is a chance to win. Your name will be placed in the drawing for each increment of $20 you give. Give $100 and you will be entered into the drawing five times.</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p style="margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15pt;margin-left:0.25in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">You must specify a fund in order to be entered into the drawing.. Choose one of the following funds: Kenneth Jernigan Fund, SUN Fund, White Cane Fund, or the tenBroek Fund. Your contribution will be counted for the drawing regardless of which fund you designate.</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black"><u></u><u></u></span></p><ul type="disc" style="margin-bottom:0in"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="https://nfb.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&amp;id=45" target="_blank">Give online now</a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Give via phone by calling our donation line at 410-659-9314, extension 2430<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;color:black;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Send a check to National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute, 200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, MD 21230. Be sure to have #Give20 and the fund you are giving to in the memo. If you are not sure please choose the White Cane Fund as it affords the greatest flexibility.<u></u><u></u></span></li></ul><p style="margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:15pt;margin-left:0.25in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">The winner of the drawing will be announced July 6 at the banquet.<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span><em>Note: The drawing is for individuals and is not intended for contributions by divisions, state affiliates, or chapters.</em></span><i><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black"><u></u><u></u></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Aira has generously issued a challenge grant. Aira will match up to $25,000 during our Give $20 campaign.<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 8pt 0.75in;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:21px"><u></u><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:21px;font-family:Symbol">·<span style="font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman";font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal">      <span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span><u></u><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:21px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Aira has generously offered to double your dollars by matching up to $25,000.<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.75in;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:21px"><u></u><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:21px;font-family:Symbol">·<span style="font-stretch:normal;font-size:7pt;line-height:normal;font-family:"Times New Roman";font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal">      <span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span><u></u><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:21px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">We look for synergies with our partners and the National Federation of the Blind and AIRA, the leading provider of visual interpreting, are both focused on access to information.<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><h2 style="margin:0in;font-size:14pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">News:<u></u><u></u></h2><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>Traveling by Air with Guide Dogs:<u></u><u></u></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Lizzie Schoen, a member of the National Federation of the Blind, was recently denied flying on JetBlue because she was traveling with a guide dog.  We know that other blind travelers have experienced similar discrimination. Recently, Al Elia and Lizzie Schoen, along with members of our government affairs group, met with senior officials at the US Department of Transportation to brief them on these issues. If you have experienced discrimination on airlines while traveling with guide dogs, please contact Al Elia at<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="mailto:aelia@nagdu.org" target="_blank">aelia@nagdu.org</a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">, and be sure to immediately file a complaint with the Department of Transportation by visiting<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/file-consumer-complaint" target="_blank">transportation.gov/airconsumer/file-consumer-complaint</a>.<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>Access Technology Affordability Act:</b><b><span style="font-size:11pt;line-height:23px"><u></u><u></u></span></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">The Access Technology Affordability Act was reintroduced in the Senate on Thursday, May 4, by Senator Ben Cardin (Maryland), with Senators John Boozman (Arkansas), Ron Wyden (Oregon), and Todd Young (Indiana) as cosponsors. As a reminder, the bill will create a $2,000 refundable tax credit to help cover the cost of qualified access technology. We anticipate that the House version of the bill will also be introduced very soon, but in the meantime please be sure to call your Senators to ask them to cosponsor the Access Technology Affordability Act (S. 1467).<u></u><u></u></span></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b><u></u> <u></u></b></h3><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>May Presidential Release Chapter Version Available:</b><b><span style="line-height:23px"><u></u><u></u></span></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black;border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box">The National Federation of the Blind<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="https://nfb.org/resources/publications-and-media/presidential-releases" target="_blank"><span style="border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box">Presidential Release #527 chapter version</span></a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black;border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span>is available. Additional formats coming soon. Please mark your calendars for the next Presidential Release scheduled for May 31, 2023, at 8 p.m., eastern.  <u></u><u></u></span></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b><span style="line-height:23px"><u></u> <u></u></span></b></h3><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>Save the Date: 2023 Global Accessibility Awareness Day Is May 18:<u></u><u></u></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">Join the National Federation of the Blind and the US Access Board on Global Accessibility Awareness Day for a one-hour seminar about Section 508 for government employees with disabilities, their supervisors, human resource professionals, and anyone else interested. Learn about what it is supposed to do and how people with disabilities can work together to leverage the new ruling.<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black"><a href="https://nfb.org/form/gaad-section-508-webinar" target="_blank"><span style="border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box">Register for the #GAAD Section 508 Webinar Zoom details.</span></a></span><span class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoHyperlink" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"></span></span><span class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoHyperlink" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><u></u><u></u></span></span></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b><span style="line-height:23px"><u></u> <u></u></span></b></h3><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>Encourage Non-Members to Attend the Introduction to the Organized Blind Movement:</b><b><span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:27.6px"><u></u><u></u></span></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><a name="m_-6712932676647440722__Hlk125462907"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">Share the following opportunity for non-members to attend the upcoming Introduction to the Organized Blind Movement, formerly known as our Open House Gathering calls, scheduled for May 10 at 8:00 p.m., eastern, to learn about what it means to become a member of the National Federation of the Blind.<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></a><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">During the one-hour-long open house, hear from active members and leaders on the myths and uncertainties of the Federation. We will discuss membership, philosophy, and purpose. Non-members can contact us at<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black"><a href="mailto:membership@nfb.org" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:11pt;border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box">membership@nfb.org</span></a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black">, or call 410-659-9314, extension 2401.</span><span class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoHyperlink" style="color:rgb(5,99,193);text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box"><span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black"><a href="https://zoom.us/j/9540458112" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:11pt;border:1pt windowtext;padding:0in;background-image:none;background-position:0%;background-size:auto;background-repeat:repeat;background-origin:padding-box;background-clip:border-box">Introduction to the Organized Blind Movement Zoom ID: 954 045 8112</span></a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:black"><u></u><u></u></span></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b><span style="line-height:23px"><u></u> <u></u></span></b></h3><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>USA Hire:</b><b><span style="line-height:23px"><u></u><u></u></span></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">We are gathering feedback on the Federal government’s use of an assessment tool called USA Hire. This tool consists of a series of timed assessments that are administered as part of the Federal government’s employment application process. It is similar to the civil service exam (prior to its discontinuation due to discrimination in 1981) in that it attempts to measure reasoning and analytical skills. USA Hire assessments are applied to some but not all job applications posted on USAJobs. The purpose of the assessments is to evaluate an applicant’s “general competencies and soft skills.”</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">We are seeking information from those who have experienced challenges with USA Hire in the following areas:</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></p><ul type="disc" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-top:0in"><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">accessibility of the platform using assistive technology</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">insufficient amount of time for the timed assessments</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">difficulty with logic games and vision-centered questions</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">difficulty requesting and receiving reasonable accommodations</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">obstacles related to the requirement to produce medical documentation for a reasonable accommodation within the OPM-prescribed deadline (three calendar days)</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">obstacles related to the requirement to produce medical documentation from only OPM-approved sources (ophthalmologist, etc.)</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">other areas of difficulty</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></li></ul><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><br>We are asking those who have experienced any of the challenges referenced to contact our advocacy and legal group at<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="mailto:Legal@nfb.org" target="_blank">Legal@nfb.org</a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span>or by calling 410-659-9314, extension 2440.</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></p><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b><span style="line-height:23px"><u></u> <u></u></span></b></h3><h3 style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;line-height:23px;font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal"><b>Share Braille:<u></u><u></u></b></h3><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">The first portion of our Share Braille project is complete. The contemporary Olivero theme has been launched, the website has a new look, and the layout is easy to follow. We will be adding new elements throughout the year. <span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:0.25in"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Share Braille is a great place to get Braille and Braille/print books that you may be looking for, have had in the past and would like to have again, or if you are learning Braille and would like to have some books to help you do that. There are books in every genre, age range, and reading level. Why not give it a try today? Just go to<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><a href="http://www.sharebraille.org" target="_blank">www.sharebraille.org</a></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span>and create your account. All of the books are free and yours to keep.<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><p class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in 0in 0in 0.25in;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><h2 style="margin:0in;font-size:14pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Dates to Keep in Mind:<u></u><u></u></h2><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">(all times eastern)<u></u><u></u></span></p><ul type="disc" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-top:0in"><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:23px"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:23px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">May 10: I<span style="color:black">ntroduction to the Organized Blind Movement</span>, 8:00 p.m.<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:23px"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:23px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">May 18: Global Accessibility Awareness Day<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:23px"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:23px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">June 1 and 4: Chapter Presidents Call, 8:00 p.m. (Member Engagement and National Convention)<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:23px"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:23px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">July 1-6, 2023: National Convention; Houston, Texas<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:23px"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:23px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">August 9: I<span style="color:black">ntroduction to the Organized Blind Movement</span>, 8:00 p.m.<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:23px"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:23px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">September 7 and 10: Chapter Presidents Call, 8:00 p.m. (Blind Equality Achievement Month)<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:23px"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:23px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">November 8: I<span style="color:black">ntroduction to the Organized Blind Movement</span>, 8:00 p.m.<u></u><u></u></span></li><li class="m_-6712932676647440722MsoListParagraph" style="margin:0in;font-size:11pt;font-family:Calibri,sans-serif;line-height:23px"><span style="font-size:12pt;line-height:23px;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">December 7 and 10: Chapter Presidents Call, 8:00 p.m. (Planning the Year Ahead)<u></u><u></u></span></li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif">The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.</span><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Mark A. Riccobono, President</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, MD 21230<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">410-659-9314 |<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="mailto:Officeofthepresident@nfb.org" target="_blank"><span style="color:rgb(5,99,193)">Officeofthepresident@nfb.org</span></a><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Twitter: @Riccobono<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">Pronouns: he, him, his<u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://nfb.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;text-decoration:none"><img border="0" width="210" height="76" id="m_-6712932676647440722_x0000_i1028" src="https://nfb.org/images/nfb/images/email/2/nfblogo.png" alt="National Federation of the Blind" class="gmail-CToWUd" style="width: 2.1886in; height: 0.7924in;"></span></a><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">                        <span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/nationalfederationoftheblind" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;text-decoration:none"><img border="0" width="24" height="24" id="m_-6712932676647440722_x0000_i1027" src="https://nfb.org/images/nfb/images/email/2/facebook.png" alt="Facebook" class="gmail-CToWUd" style="width: 0.2452in; height: 0.2452in;"></span></a><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">    </span><a href="https://twitter.com/NFB_Voice" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;text-decoration:none"><img border="0" width="24" height="24" id="m_-6712932676647440722_x0000_i1026" src="https://nfb.org/images/nfb/images/email/2/twitter.png" alt="Twitter" class="gmail-CToWUd" style="width: 0.2452in; height: 0.2452in;"></span></a><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">    </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/NationsBlind" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif;text-decoration:none"><img border="0" width="24" height="24" id="m_-6712932676647440722_x0000_i1025" src="https://nfb.org/images/nfb/images/email/2/youtube.png" alt="Youtube" class="gmail-CToWUd" style="width: 0.2452in; height: 0.2452in;"></span></a><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> <u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif">The National Federation of the Blind is a community of members and friends who believe in the hopes and dreams of the nation’s blind. Every day we work together to help blind people live the lives they want.<span class="gmail-Apple-converted-space"> </span><u></u><u></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial,sans-serif"><u></u> </span></p></div><span class="gmail_signature_prefix">-- </span><br><div dir="ltr" class="gmail_signature" data-smartmail="gmail_signature"><div dir="ltr"><div><div dir="ltr"><div><div dir="ltr"><div><div dir="ltr">Dorothy Griffin - President <div>National Federation of the Blind of Georgia</div><div><a href="mailto:dgriffin@nfbga.org" target="_blank">dgriffin@nfbga.org</a></div><div>770-374-4832</div><div><br></div><div><p style="margin:0px;font-stretch:normal;font-size:14px;line-height:normal;font-family:Arial"><span>The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.</span></p></div><div><span><br></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>