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<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=Ey8iDDEHHymGidXs7FfCOA..">
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<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=pzeoVxRMqxbcjGPFHkILAQ..">
View last month’s newsletter</a>.<br><br>
<h1><b>Imagineering Our Future</b></h1><b> Issue
34 <br>
May 2011 <br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Top"></a>In this issue:</b></h2>
<ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="#Executive">Message from the Executive Director</a>
<li><a href="#New">What’s New</a>
<li><a href="#Education">Education</a>
<li><a href="#Braille">Braille Initiative</a>
<li><a href="#Research">Research</a>
<li><a href="#Advocacy">Advocacy</a>
<li><a href="#StraightTalk">Straight Talk About Vision Loss</a>
<li><a href="#Technology">Product and Access Technology Talk</a>
<li><a href="#Library">From the tenBroek Library</a>
<li><a href="#Independence">Independence Market</a>
<li><a href="#Parents">Parent Outreach</a>
<li><a href="#Spotlight">Spotlight on the
</a><a href="#Spotlight">Imagination Fund</a></i>
<li><a href="#Events">NFB Calendar</a>
<li><a href="#Quote">Citation</a> <br><br>
<br>
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<br><br>
<br>
<h2><b><a name="Executive"></a>Message from the Executive
Director</b></h2>
Dear Friends,<br><br>
Many colleges and universities are wrapping up another semester, and
thousands of students are thinking about summer vacations, employment,
internships, and other opportunities to expand their horizons. At the
Jernigan Institute, we are looking forward to having a number of
energetic college students come for the summer as interns working in a
wide range of activities with us. Despite the excitement and opportunity
that comes when talking about summer plans, I have been thinking a lot
about the struggles that many blind college students face due to the
inaccessibility of campus technologies.<br><br>
I just returned from Columbus, Ohio, where I was participating in a
meeting of the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=paVFnnV6hutFYKrUyAVi3Q..">
Advisory Commission on Accessible Instructional Materials in Post
Secondary Education for Students with Disabilities</a>. This commission
is examining the status of instructional materials and will make
recommendations to Congress for improvements that might be made in
ensuring access for students with disabilities. During the recent
meeting, we heard testimony from blind students who have difficulty
navigating the inaccessible systems being used at their schools. We heard
from blind faculty who have had to work two and three times as hard as
their colleagues to earn tenure because of the inaccessibility of systems
used in instruction and research. We also heard from dedicated
professionals working at universities to improve accessibility who
expressed frustration over the constant adoption of new technologies that
have no accessibility built in.<br><br>
I can only imagine the stress these students and faculty must feel as
they go into summer break. What new technology will be adopted in the
fall that will not be accessible? Will professors select textbooks that
are available on eBook platforms that are not accessible? Alternatively,
these same students and faculty may have comfort in knowing that the
National Federation of the Blind is working day and night to change the
prospects for accessibility in colleges and universities. Even more
exciting, we have an increasing number of universities and product
manufacturers who are actively working with us to make the promise of
technology a reality.<br><br>
I encourage you to add your voice to our efforts by sending your comments
to the Commission during the public hearing this summer. If you or
someone you know in any educational setting (K-12 or post-secondary) have
experienced accessibility barriers, please encourage them to complete our
new
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=0WTXypquqFoEtNff5J5wdQ..">
Digital Technology and Accessibility in Schools Questionnaire</a>.
Together, we truly can make summer break a time for new
opportunities.<br><br>
Thank you for your continued support of our work. I hope to see you this
summer in Orlando!<br>
<br><br>
</i></b>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11057.jpg" alt="Graphic: Signature of Mark Riccobono">
</i></b><br>
Mark A. Riccobono, Executive Director, NFB Jernigan Institute</b>
<br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" alt="[]">
<br><br>
<br>
</dl><h2><b><a name="New"></a>Featured NFB News<br><br>
<br>
</b></h2><h4><b>2011 NFB National Convention Update</b></h4>The NFB
national convention is always the largest gathering of the blind in the
world each year, but the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=qOblj2YRXGZGFIIm5Q_ibA..">
2011 National Convention</a> being held July 3-8 in Orlando, Florida, is
shaping up to be exceptional. Our host hotel, the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=iUzm29Z81ua91dTA6UcxUw..">
Rosen Shingle Creek</a>, has sold out for the entire convention!
But fear not, Rosen Shingle Creek reservations agents will be happy to
book a room for you at the nearby Rosen Centre Hotel. Make your
room reservation as soon as possible by calling (866)
996-6338.<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=MvHCsKSHwQzo6zGeJSFA1w..">
<br>
</a>The Rosen Shingle Creek Resort <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/Rosen-Shingle-Creek.jpg" width=300 height=200 alt="Photo: Rosen Shingle Creek Resort">
<br><br>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=Rzy7PUvF6Oo4CrzFaunGwg..">
Preregister online</a> with NFB for the convention through May 31it’s
more convenient and it saves you money. Registration costs $20 in
person but you will pay only $15 online. Likewise, banquet tickets,
$60 on the ground in Orlando, will be discounted to $50 if you get them
ahead of time, before June 1.
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=Z7LFJP3j8YucyObCHy_Vyg..">
<br>
</a><br>
The deadline for convention exhibitor application submission is Friday,
May 27, 2011. Applications received after this deadline will only
be given consideration if space is still available, and in such a case,
the exhibitor will incur a late fee of $100 per table space. Please
visit the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=y69Sgl1GHHvq3oxAFWsoZA..">
national convention Web page</a> for
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=h9Ch1IVxEabizD9W_nn5Ww..">
exhibit hall</a> information, and contact
<a href="mailto:mkobelinski@nfb.org">Melissa Kobelinski</a> with any
questions. <br><br>
<h4><b>Rehabilitation and Orientation and Mobility Conference in
Orlando</b></h4>The Professional Development and Research Institute on
Blindness, Louisiana Tech University, and the National Blindness
Professional Certification Board are sponsoring the 10th Annual
Rehabilitation and Orientation and Mobility Conference at the Rosen
Shingle Creek hotel immediately prior to the NFB convention on Sunday,
July 3, 2011, from 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.<br><br>
National and international speakers will discuss the origins of the
Structured Discovery paradigm, the influence of its implementation, its
future, and how it can improve meaningful outcomes for rehabilitation
consumers who are blind or visually impaired. <br><br>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=WFuvRxMI_AshH1x8EAntTQ..">
Preregister</a> by Monday, June 27. Your cost of $100 for
professionals or $75 for students includes a luncheon banquet and a “mix
and mingle” reception. For more information, please call
(318) 257-4554 or e-mail <a href="mailto:ebell@latech.edu">Eddie
Bell</a>. <br><br>
<br><br>
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<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Education"></a>Education</b></h2>2009 NFB Youth Slam
students <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11871.jpg" width=375 height=250 alt="Photo: 2009 Youth Slam students">
<br><br>
The third NFB Youth Slam is just around the corner. One hundred fifty
students from across the country have been selected to attend this
unprecedented event, July 17-23 at Towson University. Preparations are
underway for engaging content tracks, workshops, and social events. Stay
up to date on the Youth Slam by following
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=oDYTNPvB-zgpwLnsHxPGEg..">
NFBScience on Twitter</a> or visiting the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=Y7x1OkP0iMXvLI93_D9Heg..">
NFBScience blog</a>.<br><br>
The Education team of the NFB Jernigan Institute kicked off the month of
April by hosting fourteen middle school and high school students from the
West Virginia School for the Blind on April 1 and 2. The theme of the
weekend centered around five steps to becoming a successful blind person.
The weekend activities included philosophy discussions about various
aspects of blindness, presentations from positive blind adult role
models, lessons in how to grill burgers for the students, and a rousing
game of Minute to Win It. The weekend concluded with presentations about
blindness from the students that they planned to take back to their
peers. It was exciting to have the opportunity to mentor our future blind
youth leaders from West Virginia!<br><br>
NFB LAW program participant examining the Vietnam War Memorial <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/LAW2011_207_Web_small.jpg" width=375 height=250 alt="Photo: LAW program student at monument in DC">
<br><br>
On April 8-12, 2011, twenty-four blind middle school students and their
chaperones attended the second annual
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=XUqykWPM1b-bzc3PK2iVHw..">
NFB Leadership and Advocacy in Washington, D.C., (LAW) program</a>.
Throughout the program, student participants learned about the history of
the organized blindness civil rights movement and the process through
which blindness legislation is created. The parents and chaperones
participated in a seminar in which they discussed getting better services
and blindness skills for their children. Parents and students learned
more about the inner workings of the National Federation of the Blind,
its advocacy work for blind individuals, and available resources for
blind students and adults. In addition to their visit to the National
Federation of the Blind headquarters here in Baltimore, the visit
included several trips to Washington, D.C. The students met with former
Congressman Bill Zeliff on the floor of the House of Representatives;
received a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol; went to the Department of
Justice to meet with Mazen Basrawi, a blind leader who is Counsel to the
Assistant Attorney General; and had appointments with representatives at
their local congressional offices in D.C. The students and chaperones
attending the program had competent blind adult role models and leaders
of the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children as mentors.
During the program the students learned about the struggles of leaders of
the National Federation of the Blind and how they coped with these
struggles. The event concluded with a banquet during which the students
sat with leaders of the National Federation of the Blind and interacted
with them personally. We were sad to see the students leave at the end of
the LAW program, but glad to hear comments such as this one from Gabriel
Lopez of California: “That was a wonderful and life-changing
program.”<br><br>
This year, the NFB Jernigan Institute once again hosted thirty high
school students from the LEAD (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, and
Determination) youth programs in New Jersey and Delaware, on April 16 and
17, 2011. The activities for the weekend all revolved around the
potential for present and future employment. The program included a
blindness philosophy discussion, interview dos and don'ts, a panel of
blind professionals, and sessions on using alternative techniques for
jobs that the participants can do now. Throughout the weekend, we
demonstrated that blind youth have the potential to do any career, and
they need to drive their own future, not leave it to others!<br><br>
TeachBlindStudents.org initiative <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/12062.jpg" width=249 height=200 alt="Graphic: Teacher of Tomorrow Program logo">
<br><br>
The NFB’s
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=lMxKaBOAbu1Q905JHBxkkQ..">
TeachBlindStudents.org</a> initiative, a resource for those interested in
exploring what it would be like to be a teacher of the blind, includes
the Teacher of Tomorrow program, which connects students who are
preparing to teach blind children with the support, resources, and
positive blindness philosophy of the National Federation of the
Blind. Our congratulations go out to a member of the current
Teacher of Tomorrow class, Tara McCarthy from Ohio State University, who
was recognized with an award at the Council for Exceptional Children
Annual Convention and Expo, held in D.C. She received the
Student of the Year award at the Division on Visual Impairments general
business meeting on April 26. Applications will close on May 31 for
the next
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=CpGZsmUTuyNarYFgXWft0g..">
Teacher of Tomorrow</a> class, so
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=x2DlP3j3N1gG7QhSQK1Nkw..">
get your materials and apply</a> now. <br><br>
<br>
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<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Braille"></a>Braille Initiative<br><br>
<br>
</b></h2><h4><b>Braille Certification Training Program</b></h4>The
National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute is in its fifth year
of working under contract with the Library of Congress, National Library
Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, to administer the
courses leading to
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=Z0d-I79w25gLAZIxohVrOA..">
certification for Braille transcribers and proofreaders</a>. In
this past year alone, we graded some 5,000 course lessons and
approximately 400 certification tests. As of this writing, we have
forwarded to the Library of Congress the names of 1,000 individuals who
have earned certification as transcribers or proofreaders of literary,
Nemeth, or music Braille.<br><br>
Jennifer Dunnam manages Braille programs for the Jernigan Institute,
including the Library of Congress Braille Certification Training Program.
But she has other talents. As she recently tweeted on Twitter, she was
“happy to have been one of the 2,052 singers in
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=URUAK77Z7YUN1RgFjY3yrA..">
@EricWhitacre’s global #VirtualChoir!</a>” <br><br>
<h4><b>Braille Readers Are Leaders Contest</b></h4>Jonathan Welscott
announces the West Michigan Whitecaps game Friday night at Fifth Third
Park. Photo credit: T.J. Hamilton | The Grand Rapids Press <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/Jonathan_Welscott.jpg" width=380 height=259 alt="Photo: Jonathan Welscott announcing game">
<br><br>
Jonathan Welscott is well-known in the Federation; he has participated in
NFB Junior Science Academy and Leadership and Advocacy in Washington,
D.C., (LAW) programs, attended national convention, and been one of the
winners in the Braille Readers Are Leaders contest. Now he has attained a
measure of celebrity in his hometown in Michigan. Two newspaper articles
about Jonathan have found their way to Imagineering Our Future</i>.
On April 13, the Grand Rapids Press</i> reported as follows in
“<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=JtoJtZPxVSNSeBS_l7YmQQ..">
National Federation of the Blind Honors Jonathan Welscott</a>”: <br><br>
A blind student’s announcing at Grandville Middle School sporting events
earned him a national honor in an annual Braille Readers and Leaders
contest.<br><br>
The National Federation of the Blind gave Jonathan Welscott a community
service award. Jonathan uses Braille when announcing at the school’s
basketball and volleyball games, athletic director Mike Porko
said.<br><br>
As part of the award, the eighth-grader won a trip to this summer’s NFB
national convention in Orlando, Florida, said Natalie L. Shaheen,
director of education at the Baltimore-based NFB Jernigan Institute.
<br><br>
Later, on April 30, this feature-length article appeared:
“<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=R2oB8XNc8PsOoys_tbGlqA..">
Blind teen sports announcer gets time behind mic for
Whitecaps</a>.” It begins: <br><br>
With fluidity and unbridled enthusiasm, Jonathan Welscott has announced
the names of his classmates in front of scattered groups of spectators in
Grandville Middle School’s gymnasium.<br><br>
But the 14-year-old isn't your typical announcer who calls all the action
before him. That’s because he is blind.<br><br>
Jonathan, an eighth-grader, has called middle school and high school
games in the past two years, but his voice was heard by an entirely
different audience Friday night.<br><br>
Jonathan was at Fifth Third Ballpark, and announced batters in the third
inning of the West Michigan Whitecaps game against the Lansing Lugnuts,
briefly replacing Whitecaps announcer Michael Newell.<br><br>
Congratulations Jonathan, and keep reading!<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/site/../images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" width=450 height=4 alt="[]">
<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Research"></a>Research</b></h2>We strongly urge you to
participate in a survey being conducted by our colleagues at the
Professional Development and Research Institute on Blindness at Louisiana
Tech University. Here is the announcement: <br><br>
<h4><b>Adult Rehabilitation and Employment Survey</b></h4>This survey is
intended for adults who are blind or visually impaired, and who are of
employment age. The purpose of the survey is to gain some information
about your experiences with Vocational Rehabilitation through your state
services or rehabilitation counselor, and your experiences with
adjustment training, education, and employment. If you are legally blind
or significantly visually impaired, and if you are of employment age (at
least 18 years old), you are invited to complete this survey. <br><br>
For your convenience, we have two options for you to complete the survey.
They are:
<ul>
<li>Complete the questions
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=CxePD3sonhj5Prl12tVcFA..">
online</a>.
<li>If you prefer, you can contact our office and someone will take your
responses over the phone. You can call 318-257-4554 or e-mail
<a href="mailto:dseilhan@latech.edu">Dianne Seilhan</a> to make these
arrangements.
</ul><br>
This survey should not take more than ten minutes of your time. All of
your responses will be kept strictly confidentialno information you
share will be released about you in any form. This is entirely voluntary,
and you may exit out of the survey at any time. Your experiences are very
important to us, and if you do exit the survey, your information will not
be used, so we appreciate your cooperation. <br><br>
We cannot thank you enough for your time and attention to our work. For
those who do participate in this survey, you will be entered into a
drawing where five individuals will win a $100 VISA gift card. So, take
ten minutes to share your experiences with us and get a chance to win!
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/site/../images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" width=450 height=4 alt="[]">
<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Advocacy"></a>Advocacy<br><br>
<br>
</b></h2><h4><b>LSAC Will Make its Web Site Fully Accessible to the
Blind</b></h4>The NFB has settled a lawsuit with the Law School
Admissions Council, Inc. (LSAC) regarding access to the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=c3-CGjmI1WBAiNt7R2ddsQ..">
LSAC Web site</a> by blind people. As part of the settlement, LSAC will
provide full and equal access for blind users to its Web site by
September 1, 2011. Changes will be made to the LSAC Web site that will
allow blind users utilizing screen access technology, which converts what
is on the computer screen into synthesized speech or Braille, to read and
interact with it. The accessibility requirements extend to all parts of
the Web site on which services or products are made available to
prospective law school applicants or to LSAT and Credential Assembly
Service registrants, including, but not limited to, the process of
applying to law schools through lsac.org and the documents and practice
tests LSAC makes available online.<br><br>
Under the settlement, the National Federation of the Blind will perform
semi-annual accessibility testing of the LSAC Web site until September 1,
2012. <br><br>
<h4><b>Ticketmaster Makes Web Site Fully Accessible and Fan-Friendly to
Blind Users </b></h4>The NFB also announced a cooperative agreement with
Ticketmaster, the global event ticketing leader and one of the world’s
top five eCommerce sites, to make its Web site fully accessible to the
blind. Under the agreement, the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=qh4UTQba4XPf2W-xwcmuqQ..">
Ticketmaster Web site</a> will be made fully accessible to blind users
utilizing screen access technology by December 31, 2011. Screen access
technology converts what is on the computer screen into synthesized
speech or Braille.<br><br>
Pursuant to the agreement, Ticketmaster will develop a comprehensive
accessibility program that will include the development of an
accessibility guidelines manual, as well as the appointment of both an
accessibility coordinator and an accessibility committee.<br><br>
Additionally, Ticketmaster will continue to work with officials of the
National Federation of the Blind to ensure that the Ticketmaster services
remain accessible to the blind. Ticketmaster will submit its Web site to
the NFB
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=NEkwtIwdrDU573NstVfbTQ..">
Nonvisual Accessibility (NFB-NVA) Web Certification program</a>, a
rigorous procedure by which Web sites and applications that have made
efforts to be accessible to the blind can be identified and recognized.
The NFB-NVA Web Certification program continually monitors participating
sites to ensure that they remain compliant with certification criteria.
If a site remains accessible, its certification is renewed on an annual
or a version basis. If accessibility issues arise, the National
Federation of the Blind will work with the site developers to remedy
them.<br>
Find out more in the NFB’s press releases about the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=485rqw4N74RO-YA8BpAfkw..">
LSAC settlement</a> and the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=74IX4KCzv5AiaOIAg_UKSw..">
Ticketmaster cooperative agreement</a>. <br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/site/../images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" width=450 height=4 alt="[]">
<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="StraightTalk"></a>Straight Talk About Vision
Loss</b></h2>Laura Weber<br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/Laura_Weber_Web_small.jpg" width=150 height=200 alt="Photo: Laura Weber">
<br><br>
The Jernigan Institute’s video series
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=b6PlqZOGO4Hd5uQAojaFSQ..">
Straight Talk About Vision Loss</a></i> continues with
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=7auAwfTPMNXw0mR_WiMDrQ..">
Episode 37</a>. NFB Jernigan Institute executive director Mark
Riccobono interviews Laura Weber, the president of the NFB’s
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=lQ-RHVznn9lEt5iA_rC7HA..">
National Organization of Parents of Blind Children</a> (NOPBC)
division. <br><br>
Laura learned of the NFB’s positive message about blindness when her
daughter was two months old, and she soon started a Texas parents of
blind children chapter. At the 2010 convention, Laura was elected
to head the national parents division. In this Straight Talk
interview, she speaks of the NOPBC’s current activities and plans to
expand. The NOPBC’s seminar at the 2011 national convention will be held
on July 3, and families who haven't been involved in the NFB before are
encouraged to attend. <br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" alt="[]">
<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Technology"></a>Product and Access Technology
Talk</b></h2>The Access Technology team has done its fair share of
getting the word out about accessibility this past month. On March 24 the
team spoke at Drexel University as part of their
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=iYIHlDUuugiwT4NoVcYs-A..">
eLearning conference</a> on achieving accessibility through partnerships
with national organizations. The team gave guidance on accessible
Learning Management Systems, Web sites, and other computer systems. True
to the high profile of Web accessibility, there was an entire track, and
the entire conference luncheon keynote, dedicated to the topic at the
Drexel conference.<br><br>
On April 14, the team presented to the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=MbSRMbDZXKCRCV_NTM8-wA..">
National Council of State Agencies for the Blind</a> (NCSAB) about the
current state of accessible mainstream ebook technology as part of the
2011 NCSAB Spring Conference.<br><br>
April 15, we co-hosted the HAVA Voting Work Group Seminar on Accessible
Voting Technology, which brought a group of accessibility advocates to
the International Braille and Technology Center for a lively conversation
about what the biggest current barriers are to accessible voting. The
team looks forward to tackling some of these issues and working with this
group on building better solutions.<br><br>
Finally, the latest post on the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=6YjAAEU4VYBS6Ft7NIX8hQ..">
Access Technology blog</a> is a little different from our usual fare–a
discussion of the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=_yYt8O6jDiUDtxFYoqJSeg..">
Snapfon</a> senior phone, which we hope will be useful to some seniors
with vision loss who want an easy-to-use phone.<br><br>
<br>
<h4><b>eBay Jobs Development Program Update</b></h4>Since the Jernigan
Institute started training blind entrepreneurs who want to start a
business on
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=H0ZJFiQwEAh2ubYrnzLROw..">
eBay</a>, Imagineering Our Future</i> has been profiling some of the
trainees. This month’s featured seller is native Kentuckian Tonia Gatton.
Tonia has always had a strong interest in technology. She had been
an eBay buyer, but the training course for blind entrepreneurs made her
feel that she could now become an eBay seller, and she began selling
immediately after the training meeting concluded. Tonia enjoys 100%
positive feedback, and she is currently featuring items that would make
very good Mother’s Day and Father’s Day presents. Visit her
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=TGZiHjnOo07juTpI9HHrVA..">
eBay My World page</a> to view her current listings, and enjoy
shopping! <br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/site/../images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" width=450 height=4 alt="[]">
<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Library"></a>From the tenBroek Library<br><br>
<br>
</b></h2><h4><b>Documenting the History of the Organized Blind
</b></h4>Your
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=ePu-JnIkmYB2dlV5wuj8cQ..">
Jacobus tenBroek Library</a> is nearing the conclusion of our
grant-funded basic processing projects. Support from the National
Historical Publications and Records Commission (a federal agency within
the National Archives and Records Administration) enabled project staff
to complete work on the Jacobus tenBroek papers last year. That project
produced an excellent
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=QKzuhIS7QnhCxnYx14lSYw..">
finding aid</a> that has attracted the attention of scholars at work not
only on blindness issues, but on all of tenBroek’s varied
interestsincluding university teaching and administration, public
welfare policy, disability rights, and social activism on behalf of all
minorities.<br><br>
The Archives <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/Filing_cabinets_Web_small.jpg" width=375 height=250 alt="Photo: Filing Cabinets">
<br><br>
Our second major project has been to organize and produce a finding aid
for the Federation’s archives. To provide a sense of the scope of the NFB
Archives project, consider how it compares with the tenBroek papers
project.<br><br>
The tenBroek papers were large enough; they were stored in forty file
cabinets and more than a dozen boxes of varied size and condition. In
contrast, even after consolidation and discarding of items that were not
worth retaining, the Federation Archives occupy:
<ul>
<li>108 filing cabinets
<li>289 Paige boxes
<li>100 Hollinger boxes
<li>45 Bankers boxes, and
<li>21 oversized folders.
</ul><br>
Piled on top of each other, the archival files would extend about a
half-mile up. Librarians usually talk about running feet of shelf
space that a collection occupies. The Federation archives would take up
(if we removed the files from the file folders) 1,758 linear
feet.<br><br>
While the vast majority of the material in both collections is in
ink-print, we encourage anyone interested in Jacobus tenBroek and the
organized blindregardless of how they readto consider visiting the
Jernigan Institute to use this material. For those who cannot read print
we have a list of local sighted readers who have been recommended by
Federationists in the Baltimore area (which is not to say that you cannot
bring your own reader with you).<br><br>
Now that the inventory is complete, project staff have begun work on a
series-level finding aid for the Federation Archives. Stay tuned for
further word on this and other news of the tenBroek Library’s archival
and manuscript collections!<br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/site/../images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" width=450 height=4 alt="[]">
<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Independence"></a>Independence Market</b></h2>The NFB
Independence Market is in the process of adding new items to our product
offerings which we hope will be of interest to blind individuals as well
as their friends and families. This month we are highlighting three
accessible board games newly available through the Independence Market.
<br><br>
Nine Men’s Morris <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/NINE_MEN_S_MORRIS_Web_small.jpg" width=225 height=150 alt="Photo: Nine Men's Morris game">
<br><br>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=MdszIv17HKkJSUhtGTM48g..">
NINE MEN’S MORRIS</a>: Ancient strategy board game for two. Players
try to create lines of three in order to remove their opponent’s game
pieces. The plastic game pieces are white (round) and black (square) with
pegs on the bottom which fit in holes on the game board. The composite
wood game board, which measures 11-9/16 x 9-1/2 inches, features tactile
lines indicating how the game pieces can move. Includes Braille and print
directions. <br><br>
Shut the Box <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/SHUT_THE_BOX_Web_small.jpg" width=225 height=150 alt="Photo: Shut the Box game">
<br><br>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=DBg-wpT6zVam122pI-YoaA..">
SHUT THE BOX</a>: Easy math game for two or more players, ages
three and up. Players flip (shut) one or more numbered tiles
corresponding to the value of the rolled dice. The wooden game tray,
which is lined in felt, measures 10-1/2 x 7-1/2 inches and features nine
hinged tiles numbered 1-9 in print and Braille on both sides. Includes
two tactile dice as well as Braille and print instructions.<br><br>
Solitaire and Fox and Geese <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/SOLITAIRE_Web_small.jpg" width=225 height=150 alt="Photo: Solitaire & Fox & Geese game">
<br><br>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=eUbZ2LPbnCV8uyebw-ZgyQ..">
SOLITAIRE AND FOX AND GEESE</a>: Two ancient strategy games played
on the same boardSolitaire for one player and Fox and Geese for two. The
composite wood peg board measures 11-1/2 x 11-1/2 inches and includes 33
plastic game pieces. Solitaire is played with the 32 orange (10-sided)
pegs, which at the start of the game occupy the holes in the cross-shaped
play area. Fox and Geese is played with 15 orange pegs as the geese and
the brown (6-sided) peg as the fox. Includes Braille and print
directions.<br><br>
Games in the NFB Independence Market may be ordered
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=EahrISHzY3s6-20H0NfKIA..">
online</a> or by phone. For more information contact the NFB
Independence Market at 410-659-9314, extension 2216, or by
<a href="mailto:IndependenceMarket@nfb.org">e-mail</a>. <br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" alt="[]">
<br><br>
<br>
<h2><b><a name="Parents"></a>Parent Outreach<br><br>
<br>
</b></h2><h4><b>Parent Activities at National Convention</b></h4>The
April Braille Monitor</i> contains information that parents attending the
NFB national convention need to know.
“<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=D9JVTRQutSYOp1utcs66sg..">
When I Grow Up…2011 NOPBC Conference for Families and Teachers</a>” by
Laura Weber gives convention highlights of particular interest to
families as well as tips to help parents stay organized and take
advantage of all of the opportunities to be found there.
“<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=ZR6YjvmMyWuBkuK8y0yfYA..">
Child Care at Convention</a>” explains some of the special activities
planned to occupy the kids while parents participate in other activities,
child care’s hours of operation, and the fee schedule. Please note that
space is limited, and preregistration for child care is required.
<br><br>
The Future Reflections</i> magazine
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=zDYkIl-5EOY_9heQJ4opdw..">
Winter 2011 issue</a> includes
“<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=B37yBGQRlZhSbB3ddINPyg..">
Visiting the Disney Parks: Tips and Tricks</a>” by Lenora J.
Marten. <br><br>
The National Organization of Parents of Blind Children (NOPBC) reminds
our newer families that they must make several separate registrations:
for the national convention
(<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=_V4jFOlDJGPZ4SHUrvwklg..">
preregister here</a> through the end of this month only, or take care of
on site), with the hotel for a room (phone 866-996-6338), with the NOPBC
division for the parents conference (through June 10, contact
<a href="mailto:carol_castellano@verizon.net">Carol Castellano</a> for
preregistration forms, after June 10, register on site), and with child
care (see article linked above). <br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" alt="[]">
<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Spotlight"></a>Spotlight on the Imagination Fund</i>
</b></h2>The Imagination Fund</i> builds programs of the National
Federation of the Blind at the national, state, and local levels.
The Thru Our Eyes</i> radio program, now in its sixth year, has received
grants from the Imagination Fund</i> to help with its operations.
The radio show is designed to provide information about blindness and
foster a positive attitude towards dealing with blindness issues.
<br><br>
Rolex 24 poster <br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/Rolex_poster_Web_small.jpg" width=200 height=274 alt="Photo: Rolex 24 at Daytona poster">
<br><br>
The program that aired on April 20, 2011, was dedicated to describing the
history and functions of the Imagination Fund</i> and the current Race
for Independence. Visit the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=XB_LaPGaBt3CwY8mxHos0g..">
podcast player page</a> of the Thru Our Eyes</i> Web site to listen to
episode 254 to learn about the Race for Independence and how you can be
involved. <br><br>
This episode also offers color commentary of the historic drive by Mark
Riccobono at the Daytona International Speedway prior to the start of the
Rolex 24 on January 29, 2011.<br><br>
For a limited time only, you can win an official Rolex 24 poster, signed
by Mark Riccobonothe driver of the Blind Driver Challenge™ vehicle that
was first demonstrated at the Daytona International Speedway. One
winner will be selected from all eligible entrants. In order to be
eligible for the drawing, visit the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=Mh9ChexMdXZlJ8ebO7jfQg..">
Race for Independence site</a> and register to become an Imaginator and
then raise $35 or more before May 31. Or, if you are already an
Imaginator, raise $35 between now and May 31, 2011. <br><br>
Hurry, time is limited to get your piece of history! For questions
or additional information, please
<a href="mailto:ImaginationFund@nfb.org">e-mail the Imagination
Fund</a>. Good luck! <br><br>
<br><br>
</i>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/site/../images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" width=450 height=4 alt="[]">
</i><br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Events"></a>NFB Calendar<br><br>
</b></h2>The Spring Convention Season</b> finishes up this month with the
yearly meetings of the NFB’s state affiliates in Utah and Florida. To
look up when the NFB of (insert your favorite state) meets or for more
information, see the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=_-1CB2OqzL3Ur2ulwmuLWg..">
state conventions</a> page on the NFB’s Web site. <br><br>
<br>
May 15, 2011</b> Distinguished Educator of Blind
Children Award nominations close. Details are in the December
Braille Monitor
</i>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=Y6HmMhmCW2BgLmXubiHoJg..">
article</a>.<br><br>
<br>
May 31, 2011
</b>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=WDpmad7eTPj97bl9X71DiA..">
Preregistration</a> ends for 2011 NFB National Convention. <br><br>
<br>
July 3-8, 2011 </b> The
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=r_ZgUFDF2DfVbRCuLqZfjQ..">
71st Annual NFB National Convention</a>,
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=2_GxQ2kilvUWftytbj47PA..">
Rosen Shingle Creek Resort</a>, Orlando, Florida;</i> More details are
found in the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=jlAHrgx7_gaFEEj7hQy1YQ..">
2011 Convention Bulletin</a>. <br><br>
</i>NOTE: The Rosen Shingle Creek Resort is now out of rooms.
To make your reservation for the overflow hotel, the Rosen Centre, please
call (866) 996-6338.<br>
</b> <br><br>
Our heartfelt thanks to the 2011 NFB National Convention sponsors: eBay,
HumanWare, UPS, Ingram-VitalSource, Market Development Group
Incorporated, Oracle, Freedom Scientific BLV Group LLC, IBM, National
Industries for the Blind (NIB), Research in Motion Limited (RIM), GW
Micro Inc., HIMS, Independence Science, Learning Ally (formerly Recording
for the Blind & Dyslexic), LevelStar, Sendero Group LLC, and
Toyota. <br><br>
<br>
</i>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/ebay_cmyk.gif" width=158 height=67 alt="Graphic: eBay logo">
<br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/12073.gif" width=192 height=38 alt="Logo: HumanWare">
<br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/12072.gif" width=60 height=71 alt="Logo: UPS">
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/MDG_logo.gif" width=176 height=30 alt="Graphic: Market Development Group logo">
<br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/12075.gif" width=146 height=19 alt="Graphic: Oracle logo">
<br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/Ingram-VitalSource_Logo_Web_small.jpg" width=204 height=30 alt="Graphic: Ingram-VitalSource logo">
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/12074.gif" width=100 height=35 alt="Logo: Freedom Scientific">
<br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11101.gif" width=109 height=41 alt="Graphic: IBM logo">
<br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/12022.gif" width=145 height=43 alt="NIB Logo">
<br>
<img src="http://www.raceforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/RIM_logo_Web_small.jpg" width=138 height=60 alt="Graphic: RIM logo">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
July 17-23, 2011</b> The 3rd Biennial NFB
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=MjqlS-hekQoheslV7K52NA..">
Youth Slam</a>, Towson University, Maryland.<br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" alt="[]">
<br><br>
<h2><b><a name="Quote"></a>Citation</i></b></h2>Nothing worthwhile comes
without cost. To gain freedom demands not just money, but will,
imagination, guts, and courage. These must be available not just now and
then, but all of the time. Furthermore, these qualities cannot be
contributed by somebody elsethey must come from us.<br>
</b> <br>
Will the educational system for the blind get better? Yes, because we
will make it so. Will the rehabilitation system become more responsive?
Yes, because we will demand the responsiveness and keep working until we
get it. Will the scientific community come to know us as partners?
Certainly, because we have the intellectual ability to create the
circumstances that require it. Will other management systems of our
society welcome us? Indeed they will. Our sighted brothers and sisters
will come to value us for the people we are and will share our dreams for
a brighter tomorrow for us all.<br>
</b> <br>
The objectives we have established are enormously demanding, and they
will require all that is best within us. However, we do not fear the
challenge; we welcome it. No matter the cost, we will meet it. No matter
the requirement, we will fulfill it. No matter the obstacle, we will
overcome it. Is there knowledge to be gathered about blindness that we do
not already possess? You bet there is, and we are learning it as fast as
we can. But this is only one of the elements of the future we intend to
create. We are also teaching all who will listen. Our hearts are strong;
our will is firm; and our determination is unshakable. The members of the
National Federation of the Blind have been in the frontlines of change
for more than two-thirds of a century. Because of the spirit we share,
our progress cannot be slowed, and our ultimate objectives will be met.
Come, join me, and we will make tomorrow our own!<br><br>
</b> Dr. Marc Maurer,
</i>
“<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=8e7rAZSwST99zcNQzjyhQA..">
The Advantage of Uncertainty</a>,</i>” an address delivered at the
banquet of the annual convention of the National Federation of the Blind,
Dallas, Texas, July 8, 2010 <br><br>
<a href="#Top">Back to Top</a><br><br>
Thank you for reading the NFB Jernigan Institute’s Imagineering Our
Future</i>.<br><br>
<br><br>
</b> <br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11505.jpg" alt="Mentor Trevor Attenberg leads campers along the nature trail">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11455.jpg" alt="Photo: Group on white water raft">
<br>
<br><br>
Support the Jernigan Institute through the
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=xX0U3FfLt4Fnqzc1d5tuTA..">
Imagination Fund</a><br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
</i>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11433.gif" alt="Photo: Young woman playing flute">
</i><br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<h4><b>Interesting links:
</b></h4>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=2v7TT8P8rUbslwl8jv43hA..">
Archive of Straight Talk about Vision Loss videos</a><br><br>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=M6zOYwIULojoPPIdiVTzEA..">
National Center for Blind Youth in Science</a><br><br>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=c_p-nipFF_gTTMO97EOXOg..">
Access Technology Tips</a><br><br>
<br><br>
<br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11435.gif" alt="Photo: Youth practicing martial art">
<h4><b><br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br>
Blogs:</b></h4>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=hPH-0-5y14arzId0SaWHPw..">
Access Technology</a><br><br>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=ohHoz3puGtzK7WH_h2dFyg..">
Voice of the Nation’s Blind</a><br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11083.gif" alt="Photo: Senior couple">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<h4><b>Publication archives:
</b></h4>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=qbLwzBkiN38bTqK7Xr0SmQ..">
Future Reflections<br><br>
</a>
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=e38aRNc-8NNUjRLM_Ewg2g..">
Braille Monitor</a><br><br>
</i> <br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/10767.jpg" alt="Photo: Mom and son take a moment and a hug">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11075.gif" alt="Graphic Logo: National Federation of the Blind">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11079.gif" width=100 height=142 alt="Photo: Blind little girl with cane">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/10623.jpg" alt="Photo: Blind youth reading Braille book">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11081.gif" alt="Photo: Blind girl examining model of constellations">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/10621.jpg" alt="Photo: Blind boy with tactile globe">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11187.jpg" alt="Blind Teens Carry the 2007 Youth March for Independence Banner">
<br><br>
Visit us at
<a href="http://www.raceforindependence.org/site/R?i=6DV3pol8V_wjdZ398OCB8Q..">
nfb.org</a><br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/10899.jpg" alt="Imagine a Future Full of Opportunity">
<br><br>
<br><br>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11499.gif" alt="[]">
<br><br>
Jernigan Institute, National Federation of the Blind<br>
200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place</i>, Baltimore, MD 21230<br>
(410) 659-9314 Fax (410)
659-5129 E-mail
<a href="mailto:JerniganInstitute@nfb.org?subject=Reply%20to%20Imagineering%20Our%20Future">
JerniganInstitute@nfb.org</a><br>
Visit us at
<a href="http://www.nfb.org/" eudora="autourl">www.nfb.org<br>
</a>
<img src="http://www.marchforindependence.org/images/content/pagebuilder/11466.gif" width=50 height=81 alt="Better Business Bureau logo">
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<br>
The National Federation of the Blind meets the rigorous Standards for
Charity Accountability set forth by the BBB Wise Giving Alliance and is
Top-Rated by the American Institute of Philanthropy.<br><br>
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