[Nfbv-announce] Fall 2010 Vigilant
Dr. Ronald Jerome Byrd
rjbfreetofly at gmail.com
Mon Jan 10 18:41:18 UTC 2011
Brother Brown is a fine man. I have always admired his dedication to the Federation and efforts to change what it means to be blind.
RJB
-----Original Message-----
From: nfbv-announce-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:nfbv-announce-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Fredric Schroeder
Sent: Friday, January 07, 2011 12:38 PM
To: 'NFB of Virginia Information and Announcements'
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Fall 2010 Vigilant
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 -February 6, 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
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