From michaelgkasey at verizon.net  Fri Jan  1 23:10:41 2016
From: michaelgkasey at verizon.net (Michael Kasey)
Date: Fri, 01 Jan 2016 18:10:41 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Assistive Listening Devices survey
Message-ID: <000a01d144e9$a2d0b2b0$e8721810$@verizon.net>

At our November 2015 NFB of Virginia Board of Directors Meeting, we decided
to ask our NFBV State Convention Coordinator, Brian McCann, to research,
make a proposal, and purchase our own Audio and Visual (AV) equipment.  This
may include assistive listening devices. A study commissioned by the
Department of Education estimates that over 70,000 Americans are deaf-blind,
including about 8,000 right here in Virginia.

 

We want to hear from you if you or someone you might know would benefit from
an assistive listening device during our NFBV State Convention. We are
seeking input and feedback from our members/attendees to determine if such
devices are desired and which direction to go in to purchase the necessary
equipment.

 

A general definition of a system appears below.  If you would like to submit
feedback and/or suggestions to Brian McCann, please email him at
brnmccnn at gmail.com <mailto:brnmccnn at gmail.com> 

No later than January 15, 2016please.

 

What is an Assistive Listening Device?

  An Assistive listening device may expand the functionality of hearing aids
and cochlear implants.  The device may help separate the sounds you want to
hear from background noise or enable you to hear when a speaker is more than
a few feet away. The device works when a speaker talks into a microphone
sending the speech directly to your ear.  This may avoid the degrading
effects of noise and distance on speech intelligibility. It's really that
simple. An assistive listening device consists of a microphone to collect
sound, a transmitter to send the signal across a distance, a receiver to
intercept the signal, and any one of several different listening attachments
to send the sound from the receiver to the user's ear, hearing aid, or
cochlear implant.

 

Hearing aids and cochlear implants may work wonders to improve speech
understanding. Still, there are some situations that can be problematic such
as listening in groups, hearing in noisy backgrounds, hearing a speaker who
is more than a few feet away, and hearing in poor acoustical environments.
In these situations, turning up the volume can result in turning up the
background noise that you don't want to hear.  So in some cases, an
assistive listening device may help.

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.

 



From tracy.soforenko at gmail.com  Sun Jan  3 16:08:48 2016
From: tracy.soforenko at gmail.com (Tracy Soforenko)
Date: Sun, 3 Jan 2016 11:08:48 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] you can make a difference -the 2016 Richmond
	Seminar - Jan 18 - 19
Message-ID: <0c5e01d14641$09c7e990$1d57bcb0$@gmail.com>

Monday Board Meeting time now from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Hotel deadline is this Wednesday, January 6.

 

If you are low vision, blind, or know someone who is, you worry about
employment, living independently, and getting a good education for your
family. The NFB of Virginia needs you to invest your time and effort so our
General assembly members know that the blind are an important constituency.
They need to be reminded that we are committed defending our rights and
ensuring opportunities for all blind Virginians.

Through our presence in Richmond, we provide the truth about the needs of
the blind, overcoming public misconceptions and informing legislators  of
the needs of blind children, seniors and working age adults.

 

The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia is fighting for the rights
and services of the blind and needs your help to continue the battle for
improved access to what you need to succeed. It is only by you and others at
Richmond Seminar talking in person and educating your delegates and senators
will your rights and services be protected.

 

The details of the Richmond Board Meeting and Seminar are below.

 

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 18- 19, 2016 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. 

 

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

.         Requiring a research based reading media assessment as part of
every blind and low vision student's Individual Education Plan (IEP) so
Virginia's students who need Braille will get Braille;

.         Defending Virginia's Randolph Sheppard priority  to encourage
blind entrepreneurs; and 

.         Support for Virginia Department of the Blind and Vision Impaired
(DVBI) as a separate agency. 

 

The final list of issues will be presented at the board meeting.

 

All Chapter members are encouraged to participate.  

 

Our board meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 18 which is Martin Luther
King Day. The Board Meeting will be held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at The DBVI
Library and Resource Center, 395 Azalea Avenue, Richmond, VA 23227. 

Our General Assembly visits will be Tuesday, January 19.

 

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.

 

Hotel rooms are available at the Crowned Plaza Hotel Downtown, 555 East
Canal Street, Richmond, VA 22319. Hotel rooms can be reserved by telephone
at 804-788-0900 or 1-855-472-7802  and  asking for the National Federation
of the Blind of Virginia (NFBV) group block. 

Online booking link: 

link: National Federation of the Blind of Virginia (NFBV)
<http://www.ihg.com/redirect?path=asearch&brandCode=6c&localeCode=en&regionC
ode=1&hotelCode=RICCS&checkInDate=18&checkInMonthYear=002016&checkOutDate=19
&checkOutMonthYear=002016&rateCode=6CBARC&_PMID=99801505&GPC=FVB>  

. The deadline to make reservations is January 6, 2016. 

The group rate is $99 plus state and local sales tax (currently at 13.3%). 

-Guest will receive $10 off overnight parking. 

-check In is at 3 PM and Check Out is 12 PM. 

 

Do not delay, book your room today. 

Chapter presidents must provide the names of the individuals planning to
attend from their chapter to Michael and Tracy by Wednesday, January 13,
2016 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 tracy.soforenko at gmail.com

 

Tracy Soforenko

First Vice president, NFB of Virginia

Tracy.soforenko at gmail.com

202 285-4595

 

 



From tracy.soforenko at gmail.com  Sun Jan  3 19:01:17 2016
From: tracy.soforenko at gmail.com (Tracy Soforenko)
Date: Sun, 3 Jan 2016 14:01:17 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Tuesday (1/5 at 7:00 PM Career Education Committee
	Conference Call
Message-ID: <0cd701d14659$2124d270$636e7750$@gmail.com>

Happy New Year,

In December, we held our first Career Education Committee Conference Call.
If you are wondering what we are talking about keep reading after the next
paragraph.

The committee will be meeting again this Tuesday, January 5 to discuss a
draft proposal we will present at the NFB of Virginia Board meeting on
January 18. We would still welcome others to participate in the work of this
committee. To attend the meeting, it will help if you email me in advance of
the meeting to get our rough draft of the proposal. The proposal still needs
a great deal of refinement so unless you are willing to participate, we
should wait to share the rough draft.

If you are intrigued to help us create a new resource for blind Virginians
working to grow in their job and career, join us on Tuesday, January 5 at
7:00 PM.

Career Education Committee Meeting

Conference Bridge: 712 432 - 0220

Passcode 9986460#

If you have a challenge  with the bridge line, please call my mobile at 202
285-4595.

Subject: Wanted: Innovators to create a new Career Resource for Blind
Virginians

Do you want to arm blind and low vision students and adults with the
attitude and skills to succeed in today's work environment? 

Do you have experience with online education, rehabilitation, and new media?

Do you have interest in creating something valuable to enhance the career
success of our members?

The NFB of Virginia Career Education committee is seeking a few talented
individuals to help formulate new tools to augment blindness skills
training.

This committee will be working to develop a proposal to be presented at the
NFB of Virginia Board of Directors meeting on January 18, 2016. If approved
by the Board of Directors, the committee will continue to develop this idea,
seeking partnerships and developing pilot content for a roll out in 2016. 

If you are interested in learning more and believe you could contribute to
the committee's efforts, please contact Patrick Johnson, Career Education
committee chair at

patrickjohnson1015 at gmail.com

or via phone at  540 230-4287.


Please plan to attend our next committee conference call on Tuesday, January
5.

Tracy Soforenko
First Vice president, NFB of Virginia
Tracy.soforenko at gmail.com
202 285-4595







From michaelgkasey at verizon.net  Tue Jan  5 00:23:42 2016
From: michaelgkasey at verizon.net (Michael Kasey)
Date: Mon, 04 Jan 2016 19:23:42 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] benefit concert to support Moriah fish
Message-ID: <001901d1474f$55887610$00996230$@verizon.net>

>From Briley O'Connor

 

Briley O'Connor and her father are performing in a benefit concert this
Wednesday to support Moriah fish, Mike and CJ Fish's daughter. Moriah is
undergoing  Retinal Blastoma cancer treatment. This has meant visits to an
out of state hospital every few weeks, two rounds of chemo, and a mountain
of uncertainty. The added transportation, food, lodging, and the medical
expenses has left them stretched beyond their limits.

 

The benefit concert will be held on Wednesday, January 6 in Chesapeake at
A.J. Gator's from 7-9 PM. Feel free to contact Briley for any information.

If you wish to contribute and cannot attend the concert, please feel free to
contribute online via a YouCaring page. 

 

https://www.youcaring.com/moriah-fish-494126

 

 

Briley O'Connor

brileyoc at gmail.com <mailto:brileyoc at gmail.com> 

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.

 



From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Tue Jan  5 13:25:53 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Tue, 5 Jan 2016 08:25:53 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Time is running out to reserve your room for
	Richmond Seminar
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS4ABF29F19D4848BF893888FF30@phx.gbl>

Dates for Richmond Seminar:
January 18-19, 2016


Hotel:
Crowne Plaza - Downtown Richmond
555 East Canal Street, Richmond, VA 23219

Make your reservation today! Rooms are limited.
You can call the toll free reservations line at 855-472-7802 and  ask for the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia (NFBV) group block or by using the following online booking link: National Federation of the Blind of Virginia (NFBV) .. 

Deadline for reservations:
The deadline to make reservations is January 7, 2016 by  12 AM.. 

Price:
The group rate is $99 plus state and local sales tax (currently at 13.3%).. 
-Guest will receive $10 off overnight parking.. 
-check In is at 3 PM and Check Out is 12 PM.. 




Questions:
Brian McCann
Richmond Seminar Coordinator

(757) 472-2494
brnmccnn at gmail.com


From michaelgkasey at verizon.net  Fri Jan  8 16:29:19 2016
From: michaelgkasey at verizon.net (Michael Kasey)
Date: Fri, 08 Jan 2016 11:29:19 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Writing Contest
Message-ID: <001d01d14a31$b99b7140$2cd253c0$@verizon.net>

The 2016 writing contest sponsored by the National Federation of the blind
Writers' Division is now open and accepting entries until April 1, 2016.
There is even a contest for K-12 students to show off their Braille literacy
skills. Please see attached for guidelines, or go to:

http://www.writers.nfb.org/ContestPage.html

for more information. We look forward to reading your words!

 

Chelsea cook, First Vice President, NFB Writers' Division

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.

 



From tracy.soforenko at gmail.com  Fri Jan  8 22:29:59 2016
From: tracy.soforenko at gmail.com (Tracy Soforenko)
Date: Fri, 8 Jan 2016 17:29:59 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] HB 166 Literacy Assessment for Blind Bill
	Introduced by Delegate Cole
Message-ID: <038001d14a64$1c1d43c0$5457cb40$@gmail.com>

Hi Virginia Federationists:

 

The General assembly begins its 2016 Session  on Wednesday, January 13. 

I am pleased to share that Delegate Cole has introduced  the Literacy
Assessment bill as HB 166. This bill will be our major focus for Richmond
Seminar.

I have included the bill text below.

 

 

2016 SESSION 

INTRODUCED 

12/23/15 14:19 

16101537D 

HOUSE BILL NO. 166 

Offered January 13, 2016 

Prefiled December 23, 2015 

A BILL to amend and reenact ? 22.1-217 of the Code of Virginia, relating

to visually impaired students; 

Braille. 

?????????? 

Patron??Cole (By Request) 

Committee Referral Pending 

?????????? 

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia: 

. That ? 22.1-217 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted as
follows: 

? 22.1-217. Visually impaired students. 

A. As used in this section,

unless the context requires a different meaning: 

"Braille" means the system of reading and writing through touch and is
commonly known as the 

Braille tactile communication system. 

"Visually impaired" shall be defined by the Board of Education and the
Virginia Department for the 

Blind and Vision Impaired. 

B. Special education for visually impaired children students provided by a
school division shall be 

established, maintained, and operated jointly by the school board and the
Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired subject to the
regulations of the Board of Education. 

C.

Braille instruction shall be included in the student's Individualized
Education Plan Program (IEP), whenever appropriate. When developing the an
IEP

or a plan pursuant to ? 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. ?
794 (Section 504 Plan) for students with visual impairment, the presumption

shall be that proficiency in literacy is essential for such student to
achieve satisfactory educational progress. However, use of Braille shall not

be required if other special education services are more appropriate to the
student's educational needs, and the provision of other appropriate services

shall not preclude Braille instruction. Each school division shall provide
instruction in Braille and the use of Braille for visually impaired students

unless the team responsible for developing a visually impaired student's IEP
(IEP team) or the team responsible for developing a student's Section 504

Plan (504 team) determines, after an evaluation of the student, that
instruction in Braille or the use of Braille is not appropriate to the
student's

educational needs. The evaluation shall be conducted by a certified Teacher
of the Visually Impaired (TVI) and shall include (i) a literacy assessment

that is research-based, data-driven, and validated and that results in
objective recommendations; (ii) a functional vision assessment; (iii) an
assessment

of the student's academic and functional strengths and deficits; (iv) an
assessment of the student's current and future needs; (v) a statement of the

appropriate reading and writing media for the student; and (vi) in the case
of a student with some residual vision, a comparison of the student's

current reading and writing skill levels to levels expected of peers who are
not visually impaired, as determined by the IEP team or 504 team. The
evaluation

may include a comprehensive assistive technology assessment if the IEP team
or 504 team determines that it is necessary. The literacy assessment

shall be administered to the student at least annually after the evaluation
by the certified TVI and when there is a significant change in the student's

vision. D. Nothing in this section shall require exclusive instruction in
Braille and the use of Braille when the IEP team or 504 team determines

that other specialized educational services and assistive technology devices
are more appropriate for the visually impaired student's educational needs.

The provision of other specialized educational services and assistive
technology devices shall not preclude instruction in Braille and the use of

Braille. E. Each IEP team and 504 team may determine that a visually
impaired student is eligible to receive instruction in the use of the
appropriate

Braille mathematics code in addition to Braille and the use of Braille. 

F. No visually impaired student shall be denied the opportunity for
instruction

in Braille and the use of Braille solely on the basis that the student has
some residual vision. 

B. G. As used in this subsection, unless the context requires a different
meaning, "program" means a modified program that provides special materials
or services and may include the employment of itinerant

teachers or resource room teachers for the visually impaired. The Virginia
Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired shall prepare and deliver a

program of special education services in addition to the special education
provided in the public school system designed to meet the educational needs

of visually impaired children students between the ages of birth and
twenty-one 21 and may prepare and deliver such programs for such individuals

of other ages. In the development of such a program, the 

Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired shall cooperate with
the Board of Education and the school boards of the several school
divisions.

The Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired shall assist the
Board of Education and the school boards of the several school divisions

with in-service training in Braille for currently employed teachers of
students who are blind and visually impaired. 

C. As used in this section:

"Braille" means the system of reading and writing through touch and is
commonly known as standard English Braille Grade 2. 

"Program" means a modified

program which provides special materials or services and may include the
employment of itinerant teachers or resource room teachers for the visually

impaired. 

"Visually impaired" shall be defined by the Board of Education and the
Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired.

 

Tracy Soforenko

 

Tracy.soforenko at gmail.com

202 285-4595

 



From holleymanor at verizon.net  Sun Jan 10 01:20:30 2016
From: holleymanor at verizon.net (Rick Holley)
Date: Sat, 09 Jan 2016 20:20:30 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] NFBV At Large Meeting for Jan.
Message-ID: <4A15C2C9EEDA40A3B47E8D778E70BF61@LENOVO0A00C700>

Greetings one and all,

Date: Jan. 12
Time: 8 PM
Subject: Newsline
Speaker: Scott White, Newsline Director
Tele. No.: 877-394-5901
Passcode: 6149670

Join us for a great meeting.

Rick Holley

From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Mon Jan 11 12:37:23 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Mon, 11 Jan 2016 07:37:23 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Washington Seminar fact sheets
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS8DEE5BE93EAFCAAF173C38FC90@phx.gbl>

Hello everyone!

I'm happy to report that the fact sheets for the 2016 Washington Seminar are up at https://nfb.org/washington-seminar Additional formats will be made available shortly.

We will be discussing four issues this year:  1) the TIME Act, 2) AIM HEA, 3) Space Available, and 4) Marrakesh Treaty. Please review and be ready to tell our elected representatives and senators that they work for us!

Along those lines, there will be a legislative seminar from 2-4pm on Monday, January 25 at the Holiday Inn Capitol, preceding the Great Gathering, which starts at 5pm. This is a great opportunity to delve into the issues and practice our pitches to Virginia elected officials.

Additionally, there will be a reception from 5-7pm on Tuesday, January 26, on Capitol Hill. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. These receptions are an excellent venue to network and even talk with a couple representatives and senators (hopefully). 

If you can't make it to Washington Seminar, you can still help! Please contact your representatives and senators and request to meet them in their district offices. I believe the House will not be in session the week of January 18. Perhaps you could meet with them and tell them that NFBV members will be meeting with Congressional members and staff on January 26-28 discussing the same priorities listed above. If you have been personally affected by policy we are discussing,simply tell your story. Also, if you are more comfortable with writing, write a letter! Whatever you do, it is extremely important to please keep me and Jeanette Gholson informed of your activities. If you need help finding your representatives, senators, or delegates and state senators for that matter, you can go to http://decarboxy.com/repfind and type in your address. After 20-30 seconds, you should obtain the contact information in an accessible format. Or you can contact me at (256) 810-2138 or Jeanette Gholson at (804) 674-4944.

Stephanie H. DeLuca, Ph.D.
stephanie.h.deluca at gmail.com
256.810.2138

In the field of observation, chance favors only the prepared mind.
    ~Louis Pasteur, lecture 1854


From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Mon Jan 11 17:15:34 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Mon, 11 Jan 2016 12:15:34 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] roommate wanted for Washington Seminar
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS179B317FCC1F9E5C808C068FC90@phx.gbl>

Carolena Garrison is looking to share a room at Washington Seminar.  For more information, contact Carolena directly at:

Lena Garrisonmailto:Garrisongarrisonlena1 at gmail.com;



From michaelgkasey at verizon.net  Wed Jan 13 20:44:38 2016
From: michaelgkasey at verizon.net (Michael Kasey)
Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2016 15:44:38 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Agenda for NFBV Board of Directors meeting Monday
 January 18 from 2 to 5 pm
Message-ID: <000001d14e43$48866e40$d9934ac0$@verizon.net>

National Federation of the Blind of Virginia (NFBV)

Meeting of the Board of Directors

Monday, January 18, 2016

 

2:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M.

 

Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired

Library and Resource Center

395 Azalea Avenue

Richmond, Virginia 23227

 

I.                    Call to order and Invocation 

 

     II.                    Roll call and introduction of guests

 

III.                    Reading & Approval of minutes from October 30, 2015

meeting of the NFBV Board of Directors; Jennifer Shields)

 

IV.                    Treasurer's report; Mark Roane, Treasurer

 

   V.                    Administrative issues

 

A.     All chapters should submit updated membership lists, including email

addresses, for the Affiliate Email Distribution List; Affiliate dues from
Chapters  

 

B.     Consideration of changing affiliate mileage reimbursement From 57.5
to 54 cents per mile

C. Audio System for affiliate - Brian McCann

C.     NFBV website update;

D.     NFB NewslineR report: John Halverson

 

   VI.                    2016 NFBV Committee Assignments 

 

A.     Meet the Blind Month;

B.     Fundraising; Leon Anderson and Bernie Werwie

C.     Membership; Mary Durbin and Joe Hobson

D.     Scholarship; Brian Miller and Chelsea Cooke

 

E.      McDonald Fellowship Program; Sandy Halverson

F.      Imagination Fund; 

G.     Shares Unlimited in the National Federation of the Blind (SUN; Sandy
Halverson

H.  BELL Program;  Brittany Savage and Nancy Yeager

I.                    IEP Advocacy;  Sandy Halverson

J. Career Education - Patrick Johnson

K. Convention Operations & Logistics - Brian McCann

L. Communications - John Bailey -  

 

  

VII.                    Upcoming 2016 Washington Seminar, Stephanie Deluca

VIII.                    2016 National Convention 

 

 

A.     Dates and location; June 30 - July 5 Orlando

 

 

B.     Subsidies; Michael

 

 

C.     Reminder of the need to have chapter pledges to:

 

 

1. White Cane Fund;

 

 

2. Jacobus tenBroek Fund;

 

 

3. SUN;

 

 

4. Jernigan Fund; 

 

 

5. NFB Camp. 

 

 

 

2015 NFBV Convention Survey Results - tracy Soforenko

2016 NFBV Convention Plans - Brian McCann      

 

 

 

 

    IX.                    Richmond Seminar - Jeanette Gholson, Legislative
Co-Chair

A.     2015 issues  - Tracy Soforenko

B.     Group assignments  - Jeanette

 

 

 

 

 

 

XI.         .         Brainstorming Topics for a Facilitated Small Group
Workshop for May 2016 - Deepa

 

XII.         .         Commissioner Hopkins Question & Answers

XIII. Presentation of the  Career Education Committee

XIV. Communications Committee  Updates

 

XV.                    Other business

 

Date and location of next Board meeting (May 7 or 21).

 

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.

 



From tracy.soforenko at gmail.com  Thu Jan 14 01:42:32 2016
From: tracy.soforenko at gmail.com (Tracy Soforenko)
Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2016 20:42:32 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] 2016 Priorities of the Blind - Richmond Seminar
Message-ID: <113201d14e6c$d69182f0$83b488d0$@gmail.com>

Please find the 2016 Richmond Seminar  Legislative Priorities From
Virginia's Blind below and attached.

 

Michael Kasey, President
1305 Prince Edward Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401
(540) 760 - 3885
michaelgkasey at verizon.net
           

 

 

 

2016 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES FROM THE BLIND OF VIRGINIA

 

Priority #1: Virginia's Blind Students Deserve Literacy Equal to their
Sighted Peers

 

Action:  Co-patron HB 166 (Patron Delegate Cole, 88th District) which
requires a research-based assessment of the literacy needs of Virginia's
blind and low vision students as a component of a student's Individual
Education Plan (IEP).

 

Issue:  Visually impaired students in Virginia are not obtaining the
literacy skills to achieve future employment. Since most visually impaired
students have some residual vision, students are taught to read using large
print, even when Braille, or a combination of large print and Braille, would
best meet the students' current and future needs. While Braille is the
presumed reading media, Virginia schools are teaching Braille to only 100 of
Virginia's 1,200 blind and low vision students. Thus, Virginia's blind and
low vision students are falling behind their sighted peers because they are
not provided the literacy skills to keep pace. While 70% of blind Americans
are unemployed, 90% of those who are employed know Braille. The future
success and employment of Virginia's blind and low vision students depends
on literacy. Virginia has no specific requirements for the reading media
assessment. As a result, bias, cost, and familiarity often drive the use of
large print, when Braille, or both large print and Braille, would best meet
the students' current and future needs.

 

Solution:  HB 166 requires use of a research based, data driven and valid
literacy assessment tool. The literacy assessment must provide the IEP team
of parents, teachers, administrators and the teacher for the visually
impaired student an objective recommendation for meeting the student's
current and future needs, as compared with sighted peers. Existing literacy
assessment tools meeting this standard include a free tool developed by
Louisiana Tech University, the National Reading Media Assessment (NRMA).
Since the entire assessment can be completed in just over an hour, the NRMA
could be easily performed annually. The 2015 Fiscal Impact Statement was $0.
In 2014, the identical bill, SB 291 (Patron Senator Carrico, 40th District)
/ HB 228 (Patron Delegate Cole) passed the full Senate and the House
Education Committee. In 2015, the identical bill, HB 1325 (Patron Delegate
Cole), passed the House Education Committee. The National Federation of the
Blind of Virginia urges your support of HB 166 (Patron Delegate Cole).

 

Additional Priorities:

Priority #2:  Keep the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI)
as a separate agency. The Virginia DBVI should remain a separate agency
responsible for serving the unique needs of Virginia's blind citizens. The
National Federation of the Blind of Virginia opposes any action to merge
DBVI into other agencies.

 

Priority #3:  Support blind entrepreneurs. Virginia's Business Opportunities
for the Blind vending program provides a priority opportunity for blind
entrepreneurs licensed by DBVI to operate vending facilities in state
buildings. The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia opposes efforts
to weaken the priority for blind entrepreneurs.

 

*****

 

ABOUT THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND

 

We are your neighbors, changing what it means to be blind. The National
Federation of the Blind is America's largest and most active organization of
the blind. With more than 50,000 members, we are not an "agency" claiming to
speak for the blind; we are blind people speaking for ourselves. In
Virginia, we are organized into 13 local chapters in major population
centers, and into various special interest divisions. Through advocacy, peer
support, scholarships, specialized literature, student seminars, free white
canes, and much more, we do whatever it takes to promote full integration of
the blind into society on terms of equality.   

 

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From tracy.soforenko at gmail.com  Thu Jan 14 05:19:58 2016
From: tracy.soforenko at gmail.com (Tracy Soforenko)
Date: Thu, 14 Jan 2016 00:19:58 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Brainstorming May Seminar Ideas at the January 18
	Board Meeting
Message-ID: <12a001d14e8b$363cccf0$a2b666d0$@gmail.com>

>From Deepa Goraya:

 

Hello all,

 

At our May 2016 board meeting, we are thinking of having a group seminar
before or after the meeting. One of the agenda items at next week's board
meeting will be brainstorming on possible ideas for the seminar. We are
asking you to think in advance about challenges facing the affiliate and/or
your chapter in the  areas of programming, energizing members, fund raising,
or making our work more meaningful. Some seminar suggestions are having a
legislative workshop, a seminar on how to infuse NFB philosophy into our
chapter programming, how to make fund raising fun, and how to build
leadership succession and development into our chapters. These are only a
few suggestions. We would like plenty more. Please keep your ideas in mind
as we discuss topics for the seminar next week. For those who cannot make
the board meeting next week but have ideas to contribute, please email me by
this Sunday evening, January 17th with your ideas. My email is
deepa.goraya at gmail.com.

 

Thank you.

 

Deepa Goraya

NFBV Leadership Fellow

 



From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Thu Jan 14 12:52:21 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Thu, 14 Jan 2016 07:52:21 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] #1 Priority of legislative agend of NFBV at
	Richmond Seminar
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS2DF19BCE17FCD137B93F88FCC0@phx.gbl>

2016 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES FROM THE BLIND OF VIRGINIA


Priority #1: Virginia's Blind Students Deserve Literacy Equal to their
Sighted Peers



Action:  Co-patron HB 166 (Patron Delegate Cole, 88th District) which
requires a research-based assessment of the literacy needs of Virginia's
blind and low vision students as a component of a student's Individual
Education Plan (IEP).



Issue:  Visually impaired students in Virginia are not obtaining the
literacy skills to achieve future employment. Since most visually impaired
students have some residual vision, students are taught to read using large
print, even when Braille, or a combination of large print and Braille, would
best meet the students' current and future needs. While Braille is the
presumed reading media, Virginia schools are teaching Braille to only 100 of
Virginia's 1,200 blind and low vision students. Thus, Virginia's blind and
low vision students are falling behind their sighted peers because they are
not provided the literacy skills to keep pace. While 70% of blind Americans
are unemployed, 90% of those who are employed know Braille. The future
success and employment of Virginia's blind and low vision students depends
on literacy. Virginia has no specific requirements for the reading media
assessment. As a result, bias, cost, and familiarity often drive the use of
large print, when Braille, or both large print and Braille, would best meet
the students' current and future needs.



Solution:  HB 166 requires use of a research based, data driven and valid
literacy assessment tool. The literacy assessment must provide the IEP team
of parents, teachers, administrators and the teacher for the visually
impaired student an objective recommendation for meeting the student's
current and future needs, as compared with sighted peers. Existing literacy
assessment tools meeting this standard include a free tool developed by
Louisiana Tech University, the National Reading Media Assessment (NRMA).
Since the entire assessment can be completed in just over an hour, the NRMA
could be easily performed annually. The 2015 Fiscal Impact Statement was $0.
In 2014, the identical bill, SB 291 (Patron Senator Carrico, 40th District)
/ HB 228 (Patron Delegate Cole) passed the full Senate and the House
Education Committee. In 2015, the identical bill, HB 1325 (Patron Delegate
Cole), passed the House Education Committee. The National Federation of the
Blind of Virginia urges your support of HB 166 (Patron Delegate Cole).



From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Thu Jan 14 12:56:07 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Thu, 14 Jan 2016 07:56:07 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Other Priorities of NFBV legislation agenda at
	Richmond Seminar
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS20F65CB8DBA63A540F99B48FCC0@phx.gbl>



2016 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES FROM THE BLIND OF VIRGINIA

Priority #2:  Keep the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI)
as a separate agency. The Virginia DBVI should remain a separate agency
responsible for serving the unique needs of Virginia's blind citizens. The
National Federation of the Blind of Virginia opposes any action to merge
DBVI into other agencies.



Priority #3:  Support blind entrepreneurs. Virginia's Business Opportunities
for the Blind vending program provides a priority opportunity for blind
entrepreneurs licensed by DBVI to operate vending facilities in state
buildings. The National Federation of the Blind of Virginia opposes efforts
to weaken the priority for blind entrepreneurs.



*****



ABOUT THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND



We are your neighbors, changing what it means to be blind. The National
Federation of the Blind is America's largest and most active organization of
the blind. With more than 50,000 members, we are not an "agency" claiming to
speak for the blind; we are blind people speaking for ourselves. In
Virginia, we are organized into 13 local chapters in major population
centers, and into various special interest divisions. Through advocacy, peer
support, scholarships, specialized literature, student seminars, free white
canes, and much more, we do whatever it takes to promote full integration of
the blind into society on terms of equality.   









======================================= 
John Bailey:: Tel 703.994.2040 
Chairman, Communications Committee, NFB of Virginia 
President, Fairfax Chapter National Federation of the Blind of Virginia 
Click here for chapter information 
www.NFBV.org 
Like us on Facebook! 
Subscribe to our Youtube channel! 

From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Thu Jan 14 22:31:00 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Thu, 14 Jan 2016 17:31:00 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Help bring about a more accessible Internet
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS42105E9CED4FFF2452BED8FCC0@phx.gbl>



Dear Colleagues,



Help make the Internet more accessible by joining our petition!





You may have heard that the NFB has launched a petition calling on the Obama administration to release the ADA internet regulations without delay. The ADA internet regulations  are essential because these guidelines ensure that the future of the Internet is accessible to all. Unfortunately, the longer it takes for the ADA internet regulations  to be published, the longer it will take before you will be able to easily access all the Internet's resources.



We are letting the White House know that we need the regulations released now and we are doing this through a national petition.



In order for the administration to respond to our petition, we need to secure 100,000 signatures by February 11, 2016, which is no small task. Here is where you come in; the NFB is relying on your leadership in the Federation to promote our petition, encourage our fellow members not only to sign it, but also to share it on their personal Facebook pages, Twitter accounts, and all other social media outlets.



You are leaders in your communities; members of clubs, churches, civic organizations, etc. Please take time to encourage any and all members of clubs/organizations that you are a part of to sign and share our petition as well. We need all hands on deck, and I know we are always up to the challenge. I look forward to seeing many of you in D.C. for Washington Seminar in the coming weeks, but until then, happy signing/sharing! Each signature brings us closer to a more accessible Internet for all.





You can access the petition here

https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/direct-us-department-justice-promptly-release-ada-internet-regulations



For more information, send inquiries to NFBVCC at hotmail.com






From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Sun Jan 17 18:48:03 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Sun, 17 Jan 2016 13:48:03 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Help Make the Internet Accessible to All: Deadline
	is coming!
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS2184F31B3A8A3D3DE923DB8FCF0@phx.gbl>

Help Make the Internet Accessible to All:  Deadline is coming!


Dear Colleagues,
The NFB wants to thank all of those who have already put their names to the petition that will make the Internet more accessible to the vision impaired. Unfortunately, time is running out for those who have not clicked on the link below yet. 

You need to act now! Once the deadline is here, it is gone.

For information about this time-sensitive petition that will increase our independence, read the information below and click the link right away.

Help make the Internet more accessible by joining our petition!

You may have heard that the NFB has launched a petition calling on the Obama administration to release the ADA internet regulations without delay. The ADA internet regulations are essential because these guidelines ensure that the future of the Internet is accessible to all. Unfortunately, the longer it takes for the ADA internet regulations to be published, the longer it will take before you will be able to easily access all the Internet's resources.

We are letting the White House know that we need the regulations released now and we are doing this through a national petition.

In order for the administration to respond to our petition, we need to secure 100,000 signatures by February 11, 2016, which is no small task. Here is where you come in; the NFB is relying on your leadership in the Federation to promote our petition, encourage our fellow members not only to sign it, but also to share it on their personal Facebook pages, Twitter accounts, and all other social media outlets.

You are leaders in your communities; members of clubs, churches, civic organizations, etc. Please take time to encourage any and all members of clubs/organizations that you are a part of to sign and share our petition as well. We need all hands on deck, and I know we are always up to the challenge. I look forward to seeing many of you in D.C. for Washington Seminar in the coming weeks, but until then, happy signing/sharing! Each signature brings us closer to a more accessible Internet for all.

You can access the petition here

https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/direct-us-department-justice-promptly-release-ada-internet-regulations

For more information, send inquiries to NFBVCC at hotmail.com

From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Sun Jan 17 19:52:10 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Sun, 17 Jan 2016 14:52:10 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Jan. NFBV Communications Committee Meeting is
	Cancelled for the 19
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS14C029051EACE7A01B22838FCF0@phx.gbl>

The January 19, 2016  meeting of the NFBV Communications Committee has been cancelled. We will have just gotten back from Richmond Seminar.

We will have our February 16, 2016 meeting to talk about all the great content from the seminars and to discuss how we can promote our National Scholarships.

P.S. For those attending Richmond and Washington Seminars, don't forget to take lots of pictures with your representatives and to document your adventures. We need to share that info with others.  Don't worry if you can't take pictures. Bring your cameras and smartphones and have the Legislative Assistants take the pictures of you and your representatives. They will love it!

Email your photos and other content to nfbvcc at hotmail.com to have it shared on social media and our website.

John Bailey
703.994.2040





======================================= 
John Bailey:: Tel 703.994.2040 
Chairman, Communications Committee, NFB of Virginia 
President, Fairfax Chapter National Federation of the Blind of Virginia 
Click here for chapter information 
www.NFBV.org 
Like us on Facebook! 
Subscribe to our Youtube channel! 

From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Mon Jan 18 10:25:39 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Mon, 18 Jan 2016 05:25:39 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] We need your help to prepare for Washington Seminar
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS11B74CDAEE714DA5FF1358FC00@phx.gbl>

Dear NFBV Chapter Presidents,

In our discussion of Washington Seminar, we will be asking each chapter to provide a final list of members attending the seminar on January 25-28. This is to help us optimize appointments such that constituents are meeting with their elected Congressmen and Congresswomen. We very much appreciate your help in making Washington Seminar one of the most effective means of bringing about change on behalf of blind Virginians. Please come with the names and contact information of people from your chapter who will be attending. Thanks very much, and I'm looking forward to seeing you all in Richmond!

Very best,

Stephanie DeLuca


Stephanie H. DeLuca, Ph.D.
stephanie.h.deluca at gmail.com
256.810.2138


From fschroeder at sks.com  Wed Jan 20 12:18:37 2016
From: fschroeder at sks.com (Fredric Schroeder)
Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2016 07:18:37 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Used Aids and Appliances
Message-ID: <007b01d1537c$b0f48500$12dd8f00$@sks.com>

Good morning all:

 

A very good friend of mine, Patty Homan, is from Peru. She will be traveling
to Peru next month for a visit. Patty has offered to take slates and
styluses, folding canes, talking and braille watches and any other device
for the blind that people are able to donate. 

 

If you can help, please send whatever you have to Patty at

 

8315 North Brook Lane 

Bethesda, MD  20814 

 

If you have any questions, you may reach Patty at

 

patriciahoman01 at hotmail.com

 

or by phone at

 

(202) 390-0375 

 

Any help would be sincerely appreciated.

 

Best,

 

Fred Schroeder 

 



From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Thu Jan 21 20:31:54 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Thu, 21 Jan 2016 15:31:54 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Fairfax Chapter meeting cancelled for this evening
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS135AB9B572B9D3931C24C78FC30@phx.gbl>

We are cancelling tonight?s chapter meeting. My street is very icy and have received no calls indicating that anyone is coming.



Look forward to seeing everyone at the next meeting.





Cathy Schroeder




From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Thu Jan 21 23:52:31 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Thu, 21 Jan 2016 18:52:31 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] NFB Washington Seminar Agenda + Fact Sheets Posted
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS968AE4EA8F8ABE94A78E38FC30@phx.gbl>


The Washington Seminar is an annual event of the National Federation of the Blind to introduce the agenda of blind Americans--the priority issues requiring congressional attention over the coming year. The issues are selected from official positions of the Federation. Approximately three legislative initiatives are chosen for priority attention during the Washington Seminar.

To find the agenda and fact sheets for the 2016 Washington Seminar using the telephone access method, press 1 off the main menu for National Channel, then press 1 again to reach the NFB National Channel, then press 5 for the NFB 2016 Washington Seminar Agenda Information and press 6 for the NFB 2016 Washington Seminar Fact Sheets. To find this material using the NFB-NEWSLINE Mobile app, press Publications on the main screen, then Publication Options, then choose All Publications, then search for NFB 2016 Washington Seminar Agenda or NFB 2016 Washington Seminar Fact Sheets. 

To those of you traveling to DC for the Washington Seminar, we wish you safe travels and hope to see you there!

Your NFB-NEWSLINE Team

NFB-NEWSLINE, A service of the National Federation of the Blind

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.


From michaelgkasey at verizon.net  Fri Jan 22 01:48:07 2016
From: michaelgkasey at verizon.net (Michael Kasey)
Date: Thu, 21 Jan 2016 20:48:07 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Next NFB of Virginia Board meeting date
Message-ID: <000d01d154b6$f1337f00$d39a7d00$@verizon.net>

Members of the Board of Directors and all attendees of our meeting on
January 18,

 

We appreciate your active participation in the Board meeting and Richmond
Seminar.  I regret we did not settle on the date for our next NFB of
Virginia Board meeting.  I recommend we meet in Richmond at the Virginia
Rehabilitation Center (VRC) on Saturday May 7 from 11 am to 3 pm.  Chapter
Delegates please reply to me at michaelgkasey at verizon.net
<mailto:michaelgkasey at verizon.net>  with your confirmation that you are able
to attend.  All members are welcome.

 

Thank you,

Michael

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.

 



From michaelgkasey at verizon.net  Fri Jan 22 13:21:16 2016
From: michaelgkasey at verizon.net (Michael Kasey)
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 2016 08:21:16 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Party at Washington Seminar with the National
 Association of Blind Students (NABS) Cafe Fundraiser
Message-ID: <001301d15517$c697c920$53c75b60$@verizon.net>

I have to ask. Do you like delectable desserts? Live music? To enjoy a
cocktail or two while chatting with Federation friends old and new? If you
said ?yes,? I have fabulous news for you! NABS will be holding our annual
NABS Caf? fundraiser from 8pm to midnight on Tuesday, January 26. Buy a
wristband from any member of the NABS Board for $5 prior to 7pm on Tuesday,
or pay $7 at the door. Either way, the cheesecake, chocolate mousse, and
other tasty treats will satisfy your sweet tooth and the sweet sounds of
Parnell Diggs, Katelyn McIntyre, and other talented Federation musicians
will keep you tappin? your toes. And, as always, Jackie Brown will be
helping us auction off some great items, including: Sea World passes;
gourmet chocolate, coffee, and wine; Bluetooth speakers; state themed
baskets; an AppleTV; and much more! And, who knows, we might even get the
band back together for a little bit of Rhythm of the Movement, the songs of
the Federation!

 

So after you hit the Hill and enjoy the reception, come relax with us back
at the Holiday Inn. And, come early, before all that cheesecake gets gobbled
up!

 

Have a fantastic weekend,

 

Sean

 

Sean Whalen

President, National Association of Blind Students

 

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.

 



From john_bailey17 at hotmail.com  Fri Jan 22 16:30:20 2016
From: john_bailey17 at hotmail.com (John Bailey)
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 2016 11:30:20 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Team members going to Washington Seminar next week
Message-ID: <BLU173-DS160DFBBACDF5A61D09E4D18FC40@phx.gbl>

Next week, despite the Blizzard of 2016, volunteers from the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia (NFBV) will be joining hundreds of other Federationists from around the country in DC at an event we call Washington Seminar.



Washington Seminar is an annual event where Federationists from across the country visit their Senators and Congressmen in our Nation?s Capital to educate their national representatives about issues that are important to the NFB?s goals of independence and security.



There are four teams going to DC from Virginia. Below is a list of the team leaders and members who are giving their time in order to promote a better life for the rest of us. 



Team 1:

Stephanie DeLuca 

Tracy Soforenko 

Billie Ruth Schlank 

Michael Kasey

 Brittany Savage



Team 2: 

Charles S. Brown (lead)

Sarah Blumberg

Sean McMahon



Team 3:  

Jeannette Gholson (lead)

Robert Parsons

Urika Harrison

Melody Roane

Deepa Goraya



    Team 4:  Mark Roane (lead), 

Caitlin Kasalo

John Bailey  

Carolena Garrison

Andre Tynes

Althea Pittman





Please wish the team members success.










From michaelgkasey at verizon.net  Fri Jan 29 16:43:44 2016
From: michaelgkasey at verizon.net (Michael Kasey)
Date: Fri, 29 Jan 2016 11:43:44 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] Great Washington Seminar despite the 2016 Snow
Message-ID: <000001d15ab4$382cd390$a8867ab0$@verizon.net>

Members of the NFB of  Virginia,

 

The snow caused challenges but didn't stop  the NFB of Virginia. While we
had anticipated our largest contingent from Virginia to attend Congressional
visits on Tuesday and Wednesday, many were challenged by cancellation of
Amtrak, bus,  and Virginia Railway Express service.  We are grateful that so
many people tried to make it this year and we hope you will join us in 2017.
Fortunately, we were able to arrange for sufficient participation to field 2
strong teams for our Capitol Hill visits. Our teams were  able to meet with
congressional staffers from all but 1 of the offices. 

 

Accolades are due to Stephanie Deluca who booked an rebooked our
appointments, ensured our teams were representative and served as an
extremely capable leader. Kudos Stephanie!

In addition to Stephanie, the following individuals were able to make the
appointments: 

Charlie Brown

Billie Ruth Schlank

Sean McMahon

Sarah Blumberg

John  Bailey

Kimberly Copenhaver

Corolena Garrison

Tracy Soforenko

 

We truly appreciate your efforts.

 

Thank you!

Michael Kasey

President

National Federation of the Blind of Virginia

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.

 



From michaelgkasey at verizon.net  Fri Jan 29 20:24:05 2016
From: michaelgkasey at verizon.net (Michael Kasey)
Date: Fri, 29 Jan 2016 15:24:05 -0500
Subject: [Nfbv-announce] 2016 NFBV Raffle!
Message-ID: <000001d15ad3$00500ae0$00f020a0$@verizon.net>

Members,

 

We are preparing for another successful 2016 NFBV Raffle of $2500.  Our new
Affiliate Fund raising Committee Chair, Leon Anderson is seeking the "go
ahead" to purchase the tickets.  If you support this and are willing to yet
again  promote the NFB and raise some money for us, send an email to me and
Leon voicing your commitment along with questions.

Thank you,

michaelgkasey at verizon.net <mailto:michaelgkasey at verizon.net> 

Leon Anderson (leon9533 at gmail.com <mailto:leon9533 at gmail.com> )

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.

 



