Michigan Commission for the Blind to Meet April 19, 2004, in Kalamazoo

Contact: Maura Campbell, 517.373.9280

April 7, 2004 - The Michigan Commission for the Blind (MCB) will hold its bimonthly meeting on Monday, April 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the MCB Training Center, 1541 Oakland Drive, in Kalamazoo. The public portion of the agenda will begin at 10:00 a.m.

In addition to the regular updates by commission staff, the April meeting agenda includes an MCB Technology Committee report beginning at approximately 11:00 a.m. on technology for people who are blind, followed by a presentation by Jeff Moyer, Vice President of Marketing at Talking Signs, Inc. The talking sign technology enables blind persons to “read” signs in the environment by broadcasting information using infrared technology. After lunch at approximately 1:00 p.m., the agenda will resume with reports on various activities at the MCB Training Center, including a consumer panel on student experiences and information on the center’s World of Work Program.

The meeting site is accessible. Individuals attending the meeting are requested to refrain from using heavily scented personal care products, in order to enhance accessibility for everyone. People with disabilities requiring additional services or alternative formats in order to participate in the meeting should call Tish Kingaby at (517) 335-4265.

MCB provides opportunities for individuals who are blind to achieve independence and/or employment. The commission’s five-member policy board, appointed by the governor, oversees programs throughout Michigan and serves an average of more than 4,500 state residents annually. For more information, see the MCB website at www.mcb1.org or call MCB toll-free at 1-800-292-4200 (voice/TTY).

In December 2003, the Michigan Commission for the Blind became a part of the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG), the newest department of state government. DLEG is charged with promoting economic growth, stimulating job creation, and enhancing the quality of life for Michigan citizens.

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