NCLD's 2008 "Voices of LD" Competition

From NCLD:
Calling all creative people with learning disabilities.

In honor of our 31st anniversary, the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) is looking for self-portraits that capture what life is like for individuals with learning disabilities (LD).

What story does your portrait tell? Share with us expressions of your hopes, dreams, struggles and successes. Show us what the world is like through your eyes. Help us to celebrate the unique vision of children and adults affected by LD.

Selected submissions will be showcased on our Web site and at our Annual Benefit Dinner in April. In addition, our grand prize will be a trip to New York City and a chance to attend our Annual Benefit Dinner honoring Ted Turner. Two runners-up will receive $200 each. Prizes will be awarded for outstanding works in each of the following categories:

* Children: 4-12 years old
* Teens: 13-17 years old
* Adults: 18 and older

To enter, please send NCLD your submission(s), a photo of the artist, a short paragraph (three to five sentences) written by the artist detailing their experience with LD, and completed release forms. Grand prize winners must provide relevant documentation of a specific learning disability.

If you have any questions, please email Teneille Craig. All entries must be received no later than Friday, February 8, 2008. Click here to download rules and requirements of the competition.

ASL Christmas Carol Tonight

From Colleen Kelly, Director of American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse:
"An ASL Interpreted performance of A Christmas Carol has been scheduled for Wednesday, December 19, 2007 at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, Virginia. Pre-show entertainment begins at 7:15 and the performance starts at 7:30. Please feel free to share this announcement with family and friends who would like to attend a signed performance.

Lindsey Snyder, ASL Interpreter, will be signing from the house-left side of the playhouse. To best see both the play and the interpreter, I recommend you purchase reserved seating in the house-center or house-right sections of rows D through K or purchase general admission seating which will allow you, upon arrival, to choose seats in the house-right side galley on the lower level of the playhouse or house-center or house-right in the upper balcony. Although we usually don’t reserve seats for general admission, I have asked the house staff to hold seats in the above sections for you the evening of Wednesday, December 19. Please arrive early if you would like to take advantage of this seating option.

To purchase tickets, please visit the box office in person at the playhouse, contact the box office by phone at 540-851-1733, or e-mail our box office at tickets@americanshakespearecenter.com. Let the box office staff know that you want the best seats to see both the play and the interpreter. If you are making your purchase through e-mail, please also include your name and contact information, the date of the show, and your preference for purchasing your tickets (you may reserve your tickets and purchase them Wednesday evening or pay through the e-mail by including your credit card number and card expiration date). We recommend you do not use our on-line purchasing system as it assigns random seating rather than an option of specific seating."

Calling All Artists & Photographers!!!

Manchester National Juried Fine Arts Exhibition 2008

Deadline (Postmark): Friday, February 8, 2008

12 12 Gallery is pleased to announce an open call to artists and photographers for its second annual Manchester National Juried Fine Art Exhibition.

Artists age 18+, working in 2D and 3D any medium, in the United States and Canada may submit up to 10 slides or digital files of work to be considered for the exhibition. The exhibition will be curated by N. Elizabeth Schlatter, Deputy Director and Curator of Exhibitions, University of Richmond Museums, and will award over $1000 in cash prizes.

N. Elizabeth Schlatter, has curated more than 20 exhibitions, including the recent exhibition “Leaded”, and of work by Andreas Feininger, Hans Friedrich Grohs, and Fiona Ross. As an independent curator and writer, Ms. Schlatter has organized exhibitions for contemporary art spaces in the mid-Atlantic region, and has authored several articles and essays for Focus and Photovision magazines, the National Women in the Arts Bulletin, and the American National Biography (Oxford University Press), among others. She is also author of the on-line publication “Become An Art Curator.” Prior to working at the University of Richmond she was an exhibitions project director for the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) in Washington, D.C.

You can submit your work online, download the Prospectus and a printable entry form or get more information about submitting work for this exhibition by visiting the Call for Entries page on the 12 12 Gallery website.

SOCIETY FOR DISABILITY STUDIES "LOGO DESIGN" CONTEST

What does SDS mean to you? How do you see us represented? SDS is revamping its public image, and we are seeking a new logo to help define what SDS represents now and where you would like to see the organization headed in the future. Design a logo that captures the spirit and sensibility of SDS and help us build a consistent "brand" to be used across all SDS materials that truly represents your SDS!

Please circulate this flyer to artists, advocates, educators, web designers, etc, creative and non-creative people alike.

Submissions need not come from SDS members. But they should meet the following criteria:

* All designs must be original artwork.

* The logo should represent disability in a way that people from diverse communities and perspectives can identify with.

* The logo should not represent any singular disability; instead, it should illustrate a multi-faceted, cross-disability design.

* The logo should have high contrast and/or other considerations for blind and visually impaired access.

* Submissions should consider universal design objectives generally

* There are no size requirements, but design should be able to withstand scaling (up and down) to various sizes.

* All else being equal, SDS members will receive priority. (So if you are not a member already, please consider joining now!

Please submit the logo as a power point slide or jpeg attachment, and include a short paragraph about how the design represents SDS. (Photos will not be accepted.)

The new Society for Disability Studies logo will be widely used on both formal and informal items: letterhead, web pages, merchandise, etc. It is one way to have a lasting impact on SDS and the disability community at large. The winner, selected by the SDS Board, will receive widespread recognition and a free one-year membership to SDS (other prizes available.)

Please email submissions or further inquiries to Christine Komoroski McCohnell and Michele Friedner

All submissions must be received by November 30, 2007. The winner will be announced in mid-December.

Seventh Poetry Book Released by VSA arts of Virginia - Charlottesville

VSA Arts of Charlottesville Albemarle announces the release of their seventh Poetry Book, See Always With Your Heart, written by individuals with disabilities and their caregivers in central Virginia. See Always With Your Heart originates in the love of human experiences and imagination. The publication is a result of an ongoing poetry project sponsored by the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County Parks and Recreation Departments, in collaboration with the Charlottesville/Albemarle VSA Arts. The project promotes writing, creativity skills and the therapeutic value of poetry for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.

Serving as an inspiring collection of one hundred and seventeen poems and short stories, See Always With Your Heart, is written and designed by individuals who want to share their daily accomplishments, as well as struggles, taking you along on their journey. As the title of the book suggest the writers hope the general public will accept them at a heart felt level and not judge them based on outward appearance. The seventy-eight writers represented in See Always With Your Heart represent a much broader voice . . . . . . .they speak for the 58 million Americans with disabilities, the fastest growing minority group that affects one in five households.

The book can be purchased for a $10.00 donation at the Charlottesville Parks and Recreation Department in the City Hall Annex, E. Market Street or by calling 434-970-3264. Anyone interested in helping to promote all forms of art for individuals with disabilities may join the Charlottesville/Albemarle VSA Arts Committee. The committee works closely with VSA Arts of Virginia, an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, dedicated to promoting the creative power in people with disabilities. For program information, call Mildred Spicer (434) 970-3264, Jean Wilhelm (434) 296-3518 or Sarah Blech (434) 975-9400.

Puffin Foundation Artist Grant Awards

Average grant awards are $1,000 to $2,500 each.
Deadline: December 30, 2007

The Puffin Foundation makes grants to emerging artists in the fields of art, music, theater, dance, photography, and literature whose works due to their genre and/or social philosophy might have difficulty being aired.

Grants from the Puffin Foundation can only be awarded to permanent residents and citizens of the United States. U.S. citizens whose projects encompass work in other countries are still eligible to apply. The foundation does not have the means to fund large film/documentary proposals, grants for travel, continuing education, or the writing or publishing of books. Visit the foundation's Web site for information on requesting an application and for descriptions of funded projects.

Funding to Support Arts in K-12 Curriculm

Partners in the Arts awards grants of $250 - $10,000 to support classroom-based projects that integrate visual, literary, and/or performing arts into the K-12 curriculum. Letters of Intent for projects that will take place between February 2008 - February 2009 are due October 29 by 5 p.m.

The Partners in the Arts grant writing handbook and artist registry are now available on our website: http://www.partnersinthearts.com/.

For more information, please contact Rebecca Jones, Director of Partners in
the Arts at 340-5280 or rebecca@richmondarts.org

Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation-AAPD Congressional Internship Program

The national office of VSA arts partners with Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation. They've passed along another Mitsubishi opportunity to share with the network:

The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is accepting applications for a congressional internship program for college students (sophomores and juniors) with disabilities.

Students will work on Capitol Hill in congressional offices for eight (8) weeks and acquire valuable experience in congressional office operations, public policy development, and constituents' roles in the legislative and political processes. The internship program, administered by AAPD, was created in 2002 through a grant from Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation. Students will receive free housing, a stipend of $1,500.00, and round trip airfare to Washington D.C. They will work with a congressional staff member on a significant policy issue.

Applications are due December 14, 2007. http://www.aapd.com/internships/internship08/MEAFinternInfo08.htm

Charlottesville/Albemarle VSA Arts Workshop

PROGRAM: From Brainstorming to Book Signing
FRIDAY, 5, 2007, 10:00 – 12 Noon Workshop
12 – 1:30 PM Pizza Lunch and Discussion with Workshop Leader
TONSLER RECREATION CENTER, 501 CHERRY AVENUE

Nancy Ruth Patterson, an award winning novelist from Roanoke, will discuss many aspects of writing from personal and professional purposes and hints on getting published. The workshop will be interactive with participants doing a short writing to share with group if you feel comfortable sharing. After workshop there will be pizza and informal discussion with one another. Nancy will be available to answer questions and briefly critique writings by VSA writers who are interested in doing so.

Nancy Ruth is the author of The Christmas Cup, The Shiniest Rock of All, A Simple Gift, The Winner’s Walk and many articles on the craft of writing. Her first two novels were professionally adapted as plays by Mill Mountain Theatre. She takes particular joy in sharing her journey as a writer with those who love to read. She also loves to show anyone who secretly dreams about writing how to wake up and get started.

Cost/RSVP: $15 Partial Scholarships available to sign up call Mildred Spicer 970-3264

Event Sponsors are VSA Arts of Charlottesville/Albemarle, and Charlottesville and Albemarle Parks & Recreation Departments.

Longtime VSA arts of Virginia exhibitor passes away

Lori Konkle, painter, passed away this weekend at the age of 78. Lori participated every year in the VSA arts of Virginia - Charlottesville/Albemarle Annual Exhibition. She will be greatly missed by her friends at VSAVA.



"Sunset", Chesapeake Bay
A native of Chicago, Lori Konkle attended Denison University in Granville, Ohio, and received a B.A. Degree in Art Education from Michigan State University. She was an art consultant in the elementary schools in Grand Rapids, Michigan and a high school art teacher in Lansing, Michigan. She was physically challenged by Multiple Sclerosis and painted with a mouthstick brush. In later years, Lori lived near the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and her landscapes often reflect the special character of that area. To view more of Lori's work visit her website.

MusicLink!

MusicLink is starting up again on Tuesday, September 18th at 4:00pm. We will be meeting at the Children's Museum of Richmond in the CMoR playhouse. For those of you who are returning members of the group -- please note that this is a new meeting day and room.

This year we plan to focus on percussion. We will also be watching and learning the pieces that our partners perform on the exchange video that came over the summer. We look forward to seeing you and to hearing your ideas about what we'll share with our exchange partners this school year.

Parents of children who are working on IEP goals are welcome to contact us to discuss goals and/or accommodations that will make it possible for your child to get the most from the program. Any child who has an interest in singing and playing music in an inclusive environment is welcome to participate.

Below we've posted a few clips from the video produced by VSA arts of Virginia's 2006-2007 participants. (We apologize for the low quality -- we're trying to keep our file sizes down). You may view examples of video submitted by other groups by clicking here.



PS: MusicLink is a free program brought to you by VSA arts of Virginia. Donations are always welcome!

The Art of Surviving

We're helping our friend Terry Lynn Smith spread the word:

The Art of Surviving: 3rd Annual Art Show
featuring female artists who have survived breast cancer, mastectomies, or other breast issues.

Seeking female artists who have survived breast issues that would like to share their experiences and stories through their works of art during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 2007.

The Art of Surviving show will open on October 26 at 7:00 p.m. and will display through November 18, 2007 at Art Works
in the Corner Gallery on 320 Hull Street Richmond, Virginia.

Call for entries will be on Saturday, October 20 from Noon – 4:00 p.m. in Studio 125 at Art Works. Artists may submit up to 4 entries. The cost per entry is $5.00. This will be an all media juried show. Work may be of any subject matter that is considered healing to the artist. Artwork may be for sale or for showing only. Artists are encouraged to attend the opening of the show. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Art Works.

The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation will be present to answer questions and share the latest information about breast cancer. Donations may be made that evening to the VBCF in honor or in memory of those whose lives have been affected by breast cancer.

For more information on entry submission, please contact Terry Lynn Smith by October 20th at fibrowoman@hotmail.com or calling 804-731-2481.

Izzy Icarus Fell Off the World

VSA arts Presents
Izzy Icarus Fell Off the World
September 27, 2007, 7:30 pm

Teenage Izzy is fascinated by birds. With beach season fading, he loves to stand on the sand, flap his arms, and watch the gulls take flight for winter. His curious movements have attracted the eye of budding photographer Dove, who waits poised with her camera, convinced he's going to fly. That's why he's called Izzy Icarus, she says, like the character in Greek mythology. When her classmate insists that Izzy, who has autism, is dreaming the impossible, Dove is determined to prove her wrong.

Written by 15-year-old Aliza Goldstein, this winning play was selected for the 23rd annual VSA arts Playwright Discovery Award, one of several VSA arts literary programs which encourage creative writing in middle and high school. A sampling of poetry from these programs will be performed preceding the play. Experience these exciting new works as they leap from the page to the stage! For ages 9 & up.

Tickets Available online at: http://www.kennedy-center.org/tickets

Tickets also available at the Box Office or call:
(202) 467-4600
Toll-free (800) 444-1324
TTY (202) 416-8524
Groups (202) 416-8400

VSA arts is an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. For more information about VSA arts visit www.vsarts.org.

Ukrops Parade Poster Contest

24th Annual Ukrop’s Christmas Parade Poster Contest

THEME: “MAKING RICHMOND HOLIDAY MEMORIES”

WHO: Designers (adults, youth and children) to create a poster that captures the spirit of our city’s Christmas Parade. Submissions will be judged in three categories:

Adult (age 18 and over)
Youth (age 12 to 17)
Child (age 8 to 11)

WHAT: Draw from your favorite parade memory or fashion a piece that shows a bit of everything that makes the parade such a favorite—floats, balloons, marching bands, specialty groups and, of course, Santa!

WHEN: The time to get creative is NOW!
Poster submissions are due by: Friday, September 7th
(for use for the Ukrop’s Christmas Parade in 2007)

HOW: Artwork should be at least 11” x 17” in size (suitable to be converted to a poster). The more colorful and festive the better!

Original artwork cannot be returned. Richmond Parade, Inc. reserves the right to use submitted artwork for promotional purposes related to the Ukrop’s Christmas Parade.

WHERE: Submissions may be turned in the Richmond Parade Office, 2500 Grenoble Rd. or at Art Works, 320 Hull St., www.artworksrichmond.com.

QUESTIONS?: For more information, please contact Richmond Parade, Inc. at: 804-559-6113 or visit www.info@capitalcityholidayfest.org

Winners will receive four VIP passes to all Parade events and will be recognized in printed materials.

Call for Art

If you are a self-taught and/or outsider artist looking to show and sell your work, Art Enables needs to see it by September 7, 2007 to be considered for Outsider Art Inside the Beltway 2007!

Outsider Art Inside the Beltway is an intriguing look at differences in common celebrating the unique voices of dozens of area outsider and self-taught artists.

Outsider Art Inside the Beltway is a juried show of the best of outsider and folk art produced in and around DC in programs that give artists the chance to tell their stories through visual art. Individual self-taught artists will also be featured.

The exhibition will be at the Art Enables Gallery October 13, 2007 from 11 AM to 7 PM, with an opening talk beginning at 5 PM.

To submit work and get more details or information, contact Art Enables at 202.554.9455 or e-mail info@art-enables.org. You can also download the flier here or e-mail the Outside the Lines Program Director at outsidethelinesart@gmail.com for further information. No entry fee.

Outside the Lines & Art Enables @ Positive Vibe Cafe

Curator’s Statement
Art Enables Exhibition | June 16 – August 18, 2007

There is no question that artists with disabilities experience a world quite different from the world that is experienced by those without disabilities. As a result, their artistic strength is generously unfiltered and their art is infused with a directness and enthusiasm that often leaves the viewer filled with a sort of emotional awe.

The artists who work with Art Enables are no different. Many of these artists are, for whatever reason, isolated from mainstream ideas of what “art should look like”. At the Art Enables studio they find an environment where they are free to not only move and listen to their inner muses but also free to explore new techniques and work with quality materials while seeing their work marketed to a broad public that earns them money.

Outside the Lines is proud to be able to exhibit the art of the artists of Art Enables. The work exhibited here shows not only a wide spectrum of color but also a broad spectrum of emotion, grit and whimsy. Each piece is unique, intriguing and idiosyncratic all at once. Every artist featured here gives us an often humorous and unfiltered look at their inner worlds.

If every picture tells a story, it is my hope that you will enjoy the stories told here as much as we do.

Logo Contest

The National Coalition of Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Organizations is having a Logo contest.

We need a logo for T shirts to sell at Alternatives as well as have it for the presidential forum. The Coalition will offer $100 to the winner plus give credit to the artist.

Themes to consider: Rights, Recovery, Hope, Voice. A powerful, uplifting image would be great.

Deadline: August 15th.
Contact: Lauren Spiro, laurenspiro1@gmail.com

Terry Lynn Smith

Our good friend Terry Lynn Smith recently announced that her website has been updated with new work and scheduled shows. Visit the site here.

Want to share your latest news with the VSA arts of Virginia community? Send your news to ehickey_at_vsava.org. (Please replace "_at_" with the @ symbol).

Virginia Commission for the Arts Artist Fellowships in Poetry and Music Composition

Applications are due August 1, 2007 and the application can be downloaded here.

Theatre IV: Auditions for Rumpelstiltskin's Daughter

From the emailer: Auditions for Rumpelstiltskin's Daughter are by appointment only and will be held at Theatre IV's Empire Theatre on Sunday, June 24th from 7:00-9:00pm and Monday, June 25th from 7:00-9:00pm.

Casting 10 actors: 5 Men and 5 Women, age 18 and up, of varied ages and types. All Roles are open.

Those auditioning are asked to prepare 16 bars of a song and to be prepared to dance. Please bring music in the correct key.

Rehearsals will begin on or around September 10, 2007
Performance dates: October 5-21, 2007

All performers will be paid.

Please call 344-8052 x4 to schedule and appointment or for additional information.

Performers Needed

Alliance for Inclusion in the Arts (formerly the Non-Traditional Casting Project) is expanding its Artist Files/Online (AFO) national database for performers with disabilities. Since 1986, the Alliance has been committed to helping meet the casting needs of networks, studios, theatres, artistic directors, and independent producers. AFO has received more than 5,000 consultations from producers, directors, and casting directors from across the country.

If you are a performer with a disability and would like to be included in their national talent database at no charge, please send one headshot and resume to:

Christine Bruno
Disability Advocate
Alliance for Inclusion in the Arts
1560 Broadway, Suite 1600
New York, NY 10036

To ensure proper classification in our database, please include the nature of your disability and any accommodations and/or assistive devices used, along with any union affiliations.

Please note: AFO accepts only professionally reproduced copies of headshots. No Xerox, fax, scanned, or email copies PLEASE. They also keep a hard copy of each headshot and resume on file in their office.

VSA National Call for Entries

"Driven" Call for Entries

Deadline: July 6, 2007 (midnight, MST).

Sponsored by VSA arts and Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Open to emerging artists with disabilities, ages 16 -25, living within the U.S.

No entry fee. "Driven" challenges artists to pinpoint the motivational force behind their artistic expression and to identify the catalyst that sustains their creative energy. Art must be an original work that has been completed in the last three (3) years. Eligible media includes: paintings, drawings, fine art prints, photography, computer-generated prints, and mixed media; must be presented in two dimensions. Artwork should not exceed 60 inches in either direction. Fifteen (15) finalists will be awarded a total of $60,000 in awards during an awards ceremony on Capitol Hill in September 2007, and artwork will be displayed in a nation-wide touring exhibition that debuts at the Smithsonian.

For additional information and to access the application, please visitor contact: http://www.vsarts.org/VWcall
Phone: 800.933.8721 x3885
Email: jenniferw@vsarts.org
Alternative formats of the application are available upon request.

Upcoming Workshop: Prepare to Include

Prepare to Include: A Workshop for Teaching Artists
Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen
Saturday, June 16, 2007 from 10am until 2pm

Are you actively including the diverse perspectives and approaches of learners with disabilities in your lesson plans? Why should we be offering inclusive arts instruction to learners with diverse abilities?

This short workshop and workbook are packed with practical information that will give teaching artists a clear understanding of how to:

~ Ensure general physical accessibility
~ Reach out to diverse audiences when marketing
~ Apply disability etiquette and establish a classroom culture that
promotes equality
~ Use state and local resources to ensure physical and instructional
accessibility and
~ Apply practical barrier-specific solutions to common challenges to
effectively including learners with unique needs

Fees are $10 for teaching artists who have disabilities and $15 for all others. Fees include workshop materials and snacks. The registration form can be downloaded in Word format by following this link:
https://vsava.sslpowered.com/Forms/Workshop%20Registration%206.16.07.doc

Upcoming Workshop: Self Expression Through Words and Paint

Workshop Leaders:
Cathy Kiehl, Art Therapist
Rose Williams, Published VSA Writer
Date - Friday, June 8, 2007 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location – Tonsler Recreation Center, 501 Cherry Avenue
The workshop leaders will guide participants in self-expression through the written word and visual images. Participants will then have the opportunity to create a poem/short story and use art materials to express their written word into a drawing or painting. The poems and artwork created in this exciting workshop will be made into a small booklet for each person who registers and attends. You do not have to be an accomplished artist or writer to enjoy this fun, creative workshop – just come with a desire to express yourself through the arts. Cost - $15 per person, partial scholarship available if needed. To register – Call Mildred Spicer at 434-970-3264 by June 1, limited to 15.

The Marketing Dog: Publicity, Promotion and Press for Artists

Our friend, Slash Coleman is offering workshops for artists:
"I wanted to tell you about a few classes that I’m teaching next weekend aimed at helping artists, musicians, writers, and performers make more money selling their art and become more business savvy.

"Packed with practical and useful advice for visual artists, writers, musicians, and performers, this class will give you practical and useful advice from beginning to sell your artwork to putting it on your own website to getting shows to increasing your sales at shows and increasing your exposure as an artist."

If you know an artist that might benefit from this information, please forward it along.

(This series of classes corresponds to my upcoming book, The Marketing Dog: Publicity, Promotion and Press for Artists).

Where: Crossroads Art Center, 2016 Staples Mill Road, Richmond, VA.
When: Saturday, June 2 from 1- 4pm and Saturday, June 16 from 1- 4pm.
Artists can register for one or both days.
Cost: Part 1 = $65 + $25 curriculum fee
Part 2 = $65 + $25 curriculum fee
Or sign-up for both for $100 and there is no curriculum fee and you save $80!

How to register: Call 804-278-8950 or visit www.crossroadsartcenter.com/class.html#money

Thanks,
Slash"

National Arts Program Call for Art

Artists of all ages and levels of experience invited to display their art and compete for prize money!

The National Arts Program(r) at Richmond, coordinated by Richmond Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities, invites artists of all ages and levels of experience to participate in exhibitions and compete for a total of $2,440 in prize money. There are no fees and all art submitted according to the rules of exhibit will be displayed.

Youth ages 5-17 are invited to compete in the Youth and Teen Showcase, to be held at Science Museum of Virginia.

Adult artists compete in Creative Reflections, to be held at Pine Camp Arts and Community Center.

Now in its ninth year in Richmond, The National Arts Program(r) is one of the most innovative grass roots arts projects in the country and has achieved widespread recognition for successfully nurturing creativity and fostering self-confidence among artists.

Registration brochures providing details on how to enter are available on line here. They are also available at Pine Camp Arts and Community Center, or by calling 646-3674.

The deadline for registration is June 13, and the art shows will be held July 2-20.The National Arts Program is sponsored by the National Arts Program Foundation of Malvern PA; Richmond Parks, Recreation and Community Facility's art program, and Science Museum of Virginia. For more information, call 804-646-3674.

LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired Call for Art

The 18th annual Insights Art Exhibition of work by blind and visually impaired artists is calling for submissions.

Work by legally blind artists in all mediums except video will be considered. The show will run in October 2007 at the San Francisco Arts Commission Gallery at City Hall. Cash prizes will be awarded.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:
Friday, June 15, 2007. To receive an application by mail, contact Terri Leong, Exhibition Coordinator, at insights@lighthouse-sf.org or 415.431.1481 ext. 335 or visit the presenter's (San Francisco LightHouse) website to download an application at www.lighthouse-sf.org.

Charlottesville District's John Trippel

Check out John Trippel's newly posted artwork here.
John's artist statement begins:
"For this period of life, my artwork is a work of the frozen moment. It wasn't always done this way. I used to work strictly from my imaginary characters and I would build up a scene to create a narrative moment of absurd caricatures in an imaginary place. It was a work of fiction but that has changed. Today and for the last year or so, I have been working from life depicting true places and trying to capture the feel and sights of real locations. All my paintings lately have had themes such as depicting local convenient stores or working and reworking a favorite coffee shop of mine. But the point is that I have switched to working on life as it really presents itself."

Japanese Fairy Tales Photos

Click here to see photos of the Loudoun District's most recent production. These fantastic photos were taken by a parent of one of the cast members.

Blind artist tells his life story in 'Weights'

By Rita Charleston
Philadelphia Tribune Correspondent

A show written and performed by Lynn Manning, "Weights," is being presented by the Amaryllis Theater at the Adrienne, 2030 Sansom St., through April 29.

Critically acclaimed in New York and Los Angeles, this award-winning, semi-autobiographical one-man show dramatizes Manning's triumph over extreme adversity. Through poetry, music and riveting narrative, Manning presents his incredible journey of an artist, who shot and blinded, refuses to be pitied or to fail his inner spirit.

Born in Los Angeles to an impoverished single mother and raised in foster care, by the age of 23 Manning had dreams of succeeding as a visual artist. Then, the unthinkable happened.

One night in 1978, a bar brawl escalated and Manning was shot in the head, losing his sight completely and changing the life he was planning to live.

"I had originally dreamed of becoming a visual artist, a Black Michelangelo," Manning says. "I was already painting and drawing and selling a few pieces here and there before the brawl. But my response to the incidence was quite a bit different from what I guess was expected.

"First of all," he says, "I was just glad to get up off the barroom floor and had already made alternate plans in my life that if, for some reason I couldn't paint, I would write. So I wanted to set that game plan in motion right away and I knew that the best way to do that was to go back to school, get as much training as I could, and be able to reclaim my independence which was very important to me."

And so he did. This man, who had grown up in foster care and who had already experienced a great deal of loss in his life, refused to suffer anymore. He insists he did not want to wallow in self-pity, which seemed to him counterproductive and of very little value.

Instead, he starting writing poetry at first and, highly successful, was invited to share his work with others. Having to perform in front of an audience was difficult because he says he suffered from stage fright.
But, overcoming that, Manning went on to test his skills as an actor, again achieving success. Later, that same success came to him as a playwright.

"When I was still a teen I told myself someday I would write my autobiography, so, when I did become a writer, that's exactly what I began to do. My first multi-character play was produced in 1991 and later there were more. 'Weight,' my ninth play, was finally done and presented in 2001."

The play, which premiered n Los Angeles, went on to win three NAACP Theatre Awards, including Best Actor for Manning, and has since been performed throughout the country, including by the Theatre By The Blind in New York City.

As a poet, his work has appeared in numerous magazines and literary anthologies. As an actor, he has appeared in such TV shows as "8 Simple Rules, "Seinfeld," "The Sinbad Show" and others.

Additionally, Manning has achieved "world class" status in competitive judo, going on to become the U.S. Olympic Committee's "Blind Male Athlete of the Year" after winning the Blind Judo World Championship at the 1990 games in Holland, and much, much more.

A true renaissance man despite his disability, Manning says he hopes his audience comes away with one message: "That is recognizing that there are far broader possibilities for people who are blind or visually-impaired, or disabled in general, and that since we don't all fit into one profile, one mold, we should all be judged as individuals."

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The Amaryllis Theatre Company is the Pennsylvania affiliate of VSA arts.

Dreamers News

The Richmond theater group "The Dreamers" will be performing Sunday night, April 22nd at the JCC. They've had the good fortune of receiving several mentions in the press lately which included a feature on the public television show Perspective and this article in V Magazine for Women. (Click on underlined words to read the article).

FREE Medical Adaptive Assistive Technology Program

Goodwill's Medical Adaptive Assistive Technology Program provides FREE medical and adaptive equipment and supplies to older adults and persons with disabilities, to enhance their daily living.

The professionally staffed program provides medical/adaptive equipment, including new and gently used manual and power wheelchairs, ambulatory devices (walkers and canes), scooters and bathroom safety equipment (raised toilet seats and shower seats). Medical supplies, such as disposable diapers and chuxs, and other items are available for emergency needs as well.

Items donated by the local community are received, inspected, repaired as needed, then cleaned. They are then distributed to persons in need based on requests and recommendations for assistance, which can be made at any time by referral sources. A waiting list is available for equipment not in inventory.

The program provides assessment and supplies to individuals who have a need, whether it is to try out equipment before making a purchase, borrowing supplies in the short-term for emergency use, or while completing funding arrangements. The goal is to help individuals to increase self-confidence, and have greater independence.

To request medical or adaptive equipment or supplies, or to make a referral, individuals can call the Medical Adaptive Manager at (804) 521-4916, or Administrative Specialist at (804) 521-4923. The application process for items includes submission of an approved prescription by a doctor or other medical professional.

The program is operated at Goodwill's main facility at 6301 Midlothian Turnpike in the City of Richmond.

In addition to the direct services provided through the Medical Adaptive Assistive Technology Program, Goodwill's area Employment Centers, located in Richmond, Petersburg, and Mechanicsville, can assist in developing employment opportunities for those who use the program.
Services include job development, employment preparation, placement services, and support in locating, obtaining and maintaining employment.
For more information on these services, please call (804) 675-9910.

Artist Takes Inspiration from Amputation

"Lisa Bufano is an award-winning artist who recently performed her first major dance work to a packed house in New York. She is also a double amputee."

Listen to the story on NPR by by Andrea Shea and see video excerpts from the performance. Click here.

Dreamers Performance/Media Alert

Don’t miss an evening at the Weinstein Jewish Community Center on Sunday, April 22 at 7:00 PM to see one of Richmond’s most innovative and interesting theatre troupes going to work to make the performing arts more accessible to everyone. Last year the Dreamers shared a typical day in high school with Scrapbook Memories. This year’s show promises even more entertainment and fun as the Dreamers present Dream It. Do It. Dreamers is a group of dedicated actors who have the opportunity to showcase their abilities while learning transferable skills. Dreamers makes the performing arts more accessible to everyone while breaking down various stereotypes of disabilities to the world at large.

Tickets are $7.00 at the door and $5.00 in advance. Advance tickets can be purchased at Lipstock Laser & Cataract Center, 3701 Westiere Parkway, Innsbrook, just off of Cox Rd.

Want to get involved? Dreamers seeks volunteers and donations to help make its program and productions successful. Dreamers is sponsored by VSA arts of Virginia and the Weinstein Jewish Community Center.

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VSA arts of Virginia is a member of the international network of VSA arts, an affiliate of The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.VSA arts, an affiliate of The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where all people with disabilities learn through, participate in and enjoy the arts. VSA arts provides educators, parents, and artists with resources and the tools to support arts programming in schools and communities. VSA arts showcases the accomplishments of artists with disabilities and promotes increased access to the arts for people with disabilities. Each year millions of people participate in VSA arts programs through a nationwide network of affiliates and in more than 60 countries around the world.

Opportunity to participate in a research study about careers in the arts

PLEASE DISTRIBUTE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT FREELY TO ALL WHO MAY BE INTERESTED:

If you are an American with a disability pursuing a primary career in the arts, or if you have been deeply involved in supporting careers in the arts for people with disabilities:

JOIN A "VIRTUAL FOCUS GROUP" ON THIS IMPORTANT TOPIC!

WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?
We are conducting a research project based at the University of Illinois at Chicago called, "Experiences of Individuals with Disabilities Pursuing Careers in the Arts: Creating a National Portrait" funded by the National Endowment for the Arts (PS 04-01). We are gathering data bearing on two primary research questions:

1. What are the barriers and facilitators mediating access to careers in the arts for Americans with disabilities?

2. What are the social, personal, and economic outcomes of training and work in the arts for Americans with disabilities?

WHAT WILL HAPPEN?
Next month, we will open a 6-week e-mail discussion forum focusing on one question per week regarding careers in the arts for Americans with disabilities.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
You are eligible to participate in our "virtual focus group" if you are age 18 or over AND you are at least ONE of the following:

--a disabled or nondisabled resident of the U.S. with intensive involvement or experience in arts careers and disability.

--a U.S. resident with a disability working in or pursuing careers involving the arts (e.g., arts training, administration, program development), or a career artist with a disability in the U.S.

HOW TO JOIN:
For more information about participating, contact:

Terri Thrower
Graduate Research Assistant
tthrow1@uic.edu

Contact Ms. Thrower as soon as possible because the enrollment deadline is April 6, and the virtual focus group begins on April 16.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS: The researchers conducting this study are Carol J. Gill, Ph.D. and Carrie Sandahl, Ph.D. If you have questions, you may contact the researchers at:

University of Illinois at Chicago (MC 626)
(312) 355-0550 v
1640 W. Roosevelt Road, Room 236
(312) 996-1233 TTY
Chicago, IL 60608
(312) 996-0885 fax
E-mail: cg16@uic.edu

VSAVA ART EXHIBIT AT COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING

VSA arts of Charlottesville/Albemarle and Charlottesville Parks and Recreation Department are pleased to announce a new art exhibition at the Albemarle County Office Building, 401 McIntire Road, first floor hallway. The exhibit consists of 30 pieces of art by 15 different artists.

The exhibit features “The Ability Series”, currently consisting of 5 portraits by Romney Brand. Brand’s primitive style of painting is done in bright oils highlighting Charlottesville’s most creative citizens – individuals who despite facing challenges have helped C-ville emerge into a more inclusive community. The fab five depicted in Brand’s initial series are: Nate Brown, Jim Herndon, Herman Key, Jr., Franz Gerhard Stillfried, and Rose Williams. These community leaders are proven advocates for equal opportunities for all citizens – no matter their ability level -- in the Charlottesville/Albemarle area.

Equally impressive are 4 oil paintings by John Trippel of 4 local Charlottesville convenience stores – The B & R Market, Gibson’s Market, Sixth Street Mini-Market and The Belmont Market. These paintings were done on site in summer 2006 and are easily recognized by long time citizens of Charlottesville.

Other works on display are by Chris Wharam, Frances Chisholm, Laura Burrell, Ann Denit, Chapin Faulconer, Rosemary Balister, Martin Powell, Rose Williams, Robert Vandevender, William Greenough, Robyn Miller, Virginia Feltner and a group painting by the Community Based Instructional Program at Albemarle High School.

The public is encouraged to view the exhibit Monday through Friday
8 AM to 5PM. Some of the works are for sale. For further information call 434-970-3264.

Publicize through: 4/20/07 Contact Person: Mildred Spicer, 434-970-3264

Call for Art from VSA arts & Volkswagen

A National Juried Exhibition for Young Artists with Disabilities,
Ages 16 – 25
Deadline: Friday, July 6, 2007, midnight (MST)

Grand Prize: $20,000
First Award: $10,000
Second Award: $6,000
12 Awards of Excellence: $2,000

Sponsored by VSA arts with generous assistance from Volkswagen of America, Inc.


VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where all people with disabilities learn through, participate in and enjoy the arts. VSA arts provides educators, parents, and artists with resources and the tools to support arts programming in schools and communities. VSA arts showcases the accomplishments of artists with disabilities and promotes increased access to the arts for people with disabilities. Each year millions of people participate in VSA arts programs through a nationwide network of affiliates and in more than 60 countries around the world. VSA arts is an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

America's love affair with the automobile extends beyond the visual cues of engines and sheet metal. Volkswagen believes that the “heartware” is equally as important as the “hardware.” For people with disabilities, the automobile provides both freedom of mobility and self-expression. Volkswagen. All drivers wanted.

You Could Be The Next Public Radio Host

Check out Public Radio Talent Quest. They're giving away over $70,000 and a chance to create a new show for public radio.

Through Deaf Eyes

Wednesday, March 21 at 9 p.m. on East Coast and West Coast PBS stations

THROUGH DEAF EYES is a two-hour HDTV documentary that explores 200 years of Deaf life in America. The film includes interviews with prominent members of the Deaf community, including Marlee Maitlin and Galludet University president I. King Jordan.

Interwoven throughout the film are six short documentaries produced by Deaf media artists and filmmakers. Poignant, sometimes humorous, these commissioned stories bring a personalized sense of Deaf life in America to the film. Through first person accounts and the film as a whole, THROUGH DEAF EYES tells the story of conflicts, prejudice and affirmation that ultimately reaches the heart of what it means to be human.

For more information, click here.

New Positive Vibe Exhibition

The latest Positive Vibe exhibition has been posted in the Outside the Lines Virtual gallery. Chris Wharam kicks off our 2007 Exhibition with recent works. Chris’s work is abstract and wonderfully imaginative. You’ll also be able to see what the Positive Vibe looks like too!

MusicLink Press

Thanks to Richmond Parents Monthly Magazine for the great article about the Richmond-based MusicLink program.

Xylophone Keys That Open Doors: MusicLink Program Involves Kids Around the World
by Angela Lehman-Rios

Six xylophones, two dozen mallets, eight children and a small room. No, it's not the set for an asprin commercial. It's a MusicLink class. The adults in the class are just as happy as the kids.

Since June a group of parents and children have been meeting weekly with Melissa Owens, a music therapist. The class includes children with disabilities, siblings, parents and friends. They sing, try out instruments and move to the music.

Read the full article -- here.

Festival of the Book in Charlottesville

VSA arts of Virginia - Charlottesville/Albemarle will help with nine events that are part of the Festival of the Book.

VSA arts members will help at the following events:
Rose will be at Post High on March 21 at 1:00
Heather will be at Carver on March 21 at 5:30
Mary will be at Meadowcreek on March 22 at 10:00
Mildred will be at ARC on March 22 at 2:00
Nancy Brockman from PCA will be at Northside Library on March 22 at 6:00 and Tonselor Park on March 23 at 10:30
Diana and Jean will be at Worksource on March 23 at 10
Mildred will be at Carver on March 24 at 2:00
Jean will be at Carver on March 24 at 3:00

Congratulations to Gerry Mitchell

Here's the copy from an article recently publised in the Charlottesville Daily Progress:
Anything but a still life
By David A. Maurer
February 1, 2007

Gloomy skies and a steady rain were having a negative effect on three of the four people waiting at the Water Street bus stop.

Except for the cheerful man sitting in an obviously well traveled wheelchair, they were all complaining about the awful weather. Gerald E. Mitchell listened to the grumbling for a few minutes before offering his own take on the situation.

"I said, 'Well, I just spent three months in the hospital,' " Mitchell said, as a smile appeared on his face. " 'Trust me on this one, this rain is great.

" 'I don't mind sitting here in my electric wheelchair that I hope doesn't short out. And I don't mind that two buses have passed me by, because the lifts didn't work.

"I'm just thrilled to be here.' "

The fact that Mitchell is still very much here is a testament to faith, luck, modern medicine, the power of positive thinking and a keen sense of humor. In 1981 he was given six months to live when he was diagnosed with HIV.

In 1996 when Mitchell became desperately ill with full-blown AIDS, he returned to Charlottesville, his hometown, to die. But instead of dying he learned how to live. As an artist, he entered a new phase of creativity.

Now, at the age of 53, Mitchell is about to have what he suspects might be his last art exhibit. On Friday his show "Joy" opens at the Mudhouse on Charlottesville's Downtown Mall.

Read the rest of the article here.

"Images of Health and Disability 2006- 2007" Photo and Video Contest

"The World Health Organization (WHO) invites photographers and video producers world-wide to participate in a global photo and video contest -- 'Images of Health and Disability 2006-2007'. This year's theme focuses on 'Health and Environment' an invitation to provide high-quality photographs and video clips, capture emotions and give your creativity free reign. The photos and video contest will contribute to WHO's global efforts to raise the awareness of the importance of ensuring healthier environments. Photos can be submitted until 09 March 2007 in four categories: (1) Colour photographs (digital or prints); (2) Black and white photographs (digital or prints); (3) Digital Art photographs (images created or drastically manipulated by computer software or electronic filters); and (4) short video clips. In each category, prizes will be awarded from 100 to 1.000 US-Dollars."
For competition rules, and further information see download the detailed annoucement and entry form here.

Thousand Hand Guan Yin

Anonymous excerpt from an email we received: "Considering the tight coordination required, the accomplishments of these dancers is nothing short of amazing -- even if they were not all deaf. Relying only on signals from trainers at the four corners of the stage, these extraordinary dancers deliver a visual spectacle that is at once intricate and stirring. Its first major international debut was in Athens last year at the closing ceremonies for the 2004 Paralympics. But it had long been in the repertoire of the Chinese Disabled People's Performing Art Troupe and had traveled to more than 40 countries. Its lead dancer is 29 year old Tai Lihua, who has a BA from the Hubei Fine Arts Institute. The video was recorded in Beijing during the Spring Festival celebrations this year. It takes a while to load. Be patient; it's worth it." Click on the arrow inside the image above to watch the video.

National Center for Learning Disabilities

NCLD is looking for works of art, photography, poetry, videos, essays, short stories, Web sites, blogs, etc. that express what life is like for individuals with learning disabilities. From the works submitted, 30 entries will be selected to be exhibited on our Web site and at our benefit dinner this April. In addition, they are offering grand prizes of $500 for outstanding works from each of the following age groups:
* Children: Ages 4-13
* Teens: Ages 14-17
* Adults: Ages 18 and older

To enter, please send NCLD your submission, a photo of you or your child, a short paragraph (three to five sentences) about you and/or your child’s experience with learning disabilites, and a completed release form. Click here for more information about entering NCLD's "30 Voices of LD."Good luck, and remember, entries must be postmarked by March 9, 2007!

Theatre IV: Stage Explorers Summer Camp

Our Stage Explorers Summer Camp information - including dates and cost - will be posted online on Friday, February 16, 2007. Enrollment forms will also be available online from tomorrow. If you are interested in the camp, please visit our website Friday for the forms and return them as soon as possible. The camp fills up very quickly.

Camp information and forms will be available from the 16th at
http://www.theatreivrichmond.org/stage_exp.html

Questions? Call Janine Serresseque at 804-783-1688 ext. 13
or email j.serresseque@theatreivrichmond.org

Positive Vibe Cafe's Guest Chef Series continues Sunday, March 4.

The Vibe welcomes Chef Jannequin Bennett of The Jefferson Hotel for a special evening to benefit the GLMD Foundation & the cafe's training program for people with disabilities.

Seatings begin at 6pm. Call 560.9622 for reservations.

Choose from Chef Bennett's (author of Very Vegetarian) special menu or one of your Positive Vibe favorites!

Call for Art- Nat'l Exhibits By Blind Artists, Inc.

NATIONAL EXHIBITS BY BLIND ARTISTS, INC.

919 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

(215) 925-3213 · (800) 222-1754

CALL FOR ARTISTS

"ART BEYOND SIGHT" – 2007-2008

Sponsored by NEBA, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped of the Free Library of Philadelphia and the Wayne Art Center.

OPENING WAYNE ART CENTER

Wayne, PA

Fall 2007

*Additional venues are scheduled throughout 2008*

NEBA Selections and Awards Selection Chair:

Jan Baltzell, Artist, Professor at the Pa. Academy of Fine Arts, Philadelphia

PRIZES: Best in 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional

EXHIBIT ELIGIBILITY:

1. All participating legally blind artists must be able to verify the nature of their vision loss.

2. All participating legally blind artists must be eighteen years or older.

3. All artwork must have been completed since the vision loss.

4. Artwork must not have been previously exhibited by NEBA.

5. Artists may submit slides (preferred); 8" x 10" photographs or electronic files on CD-ROM for three pieces of artwork.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: MARCH 30, 2007

Send to:

National Exhibits by Blind Artists, Inc. (NEBA)

P. O. Box 1194

Philadelphia, PA 19105

Notification of the results of the review will be on or around May 1, 2007.

SLIDES:

1. Slides should be 2" x 2" color transparencies.

2. a) Send 1 slide per entry for each two-dimensional work.

b) Send 2 slides for each three-dimensional work.

3. Each slide must be marked with the artist's name on the front, title of work and medium. Place a dot in the upper right hand corner on front of slide.

4. Slides must be of actual work available for exhibit.

5. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of the slides. Slides of work NOT SELECTED for the show will be returned after judging.

6. Enclosed form must be completed and returned with slides.

ACCEPTED WORKS:

All artwork accepted for the exhibit must arrive (shipped or delivered) not later than May 24, 2007. It must be insured by the artist and arrive ready for display.

Ship to:

Postal delivery: NEBA, P.O. Box 1194, Philadelphia, PA 19105.

Courier or hand delivery: NEBA, 919 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

PLEASE NOTE: NEBA RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT WORKS NOT PROPERLY PREPARED FOR EXHIBIT. WORKS HAVE BEEN REJECTED IN THE PAST AS UNSUITABLE FOR SHOWING BECAUSE THEY WERE NOT CONSTRUCTED PROPERLY OR READY FOR DISPLAY.

1. Plexiglas is preferred in place of glass.

2. Sculpture must be suitably mounted; bases must be securely attached.

3. Textiles or other fiber work must have a rod for hanging.

4. Paintings or drawings must be framed and wired for hanging.

5. All work should be professionally packed for shipping (or packed in a comparable manner). Your container will be used for return shipping.

6. All work must be insured for shipping. NEBA provides insurance for return delivery.

7. For any work selected for the show, NEBA will request a short biography of the artist and a description of the work. This may be a taped message on cassette.

8. A contract will be sent upon notification of acceptance by the jury.

9. All works will be returned to the artist or released to purchaser at the close of the contract period for this exhibit.

10. NEBA receives a 20% commission on all sales of artwork.

Submission deadline: March 30, 2007

Acceptance notification date: May 1, 2007

Artwork delivery date: May 24, 2007

Theatre IV: Children's Auditions for The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz

Adapted by John Kane from the book by L. Frank Baum
With music and lyrics from the MGM motion picture score by Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg
Directed by Jan Guarino
Choreography by K Strong
Musical Direction by Sandy Dacus

Auditions are by appointment only and will be held at Theatre IV's Empire Theatre on Sunday February 18th from 1:00-5:00 pm. Please call (804) 344-8052 ext. 4 for an appointment. Children's auditions are very popular, and it is suggested that you make your appointment as soon as possible.

Rehearsals will begin on or around March 19, 2007
Performance dates: April 27 - May 20, 2007

Seeking to cast 20 children (boys and girls) to play munchkins. All children auditioning must be under 5'3" tall.

Those auditioning should be prepared to sing and dance. A short song and a short dance routine will be taught at the auditions.

All performers will be paid.

Please call 344-8052 x4 to schedule and appointment or for additional information.

Richmond Thinks It Wins but People with Disabilities Lose

From a member of C-FAIR (Citizens for Fair Access in Richmond)

Alright Comrades, It looks like we've got a larger challenge before us than I even imagined. The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the city will not be held responsible for allocating the funds that will be required to bring our schools into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

How many of you saw this article in the Times Dispatch last week?
Can you believe the title? "Richmond wins on school accessibility"

Who wins exactly?

Please tell me that this moral ambiguity is not shared by the majority of Richmonders! Surely, we don't really think it's acceptable that the city does not bear responsibility for ensuring that people with disabilities can get into and around school buildings. By the way, historically, the city has been the sole provider for Richmond City Schools' capital improvements budget.

This is not just a struggle for those of us with children in Richmond's schools to deal with. There are many exciting programs going on in our 60 public school buildings that are open to the general public after the school day, yet only four of those 60 buildings are fully accessible. Deliberate mal-intent or not, the message is clear: People with disabilities are not welcome to participate. It's just too much trouble.

C-FAIR (Citizens for Fair Access in Richmond), the group of concerned Richmonders that brought this lawsuit, is getting together on Thursday, February 22nd at Childrens Hospital from 6-9pm. Please join us to share your thoughts or just demonstrate your support. And come hungry but with a belly full of angst!

Read the article to learn more or call 804-355-0543 for more information