Blinded Veterans to Meet in Reno/Sparks

By Chuck N. Baker
The City of Sparks will play host to the 73rd annual convention of the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) at the Nugget Casino Resort on August 13-17, 2018.

The annual event is BVA’s premier gathering geared toward the education and development of its members. It will bring together the top leadership of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) along with academics, industry leaders and government officials to discuss issues and challenges facing the disabled and the medical community today and in the future.

The Blinded Veterans Association is the only official voice for America’s veterans who are blind or visually impaired. The organization has successfully advocated for their needs since WWII.

A full convention schedule is available at the association’s website, Bva.org.  Sessions will include training on the ABC’s of Regional Group planning on Monday, August 13 from 9 a.m. through 10:15 a.m. Also on Monday, there will be skills training on the Victor Reader and Home Automation. At 10:30 a.m. life member Howard Myers will deliver a presentation about his book, “Blind Vision."

Additional sessions for BVA members who wish to become Volunteer Service Officers will include training by instructor Wade Davis. Part 1 will be held Monday from 9 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. Part Two will be Tuesday, August 14, from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

The exhibit hall will be open August 14-15, and feature manufacturers and vendors displaying products and services for blinded individuals. Exhibitors and sponsors include National Industries for the Blind, eye-tracking technology system NuEyes, wearable assistive device manufacturer OrCam, magnifier manufacturer Eschenbach, low-vision and automated voice wrist watch manufacturer LS&S, and many other companies.

On Tuesday, August 14, the Blindfold Games will hold an information session where members will be able to obtain a free game. For female veterans, an exclusive pampering session will be facilitated by a lifestyle coach for the blind. Attendees can enjoy beauty tips and freshen up before the Tuesday evening reception and dinner.

The BVA has a Southern Nevada chapter under the guidance of President Joe Tasby. He can be reached at (702) 869-8637. Blinded or visually impaired veterans who are not BVA members are encouraged to attend the convention and join the organization. The BVA specifically helps veterans and their families overcome the challenges of blindness. It welcomes individuals who offer ideas, thoughts and personal service that can assist in achieving that worthy goal. For more information about BVA and its services, and more details about the convention, call toll-free (800) 669-7079 or visit Bva.org.