Local Blind Organization Promotes Independence at City's 200th Anniversary The Fairfax Area Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind is working with a local restaurant raising money that will be used to assist local blind residents to be more independent, while celebrating the City of Fairfax's bicentennial.

On Saturday, March 12, 2005, the Fairfax Area Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind will be working with the Outback Steakhouse of Fairfax City and local personalities to raise money to assist in funding independence programs for local blind residents. From 11:00 am until 1:00 pm, the Outback Steakhouse, at 10060 Lee Highway, is giving steak dinners to anyone who donates $25 or more to the training assistance program managed by the Fairfax Area Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind.  

Invited guests to the event include: Delegate Chapman (Chap) Petersen of the 37th district, National Federation of the Blind First Vice President Seville Allen, and the a cappella singing sensation Vox Populi. There will also be an auction of products and services offered by local business sponsors. This event will celebrate independence gained through training along with celebrating the City of Fairfax's 200th birthday.

Our special guest for the event will be Mrs. Patricia Maurer, Director of our national office's Community Relations department and the wife of NFB President Marc Maurer. Mrs. Maurer has been fighting for the rights of the blind for years and she has agreed to come and share her insights and inspiration with us.

Mr. Joe Ortega, proprietor of the Outback restaurant, said that he is very excited to be able to host such an event for such a good cause. He has arranged for his restaurant to supply lunches consisting of a Caesar or garden salad, a seven-ounce sirloin steak, a baked potato, and a beverage. Tickets are $25 each for adults. Also, for those under 13, tickets will be available at the door for a smaller cash donation. To purchase advanced tickets for the event or to offer donations, contact chapter President John Bailey at (703) 273-1053. All proceeds go to the Fairfax Area Chapter. Local corporate sponsors include: McDonalds, Six Flags, Gold's Gym International, Kings Dominion, Luray Caverns, Fairfax Ice Arena, Shoppers Food Warehouse, and the Washington Wizards.

The Fairfax Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia has been supplying scholarships to deserving blind and low-vision residents for years. This event will help the chapter to reach out to even more people in need of training. According to Fairfax Area Chapter President John Bailey, "The largest hurdle for blind and low-vision citizens to overcome is the lack of basic non-visual skills necessary to achieve independence. Without the ability to travel to work, read and write, and keep your own home, you have few choices for improving your life. Training in these skills is essential."