On Sun, 20 Dec 1998, Hawke wrote:

> In reading this article, it becomes plainly clear that the NFB is not
> abiding by the tenants of its original charter (that is: to provide
> beneficial services and a voice for the blind).

Kelly:

Many blind and visually impaired persons are forming and participating in
vicug's and user networks in their own local communities because they
feel that the large nationally-based and inwardly focused organizations of
the blind, and the large government and social service buracracies are
unable to address their needs regarding access to technology or information
in their local community.

Hawk:
> The situation, as described below, smack of collusion (or conflict
> of interest) between the NFB (its members) and the City Public
> Library system. Thus, it seems to me, that these members of the
> NFB, as employees of the Library, should not be allowed to testify
> in this case.

Kelly:
It is one thing to scream collusion.  It is quite another to prove it.  Be
assured that we will point out the conflicts and have our ammunition
against these guys ready, as they will against me.

Proud:
> Now, this is a far cry from the model here in Phoenix. Here, we have
> accessible equipment in most branches, the head of "special service"
> is totally blind, and hardware upgrades are in process.
>
> Incidentally, the blind person in question here, is NOT a member of the
> NFB. He is the head of the City of Phoenix Public Library Special
> Service office.

Kelly:
That's great to hear.  Your library spends its funds on equipment.  Mine
spends it on lawyers who shout "personal preferences are not
accommodations" and "unfunded mandates."

Proud:
> However, I digress. It seems to me that the problem with the chicago
> Public Library system is this: Someone is pocketing the money and not
> providing services needed. Oh well, this is just my opinion.

Kelly:
That is not a novel idea here in Chicago and such information arouses
little interest.  Somehow we have grown to expect that from our
government.  In the last eight years, more than half of the 50 members of
the Chicago city council have been forced to leave office because of
corruption charges, usually arising from sleezy federal investigations or
newspaper reports.  when we can stand together, we can demand
accountability more effectively.

kelly


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