Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Established in Utica in 1929, CABVI, as it is known, provides a wide range of opportunities for the blind and visually impaired, helping them to acquire job skills and training, good wages and benefits, and a greater independence and quality of life. In their important mission, CABVI employs a segment of our population that experiences among the highest levels of unemployment in the country. CABVI also provides vital health and rehabilitation services for people experiencing vision loss. Their resources and services have improved the quality of life for many in our region, including my late father who spent the last 7 years of his life legally blind and confined to a wheelchair. My family is forever grateful to them for their care and kindness. Today I was honored to welcome to Washington my good friend Rudy D'Amico, president and CEO of CABVI; Robert Porter, public policy director; and Leta Laukitis, executive assistant. Joining them from the southern tier, colleague Ken Fernald, CEO of the Association for Visual Rehabilitation and Employment in Binghamton, New York. All joined by Jennifer Small, chief operating officer; John Ellzey, assistive technology instructor; Katie Lawson, switchboard operator; and Chervelle Amaker, purchasing agent and buyer. Mr. Speaker, I thank them for their important work and their continued dedication to our community.…”