|
Quick passage of a series of critical resolutions, election of
new national officers, renewal of friendships, the latest in technology
and research for the blind and visually impaired, and a wide selection
of recreational activities under a warm Miami Beach sun and sky
all characterized the BVA 60th National Convention August 16-20
at the Wyndham Miami Beach Resort.
 Mike Nagelberg, Florida Regional Group, and Kathy Berry get down on the dance floor at the "Cook-In Barbecue and Dance." |
"Although we were somewhat disappointed in our attendance
at the convention this year, it was, overall, a very successful
gathering once again," said Executive Director Tom Miller.
"We were especially pleased to report, for the first time
in more than ten years, that we came out on the plus side in our
general fund/operating budget at the end of Fiscal Year 2005."
Adjournment of the convention came just five days prior to Hurricane
Katrina’s damage to the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area on August
25. Although incomparable to the tragic devastation wrought to
New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, attendees could not have imagined
anything but the clear blue skies, calm winds, and the beautiful
landscape enjoyed on Miami Beach August 14-21.
Perlin Outlines Progress, Challenges
“Your work, and our work together, have never been more
important for thousands of America’s veterans in the 21st
century,” said Dr. Jonathan B. Perlin.
The VA Under Secretary for Health presented the keynote address
at Wednesday’s opening business session to attendees of the
BVA convention and the VA employees attending the VIST/BROS meetings.
“By 2010, we estimate that there will be more than 170,000
legally blind veterans in the United States,” he said. “Meeting
their needs will require VHA to meet many tough challenges.”
Dr. Perlin referred to the vast improvements in the VA health
care system during the past ten years, particularly in the area
of technology. He said that VHA would continue striving to comply
with its mandate to serve veterans who have experienced blindness
as a result of age-related causes as well as those blinded as
a result of combat injuries. He emphasized that access to care
would remain the critical component for both populations.
“We are making outpatient care the center of our attention
at VA,” he said. “We’re working to provide basic,
immediate, and advanced levels of blind rehabilitation services
within each of our 21 Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs).”
Dr. Perlin also referred to a number of exciting VA research
projects relating to blindness and vision loss, including development
of the artificial retinal implant. He said that BVA’s partnership
with VA would be critical in the moving forward of such projects.
“I thank you, members of BVA, as you have inspired us with
your service to this country in uniform, and once again with your
service as advocates for your comrades—and as advocates for
all that America stands for that is good, and right, and generous.”
|
