Press Release
For Immediate Release - July 12, 2006

Contact: Rob Ennamorato - Communications Specialist - (410) 737-2615 rennamorato@bism.org

Blind Industries and Services of Maryland applauds Governor Robert Ehrlich's choice of running mate Kristen Cox

Governor Robert Ehrlich's recent selection of Kristen Cox, current Secretary of the Department of Disabilities, as his Lieutenant Governor running mate has re-energized the movement for more awareness regarding blind and disabled programs offered in the State of Maryland.

Ms. Cox, who is blind, has been a powerful advocate for the increased development of employment and educational opportunities for the state's blind citizens, and we at Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM) share that same passion. There is a mutual respect and admiration between our non-profit organization and the Lieutenant Governor-nominee, with a common goal being the empowerment of blind people.

With blind and disabled issues at the forefront of this November's hotly contested Governor's race, BISM believes that we can offer critical insight into many of the media questions regarding blindness. One of our most difficult challenges is making the public aware of the multitude of opportunities available throughout our unique organization, and this is the perfect opportunity for media outlets to tie in a local organization with a closely watched political campaign.

Since its establishment by the Maryland General Assembly in 1908, BISM has provided training and employment opportunities for the blind so that they may enjoy the independence and self-sufficiency that all Americans deserve.

With over four hundred Associates, a majority of whom are blind, BISM manufactures more than 150 different products in facilities located in Baltimore, Salisbury and Cumberland. Our qualified Associates manufacture paper writing pads; craft sewn products, including various clothing items, tote bags and medical soft goods; produce a full line of janitorial and sanitation products, and produce cut garment parts. In addition, we perform subcontract assembly and packaging work for companies throughout the area, and manufacture a full range of white canes.

BISM’s innovative training division offers programs that teach real-world survival skills, build self-confidence and prepare blind or visually impaired people for the everyday challenges of family, home, school and work. We offer the only training program in the state of Maryland that deals exclusively with the unique needs of youth, adults and seniors who are blind. One of the greatest problems blind people encounter is not their physical lack of eyesight, but the limiting beliefs society holds about their abilities. With the quality training and opportunities offered at BISM, we think that the sky is the limit for blind people.

BISM's Cumberland facility, located on 322 Paca Street, consists of a production floor, offices and training facilities, along with helpful, informative and friendly Associates. To take a tour or to set up an interview, please contact Mr. Ennamorato.