Press Release
For Immediate Release - May 17, 2006

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

Blind Industries and Services of Maryland 'Tween Retreat: Olympic Trials
May 19-21, 2006

Baltimore, MD – Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM), a not-for-profit organization that provides training and employment opportunities for blind citizens of Maryland, is excited to announce its Spring ‘Tween Retreat.

The retreat has been dubbed the BISM Olympic Trials and takes place Friday, May 19th to Sunday, May 21st. Blind middle-school age children will participate in a variety of athletic events at BISM's Baltimore location and other local facilities during the day, and will stay overnight at BISM on Friday and Saturday.

The retreat is being conducted by the dedicated BISM Youth Services department and will provide the participants with an opportunity to absorb practical life skills in a fun environment. The ‘Tweens will learn valuable cane travel techniques, independent living tips through hands-on work in the kitchen, and improve their self-esteem, confidence and social skills.

The ‘Tweens arrive on Friday morning at 9a.m. and will be assigned to represent Greece, Japan or Italy. During the Country Exploration activity, the participants will create their own passport, discover exciting cultures and meet their fellow competitors.

The BISM Olympic Trials feature a variety of events, including track & field, swimming, gymnastics and basketball. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded to the top finishers in each event, and an awards luncheon takes place at the conclusion of the retreat on Sunday afternoon at 12:30p.m.

Daily meals will include dishes from each of the three countries. Team building exercises, movies and games follow dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings.

The bulk of athletic events occur on Saturday, May 20th. Track & Field events take place from 9a.m. to 12p.m. at Lansdowne High School, the Swimming competition will be held at the Fairland Aquatic Center in Laurel from 2p.m. to 4p.m., and the competition wraps up on Saturday with Basketball and an Obstacle Course from 5p.m. to 6p.m. at BISM.

The BISM Olympic Trials provides an excellent opportunity for local media outlets to get reacquainted with the myriad of services offered at Blind Industries and Services of Maryland. We are conveniently located at 3345 Washington Boulevard in Baltimore, minutes from I-95 and I-695.

lease contact Mr. Ennamorato if you plan to cover this fun and inspiring retreat, have any questions, or for the complete BISM Olympic Trials schedule of activities.