Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. press release, November 16, 1999

MEWS FROM Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. Second Congressional District of Maryland 1407 York Road, Suite 304 Lutherville, Maryland 21093 315 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Jill Homan November 16, 1999 202/225-3061 Congressman Ehrlich Receives Top Award from National Blind Organization WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. received the 1999 Distinguished Service Award from the Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind for his outstanding commitment to the blind community. Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind President and CEO, Dale Otto, stated, “We appreciate and have been impressed by Congressman Ehrlich’s commitment in creating opportunities for independence for blind Americans. “His introduction of the Blind Empowerment Act is especially meaningful as we seek to level the playing field for blind job seekers.” Congressman Ehrlich stated, “I am truly honored to receive this award. I have worked diligently this year on the Blind Empowerment Act (BEA) which aims to remove work disincentives imposed on blind Americans. "It is leaders like Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind President, Dale Otto, and today’s blind workers and job seekers who are the real heroes. Their daily participation in the workplace and struggle to create more opportunities for blind Americans benen ; us all.” Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind is a private, not-for-profit, organization dedicated to providing education, training, rehabilitation and social services to individuals who are blind or have low vision throughout the Greater Washington Metropolitan Region. Through these services the organization provides the blind and low vision community with opportunities that enable them to live independent and fulfilling lives. m