Allan Schneider, Editor • Dana Ard, President •
aaschneider@hotmail.com pres.nfbidaho@gmail.com
(208) 870-4831 (208) 345-3906
President’s Address
Dana Ard, President, NFB of Idaho
The two major affiliate events in the past four months are the Washington Seminar, in late January, and our state convention, April 23-25 in Boise. You can read about these events elsewhere in this newsletter. I will take a brief moment to let everyone know about my medical experiences since February 5.
On February 5, I had knee replacement surgery for my left knee. Cindy Grover was my coach to help with recovery. After two weeks, she returned home, and during the following week I graduated from a walker to a support cane. I was making excellent progress, and I planned to return to choir on March 5. On March 2, I experienced extreme pain following my physical therapy visit. Two weeks later, an x-ray of the knee revealed a broken kneecap, which happened during physical therapy. I had surgery to repair it on March 26. Two weeks later, x-rays revealed that the surgery did not hold. I had repeat surgery on April 9. I am now in a skilled nursing facility at the Terraces of Boise, since I cannot put any weight on my left leg. Hopefully I can return home after the end of eight weeks, which will be about June 4. I was not able to attend the state convention. My state report was read by Jennie Facer. I will have it put on the website for those who were not in attendance.
I hope to attend the national convention in Austin, Texas. Registration is now open. I hope you will join me in attending this transformative event, as we continue to build our National Federation of the Blind of Idaho.
The National Federation of the Blind of Idaho
State Convention 2026
Celebrating Community, Advocacy, and Remembrance in Boise
Shane Ostermeier
Convention Overview
The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) of Idaho held its annual state convention from April 23 to April 25, 2026, at the Boise Best Western Vista Inn. Attendees gathered from across the state, reconnecting with old friends and forging new connections. The event proved to be a vibrant celebration of advocacy, community, and shared experiences, even as members reflected on recent losses and celebrated the lives of those who passed away during the past year.
Photo: Shane Ostermeier
Keynote Speakers and Panels The convention featured a diverse lineup of speakers and panels, each contributing valuable insights and perspectives on issues affecting the blind community in Idaho and nationwide. Participants engaged in lively discussions about legislative updates, new technologies, and strategies for increasing accessibility and independence. The panels offered opportunities for attendees to share their own experiences, fostering a sense of unity and empowerment among all present.
National Representation This year's convention was honored to welcome Tom Paige, the National Federation of the Blind representative from Kansas. Mr. Paige brought greetings from the national organization and shared updates on NFB initiatives, advocacy efforts, and resources available to Idaho members. His presence underscored the importance of collaboration between state and national chapters, reinforcing NFB's commitment to supporting blind individuals everywhere.
Auction and Fundraising Activities One of the highlights of the convention was the spirited auction, which ran throughout the weekend. Members and guests enthusiastically participated, bidding on a variety of items ranging from handmade crafts to donated goods. The auction not only raised essential funds to support NFB of Idaho's programs but also brought a sense of fun and friendly competition to the event.
Reconnection and Community Spirit After a year of challenges and separation for many, the convention offered a welcome chance for members to reconnect face-to-face. Conversations flowed easily, stories were shared, and laughter echoed through the halls of the Best Western Vista Inn. The sense of belonging and mutual support was palpable, energizing attendees for the work ahead.
Remembering Those We've Lost In a moving segment of the convention, members paused to reflect and celebrate the lives of those who had passed away in the past year. Through shared memories and moments of silence, the community honored their contributions and reaffirmed the importance of supporting one another through times of joy and sorrow.
A Noteworthy Absence While the convention was filled with camaraderie and optimism, attendees sincerely missed the presence of their president, Dana Ard. Dana was unable to attend due to recovering from surgery, but her leadership and dedication were acknowledged throughout the event. The community eagerly looks forward to her return and wishes her a speedy recovery.
Looking Forward The 2026 NFB of Idaho State Convention was a testament to the resilience, strength, and unity of the blind community in Idaho. As members departed Boise, they carried with them renewed inspiration, valuable knowledge, and lasting memories. The Federation continues its mission to advocate, educate, and empower, building a brighter future for all.
2026 NFBI Scholarship Recipients
Joe Grover
The National Federation of the Blind of Idaho proudly recognizes its annual scholarship winners during its state convention, celebrating the achievements, leadership, and aspirations of blind students across Idaho. Among this year’s honorees are several outstanding students from across the state. Will Jackson of Malad City will be attending Idaho State University, where he plans to major in diesel mechanics. Carver Anderson, from Ammon, is enrolled at Brigham Young University–Idaho, pursuing a degree in psychology. Lander Norstebon of Bliss will attend Boise State University to study political science. Alex Freeman, from Twin Falls, is attending College of Southern Idaho, where he is enrolled in a business entrepreneurship program. These scholars exemplify the determination and promise that the Federation seeks to support through its scholarship program.
2026 Summer Youth Programs
Alison Steven
This summer will see the 14th year that I have been privileged to be part of the NFB BELL Academy concept, and the 9th year that I have been involved in youth programs with ICBVI. I have been involved in day camps, virtual camps and overnight camps, and I have observed students from as young as five growing up to graduate high school with confidence and strong self-awareness. I find it such a joy to see individual youths finding their voice, spreading their wings and contributing in their own unique way. What is it that brings them to this place where they can launch into life as well-rounded adults? Is it because they know that dots 4, 5, 6 “S” represents the word spirit, or because they understand the concept of parallel and perpendicular traffic movement? Is it because they can navigate a Smart Phone to communicate with friends and potential employers, or because they know how to operate an Air Fryer? Yes, all of these things have been building blocks to get them to this point, and with years of consistent practice building skill upon skill, they are equipped for the next step. More than all of this though, are the interactions they have had over the years with supportive and encouraging role models; folks who stand alongside and observe as they explore, experiment, fail and figure it out. These individuals recognize the crucial need for young people, navigating low vision and blindness, to have cheerleaders, positive examples and listening ears to allow for the exploration and struggle that brings the resilience needed for a fulfilling future. It takes creativity, energy and imagination from us to keep showing up for these young people. It takes multiple interactions with all kinds of folks for the shy, nervous, naïve youth to understand themselves, their potential and their responsibility in the world.
I am so aware of my own responsibility and the fact that I have the opportunity to play a part in young lives. I am also very aware that it takes a village to raise a child. These young people need the sighted professionals, family and friends who surround and support them, and they need you, too. All of us can play a part and make a difference. All of us have something unique to offer that can sow a seed and make a lasting impact. Thank you to you all, this community, who believe in the possibilities and seek to empower those who may have little self-belief, skills or support.
This summer we once again will have strong programs in Idaho for our youth. The ICBVI work experience program, the VIEW program, will take place from June 14 through July 18 with 14 students participating. Mark your calendars for the NFB-VIEW adaptive sports and picnic event on June 27th from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM at Cassia Park in Boise! Participants in the VIEW program will be engaged in work at job sites around Boise for four weeks, developing skills and confidence by the day. The ICBVI College Days program will take place on the Idaho State University campus in Pocatello from July 19 through 24, with eight participants. We once again have Tyler Merren, from Michigan, and Kathy Nimmer from Indiana coming to work with these young aspiring college students. Wrapping up our Idaho summer programming, we have the NFB BELL and Beyond Academy at Pilgrim Cove Camp in McCall from July 27 through August 1. At the time of writing we have 12 students registered, but registration is open until June 30 so it is not too late if you want to sign up and you are aged between 7 and 17 years old!
(NFB BELL and Beyond 2026 Registration link: https://nfb.org/programs-services/education/nfb-bell-academy/idaho)
I am excited to see the impact that the staff, peer mentors and community have on all those who will be participating, and for the impact these young people will have on our lives as they dream, grow, explore and bring their unique stamp to our community.
Snake River Valley Chapter News
Lynn Kneip
The Snake River Valley Chapter is alive and well. We have recently had two new members. One who was able to attend the state convention with us and all had a good time.
In January, we elected a new chapter president as a result of the passing of Sandy. We all miss her. She did a great job and was a good person. Lynn Kneip was elected as president, Nicole Hill as 1st vice., Quincie Mattick as 2nd vice, Jasmine McCandless as secretary, Vickie Bateman as treasurer, and board members Kristen Ward and Wanda Jolly.
Nicole and Quincie recently graduated with their Masters in Social Work from ISU. Quincie and Lynn were each able to get new guide dogs.
We are looking to have a great year, with quarterly, in-person activities as well as invite new persons that are not currently members.
BLIND BOISE MAN LOSES 400 POUNDS IN TWO YEARS AFTER LIFE-THREATENING BLOOD CLOTS FORCE A MAJOR CHANGE
Roland Beres
Shane Ostermeier weighed over 660 pounds and could barely walk. With dedication and help from a trainer at the West Boise YMCA, he transformed his life. in two years after a harrowing doctor's visit pushed him to change his life.
Ostermeier's weight gain began in his 20s when he lost his vision. Twenty-nine years later, his condition became a matter of life and death. "I was really struggling to breathe and went to the hospital and was diagnosed with blood clots in my lungs," recalled Ostermeier. In desperation, he arrived at the West Boise YMCA determined to turn his life around.
"He comes off the elevator, and he’s completely blind with a cane and over 600 pounds," said his trainer, Kasey Tekippe, of her first time meeting Ostermeier.
Kasey remembers that day like it was yesterday. She explained that Ostermeier could barely walk 10 steps. "He couldn’t lift his foot onto a pedal that was 6 inches off the ground," Kasey said. Slowly, Kasey helped Ostermeier start moving again. Every milestone was huge, and even those working out nearby would cheer him on.
"We would just have a big celebration, I would cry, and he would cry, and it was the greatest thing," said Kasey.
"Here I am, I’m hearing all their cheering, and I’m like this is why I’m at the Y. This is why the Y is such an important part of our community," Ostermeier said.Today, Ostermeier is at the proper weight for his height. Not only can he walk, but he can run. "I don’t give up, and I never have given up. And that’s why I’m here today. 400 pounds less," Ostermeier said. "I feel amazing. My life has started over. I’m starting to look at doing whatever I want to do." For anyone struggling to make a change in their life, Ostermeier says to seize the day. "If you’ve been debating about it, just start. Set little goals," recommended Ostermeier. Ostermeier says he's planning to run a marathon as a way to celebrate his newfound fitness.
Washington Seminar
Nicole Hill
Before Dawn in Boise
Outside, the air was chilly and quiet. The airport was calm; there were some early morning travelers, but not very many. A tall man strode into the airport with a long, white cane in his hands at 4:45am. He met a couple standing just inside the doors, also using white canes to get around, and the group found a lady sitting in the chairs waiting for them with her white cane folded up on her lap. These four people had never met in person before, but they were united in a common cause. They were all members of the National Federation of the Blind. Shane, who was the tall man, was from Meridian, Idaho and the Treasure Valley Chapter. The couple, Joe and Cindy, also belong to the Treasure Valley Chapter but they live in Caldwell, Idaho. Nicole lived in Idaho Falls and participated in the Snake River Valley Chapter. The four individuals were going to Washington DC to lobby their legislators.
The Travel
The tapping and sliding noises of white canes preceded the way through the airport as the blind Idahoans made their way. The first flight led to a quick layover in Seattle, Washington, followed by a rush to the plane headed to Washington DC. Meet and assist volunteers guided the advocates through the airport. The flight was long, but the group touched down safely in Washington DC around 3pm (local time). Again, meet and assist volunteers helped the weary travelers get their luggage. There was some concern when the bags did not appear in the luggage claim area. It turned out that a compartment hadn’t been emptied, so the missing bags were returned to their owners.
The meet and assist volunteers in DC brought wheelchairs for everyone, and no one wanted to use them. After hours in cramped airplane seats, no one was eager to sit again. “Maybe the volunteers find it easier to bring wheelchairs,” or “maybe it is habit for them to bring wheelchairs,” they wondered aloud. One of the volunteers was emphatic, and Shane acquiesced to use the chair.
Snowbound in Washington DC
During the night and early morning, a storm descended upon DC. When checking into the hotel, a hotel employee explained that people from NASA had checked in earlier that day and they predicted almost two feet of snow. The highly anticipated tour of Mount Vernon that was planned for Sunday morning was cancelled because of the weather. A frozen mix fell all day and covered the city in snow. The delegation spent quality time getting to know one another. Nicole had brought Braille Uno, which the group played after exploring the hotel. Shane said: “Even though we got stuck inside because of the storm, it allowed us to get to know each other really well. It also allowed me to use my lack of braille skills and play braille Uno, which was great.” Cindy explained: “I also enjoyed getting to know everyone in our group in a different way than you would have just talking on the phone.”
Extra-Curricular Activities
Monday morning was spent in preparation for a meeting with congressmen. Joe and Shane went to a meeting about talking with politically elected officials. Shane learned it was recommended to use “Secretary of War” when talking to Republicans and “Secretary of Defense” when talking to Democrats. Cindy and Nicole found the table with tactile diagrams of the legislative buildings and a map of the Capital and the surrounding legislative buildings. They were hoping the area would be clear so the group could go to the offices in person.
Cindy and Nicole also went to a job seeker’s professional development seminar and learned about elevator pitches, networking, and artificial intelligence (AI). Cindy said: “One of the things I thought was the greatest was learning about how beneficial ChatGPT can be in editing and giving you information.”
The afternoon was calm and the delegation met Idaho’s two Teachers of Tomorrow: Danielle and Summer. The Teachers of Tomorrow program provides professional development or continuing education credits for teachers of the visually impaired (TVIs). Danielle is covering Region 7 (Eastern Idaho) and Summer is working with Region 3 (North Idaho). These ladies were wonderful to meet and connect with. The Idaho affiliate looks forward to collaborating and working with these two teachers.
The Great Gathering-In
“NFB!” could be heard sporadically through the closed doors to a conference room full of blind people. There were an estimated 150-200 blind people from around the US waiting to listen to the inspirational speeches by the Blind Movement’s leaders. The room was full of energy and excitement. The event was motivational, engaging, informational, and overall encouraging. The entire thing was recorded and can be accessed at the following link: NFB Great Gathering-In. Shane expressed: “The Great Gathering-In was a fun time. It allowed us to see what wonderful and talented leaders the NFB has.” Joe shared that he “likes seeing all the [blind] people from all different walks of life coming together and uniting for a common cause.”
Joe went on to say that he liked “how well prepared the NFB is to provide good facts and good information. For example, the NFB already spoke to the Social Security Commissioner and he was on board before they went forward with it to lawmakers. There is really no argument with our causes and I love that part. “There were three topics discussed at the event in preparation for the advocacy the following day.
The first issue was “Protect Education, Employment, and Independent Living Programs.” This emphasized five programs that are already helping blind people live fulfilling lives: IDEA, the Rehabilitation Act, the Randolph-Sheppard Act, OIB, and APH. The second issue promoted the Access Technology Affordability ACT (ATAA), and the third issue addressed the earnings cliff in Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI) with the Blind Americans Return to Work Act. Joe’s comment referred to the Blind Americans Return to Work Act.
Advocating from a Hotel Room
Originally, the group was going to meet with both senators in person, but some votes were moved and arrangements were made to meet with office staff instead. Tuesday and Wednesday were more days spent in the hotel. The foursome was not adventurous enough to wander to the capital amidst “vertical snowbanks” and other snowy and icy obstacles. To meet with the offices of Idaho Representatives and Senators, the meetings were held virtually. “The ‘F’ [in NFB] stands for ‘flexible’” was something mentioned by NFB leaders. We met with Nick from Congressman Simpson’s office and Matthew from Senator Crapo’s office on Tuesday. Both of those meetings were good; the staff were pleasant, respectful, and interested in the topics. Wednesday was similar, only we met with Matt from Senator Rich’s office and Karrah from Congressman Fulcher’s office. The NFB of Idaho has often met with Senator Crapo in person, and it was bad timing and luck that it didn’t happen this year. Despite the change, Matt was engaged and really listened to the topics being discussed.
Snowbanks and Monuments
Wednesday afternoon was the first time the delegation stepped foot outside the hotel to go exploring. They were connected to a private tour guide and drove around to some of the national monuments: the White House, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Pentagon. When they got out of the van to get close, they were unable to reach the important site because of the snow, which had not yet been removed. One of the favorite comments from the driver was: “We are driving single file on a two lane road.” The snow had been pushed to the middle of the street, so even though there were technically four lanes, only two of them were in use, one lane going either direction.
Carrying the Work Home
As a wrap to the week in the hotel, Thursday morning held an early departure. The sound of a few people in the hotel lobby was punctuated by the sound of four white canes making their way to the front desk to check out. The trip back to Boise was completed without a hitch. The group was somewhat rumpled and tired when stepping off the final plane. The trip west from Washington DC to Idaho took longer than the trip east from Idaho to Washington DC. After learning from the presentation and speaking with congressmen, the Idahoans came home with renewed confidence in their blind skills, a deeper connection with one another, and some new contacts within the organization. These four advocates have the challenge of continuing the momentum felt in DC to their local chapters and continuing to advocate for blind people in Idaho.
Seeds of Independence
Cooper Morgan
A woodworking shop at the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired is doing more than building garden boxes, its helping participants rebuild confidence and independence after vision loss.
The program, called Seeds of Independence, teaches clients how to safely use tools, measure materials and complete woodworking projects using tactile techniques and sound rather than sight. For instructor Chris Johnston, the work is deeply personal. “I have retinitis pigmentosa, which is a genetic retinal disorder, so I’m slowly losing my vision,” Johnston said.
Johnston spent two decades working in the trades before receiving his diagnosis. Facing the possibility of losing the career he loved, he enrolled in training through the commission. Encouraged by a counselor, he later returned, this time as an instructor, teaching in a basement workshop that once sat unused.
Now, Johnston guides clients through the same training he completed himself, helping them learn to rely on touch, spatial awareness and hearing while working with tools. “When sight is lost, confidence can follow,” Johnston said. “The goal is to show people they can still do these things.”
That lesson resonated with Ed Paoli, a former client who lost his vision at age 66 after contaminated medication was injected into his eye. “At first I thought I couldn’t do woodworking anymore,” Paoli said. “I couldn’t measure or see to cut a board.” Through Johnston’s instruction, conducted under sleep shades designed to simulate complete vision loss, Paoli learned to trust his hands and other senses. What began as skepticism turned into enthusiasm.
“To me, it was the best class,” Paoli said. “It helped me realize there are other things I can still do.” Paoli now works at the commission, assisting Johnston during his free time and helping with the Seeds of Independence project.
Participants are currently building flower boxes intended to brighten the commission’s courtyard and demonstrate clients’ skills. The effort recently received support from the Boise Bench Lions Club, which donated $1,750 to help fund the project. Organizers hope to complete the boxes by May 10.
For Johnston, the workshop represents more than woodworking instruction.
"I was hooked. There was those, those thoughts of going back to my old life, and even though I would be able to make more money, the feeling that I got, I was so, so happy for the person and the clients that I work with," he said. Johnston says he plans to continue teaching as long as possible, helping others adapt to vision loss while maintaining the independence many feared they had lost.
Heard Birds – Spring 2026
Stephen Bouffard, Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History, The College of Idaho
Spring is the best time to hear a variety of bird songs and calls. Many birds are more vocal this time of year, because it is mating season and love and fight are in the air. With some 11,000 bird species it’s no wonder that there is so much variety in how male birds attract mates. Song is the most popular method, but some birds dance, and/or have showy feather displays. Woodpeckers use their beaks to drum out a rhythm. Most species have their own specific songs. Some males sing two different song types, one directed at other males, sending the message that “this is my territory so stay away”. This song is often heard only around dawn. Their other song typically is sung later in the day and is aimed at attracting females. Saying “here I am ladies, I’m macho and handsome”. In some species, the females get into the singing act. For example, American Cardinal females sing to tell other females to “keep away from my man”, but you’ll have to leave Idaho to hear cardinals. These advertising methods work well enough for each species and allow us to eavesdrop on their activities. We can identify nearly every bird species by their sounds, although some species can trip us up by mimicking other species. Around here, European Starlings are the most common mimic.
A list of the more common birds you might hear around town: Song Sparrow; House Finch: House Sparrow: Black-capped Chickadee, American Crow; European Starling; Lesser Goldfinch: American Goldfinch: American Robin: Red-breasted Nuthatch: Northern Flicker: Downy Woodpecker: Canada Goose: Mallard: Western Kingbird; Black-chinned Hummingbird; Brewer’s Blackbird; Brown-headed Cowbird; Tree Swallow: Barn Swallow. Many other species can be heard in other habitats away from towns. The Merlin APP, a free APP, can help identify the songs you hear.
