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On Monday, January 24, 2005 Eggleston Services sent a delegation to the Virginia General Assembly. The group consisted of associates, staff and board members. The purpose: to expose Eggleston to the workings of lawmakers and to meet and greet Hampton Roads legislators.
The day began with a Virginia Acess meeting, giving an overview of issues concerning people with disabilities Then we put on our track shoes and had a very busy day!
First stop, a meeting with Dan Haworth, legislative assistant to Senator Nick Rerras, then on to Pam Gordon, assistant to Delegate Bob Tata, a 10 minute chat with Delegate Spuill from Chesapeake…we finished the morning with a quick visit to Barbara and Randy Klear, staffers for Paula Miller, freshman delegate from Norfolk.
Now it’s noon and we are seated in the gallery of the General Assembly watching the session as it begins…the invocation was given by the daughter of arch bishop Desmond
Tutu, after which different delegates call for the floor for recognition of various events, people and groups. Delegate Paula Miller rose to acknowledge our presence, there was much applause.
We trekked from the capital to the 9th street office building for lunch. This building houses the offices of the Governor, his secretaries and other state offices. The cafeteria in the 9th street office building is operated by a program for blind business persons. This opportunity gave us a perspective of what people with disabilities can accomplish.
The afternoon was filled with meetings…we were fortunate to have long leisurely meetings with Delegate Bob Purky and Senator Frank Wagner. At this point, our fearless leader attempted to meet up with us, we were on the 10th floor of the General Assembly building waiting for a sub committee meeting to begin!
The time for us to prepare for a legislative reception was fast approaching, however, we still found time to have pictures taken with Delegate Paula Miller.
During the reception we were joined by the chairman of Eggleston’s board of directors…food and officials flowed freely!!! Not only were we able to meet legislators but agency heads and other providers of services .
The day ended with a van full of very tired but excited people!!!!
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