Published by the
Pennsylvania
Council of the
Blind
Fall Edition
2007
The PCB ADVOCATE is a quarterly news publication of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind. It is available in large print, braille, cassette, disk, and by email.
Please send change of address and other matters to the PCB office, 931 N Front St., Harrisburg, PA. 17102, or call 717-920-9999, or 1-877-617-7407. FAX 717-920-9988. Email address: pcb1@paonline.com Web site: pcb1.org
June M Horst, Editor
John A Horst, Ass't Editor
Send articles to: ADVOCATE, PCB Office, 931 N Front St., Harrisburg, PA. 17102. Email pcb1@paonline.com Articles can also be sent directly to the Editor at: jjkhor95@epix.net
MISSION
To promote independence and opportunities for people with vision impairments.
VISION
To continue to be recognized as the leading advocacy organization for people with vision impairments in Pennsylvania. The aim of all of our efforts is to encourage and assist people in achieving their potential as valued members of society. PCB assistance, advocacy, and encouragement will be carried out in such areas as, but not limited to, all aspects of accessibility, transportation, education, and employment.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Articles in this publication reflect the views of the individual writers. They do not necessarily represent the views and policy of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind.
CONTRIBUTIONS: Contributions are tax deductible, and are always much needed. They can be sent to Anthony Evancic, Treasurer, at the PCB office address, at 931 N Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17102.
If you wish to remember a relative or friend by sharing in the Council's work, the PCB office will acknowledge contributions made by loved ones in memory of deceased persons. Anyone wishing to remember the PA Council of the Blind in his/her Last Will and Testament, may do so by including a paragraph for this purpose. If your wishes are complex, you may contact the PCB office.
SUBMITTING ARTICLES: If you wish to submit articles for consideration in the ADVOCATE, please do so. Deadlines for submission are:
March 1 June 1
September 1 December 1
You may send them in any format, either to the PCB office, or email them to: jjkhor95@epix.net. Your input is always welcome.
From the Editors: This Fall issue of the ADVOCATE updates the activities, functions, and critical concerns of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind. Major contributions to this issue have been made by committee chairs and chapter presidents, keeping in mind the due date for articles. We would like to hear from more chapter members as to what you are doing and what the issues are that you discuss at your meetings. Are you using the PCB Reports' tapes? Do you hear them broadcast on your local radio reading service? Do you know the day and time of these broadcasts?
The submission date for articles for the Winter edition of the ADVOCATE is December 1, 2007.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
President's Report 7
From the Director's Desk 9
Committee Reports:
Braille 12
Employment 16
Fundraising 19
Governmental Affairs 21
Nominating 22
Publicity 23
Transportation 26
Chapter News:
Altoona (former) 29
Blue Juniata (former) 29
Clearfield-Jefferson County 30
Erie 30
Golden Triangle 31
Monroe County 34
Oil Valley 38
Philadelphia Regional 39
Washington County 40
State News:
New Chapter Being Organized 41
Convention Last Call 42
Convention Tour in Bethlehem 44
PCB Used Media Sale 46
Morning of Bingo 47
New Director of BBVS 48
Capitol Disability Resource Day 48
State Laws Now on Web Site 49
Public Transportation Funding Broad
And Dedicated 49
A Shared Ride Testimonial 51
Congratulations ASB 52
National News:
ACB National Convention - 2007 53
ADA Anniversary 57
ADA Restoration Act - TAKE ACTION 58
HumanWare Launches Victor Reader Stream 62
A Unique Web Resource for People
With Age-Related Vision Loss 64 Descriptive Video Information 65
Cell Phone & Land Line Alert 67
International Congress for Blind and
Partially Sighted Children 68
Dress for Success 71
Board of Directors 74
Chapter Presidents 74
Membership Application 75
PRESIDENT'S REPORT
By George Holliday
"PCB Is Growing"
During the past several months, there has been discussion about forming a chapter of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind in Lancaster, PA. On Saturday, August 18, June and John Horst, along with Sarita and I, traveled to Lancaster to meet with an excited group of approximately ten individuals at the Lancaster library, to answer questions and give some direction pertaining to the development of a new chapter. Edward Hersh, PCB Board member, was among the group.
The discussion included what was needed to organize a chapter, including a minimum of eight persons, and the structuring of by-laws. There was a lengthy discussion on different projects that chapters would get involved in within the local areas, discussion on low vision, and the structure of PCB, including what the different committees within PCB are doing. There was plenty of enthusiasm. Everyone had questions and comments. Also, there was a list of interested names of people who were not able to attend due to other commitments, but who should be contacted. The group is planning to meet on Saturday, September 15 to elect officers and set up committees.
Within the past two years, chartered chapters of Pennsylvania Council of the Blind from Clearfield-Jefferson County and Monroe County have been organized. They are having regularly scheduled meetings, developing committees, and planning projects. With that enthusiasm, their membership is growing. When a new member joins, they are encouraged to get involved with the chapter activities.
Membership is one of the key committees within a chapter's structure. When a person joins a chapter, they should feel welcomed by all, including officers, committee chairs, and members. They are a new member, not just a name on the membership list. Get them involved, find out what their likes and/or dislikes are, and where they would fit into the activities of the chapter. Above all, don't chase them away. That person is just as important as the member who is very active. Sometimes it takes a new member time to find his/her comfort zone. Officers and committee chairs need to remember their first few months or year as a new member, and that this is a volunteer organization. A chapter is as strong as its members, not the strength or forcefulness of one or two officers.
See you in Bethlehem in November.
FROM THE DIRECTOR'S DESK
By John A Horst
In contemplating what I should report for this Fall issue of the ADVOCATE, I have been impressed with what has been accomplished by PCB working alone and together with other organizations. It is great to have success, and again, we want to express gratitude and appreciation to those of you who have written letters, signed petitions, made phone calls, and made personal contacts on important issues. In addition, concerning what takes place at the state level, some chapters of PCB are carrying on local advocacy efforts. This action is to be commended. Be sure to read these chapter reports in this issue.
Rhondi Hanafi has now been the office assistant in the PCB office for more than a year. Her work and dedication has made a difference in PCB's operation. We are so fortunate to have a person in this position who believes in what we are doing, and seeks to improve our efficiency and finances.
PCB issues that now have come to fruition are:
1. Funding for mass transit. Separate dedicated funding for mass transit was included in the state budget for 2007-2008, enacted in July.
2. Shared Ride coverage. Funding for this service for all rural areas, including each county in PA, was also approved in this budget. It will take some time to fully implement this service in every county, but the funding is now available.
3. Talking Book program. Due to much advocacy, funding for the changes from analogue recording to digital format was at first very limited. It was increased by congress to more than $12 million. While this is not the full amount requested by the Library of Congress, they state that it will be enough, although it may somewhat slow down the process.
4. New Chapter in Lancaster. For quite some time, we have been talking about a chapter in Lancaster. This has now come to pass, with an initial meeting that took place on August 18, and will be followed by a second meeting on September 15.
5. The ADA Restoration Act. Advocacy for this federal legislation is an action in process. As the title implies, this legislation seeks to restore the ADA to what was originally intended by Congress when passed in 1990, but has since been weakened by the courts.
6. Accessible Voting Machines. They are now available for your use. Please use them and let us know your experience with these machines.
7. Two Expos. Along with other disability groups, PCB will have two table displays, one for senior citizens with macular degeneration and one for legislation in the state capitol.
8. Sidewalk Sale Fundraiser. We put on a fund raiser sale here in Harrisburg. Rhonda gets the credit for planning and carrying out this operation. While others assisted, she made the contacts for contributions of merchandise to sell, securing the location, and help needed. The sale was successful, but we were disappointed in the low number of customers. Thanks to Leona Perry, June Horst, and several of Rhonda's friends who priced merchandise. Helping at the sale were Doris Suhr, Shirley Potts, June Horst, and friends of Rhonda. Also in attendance the day of the sale were: Bill Suhr, Joe and Leona Perry, George Holliday, Ed and Janet Facemyer, and Jack Potts.
The next major activity in the PCB office is the preparation for the state convention. The Planning Committee, under the chairmanship of Tony Swartz has done a great job. We are certain this will be one of our best conventions, so please plan to attend.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
BRAILLE COMMITTEE
May Davis, Chair
It was reported at our August 13 meeting that Frank Spina copies large amounts of large print materials for the Washington schools, and because there is so much activity with the copiers during the day, he is forced to do his work at night. So, for the present, he is unable to attend meetings.
Re: Braille Awareness Day--May related that no decision has yet been made about next year, whether it will be another day at the Capitol, or separate individual groups meeting to promote Braille. As to the essay contest, it was suggested that next year we take the prizes directly to the schools of the winners, which, hopefully, would make a favorable impression on the teachers and other students. The topic of the essay will be: "Braille, the Key to Literacy." The contest will again be open to all blind children in Pennsylvania, grades 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12, with prizes in each category. Essays must be submitted in Braille, produced by slate and stylus, Perkins brailler, or electronic device, such as a Braille Note. Essays will be judged on clarity of thought, correctness of Braille, and spelling. Essays should include student's name, grade, school, and name of vision teacher. Completed essays (2-5 Braille pages) should be sent to: May Davis, 133 W Ashland St., Doylestown, PA 18901, and must be received by December 31, 2007.
This committee will again contact IU's across the state to get the word to vision teachers and students, and we are also hoping to contact and enlist the help of PATTAN to spread the word about the contest.
Discussion about the proposed Louis Braille stamp, in honor of Louis' 200th birthday in 2009, came up for consideration. This project was started several years ago by Norma Schecter, and the postal service at that time said they would take the suggestion "under consideration." We feel it is time to remind the postal service of this promise. When the suggestion was made, the Postal Service said it couldn't be done because Louis Braille was not an American citizen. As a result our members will write letters on the subject. The PCB office was asked to seek assistance from PCB members to also write letters or send email messages to the postal service. Rep. O'Brien will also be asked to help in this project. The address for the postal service is: Dr. Virginia Noelke, Citizens' Stamp Committee, c/o Stamp Development, U S Postal Service, 475 L'Enfant Plaza, SW, Room 5670, Washington, DC 20260-2437. Ask them to produce the Louis Braille stamp. Let's show the Postal Service just how important Braille is to blind and visually impaired people.
The Braille Committee participated in the Wells-Jensen Error Study earlier this year, and we are trying to find out about the results.
At the ACB convention in July one of our members heard Mary Archer of the National Braille Association explain how proofreading of Braille is done by 2 people working together. She also told us that NLS put out bids for the Braille Certification program, and NFB won. They will now conduct the program under the supervision of NLS.
Our committee learned that there is a lot of interest in the eye condition LCA 3000, Leber's disease.
We talked about the mini book test, conducted by APB. There have been 2 parts to it, one using the 15-cell plastic slate, flat stylus, and spiral disposable notebook; the second uses the same equipment, except that the notebook is a 2-ring hard-back notebook. There was some dislike of the flat stylus. The final evaluation should occur soon. There followed a discussion of styluses, and one member told us that the children she taught this summer liked the stylus pens, probably because they look like the pens their classmates use. -- Submitted by Ann Porter & May Davis
EMPLOYMENT COMMITTEE
Carla Hayes, Chair
Employment Resource Roundup
From time to time, I use this column to publish a list of useful resources for job seekers who are blind or visually impaired. I hope that you find this information helpful.
There is a great web site that matches employers with disabled job seekers. This site provides several services. Employers can search a database of resumes to find candidates and post job openings. People with disabilities can post their resumes and take advantage of other services, such as resume writing assistance, career coaching, and job placement. For more information, call toll-free (1-888-221-7606) or visit www.disabilitywork.com
Are you not sure what you want to do for a living or thinking about a career change? Consider reading the revised 2005 edition of "What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers," by Richard Nelson Bolles. Although not specifically written for people with disabilities, this updated edition of the popular guide can help you determine your job objectives and career goals. It is available in four Braille volumes from the National Library Service as BR16193 or it can be borrowed in print from your public library.
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and an ear for music, you might want to work as a piano tuner. The school of Piano Technology for the Blind in Vancouver trains blind youths to tune and maintain pianos. The school also teaches business management, marketing, bookkeeping, and customer service, and offers mentoring for individual students to help them develop a business plan. For more information, call 360-693-1511 or send Email to: info@pianotuningschool.org
Web address is: www.pianotuningschool.org
How about an exciting career in the hospitality industry? Imagine working in a hotel, convention center, travel agency, or restaurant! The Statler Center trains people who are blind or visually impaired to be front desk agents, reservationists, or night auditors, rapid-response, PBX operators, and more. This one-of-a-kind program provides training assistance to its graduates, resulting in a job placement rate of approximately 85%. For more information, contact the National Statler Center for Careers in Hospitality Service, 1160 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14209. Phone: 716-882-5690 ext. 268. Email: rdiflabio@statlercenter.org
Visit them on the web at: www.statlercenter.org
Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind operates plants in Winston-Salem and Asheville, North Carolina, and also in Puerto Rico. They have a Low Vision Satelite Office in Alabama at the VA office. In addition, they run base supply stores at military bases along the East Coast. They have a great need for blind workers. Their need is so great that they will pay air fare to interview and will pay relocation expenses for individuals hired. The contact person is Annette Clinard, Human Resource Manager, 7730 North Point Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27106. Telephone: 336-759-0551, ext. 251.
Lift Inc. is a nonprofit corporation that qualifies, trains, hires, and places information technology professionals who have physical and sensory disabilities through contracts with major corporations who eventually hire them directly. Lift combines specialized business experience in information technology with expertise at recruitment, assessment, and accommodation to give men and women who have disabilities a vocational lift. Neither a traditional educational institution nor a job placement agency, Lift uniquely accomplishes both. To its employees with disabilities, Lift offers opportunities for very rewarding careers. To its corporate clients, http://www.lift-inc.org/clients.html provides a proven resource development program for high performance professionals. Lift has placed professionals in positions, such as: programmer-analyst, systems-analyst, software engineer, business analyst, technical writer, technical specialist, network administrator, computer support specialist, date security specialist, database administrator, database manager, quality assurance specialist, and more. For more information, visit them on the web.
Audio recordings from the VISIONS Employment Technology Institute: "Building Your Future 2007" are now online at http://www.esight.org/view.cfm?x=1992
The keynote Address: "Cornerstone to Success: Work" was delivered by Dr. Karen Wolffe, Director, Professional Development and CareerConnect at the American Foundation for the Blind. Dr. Wolffe discusses the importance of work in the lives of people with visual disabilities. She shares information about current employment rates and proposes ideas for how to improve those rates. The playing time is approximately 52 minutes. You can listen to this presentation with Real Audio at: http://www.esight.org/link.cfm?n=1201
Or with Windows Media at: http://esight.org/link.cfm?n=1195
In addition, Dr. Wolffe presents her "Top Ten Tips for Successful Interviews" and shares her considerable expertise in career counseling by offering advice on interviewing. The playing time is approximately 45 minutes. Listen with Real Audio at: http://www.esight.org/link.cfm?n=1196
You can also listen with Windows Media at: http:esight.org/link.cfm?n=1197
FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE
George Holliday, Chair
The Pennsylvania Council of the Blind once again will be hosting an auction during the 72nd annual state convention and conference in Bethlehem to benefit PCB. Items for the auction will be on exhibit Friday afternoon, November 2 and on Saturday, November 3, with the winners being announced prior to the banquet.
You will be able to purchase an envelope of fifteen tickets, numbered the same, at a donation of $5.00. When purchasing the tickets, your name will be noted next to the designated number on a master copy. When you find an item of interest, you will place one or more tickets in the basket designated for that item. You can purchase as many envelopes as you would like.
Now, this is where we need your assistance in making this auction another success. We are asking members, friends, chapters, businesses, vendors and organizations to donate items for the auction. For example, here are some items we are looking for: gift certificates that can be used throughout the state, discriptive videos, music CD's, baskets of cheer, assistive technology, including hardware and software, radios, and more. If you think you have something someone would like, or if you are not sure and have additional questions, please contact one of the following:
Janet Facemyer
610-647-3365
email: efacem@comcast.net
Bonnie Newland
412-487-4995
email: bnewland1@verizon.net
I would personally like to thank you in advance on behalf of the Fundraising Committee, for your assistance, in making this project a huge success.
George S Holliday, Chairperson
Fundraising Committee
215-748-3556
email: george.holliday1@verizon.net
GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Rodger Simmons, Chair
We need your help! The Governmental Affairs Committee is busy looking for your input on two major issues. The first issue is voting machines. As another election is just around the corner, we are concerned about how these machines are working in your area. So, let us know if these machines are performing satisfactorily in your precinct. Do the machines do what they are designed to do? Are the workers trained in the operation of these machines? These are just two of our concerns relating to this issue.
The second concern is the coming of the digital age, and how it affects you. Are digital devices accessible to you? Can you use that CD recorder? How many features on that digital cable box can you use? How about DVD's? Cell phones are also a concern. Even appliances, such as washing machines and dryers, as well as stoves, are other concerns. How do you deal with the digital age?
We hope you will take the time to let us know how
this affects you. The more people we hear from, the better we can direct our efforts in helping you. Please let us hear from you. Contact me at: 717-676-1224 or Email at: rsimmons5@comcast.net
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Jay Doudna, Chair
This fall, at our State Convention in Bethlehem, we will elect all our officers -- President, First Vice President, Second Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. In addition, we will be electing four people to serve on the Board of Directors for the next two years. The elections will be held during our business meeting on Saturday afternoon.
Jerry Weinger, Sue Etters, Roberta Simmons, and Tony Swartz are each eligible to run again, should they choose to do so.
The Nominating Committee is meeting and accepting nominations from the membership. As immediate Past President of PCB, I consider it an honor and privilege to serve this outstanding organization. If you have ever given thought to running for a leadership position, and if you feel that you possess the qualities necessary to serve, now is the time to come forward and make your intentions known to the Nominating Committee. Remember, we are electing all of our officers and four people to serve on the Board of Directors.
If you have any questions, or you wish to be considered for nomination by the Committee, you can reach me on my cell phone at: 610-220-1777 or email me at: jaydoudna@cox.net
This is an important election year. I look forward to hearing from you. I'll see you at the convention.
PUBLICITY COMMITTEE
Bill Newland and Ed Facemyer, Co-chairs
Thanks to Darlene Barton, Ed Facemyer, and John Horst for their assistance in preparing this article.
The Pennsylvania Council of the Blind has made great strides in getting the latest news out to the membership about events affecting all of us. For example, email and the PCB List have made it possible to receive information on everything from the latest updates on legislation to events affecting members of our organization. So, why this article? Several members of the Publicity Committee observed that there are a large number of people who are not getting the latest news that impact the blind and visually impaired community. So, what can be done to correct this problem?
As President of your chapter, do you have a computer with internet capabilities? Are you on the PCB Listserv? If not, does your chapter have a member or members with a computer with internet capabilities? If so, assign that person(s) the responsibility of passing the latest news from the PCB Listserv to the other members of your chapter.
Also, if you have chapter members that you would like to be on this list, please encourage them to subscribe. Just email pcb-1-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
In the body of the email, please include your name. If you have a problem getting on the Listserv, please contact Mike Zaken at 412-655-1234 or email: michael.zaken@verizon.net
Unlike other listservs, the PCB listserv is closely monitored by several of our members, including Mike Zaken, Chair of PCB's Technology Committee, to insure that only information pertaining to you and I is posted to the list. And, only the sender of the posting receives responses to items he/she posts. Also, persons using this listserv should remember that there are other individuals besides PCB members on this list. These people want the information, even though to this point, they have not made a decision to join PCB. We welcome their participation.
Be sure to check out the PCB web site: www.pcb1.org
Also, there is the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind's ADVOCATE magazine, published quarterly, which, along with chapter news, contains information about issues such as pending legislation. In addition, there is the monthly radio program "PCB Reports", distributed by the PCB office to all affiliates, and heard over several reading services throughout Pennsylvania. Both the ADVOCATE and "PCB Reports" are excellent in their own right; however, they may not be able to provide the latest up-to-date news on those events which impact us. So!!! Here is where you come into the picture.
The Publicity Committee understands that while many people get their news on issues from sources like the PCB List and other sources of the electronic media, there are still a large number of you who do not have this technology available. We need to hear from you. Feel free to express your ideas as to how the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind can get the latest news to YOU in the fastest way possible. PLEASE get your ideas to either the PCB office address, which is 931 North Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102, or call the office at: 1-877-617-7407. You can also use email: pcb1@paonline.com
You can also contact either of the co-chairs of the Publicity Committee at the following address(s):
Ed Facemyer
103 Richmond Road, Paoli, PA 19301
Phone: 610-647-3365
Email: efacem@comcast.net
Bill Newland
1508 Zeuger Street, Glenshaw, PA 15116
Phone: 412-487-4995
Email: bnewland1@verizon.net
Remember, one of the reasons you pay your annual dues to the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind is to receive the latest news affecting the blind and visually impaired community.
As co-chairs of this Committee, Ed Facemyer and I would like to thank the following members Helen Koshensky, Darlene Barton, George Holliday, John Horst, Wendy Maroney, Dick Schmoyer, and Joe Sikora for their concern regarding this issue. A special thanks to Dick Schmoyer for bringing up this topic at our last Publicity committee meeting. -- Bill Newland
TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
Joe Perry, Chair
I trust that you have had a good summer, and are looking forward to our State Convention in November. I am!
Since my last report, the transportation situation has improved, at least, I hope so. In the middle of July, the legislation was enacted which was signed by the Governor, to provide dedicated funding for mass transit for the next ten years. It is hoped that much of the funding can be derived from additional turnpike tolls, and the exacting of tolls on route 80, if permission to do so is granted on the federal level. Permission was given by the same law for local municipalities to fund local transit companies by taxing their residents. It was long in coming, but hopefully it will solve the problem.
The act the Governor signed is all inclusive. It also extended eligibility for the shared ride program to the remaining sixteen counties. The task now is to get all counties not covered by shared ride to make application for acceptance by PennDot. It is my understanding that representatives from these counties have been invited to gather in Harrisburg on September 13, to expedite this process. We know that there are at least two counties not covered by the shared ride program, which have local chapters of PCB. We are urging those chapters to take appropriate action to ensure that they are included.
When we think of pedestrian safety, especially for the blind and visually impaired, the problem of "quiet cars" rears its ugly head. More and more people are purchasing hybrid cars, which are noiseless, and could result in fatal injuries to blind pedestrians because they cannot be heard. Unfortunately, auto manufacturers show little interest in remedying this situation. We hope to introduce a resolution during our State Convention, expressing concern, and suggesting that auto manufacturers take greater responsibility, by putting some kind of noise on their hybrid cars. This resolution, hopefully, will be based on the ACB resolution, expressing the same concern and suggestion. Regardless, we will have a resolution of our own.
The calling out of bus stops seems to be a problem throughout the US, and not only in Pennsylvania. However, it is still best to handle it on the local chapter level. The ADA requires that stops be called out as follows:
1. The entity shall announce, at least at transfer points with other fixed routes, other major intersections and destination points, and intervals along a route sufficient to permit individuals with visual impairments or other disabilities, to be oriented to their location.
2. The entity shall announce any stop on request of an individual with a disability.
However, there seems to be a problem as to how transit entities interpret the language. When you are dealing with your local transit company, it might be wise to have more specific criteria in mind, as to how stops should be announced. If you need help in this matter, perhaps the Transportation Committee can be of service.
If you have any questions, or have any suggestions
as to how these reports can be improved, I would like to hear from you. I may be contacted at: 717-761-1920, or by email at: joleperry@verizon.net
CHAPTER NEWS
Altoona (former chapter): Elizabeth A "Wendy" Reighard died unexpectedly July 22, 2007 in Altoona. She was a member of the former Altoona chapter of PCB. Memorials may be made to the Pennsylvania Lions Beacon Lodge Camp, 114 SR 103 South, Mount Union, PA 17066.
Blue Juniata (former chapter): Joe Fagnani reported that on July 31, 2007, Lester Groff passed away. No further details were given. He was a member of the said former chapter.
Clearfield-Jefferson County: Our group has sent a "White Cane Proclamation" to the Mayor's office, which will review it and issue the proclamation at a date close to the actual White Cane week. This event will be October 7-13, with the 13th being White Cane Education & Safety Day. Our group will be available from 10 AM until 4 PM at several locations in both Clearfield and Dubois to provide information to the general public. We will also be contacting the newspaper and radio station for possible coverage. Educational brochures, provided by the National Institute of Eyes, describing major eye diseases will also be distributed. We also talked about keeping blindness awareness and education in our local schools. Other discussion included: the up-coming Christmas party, a blind golfers group started by next spring, and the PCB State Convention to be held in Bethlehem, PA. The chapter is soliciting donations for the auction at the convention and also for door prizes. -- Sandy Bloomberg, Secretary
Erie Chapter: We are currently planning our annual Mark Musil Memorial Walk, to be held on September 22. Mark was one of our members who, while using his white cane, was run over while crossing the street while in training at a rehabilitation school. This walk is our annual fundraiser. We celebrate his life each year with the walk. Donations from our generous sponsors are coming in now.
Our local Mayor's Roundtable on Disabilities has just been reactivated, after one and a half year dormancy. The city was having a number of financial difficulties during this time, and had cut the Roundtable Coordinator's position, along with many other positions. So, now we are again presenting disability issues that need to be addressed.
We had two delegates in Minneapolis at the ACB convention, and are now looking forward to
Bethlehem and the PCB Convention. - Ernest Wright
Golden Triangle: The following is an obituary from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "A freak accident at age 24 changed John R Wargo's life forever, but despite bouts of depression and personal hardships, he carried on and made something of his life.
For 17 years, until his retirement in 1995, he ran the first floor snack bar in the State Office Building in downtown Pittsburgh. He know most of his customers by name. John was blind.
He got up every day at 3:30 AM and took a bus in order to arrive at work and open his stand by 6 AM. "I took the responsibility to provide a service," he told the newspaper when he was 64. He felt he had an obligation and prided himself on always opening his business on time.
John, who had suffered from Parkinson's Disease since the early 1990's, died at Jefferson Regional Medical Center at the age of 76.
In 1995, Mr. Wargo was helping his brother-in-law move a refrigerator down a flight of stairs when the ammonia line bumped on the steps and ruptured. The chemical splashed into his eyes, burning them and costing him most of his sight. He spent most of his life trying to get it back, and a cornea transplant did restore his sight for a time in the early years. However, his body ultimately rejected the corneas.
He continued to search for help, but in spite of numerous operations, the nerves of his eyes were damaged. He rarely complained about his blindness, but became an advocate, serving at one time as President of the Pittsburgh Council for the Blind, which now is known as the Golden Triangle Chapter of PCB."
The Golden Triangle chapter wants to help you get a jump on your holiday plans. There's no sign of snow yet, but we all know it's only a matter of time before the temperatures drop and the holiday bustle begins.
We are selling Braille chocolate bars with three available holiday greetings, "Thank You," "Merry Christmas," and "Happy Holidays." These bars will make a unique and enlightening gift. For Thanksgiving, you can show your gratitude to those who have helped you during the year. At Christmas, add them as a package topper or as a great stocking stuffer. A Braille chocolate greeting would be an excellent gift for anyone you would like to recognize with a small holiday treat.
The greeting is written in grade one Braille and in print on a 4 oz. chocolate bar. Each bar is wrapped in clear cellophane with a decorative ribbon. We are offering milk chocolate and dark chocolate, in all three greetings. Each bar costs $2.00.
GTCB will be selling these delicious holiday greetings through mail order and on site at the 2007 PCB convention, in the exhibit area. GTCB will ship orders directly to individuals with a 15-bar minimum order and $5.00 shipping fee. To order, call Sue Lichtenfels at 412-429-1727 or email: susan@lichtenfels.us
Be sure to include your name and contact information along with the number of each type of bar, "Thank You," "Merry Christmas," or "Happy Holidays," and how many each in milk chocolate or dark chocolate. We will be accepting orders until Saturday, December 1, 2007. Orders placed by Saturday, October 20 can be delivered free to the state convention. Send check or money order, payable to "GTCB", to Sue Lichtenfels at 96 Robb Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15243. The members of GTCB thank you for your support.
Monroe County: On the move with MCCB! It seems that among many members of PCB, MCCB - the group from the Pocono Mountains, has well, a reputation. Apparently, we brought a lot of energy to last year's state convention. To some, we were known as the party bunch! That's fine. However, I wanted to take a moment to show you the other side, exactly how we use our energy locally.
Advocacy is the major part of our purpose in the community. As Mary Ann Alexander said during her very impassioned presentation during the Northeast regional, "…be resilient because you are going to have setbacks, it's the nature of the beast when you are trying to affect change."
The year started off with the right momentum. Three members of MCCB attended the ACB Legislative seminar in DC. It was an amazing learning experience, not only regarding the issues, but the process of meeting with legislators.
Our participation in poll worker and election judge's training, and a commitment for future inclusion in such training, assures us that the experience for visually impaired and blind people in the county will be greatly improved.
By year's end, two accessible pedestrian signals (APS) will be installed in the county. Just as important, the borough manager of East Stroudsburg is committed to installing additional APS devices throughout the city. We continue to advocate for APS devices throughout the county.
"Money, money, money…" Many negative things are said about money. But the truth is much of what we want to do as a state organization and local chapters requires money. Last year we were very successful with our first attempts at raising money via bake sales, garage sales, etc. We thought we would try a few new things this year. Caroline McFarland, our Fundraising chairperson, once again stepped up to the challenge when asked to create a fundraising plan for the year. The plan started out with a fundraising program offered by Bon-Ton. The retailer offers coupon books for sale at $5 each. The non-profit organization keeps the full cost. If a specific quota is met, the organization gains exclusive rights to sell additional coupon books in the store. Bon-Ton matches the amount sold in the stores and the funds are distributed, based on the number of sales. This year, MCCB sold the most books out of all participating organizations in our area.
Saying that our golf tournament was simply a fundraiser, is misleading. This was an opportunity to once again positively effect the image the community at large has of visually impaired and blind individuals. Not only were we able to successfully organize and promote this event, but we were sure to include blind golfers. Educating the public once again that blind people can compete in all aspects of life. We were also committed to bringing awareness to sight loss. This year, with help from our celebrity guest, Kyle Lograsso, child golf prodigy, we helped increase awareness of Retinoblastoma, a pediatric cancer that often requires the removal of at least one eye.
"In Your Face." During last year's state convention, I used this phrase to describe our intent to keep the public educated about our issues. In order to do this, it is necessary to use all aspects of the media.
According to a local writer, "…people don't really want to read about issues, they want to read about people." I am not convinced this is true. I think people do want to read about issues, but they want it to be interesting. We launched the MCCB Blog specifically for this reason. A way to share our issues and experiences with the world, without the too-often negative perspective of many mainstream writers.
We were successful in gaining support for our first annual golf tournament. Securing Kyle Lograsso, child golf prodigy, as our celebrity guest gave us the extra momentum to gain additional sponsors and players. The media, once made aware of Kyle's story, clamored for an interview. The fact that HBO and CBS were featuring stories on Kyle the same week as our tournament, made the local media even more interested. Check out the interview done by MCCB Public Relations Chairperson, Helen Koshensky in "PCB Reports."
We're not done. We did so much more during the year. I would love to share it all, but unfortunately space is limited. If you want to hear more from us, please come on over to http://www.mccbonline.org
Join us at this year's state convention, where we will update you further. We plan to really bring the energy out during the banquet, so come party with MCCB! -- Submitted by Thomas Reid, President
News Note: Sheila Drummond, a blind golfer, who was one of our speakers at our Northeast Regional, make history lately!!! "Sheila Drummond didn't need to see her hole-in-one. She heard it!
"Drummond, blinded by diabetes 26 years ago, experienced the highlight of her golfing career Sunday, recording an ace on the 144-yard, par-3 fourth hole at the Mahoning Valley Country Club. Playing with her husband and coach, Keith, and two friends in a steady rain, the 53-year old Drummond hit a driver on the hole. The shot cleared a water hazard, flew between traps, and landed on the green, where it hit the flagstick before dropping into the Hole!" Way to go, Sheila! - taken from the Lancaster New Era Newspaper
Oil Valley: Our chapter meets monthly, which usually includes a luncheon. Our June picnic included 17 invited guests, besides our regular members and the band. All members agreed that it went well, and plans will be made to have it again next year. We are investigating the purchase and funding of a CCTV. Other discussion centered around changes in local transportation and purchase of a banner. Chuck Giambrone, from Community Resources for Independence (C.R.I.) was a recent guest, and told us about the changes in the Talking Book program and how it is moving from cassette to a digital format. He also demonstrated the Victor Reader, and members had the opportunity to try it out. We are planning a White Cane Walk on September 14th. in Oil City. -- Submitted by Ginny Taylor and Scott Roberts
News Note: Debbie Bowers, one of our members, has completed her course work to become a certified rehabilitation teacher. She is currently planning an internship with BBVS, and looking forward to future employment.
Philadelphia Regional: Jay Doudna has informed us of his new address: 4603 NW 25th Place, Oklahoma City, OK 73127-1900. His cell phone number remains the same. His Email address is: jaydoudna@cox.net
Jay was President of the chapter, and in his absence, Jim Saylor, Vice President, has become President. Other officers are: Bill Newman, Vice President; Lavera Diggins, Treasurer; Lyne Sine, Assistant Treasurer; Edgar Facemyer, Recording Secretary; R Stewart Hughes, Corresponding Secretary; Jay Doudna, Past President.
The Philadelphia Regional chapter is currently assisting in a sting operation, conducted by the Law Enforcement Division of the Philadelphia Parking Authority, in order to ensure the compliance of the laws which require access by visually impaired patrons and their guide dogs to taxi cabs. This issue was brought to the attention of the Philadelphia Parking Authority by the chapter a few months ago. The sting operation will be ongoing, and our member enjoys her under cover role. Additionally, the chapter is spearheading efforts to require all taxi cabs to prominently display owner/operator information in both large print and Braille formats.
The Philadelphia Regional Chapter (PRC) is also grateful to another member who suggested that we begin a program whereby we identify dangerous/difficult intersections to cross, which are located in and around the Philadelphia area. It was further suggested by this member that we offer a detailed explanation as to the best way to traverse these intersections and problem areas. The idea was presented to the PCB Transportation committee, which has given its endorsement for the Board's consideration for a state-wide project. - Jim Saylor, President
Washington County: Russ Dougherty, a faithful member of the chapter, suffered a fall in mid-July and was in Washington hospital for a time with a broken leg. Upon his release from the hospital, with his leg in a brace, he was transferred to Manor Care Rehabilitation facility in Bethel Park, PA, where he was going through therapy. He seemed to be coming along, but was in a great deal of discomfort. He was looking forward to football and hockey season. However, Russ was taken to Upper Saint Clair Hospital on Labor Day. His blood sugar was low, and he was put on a ventilator in the Intensive Care Unit. Russ lost his battle with life the morning of September 11, 2007. Please keep Russ' family in your prayers. Correspondence can be send to his home address: 76 McAdam St., Washington, PA 15301.
Additional Obituary: Patrick Comorato, from the Philadelphia area, lost his fight with cancer on July 13, 2007. He was a former member-at-large of PCB.
NEW PCB CHAPTER BEING ORGANIZED
The Pennsylvania Council of the Blind hosted an open forum meeting, held at the Public Library in Lancaster on Saturday August 18. The purpose of the meeting was to give Lancaster County individuals who are blind or visually impaired an opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns, and to share their interest in establishing a PCB chapter in which they could participate.
The meeting was hosted by John A Horst, Executive Director of PCB, and George Holliday, President of PCB. Serita Holliday also spoke to the group concerning crucial issues that relate to independence and self-sufficiency. There were 10 individuals from the community present, and there was lively discussion and enthusiastic interaction among them. By the end of the meeting, they were "ready to go", to organize, elect officers, and "get the ball rolling." Next meeting date is September 15, at the Public library in Lancaster, PA. - June Horst, Editor
STATE NEWS
CONVENTION LAST CALL
By Tony Swartz, Convention Chair
If you are reading this article, then you should have already received your convention registration letter and form. If you have not, without further delay, contact the PCB state office at 877-617-7407. If you are reading this article and have received your convention letter and have not yet returned your convention registration form, then by all means read no further and immediately attend to business. If you are reading this article and have completed and returned your convention registration form, then I offer my congratulations, for here's what awaits you!
Our 2007 PCB Convention and Conference scheduled for Friday, November 2nd through Sunday the 4th, to be held at the Best Western Holiday Inn, Bethlehem, at the Gateway Conference Center, promises to be an exciting and informative experience you won't, in fact, can't, afford to miss.
"Why," you ask? Do you read for pleasure? Do you read to be informed? Do you know that now and over the next year, both our access to books and in general, our reading experience will be greatly enhanced? But, you question from what sources will these books be available? Do you wonder whether vendors have products which will provide access to digital content? What are these products? What do they look like? How easy are they to use? How much will they cost? Also, have you some concerns about quiet cars and what impact they'll have on our ability to travel independently? Will we need to develop new travel skills? What strategies can we employ to remain safe and independent? And, what about a tour? Do you know much about Lehigh Valley history and the Moravians who first settled Bethlehem, America's Christmas city? Do you like trucks, old trucks? By the way, did you hear that there will be a change in the format of our Friday night entertainment, to audience participation trivia game show? Will Jay and I be able to pull it off without making complete fools of ourselves? Do you like to laugh?
Well, maybe it's just me, but it sounds like there are lots of questions. Do you want some answers? If so, then for those who have not done so, it's not too late to make your plans to attend the 2007 PCB State Convention and Conference.
Oh, but you are not quite sure where to begin? Do you need some direction? Here's a list of tasks to complete.
1. Read the convention letter.
2. Complete and return the convention registration form to the PCB state office.
3. Call the Best Western hotel at 610-866-5800 to make a room reservation.
4. Note that the room rate is $79, plus tax per night.
5. Make arrangements for transportation.
6. Look forward to having your questions answered, renewing old friendships and establishing new ones, learning, contributing, and perhaps turning the weekend into an experience you won't soon forget.
Remember that while curiosity killed the cat, satisfaction brought it back. Come to Bethlehem for some satisfaction!
PCB Convention Tour in Bethlehem, PA:
We hope you will soon be registering to come to the
PCB Conference and Convention in Bethlehem. Those who will register for the tour on Friday morning, November 2 will take a bus ride through the famous Christmas City, the city of Bethlehem, founded by Moravians. Your tour guide will tell you about the historic buildings and Moravian customs. The guide for this part of the tour will be a well-trained resident, who will be able to answer your questions about Moravian history, and Moravians today.
After the bus tour of historic downtown Bethlehem, we will travel to the Mack Truck Museum, which was founded in 1984. There you will hear about, and be able to touch and climb into some of the 15 antique Mack Truck vehicles. The oldest vehicle on display is the 28-passenger open-air bus, built in 1905. You will also see a Mack Junior, used to deliver dry goods and grocery products: an A.C. built for World War I; antique fire engines, and more. The most recently built vehicle on display is a UPS truck from the 1970's. Your guides at the Museum will be retired Mack Truck employees, with rich memories and stories of the best days of Mack trucks. Ask to hear the history of the Mack Bull Dog.
From the Museum we will travel to the restaurant at the Sheraton Jet Port Hotel for lunch. This spacious restaurant offers delicious food and affordable prices. After lunch, we will return to the Best Western Conference Center for the afternoon activities.
We look forward to being with all of you. Bring your happy shoes, and gather with old friends and meet new ones at the 2007 PCB Conference and Convention. -- Jeanette Schmoyer, Host Committee
PCB USED MEDIA SALE
Susan Lichtenfels
Do you have music CDs you haven't listened to in five years? Have you mastered the accessible computer game you purchased two years ago? Is there a movie video you've already watched a dozen times? Are you done with those audio books you received at the holidays? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, perhaps you will consider donating these unwanted items to PCB for its Used Media Sale, to be held at this year's state convention in Bethlehem. You could also ask your friends and family members if they have any of these items to donate.
If you can, label each item in Braille, so others will have an easier time reviewing the selection. Please be sure the media is both complete and in working order. If you will be attending the 2007 PCB convention, feel free to bring the media items with you. If you prefer, you can send the items in a package, marked "Free Matter for the Blind" to the PCB office at 931 N Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17102.
The media sale will take place at the 2007 statewide convention in Bethlehem. You will find our table in the Exhibit area, open during exhibit hours. This year items will be sold for $5 each, or four items for $19. All proceeds from the Used Media Sale benefit PCB.
We are also seeking volunteers to man the table at the convention. If you would like to volunteer for this activity, or need additional information about the type of media we are collecting, please contact Sue Lichtenfels at 412-429-1727 or email: susan@lichtenfels.us
Thank you in advance for making this year's sale a great success!
MORNING OF BINGO
For those conventioneers looking for some fun, the PCB Fundraising committee will be hosting a Bingo party on Friday, November 2, from 9:00 AM to 11:15 AM. Bring your Bingo cards, or there will be some waiting for you at the door. Joanne Davidoff, from the Philadelphia Regional chapter will be the caller during the game. The cost is $.25 per card per game. At the end of each game, the winner and PCB will split the pot. The location will be announced, but you might find us if you smell fresh buttered popcorn that morning. There are plans to have popcorn popped at the Bingo party. So, bring your Bingo cards and popcorn appetite. - George Holliday, Chair, Fundraising Committee
NEW DIRECTOR OF BBVS
William Gannon, Director of OVR, has announced that David J DeNotaris has been appointed to serve as Director of the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services. David was employed with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, as the Manager of Statewide Operations. He has a Masters of Administration and an undergraduate degree in communications. He is also a published author and an experienced manager. He began his position with BBVS on August 13, 2007.
CAPITOL DISABILITY RESOURCE DAY
From "Slice of Pie"
The Developmental Disabilities Council (PADDC) and The Policy Information Exchange (PIE) will hold an event at the Capitol on October 22, from 9 AM to 1 PM in the East Wing Rotunda. Statewide disability organizations will be invited to offer information about their services, advocacy, or expertise to policy makers and the public.
Note: PCB will participate in this services resource day. - JAH
STATE LAWS NOW ON WEB SITE
If you have been seeking information about tracking bills and how your representatives have voted, check out the following web site: http://opencongress.org/
Pennsylvania's consolidated laws are posted on a publicly available web site, making it the last state to do so. Now, you can do your own legal research without purchasing legal textbooks or visiting a library.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FUNDING
BROAD AND DEDICATED
Excerpts from a News Release
By Kevin Hensil, SILC
Governor Rendell signed House Bill 1590 on July 18, 2007, to open an era of historic investments in Pennsylvania's bridges, roads, and public transit systems, -- nearly $1 billion in annual funding for transportation infrastructure and public transit.
The new measure makes on average over the next ten years, $532 million to fund bridge and road repairs, and $414 million available to support the 73 public transit systems that provide more than 400 million rides each year to residents in all 67 counties. The new transportation funding law replaces a patchwork transit funding system with the new Public Transportation Trust Fund, which will draw resources from sales and other taxes, lottery proceeds, and money from the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.
"Without this infusion of money, local riders and economies would have suffered more drastic cuts in public transit," Governor Rendell said. "I met many residents who rely on public transit to get to jobs, medical appointments, and shopping, In many areas, public transit is the glue that makes local economies strong, yet every year these agencies face budget shortfalls. Finally, we are providing a dedicated, predictable funding source to shore up public transit agencies."
Meeting a long-standing demand, the Commonwealth will now be able to expand the Persons with Disabilities Rural Transportation Program into the 16 remaining counties. Welfare-to-Work and Job Access Reverse Commute services also will be funded. "With this new partnership, we at last have a long-term solution for funding to revive our public transportation…systems," the Governor added.
A SHARED RIDE TESTIMONIAL
By Helen Pifer, Shippensburg, PA
"I would like to extend my sincerest thank you to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (and responsible persons in other organizations: Pennsylvania Lottery for funding, and government offices) for the Rural Transportation for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) program that helped make (and enacted) the changes to the program around April 2007."
"This change helped me tremendously by making me eligible to ride the Franklin County Transport life buses at the reduced fare, and I can now get to doctor appointments, get medicine, etc..I feel like I'm alive, and functioning, again!"
"A letter I wrote to the editor of Public Opinion was published on Dec. 1, 2004. In that letter I explained some of the problems I was incurring, due to lack of affordable transportation to the disabled, trying to live in Franklin County. I had just moved there, I didn't know but a couple of people, and I landed in the hospital three months in a row for surgeries. I could not get prescriptions delivered, I could not drive, I was under 60 years of age, I was permanently disabled, and I could not quality for Medicaid. I found myself between a rock and a hard place."
Luckily, I was able to meet some very nice citizens who have been so wonderful to me, as well as Chambersburg Meals on Wheels, since then! I could not have made it without any of them. To all these citizens (and now friends), I also want to say a really heartfelt thank you!.
Another special thanks should be given to the wonderfully personable and empathetic lift bus drivers and the office staff of Franklin County Integrated Transportation. I appreciate each and every one of you! You all deserve special kudos for your help!"
Thank you, Helen, for sharing your experience with us.- Editor (This testimonial was sent to the PCB office by Kevin Hensil, Director of Communications for SILC.
CONGRATULATIONS ASSOCIATED SERVICES
FOR THE BLIND
Sent in by Patricia Johnson
ASB President & CEO
We are proud! The Philadelphia Foundation has listed Associated Services for the Blind as one of Philadelphia's highest-performing non-profit organizations, showing exemplary performance. Associated Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired has been awarded an unrestricted sum of $40,000, which they may use at their own disgression. Congratulations on a well-deserved award!
Note: Our own Executive Director and ASB Board Member, John A Horst, will also be honored at the ASB luncheon in October - jmh
NATIONAL NEWS
ACB CONVENTION - 2007
Reported by Carla Hayes
The ACB National Convention which took place in Minneapolis from June 30 to July 7, 2007, was, in my opinion, one of the best conventions that I ever attended. There were plenty of excellent programs, seminars, speakers, and tours. It was good to meet new people and reconnect with old friends. Here are some of the highlights:
The General session opened on Sunday, July 1st, with a call to order by ACB President Chris Gray, and ended with old and new business on Friday, July 6th. Sandwiched in between was a plethora of reports, resolutions, bylaws, awards, and speakers throughout convention week.
This year ACB elected new officers. The results were:
President - Mitch Pomerantz, California
1st Vice President - Kim Charlson, Massachusetts
2nd Vice President - Brenda Dillon, Tennessee
Secretary - Marlaina Lieberg, Washington
Treasurer - Mike Godino, reelected for another term.
Board position vacated by Brenda Dillon - NABS President, Cammie Vloedman elected.
Some of the program topics covered during the General sessions included: New trends in employment and rehabilitation, cell phone accessibility, AFB's new accessible web site for senior citizens, an update from the National Library Service on digital talking books, accessible money, and the ADA's status and prospects for the future.
For me, one of the highlights of the General session was the reading of the Declaration of Independence, by Charlie Boone, a well-known radio personality from WCCO in Minneapolis, on the 4th of July. Listening to it make me proud to be an American!
An unfortunate occurance at this year's convention was that we ran out of time in the business meeting and was forced to refer several resolutions to the Board of Directors without having the opportunity to hear them. I sincerely hope that this does not happen again. I strongly feel that the members of ACB should have the right to deliberate and vote on all resolutions, since they represent the views of the entire organization.
As usual, the special interest affiliates and other groups held several interesting programs during convention week. Some of the events I attended included a seminar on downloading books from the Internet, sponsored by the Library Users of America; a technology vendor showcase, sponsored by the Blind Information Technology Specialists; Braille games and contests with slate and stylus; notetakers and speed reading, presented by the Braille Revival League; and a seminar on home schooling and video description in the classroom, sponsored by the National Association of Blind Teachers.
The convention also had its share of interesting tours. There were several museum tours, a vision loss resource tour where we learned about Minnesota's library for the blind, radio reading service and state agency. It was interesting to compare Minnesota's services to the blind and visually impaired with those we have in Pennsylvania. There was the usual city tour, as well ast others to historical and memorable landmarks in the area. A dinner cruise and Saturday night dinner theater tour was also included, which included a backstage sensory tour of props and scenery. This was followed by a sumptuous dinner on the patio and a live audio-described production of the musical "1776." Many convention attendees also had the opportunity to spend a day at the Mall of America, which includes over 500 stores and restaurants, an aquarium, a flight simulator, a miniature golf course, a Nascar simulator, and an amusement park, all inside this huge enclosure.
The Exhibit hall was bustling with activity and vendors, who were selling the newest high-tech and low-tech gadgets and gizmos! The most innovative device that I saw this year was HumanWare's new Victor Reader Stream, a small DAISY-mp3 player with built-in text-to-speech engine and an integrated microphone to record voice notes and classroom lectures, along with many other exciting features. This amazing device is about the size of a deck of cards and costs only $329.
This year, ACB leaped into the 21st century by offering the convention newspaper and other handouts in electronic formats. Convention attendees could receive documents by Email or stop by the Information Desk each day and have them copied on a compact flash card, SD card, or thumb drive. Of course, the newspaper and other handouts were also available in hardcopy, Braille or large print and via the Convention Ear, a telephone dial-in service.
As you can see, we had a fantastic convention. If you regret that you were not one of the 1,137 people who attended, I have some suggestions for you: Purchase this year's convention tapes from the ACB National office or visit the ACB web site, where you will find audio archives of the general sessions and banquet. Unfortunately, the food and fellowship cannot be transmitted electronically. Better yet, make plans to attend next year's ACB convention. It will be held from July 5-12, 2008, at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, KY. For reservations, call 502-589-5200. Room rates will be $85 for a single or double and $105 for a suite. Even though the convention will officially start on July 5th, there will be tours on the 4th. So, plan accordingly. The convention was held at this hotel several years ago, and Louisville is a wonderful place to visit! Hope to see you there.
ADA ANNIVERSARY
From "Slice of Pie"
On July 26, we celebrated the 17th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), signed by President George H.W. Bush in 1990. It was intended to provide a "clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities." People with disabilities hoped that barriers to full participation, inclusion, and equality of opportunity would come down. There have been many positive outcomes, but also some disappointing court decisions that disability advocates would like to address. On the anniversary, two bills were introduced: HR 3195, the ADA Restoration Act of 2007 and S 1881, to restore the original intent of Congress regarding individuals covered by the employment provisions of the ADA.
ADA RESTORATION ACT -- TAKE ACTION!!!
Ardis Bazyn, ACB
The US Chamber of Commerce, the world's largest business federation, in a letter addressed to the members of the US House of Representatives, went on record as opposing the ADA Restoration Act of 2007 (HR3195) and urged members not to co-sponsor or show support of the bill. The Chamber's letter mischaracterizes the ADA Restoration Act as an expansion of the ADA, when in fact, it is, as its name suggests, a restoration of the original intent of Congress when passing the ADA in 1990, which was to create a level playing field for everyone who wants a job to have an equal opportunity to work. Just like other civil rights laws prohibit employers from basing decisions on characteristics like race or sex, Congress wanted the ADA to stop employers from making decisions based on disabilities.
However, that original, bipartisan, bicameral intent has since been distorted by the Courts through extremely narrow interpretations of the ADA. The employment rate of people with disabilities has not improved and two-thirds of people with disabilities who do not have a job indicate they would work if they could only find employment. What's more, for those fortunate enough to find jobs, courts are deciding against people with disabilities who challenge disability discrimination 97% of the time, often before the person with a disability even has a chance to show that the employer treated them unfairly.
The Chamber argues that they "strongly support equal opportunity in employment", yet they adamantly oppose HR 3195, which seeks to make equal opportunities for people with disabilities possible!
TAKE ACTION!!!
React directly to the Chamber regarding their opposition to ADA Restoration by writing or calling the Chamber of Commerce at:
US Chamber of Commerce
1615 H Street NW
Washington, DC 20062-2000
Main Number: 202-659-6000
Customer Service: 1-800-638-6582
Send your complaints to the regional Chamber offices too. To determine contact information for the regional office nearest you, go to:http://www.uschamber.com/about/contact/regional.htm
To read the letter the Chamber of Commerce sent to the US House of Representatives, go to: http: //www.aapd.com/News/adainthe/070827uscc.htm
NOTE: The following letter was faxed from the PCB office to each member of Pennsylvania's Congressional delegation, concerning this matter. We encourage all of you to call, fax, or email a similar letter. - JAH
August 21, 2007
The Honorable ________________
United States Representative
FAX # ________________
Dear Representative;
Please join six of your fellow Congress people from Pennsylvania in co-sponsoring HR 3195, the ADA Restoration Act of 2007. The courts have whittled away the civil rights of people with disabilities through narrow interpretations of the ADA that have had consequences that Congress never intended when they passed the original ADA in 1990. This legislation is desperately needed by people with disabilities to fulfill the promise of the ADA and harmonize it with other civil rights laws.
Your constituents with disabilities are counting on you to be a supporter of this Act. Becoming a co-sponsor will convince us that you are concerned about your constituents with disabilities.
Sincerely,
John A Horst,
Executive Director
Pennsylvania Council of the Blind
HUMANWARE LAUNCHES VICTOR READER STREAM
Submitted by Tony Swartz
HumanWare launched Victor Reader Stream, a powerful, palm-size DAISY-MP3 player for playing books and music Longueuil (Quebec, Canada), June 29, 2007.
HumanWare is proud to introduce its most compact, most powerful DAISY player to date, the Victor Reader Stream. Blind and low vision people can comfortably hold this new player in the palm of their hand and have the flexibility to quickly and accurately access content from digital audio books.
Developed with the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), the Victor Reader Stream uses the latest technology from HumanWare to be able to read digital talking books from the National Library Service for the blind and physically handicapped (NLS). Not only will you be able to play and navigate the NLS books on cartridges, but you will also have access to NLS download books. The Stream has a USB port to connect to your computer, so you can transfer download books and music from your PC to the Stream's SD flash memory card.
As the newest member of the family of Victor Reader digital talking book players, the Stream offers the same powerful and simple to use, user interface, made popular by the Victor Reader Classic+ and Wave players, used by thousands worldwide. The Victor Reader Stream can play various electronic book formats, including DAISY, Bookshare, text, wav, MP3, and OGG Vorbis audio files. As well, the ability to play the popular commercial books from Audible.com will be added by September. The player provides integrated text-to-speech for reading books in text format, such as those from Bookshare. It uses a removable SD flash memory card to store books, music, as well as electronic text, and can even record voice notes.
"The VR Stream benefits from our many years of expertise learned through developing and marketing tens of thousands of our Victor Reader digital talking book players all over the world," says Gerry Chevalier, Product Manager. "No other DAISY player has offered so much in such a small device."
"This new player was designed to meet the needs of the increasing number of on-the-go blind and low vision students and professionals," said Gerry Chevalier. "Its small size and flexible SD card storage allow our customers to take their entire book and music library with them anywhere, anytime."
The best news of all--priced at only $329, the Stream is your best buy for DAISY players, offering so much performance and functionality at such a low price. All ACB members receive a 5% discount. Victor Reader Stream is available for purchase online in the USA at http://www.humanware.com/<http://www.humanware.com/>
A UNIQUE WEB RESOURCE FOR
PEOPLE WITH AGE-RELATED VISION LOSS
American Foundation for the Blind
A major public health issue is brewing in America. Over the next two decades, rates of vision loss from disease, like age-related macular degeneration, are expected to double as the nation's 78 million baby boomers reach retirement age. To help prepare for this dramatic increase in Americans with vision loss, and to help the 6.5 million Americans over age 65 currently experiencing age-related vision loss, the American Foundation for the Blind has created the first web resource of its kind - a proactive, virtual vision center that encourages older adults to live independently and productively with vision loss.
Available via a prominent link on AFB's home page www.afb.org/seniorsite
AFB Senior Site focuses on common sense and daily living solutions to help seniors with vision loss to better adjust to their changing eyesight. It will also connect seniors and family members to local services and spotlight the wide range of assistive living products available to people with vision loss.
The site has five main sections: Understanding Vision Loss, Finding Help and Support, Daily Living, Changing Your Home, and Fitness and Fun. Visitors to the site will also find inspiring video testimonials from seniors who aren't letting their vision loss slow them down, as well as sections on exercise, travel and recreational opportunities for people with vision loss. Blogs and support group links, foster a sense of community among seniors with vision loss, and family members.
Like the rest of the AFB web site, Senior Site is designed with adjustable text, color, and contrast to make it accessible to those with low vision. The site also meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines so blind or low vision users can navigate the site using voice browser technology.
DESCRIPTIVE VIDEO INFORMATION
Submitted by J. Fagnani
In order to have your local TV channels utilize the
audio programming channel (SAP) to pass along the descriptive audio feed from the networks, you need to do the following.
Contact the programming manager at each station. If they are providing the feed, thank them, and ask to be placed on an email list, alerting you to special broadcasts. If they are not providing the feed, explain your need for such a feed. Tell them that there is no cost involved, but just the changing of some settings in the feed. If they seem overwhelmed, ask them if you can speak to an engineer.
Some stations may be using the SAP for other purposes, such as local sports or news, and you may have to share that with them. If you have any problems, please contact me.
Joseph Fagnani
413 58th Street, Altoona, PA 16602-1120
Phone: 814-940-0270
Fax: 814-940-0465
Email: jfagnani@atlanticbb.net
For the latest updates of PBS programs airing with description and changes to the broadcast schedule in the upcoming months, please check the following. Toll free DVS Information line at: 800-333-1203. Email: access@wgbh.org
CELL PHONE - LAND LINE PHONE ALERT!
Some Consumer Information: Received in the PCB Office from George Holliday, on August 17, 2007.
The writer reports: "I received a telephone call last evening from an individual identifying himself as an AT&T Service Technician (could also be Telus) who was conducting a test on the telephone lines. He stated that to complete the test, I should touch nine (9), zero (0), the pound (#) sign, and then hang up. Luckily, I was suspicious and refused."
"Upon contacting the telephone company, I was informed that by pushing 9, 0, plus #, you give the requesting individual full access to your telephone line, which enables them to place long distance calls billed to your home phone number."
"I was further informed that this scam has been originating from many local jails/prisons. Do not press 9 0 plus pound for anyone."
"The GTE Security Department requested that I share this information. After checking with Verizon, they also said it was true."
Editor's Note: The originating author of this information is unlisted. However, I contacted our local telephone operator, and she verified this information. She also informed me that once the caller has your number, and you respond, they continue to use your number to make long distance calls, which can result in a huge phone bill for you! - June Horst, Editor
INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS FOR BLIND
AND PARTIALLY SIGHTED CHILDREN
March 25 - 28, 2008, Pontevedra, Spain
Submitted by Susan Lichtenfels
Are you blind or partially sighted? Are you between 14 and 16 years old? Would you like to join other visually impaired teenagers from all over the world for five days in Spain?
If so, take part in our easy-to-enter competition, and you may be selected to participate in the first-ever International Congress for Blind and Partially Sighted Children, in Pontevedra, Spain, in March of next year.
The Congress is organized by the World Blind Union (WBU) and the Spanish National Organization of the Blind (ONCE) in partnership with Unicef, ICEVI and Save the Children. Twenty-four visually impaired teenagers, representing all six WBU regions, will come together for three days of activities, including:
Interculture work shops
Recreational and sports activities
Excursions in and around the beautiful Galician
city of Pontevedra
To enter the competition, submit an essay on one of the following topics by December 31st, 2007
Your Life as a Visually Impaired Teenager (in a
creative form, perhaps a poem, letter, or
newspaper article).
Your Experience with Children's Rights in Your
community, country, or region
One of the three areas to be addressed during
The Congress ( the family, education,
relating to peers).
Entries should be no longer than 1,500 words, and may be submitted in English or Spanish, and in print, Braille (grade 1), electronic format, mp3, or any other suitable format. Entries should be sent by post, fax or email to: Enrique Perex, WBU Secretary General, C/O ONCE, C/Almansa 66, 28039 Madrid, Spain. Tele:+ 34 91 589 45 33. Fax: + 34 91 589 47 49. Email: umc@once.es
Please indicate clearly "listening to the Children" on the envelope if submitting by Post. For more information, contact the Secretary General's Office.
Entry Form: First Name:_____________________
Surname: ________________________________
Date of Birth:______________________________
Sex: _________
Visual Impairment: Blind ____Partially Sighted____
Can you get written permission from your parents or guardians? Yes ____No ____
Can you travel alone? Yes ___No___
Are you able to take care of yourself and get around with some support? Yes ___ No ___
Can you speak and/or understand English or Spanish
Fairly well? Yes___ No ___
Are you in good health and not in need of medical
Care? Yes___ No ___
Home address: _____________________________
______________________________________
Post Code:______________Country:____________
Telephone: ___________Fax: _________________
Email: _______________School Address:________
_________________________________________
Post Code:______________Country_____________
Blind Organization you belong to:_______________
Name:
Address:
Country:
Telephone: Fax:
Email:
If you have any additional comments or information you think we should know regarding your possible participation in the Congress (special dietary needs, wheelchair user, etc.), please advise us.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS - A WEB SITE
FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED
Comments from Dr. Ron Milliman
Chair, ACB Monthly Monetary Support Program
I always get compliments about how nice I look at work. Twice a year I have a sighted assistant look through my wardrobe and we throw out stained items, and give away to a local charity the out-of-date clothing. I have found that a bleach stick and Spray and Wash Pink for stains are handy tools to have (the bleach stick is for whites only and the pink is for colors). Whenever I have heard negative comments about clothing, it has always been about stains. You can be very nicely dressed, but a small stain can ruin the look of your outfit. - Donna Rose, Vice President Michigan Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired.
A web site is available for the blind and visually
impaired, called "Dress for Success." For further information and details, contact: rmilliman@insight.com
Ronald E Milliman is also professor of Marketing at Western Kentucky University and teaches a course called: "Marketing on the World Wide Webb. "I tell my students that when they go out to meet with our business clients, they must dress as professionals, not in their jeans, t-shirts, and tennis shoes. At the end of the semester, the client comes to our class, and each project team presents its final project to the client, just like they would in the real world if they were working for an ad agency or consulting service. I tell my students they must dress appropriately and look professional."
Evidently, in today's world, our young people are not being taught by their parents or anyone else, what it means to dress professionally and how to accomplish that look. I have insisted on specifics for my students and have begun giving them specific instructions, clearly defining what I mean by professional dress! When I call offending students into my office, I receive all kinds of excuses!
Evidently, there is a wide definition of well-dressed, and for some reason, people are not being taught what is means to be well-dressed, dressed up, or dressed appropriately. It is not just among blind people. It is pervasive throughout society. Unfortunately, we, as blind people, are looked at differently, and if we go into a job interview dressed inappropriately, people blame the fact that we are blind, and because we are blind, we don't know any differently. When this happens, people generalize to all blind people -- because he/she is blind, blind people in general don't know how to dress. Instead of looking around at society in general and the way they dress, they just lock in on the fact that we are blind and we don't know any differently.
This also holds true for not only how we are dressed,
but how we are generally groomed; how we behave; how our hair looks; or if we smell bad. Not only do we represent ourselves in our appearance, we represent blind people in general, rightly or wrongly!
So, people, wash up, comb your hair, brush your teeth, and dress up like you are trying to impress the entire world, because, guess what? You are!!!
BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2006-2007
George Holliday, President 215-748-3556
Rodger Simmons, Second Vice President
717-676-1224
Cathy Long, Secretary 717-737-1979
Anthony Evancic, Treasurer 412-621-4046
John A Horst, Executive Director
717-367-6346
Joe Perry, Past President 717-761-1920
Sue Etters 412-749-9593
Edgar Facemyer 610-647-3365
Sandra Marsiglia 717-846-0671
Roberta Simmons 717-676-1223
Anthony Swartz 610-799-4505
Edward Hersh 717-872-1192
Jerry Weinger 856-874-0957
Michael Zaken 412-655-1234
CHAPTER PRESIDENTS - 2006
Beaver County Ken Sheets Capitol Cities Jack Potts
Carl Shoemaker Geraldine Zeigler
Clearfield-Jefferson County Henry Bloomberg
Cumberland County Ruthann Gilbert
Erie Ernest Wright
Golden Triangle Mike Zaken
J. F. Kennedy David Shaw
Lackawanna County Janice Hargick
Lehigh Valley Wilhelmina Wright
Luzerne County Thomas Walsh
Monroe County Thomas Reid
Oil Valley Scott Roberts
Philadelphia Region James Saylor
Washington County Carla Hayes
York County Roberta Simmons
Special Interest Group --
Delaware Valley Council of Citizens with Low
Vision Jerry Weinger
__________________________________
PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
NAME:_______________PHONE:________
ADDRESS:__________________________
_______________________ZIP:________
INDICATE:___LARGE PRINT___BRAILLE
___CASSETTE___PC DISK___EMAIL
ADVOCATE FORMAT:______________
ADULT MEMBERSHIP DUES $8.00_______
JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP DUES 4.00_______
AGENCY MEMBERSHIP DUES 16.00______
CONTRIBUTIONS ______
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $______
Free Matter for the Blind
Or Handicapped
(Handle as 1st class mail)
Domestic Mail Manual Sec. 135.7)
RETURN TO:
PA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND
931 N FRONT STREET
HARRISBURG, PA 17102
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED:
LARGE TYPE EDITION