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 Summer 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 Fall edition of the ADVOCATE is September 1, 2007.
| President's Report | 7 |
| From the Director's Desk | 8 |
| Awards | 10 | Employment | 12 |
| Fundraising | 15 | Your Trash, PCB's Treasure | 19 | Membership | 20 | Transportation | 23 | Transportation Resolution | 26 |
| Beaver County | 27 |
| Capitol Cities | 28 |
| Clearfield-Jefferson County | 29 |
| Central | 30 |
| Northeast | 33 |
| Southeast | 39 |
| Southwest | 43 |
| Northwest | 47 |
| Braille Awareness At the Capitol | 47 |
| Get Ready to Read, and More | 54 |
| PCB's First Annual Sidewalk Sale | 61 |
| PCBer's at National Convention | 62 |
| Proposed State Legislation | 63 |
| Newsline Report | 64 |
By George Holliday
Members of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind continue to work with several advocacy issues. In order to achieve advocacy goals, PCB needs the participation of all members. For example, how many of you have some difficulty in determining the currency denomination when a cashier gives you change I think we have all run into this problem one time or another. If 180 other countries have accessible currency, why can't ours You can assist by signing the petition at petitiononline.com or by calling the state office at 717-920-9999 or toll free at 877-617-7407, and give them your name to be added to the petition.
Also, you can contact a member in your chapter and ask him or her to add your name to the petition. We can accomplish more with numbers.
Did everyone vote in the past year? If you did, we would like to have comments on your experience. If you did not, voting machines are now accessible, in case you haven't heard. You can now vote with assurance of casting your ballot without assistance!
In conclusion, several strides are being accomplished in making our lives less stressful through accessibility. Let's work together in achieving these goals.
By John A Horst
As we move into summer, activity at the PCB office has not slowed down. Rhonda Hanafi, our very able office assistant, keeps coming up with new ideas to reduce operating costs, and to make the office operation more efficient.
We have recently changed our telephone service to a lower cost operation, which was no small task. As most of you know, this necessitated a change in the toll free number for PCB. That new number is: 877-617-7407. The local number (717-920-9999) and the Fax number (717-920-9988) has not changed.
The five regional meetings that took place around the state are now completed, thanks to the chapters who planned and hosted them. See reports of these meetings in this ADVOCATE. The PCB committees are continuing to function, and are developing new projects, such as considering a college intern to assist with advocacy work, chapters assembling resource information for daily use, and a power point presentation on PCB.
Advocacy issues that require our attention and action at present are: dedicated funding for mass transportation, expanding the shared ride program to cover the whole state, continued voting issues, and most recently and very importantly, adequate funding for the National Library Service to move to a digital operation for blind people.
On August 11, we are planning a fund raiser for PCB. Those of you who attended one of the regional meetings, heard about the sidewalk sale to take place on that date. See article in this issue of the ADVOCATE about this sale and how you can participate.
PCB is making a difference in the blind community and in the lives of vision impaired people. There is much to be done and we need to keep at it. For those of you who are on committees, we want to encourage you to attend every meeting. For all chapter members, attend your chapter meetings faithfully and be an enthusiastic supporter of what your chapter is doing.
Plan now to attend the state convention on November 2-4. You need to know about the changes to take place in the talking book program. As Mae Davidow used to say, "We are all going to work hard and accomplish much."
We hope every one has a great summer. See you at the convention in November.
George Holliday, Chair
Once again it is time for the membership of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind to think about submitting nominees for the PCB Distinguished Service Award and the PCB Honorary Award. Names for nomination should be submitted no later than September 15, to the PCB office or George Holliday at the addresses listed below.
Accompanying the nomination should be a letter listing why the individual should be considered, and a brief bio on the nominee. At that time, the Awards committee will discuss the list of nominations, based on the criteria for that particular award. Once the committee makes its decision, the state office will be notified and the plaques will be ordered. The awards will be presented during the state convention and conference in Bethlehem in November.
The following is the criteria for the PCB Distinguished Service Award:
The following is the criteria for the PCB Honorary Award:
This gives you plenty of time to start discussing the awards. The committee appreciates your participation in this process. If there are any additional questions or comments, contact George Holliday.
Please send nominations to one of the following:
George S Holliday
Email: george.holliday@verizon.net
Telephone: 215-748-3556
PA Council of the Blind
931 N Front Street
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Email: pcb1@paonline.com
Carla Hayes, Chair
18 Steps to Prepare for a Job
At a recent PCB Employment seminar, Dr. Karen Wolffe, who is employed at the American Foundation for the Blind as Director of Professional Development and CareerConnect, suggested the following 18 steps that a job seeker who is blind or visually impaired should take when preparing for a job. These suggestions sound like good advice to me.
It is accessible, free and easy to navigate. It has been redesigned to be audience focused for job seekers, employers, rehabilitation specialists, etc. The site features resume builders and personal date sheets which can both be edited. The web site can also be used to locate mentors, successfully employed blind and visually impaired people willing to answer questions about their work. Visually impaired job seekers can correspond with these mentors via confidential email.
The toll free number for CareerConnect is 1-888-824-2184.
Wouldn't you agree that Dr. Karen Wolffe's suggestions for job seekers are practical and down-to-earth? I will be sharing more of her advice from the Employment Seminar in future columns.
George Holliday, Chair
Monthly Monetary Fund:
Let's all thank the PCB Board of Directors and those members who contributed to the Monthly Monetary Fund during 2006. Last year was successful, but let's all work together in making this a banner year.
The Pennsylvania Council of the Blind needs funds to support our many programs that help all of us. Each issue of the ADVOCATE requires several dollars to create, publish, and distribute to our members and others who share interests in blindness? issues. Funds are also needed to pay the salaries of the staff and rent on the office space and related utility bills. Our staff is busy working for our rights, for new programs that will be in our best interest, working to maintain existing laws and programs that benefit blind people, to expand the use of audible traffic signals, to increase the use of audio description for TV and movies, working to increase our employment opportunities, and for many other issues and programs.
The Monthly Monetary Donation is a way for each of us to support our organization financially with whatever amount we can afford on a monthly basis. We can contribute a minimum of $1 a month, or give a flat yearly donation. It makes no difference if you enroll for $1 per month, $25 per month, or more. Everyone's contribution is valued equally! Some members can afford more or less than others, and we certainly realize and respect that. All we are asking is that you help fund your organization.
For further information and/or a form, contact the PCB office at: 717-920-9999 or toll free at: 877-617-7407.
2007 Event of fun for everyone!
The Fundraising Committee of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind once again will be hosting an auction during the 72ndannual 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, with your assistance, in making this project a huge success.
George S Holliday, Chairperson
Fundraising Committee
215-748-3556
email: george.holliday@verizon.net
By Susan Lichtenfels.
The birds are chirping, the flowers are peaking through the softening soil, and the sweet smell of nature is in the air. Like nature's many wondrous creatures, we too like to use this time of year to renew and reorganize our lives. Yes, it's time to don the hard hat and begin de-cluttering those bulging closets. Put off the manicure one more week and get to sorting through those overflowing drawers and overcrowded shelves. Of course, the biggest challenge will be figuring out what to do with everything you have thrown onto the "give-away" pile. Surely, PCB can help you with this problem.
Do you have music CDs that 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. You could also ask your friends and family members if they have any of these items to donate.
So, grab one of those boxes you just emptied and toss in all of those unwanted media items. 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. Send the package "Free Matter for the Blind" to the PCB office at 931 N Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102.
The media sale will take place at the 2007 statewide convention in Bethlehem. Additional details regarding the hours and specific location will be published in the Fall edition of the ADVOCATE. Volunteers are needed 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 for helping to make this year's Used Media Sale a great success.
Sandy Marsiglia, Chair.
PCB Lifetime Memberships: There are many ways we can show our support and loyalty for any organization. We can give our time by serving on committees. We can offer leadership talents by chairing committees or serving on boards. We can give financial support by helping with fundraisers, or by making donations.
PCB has initiated a Lifetime Membership status as one way a member can make a significant contribution and help to pave the way for a stable future for our organization.
We want to recognize three PCB members who have become the first to be PCB Lifetime members. John Horst was the first Lifetime member, a gift from his wife, June. Anne Porter and George Holliday have also stepped forward to make this important statement of their loyalty to PCB.
The cost of a Lifetime Membership is $1,000. You may pay this in installments of $200 per year over a period of five years. Some PCB members have chosen to do this and are working on that goal.
$200 a year represents less than $17 per month. Can you spare that amount per month PCB would be happy to receive your installments in monthly payments.
Any individual or chapter may provide a Life Membership in memory or, or in honor of a PCB member. Can you think of someone for whom you would like to make this gesture?
If you feel that a Lifetime Membership is beyond your grasp, won't you consider a smaller Monthly Monetary donation Any amount that you could contribute would be most gratefully received. Thank you.
RENEWING YOUR MEMBERSHIP:
If you have not yet paid your 2007 dues of $8.00 ($5.00 for ACB and $3.00 for PCB), please do so immediately! It will soon be time to collect dues for 2008.
Whether you are a member-at-large or a member of a chapter, it is important that you renew your membership each year in a timely way. All chapters should begin collecting dues for 2008 in September 2007. Dues for 2008 are expected in the PCB office no later than January 15, 2008. Members-at-large also are asked to send their dues to the PCB office no later than January 15. This schedule is important because PCB needs to prepare its membership list and send the appropriate dues to ACB by March. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
Chapters can assist the office in getting renewals by having in place a system to remind members of their dues. You might send letters or post cards, or you might make a friendly phone call. These reminders could be made in November or December, so that dues will come in on time.
Annual dues for membership in PCB are $10.00 beginning in 2008, which includes membership in ACB. Members-at-large should send a check for $10.00 to the PCB office at: 931 N Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17102. Chapter members should pay their dues to the treasurer of their chapter.
Again, due dates for annual dues are important in order for PCB and ACB to accurately report membership statistics in a timely way. In addition, having the dues come in when expected helps the offices to run more smoothly, as we meet budgeted expenses. Please give us your faithful support in providing us your annual dues in accordance with the schedule provided. Thank you from the PCB Membership Committee.
Joe Perry, Chair.
It's hard to believe that Memorial Day is behind us and summer is already upon us.
I'm sorry to say that the problem of dedicated funding for mass transit is still directly in front of us. There is one bill in the senate (SB631), which addresses mass transit and shared ride for senior citizens of non-urban areas only--nothing for persons with disabilities. I receive legislative updates almost on a daily basis through the State Independent Living Council, (SILC), and from what I can gather, there is nothing more being proposed by the legislature for dedicated funding for mass transit overall. A resolution developed by the PCB Transportation committee, with help of the Governmental Affairs committee has been sent to pertinent legislators. You will find a copy of this resolution following this article. A list of pertinent committee members of the legislature with their telephone numbers and addresses is being prepared by the PCB office to be sent out to chapter presidents and various committee members, so that a campaign can be mounted for dedicated funding for mass transit and shared ride for persons with disabilities. There is not much time for the state budget to be enacted by the legislature, so it is very important that we all get behind this action and contact as many legislators as possible. Please make it very personal if you can.
There are two pieces of legislation HB70 and SB790, having to do with shared ride for the disabled specifically. Both bills provide for an appropriation toward funding the program statewide. There are 16 counties which are currently not covered by the program. Montgomery and Bucks counties will begin providing shared ride as of June 1, 2007. Let us hope that statewide coverage will result as part of the next approved state budget.
On the local level, efforts continue to try to improve existing audible pedestrian signals or have new ones installed in Allegheny county, York county, Dauphin county, Monroe county, and Philadelphia. If you or your chapter are working toward this goal and I have not included your efforts, please let me know.
Finally, there appears to be some concern among legislators that the use of placards and license plates for the disabled is being abused. There is a bill in the Transportation committee (HB498), the aim of which is to remedy this matter. However, in the process, there is wording in the legislation which would eliminate blind persons and those with no arms from this benefit. If you have strong feelings against this provision, please contact your representative. In the meantime, we will try to keep you posted about this and other pertinent legislation.
If you have any questions about the information in this report, you may contact me at: 4753 Brian Road, Mechanicsburg, Pa. My telephone number is: 717-761-1920; my email address is: joleperry@verizon.net
WHEREAS, transportation is a salient factor in an individual's expression of independence;
WHEREAS, without it such things as health care, good housing, employment, shopping tours, and social and recreational activities become inaccessible, thus resulting in the loss of independence;
WHEREAS, the visually impaired and other persons with disabilities which result in their ability to drive themselves, must rely on a form of public transportation; and
WHEREAS, the existence of reliable and safe public transportation throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is threatened due to lack of dedicated funding; therefore
BE IT RESOLVED that we, the members of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind, in consort with other organizations of the disabled, herein set forth our intentions to make known to those legislators on the Transportation and Appropriations Committees, as well as our local legislators, the immediate need for adequate dedicated funding for mass transit, as well as funding for PWD shared ride funding;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we make known what a hardship it will be for all of us if public transportation should be drastically curtailed or discontinued completely.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we recommend that the Governor's proposal of levying a tax on gross oil profits and privatizing the turnpike be timely acted upon and adopted, or mandate that the legislature introduce and adopt an alternative plan before the end of the fiscal year.
New officers have been chosen for our chapter, effective April 10, 2007. They are as follows: President - Ken Sheets; Vice President - Candi Fitzsimmons; Treasurer - Bernard A Joyce; Corresponding Secretary - Lynn Mester; Recording Secretary - Mary Nye. Congratulations to each of you.
On Saturday, April 21, 2007, Harry S Long, husband of Cathy Long (PCB Board Secretary), passed away after a long fight with illness. A celebration of his life was held at 11 am on April 26 at Church of Later Day Saints in Mechanicsburg, of which he was an active member.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kidney Foundation of Central PA, Olde Liberty Square, Suite 101, Harrisburg, PA 17109 or to PA Council of the Blind, 931 N Front St., Harrisburg, PA, 17102.
Ellie Paules, a long-time member of PCB and a former member of Capitol Cities chapter, has moved to Connecticut to be near her son, Hal, and his family.
Capital Cities chapter has been busy in the past year. We have held several fund raisers that may give some ideas to other chapters.
Our first fund raiser was a candy sale of Wolfgang candies. We did pretty well with that.
The next one was a bake sale. The first sale was quite successful; the second was even a bigger success. We had a large number of members who baked delicious goods. We held it at Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart has two grants for which you can apply: 1. A community grant--a onetime grant at a sum they determine; 2. Matching funds--a grant that matches the amount of your fund raising event (for us it was a bake sale held on their premises). It is possible to apply for one or both grants. It has proven very successful for us.
The 3rdfund raiser was a coffee sale that will be all year round. It is a restaurant-quality dark roaster coffee.
The 4thand final fund raiser we? will hold is a sub sale, with delivery date being on a meeting night. We are trying to raise enough money to assist as many members as we can to attend State and Regional conventions. -- Georganna Caddy, Fund Raising Chairman
The Clearfield-Jefferson County Chapter of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind meets every month on the third Saturday of the month.
We just celebrated our first anniversary (cheers) and met at Luigi's Restaurant for lunch, as this was the location of our first meeting. We recently participated in a health fair, held by one of the local businesses and will also be participating in the DuBois Community Days. We have ordered bracelets to sell, which have "C/J Co. PCB" and also have Braille engraved on them.
We have also continued to work with other groups to obtain auditory street crossing signals for both DuBois and Clearfield. Success has been achieved in DuBois. On May 19ththe DuBois City Council heard numerous spokesmen from different groups express their concerns regarding the need for such signals at two specific crossings. At the May 14thmeeting, the Mayor announced that auditory signals have been approved by PennDot for four intersections in DuBois, and that signals will also be retimed to allow people more time to cross the streets. Additionally, approval for a handicapped parking space has been approved at the DuBois Post Office. We feel enthusiastic about these approvals, and will continue to add our voice to others in trying to make our communities safer, more convenient, and more aware of those with special needs in our area. -- Jackie Wissinger
The Central Regional conference was held in Mifflintown on April 28, 2007 at the Family House Restaurant, 11 am - 3 PM, hosted by Carl Shoemaker chapter. The emcee for the meeting opening was led by Gerald Chapman, a local member of the Lion's Club, who conducted the opening prayer and flag salute. Geraldine Zeigler, president of the Carl Shoemaker chapter welcomed everyone. Lunch orders were taken, and announcements given to the group. PCB umbrellas, key chains, Geraldine's book, and candy bars were for sale.
Gerald Chapman, Past President of District 14 of Lion's Club, spoke to the group about positive things the Lion's share with PCB and the purpose of the Club, which is active participation in the community, public forums, and motivational service to fellow men. He said that in 1925, Lion's Clubs were challenged to serve the blind. Eye evaluations of school children with referrals to eye doctors and funding of eye banks plus follow-up were also part of their program.
Some of their challenges are: Fewer people are willing to serve due to busyness, less funding, and? not willing to become leaders. There is more competition for funding and less interest in helping others. There is a need for education and awareness of the needs of the community, which depends largely on voluntary individuals to make their needs known, to draw needy persons outside their comfort groups. Local statistics: He stated that there are 2,200 blind in PA. 68% are 65 years of age or older. Juniata County has 120 legally blind individuals.
Carl Shoemaker's "Walk for Sight" brings community public awareness of blindness. Sharing information of the needs of individuals needs to be done by churches, doctors, schools, EMT's and Lion's Clubs in order to help blind or visually impaired persons.
Lunch was served from 1:00 to 1:20 PM. After lunch, President George Holliday reported on committee activities, up-coming Braille Awareness day at the Capitol in Harrisburg, fund raising committee's auction at the state convention, the proposed internship program in the PCB office, the local chapter's list of resources to assist clients in their local areas, and the currency petition bill which everyone was encouraged to sign. Long range plans include member retention, new members search, and advocacy for PCB's ongoing work.
Geraldine, local chapter president, mentioned that she spoke to a Lion's club, the chapter supports PCB in their work, and that Radio Reading Services are now co-sponsored by the Carl Shoemaker chapter and the local Lion's Club.
John Horst, Director of PCB, thanked Gerry for her work and for the members who purchased raffle tickets. He spoke briefly about the paper currency debate and need for signing the mentioned petition. He also asked if the members are receiving the ADVOCATE in their chosen format, and stressed the importance of reading it for information about the current activities and information of and about PCB. He related that committees meet by conference call, and that dedicated funding for mass transportation was a critical issue right now in PA. Shared ride is now available in all but 16 counties in the state. In closing, the ACB national convention in Minneapolis was brought to the attention of the group, urging all who could to attend.
Chapter reports followed: Capitol Cities -- had a bake sale at Wal-Mart who provided funds and a $1,000 grant, candy and coffee sales, and members use shared ride. Cumberland Co. Care and Share - their fund raising activities included a trip to Atlantic City, and sale of chocolate chip cookies. They had 1 member pass away, and gained another new member. Carl Shoemaker - Activities included an outdoor patio picnic in June, a Christian retreat, they also reported that Call-a-Ride was not reliable, and that they had 30 plus members.
Meeting closed. York chapter was not represented.
-- June Horst, Editor
The Northeast Regional was held at the Pocono Medical Center in Stroudsburg, May 5, 2007, 9:30 am - 3 pm. Hosted by Monroe County chapter.
Thomas Reid, chapter president welcomed all in attendance.
John Horst, Director of PCB was the first speaker. He explained the reason for the absence of President, George Holliday (death of his brother), and thanked the Monroe County chapter for hosting the meeting. He apologized for the poor print quality of the Spring issue of the ADVOCATE and encouraged readers to receive the magazine in the format of their choice. He enumerated the two new chapters of PCB (Monroe, Clearfield-Jefferson) and talked about the possibility of a new chapter in Lancaster. Plans are already in the making.
The new long distance toll-free phone number for the PCB office was given (877-617-7407). This change was due to a new phone system, installed by our PCB office assistant as a cost-saving measure. He also talked about the silent auction and book sale at the state convention in Bethlehem and the up-coming sidewalk sale in Harrisburg, benefiting PCB. The date for that sale is August 11.
Issues that the Director discussed were: the main objectives of education and advocacy work on behalf of the blind, long range planning, which includes a possible internship program (possibly a college student with an interest in the blindness field), and the fact that BBVS is filling staff positions. Regarding advocacy work, he stated that PCB is not too pleased with some agencies and legislators. There seems to be a lack of opportunity? to provide good leadership. Paper currency being made accessible for blind and visually impaired was another issue of concern. Regarding transportation issues, dedicated funding for mass transit is still a critical matter of concern, since funding for this program expires July 1. Shared ride is a good example of people working together toward a common goal, resulting in all but 16 counties in PA now having this pilot program. 2.5 million dollars is needed to cover the remaining 16 counties.
He called attention to the PCB web site, the duties of the PCB office and the fact that only the director and the office assistant are the only two paid employees of PCB. All other work is carried on by volunteers.
Tony Swartz, Convention Chair and Coordinator, came on the podium next with his "Whistle."? He got our attention! He brought us up to date on the particulars of the state convention.
Dates: November 2-4, 2007
Where: Best Western Hotel and Conference center, Routes 22 & 512, Bethlehem, PA.
Particulars: Friday AM - Narrated convention tour of the Moravian section of the city of Bethlehem, Main Street Commons in Bethlehem, and lunch. Also included is a tour of the Mack Truck Museum, a hands-on experience.
1:30 PM - Convention Registration and orientation of the hotel.
4:00 PM - Program begins. Also a First Timer's meeting will also be held.
Tony talked about the talking book program. For more particulars, come to the convention in November, as that is the theme of the convention. A meal plan will also be offered. For more information on the details of the convention, see Tony's article elsewhere in the ADVOCATE.
Critical services for the visually impaired were brought to our attention, such as independent travel, vocational rehabilitation, which needs to be provided by local agencies working with BBVS, and aids, such as computer training, skills, which should also be provided by local agencies.
MCCB reminded the audience that enthusiasm is very important. We need to let the community know our needs, work with our communities in advocacy for programs to benefit visually impaired persons living in those communities.
Lunch was next, spiced with games. The meeting reconvened at 1:30 PM. Michael Bryant, MCCB treasurer is an artist who is visually impaired. He has been an artist since the age of 3 and illustrates children's books. He had been diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosis in 1997, grew up in a home whose parents took in blind persons, and whose mother would not allow anyone there to say, "No," or "I can't."? He told us that depression is selfishness. Also, art is daily expression and creativeness. He encouraged us to nurture our creative abilities, whether that be in painting, decorating our homes, or choosing coordinating colors in our clothing choices. Find opportunities for expression of your talent.
More games! Next speaker was Shela Drummond, an avid golfer, and member of the Blind Golf Association and Board of Directors. She never played golf as a sighted person. She was the first blind female in the US to become a part of the Blind Golf Association, and soon discovered that golf is an addiction. The Association originated in 1953, has 80-100 members, 60 of whom play regularly. Players have their own sighted coach who travels with them, giving all information you need to play. There is also a children's club division - 500 children were enrolled in 20 clinics last year. Sheila was a delightful, enthusiastic speaker, full of energy, and make her audience want to go out and play golf! A Certificate of Appreciation was awarded her by the Monroe County Chapter of the Blind for her accomplishments.
LVCB - Meets at Holy Family Manor the 3rdSaturday of each month. Mentioned was the absence of Billie Wright. Their 501C3 certification has been received, a grant is in the works for amplification at meetings, a fundraiser (Coke Wagon) will be held at Redner's June 8-10, and their chapter will be the host chapter for the state convention in November.
MCCB - Last year they worked on member recruitment, a visual loss and support help line was initiated, an education awareness and training program was started among schools and civic groups, a letter to the Commissioner's Office on voting experiences was sent, and Bon Ton coupon books were sold netting a profit of $1,700. On July 16, a golf outing will be held at Shawnee Inn.
We ended the afternoon with more games! This is certainly a fun crowd, and we experienced much enthusiasm during the meeting! Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties, we missed you! - June Horst, Editor
Our Regional meeting was held? in Philadelphia, May 12, 2007 at Associated Services for the Blind, 919 Walnut St., 9:30am - 3 pm., with box lunch provided. Hosted by Philadelphia Regional chapter.
After coffee and doughnuts, Jay Doudna, President of the local chapter, called the meeting to order and took roll call, resulting in approximately 40 persons attending. After a moment of silence, Jay gave a summary of his move to Oklahoma in June, telling us that the move was to permit his wife, Elaine, to keep her job, and that he would stay in touch with the Philadelphia Regional chapter and attend our state conventions. He talked about the Bowl-a-thon, which was to be held June 3. He then introduced Serita Holliday, who in turn introduced our PCB President, her husband, George Holliday.
He told the group that this was his third regional meeting. The first item he talked about was signing the petition for accessible currency. If anyone needs help with this, they are to call him or others who have access to the petition online. The state convention was his next item-it will be held at the Best Western hotel in Bethlehem November 2-4, 2007, the theme of which will be "Get Ready to Read and More". There is the possibility of providing transportation from Philadelphia for the group. More details coming later. Future planning include the possibility of an internship in the state office for advocacy matters. PCB is also having a sidewalk sale on August 11 in Harrisburg. Anyone having items to contribute should call the state office for pick-up instructions. John A Horst, Executive Director of PCB spoke, relating that the office is doing well. Rhonda, his Administrative Assistant, keeps coming up with many good, cost-saving ideas for PCB, one of which has been the latest long distance phone service. This has resulted in a new long distance phone number, which is now 877-617-7407. Braille Awareness Day will be held at the Capitol Rotunda on May 22. Both the state convention and the national convention were emphasized. Dedicated funding for mass transportation was brought to the group's attention. Hand-outs on accessible currency and mass transportation were given out to those who requested the information. Also, PCB umbrellas and key chains were for sale.
David Shaw, President of the J F Kennedy chapter brought greetings to the group. There are 19 members in the chapter, and it is growing. They were planning a birthday party in June for those who had birthdays, and also a dance. The chapter meets the first Monday of every month.
The next speaker to be announced was Paul Feldon, an elder-rights attorney. He discussed wills, power of attorney, planning now before becoming unable to state your wishes. He said that if persons do not have their financial affairs in order, the state will step in and take control and family members and others will not have choices. He stated that it is important to make wills. He talked about trusts, living wills, funeral planning, and guardianship issues. It was emphasized that someone you trust should know where important papers and information are located. There were many questions from the audience.
Before a box lunch was served, Marlene Harvey, District Manager of BBVS for the Philadelphia office, was introduced. She informed the group that a new social worker had been hired and that there are positions available for rehabilitation teachers.
After lunch, Diane Davis, an ordained minister who works at the Frankfort Hospital in Philadelphia, talked about her experiences as a blind person working in hospice care. There is intense training. She also talked about paliative care, which means that you just keep the patient comfortable. There were many conditions for hospice care--cancer, heart disease, stroke, Aids, Alzheimer's disease, and ALS, just to name a few. She said that the experience was very rewarding, and it is good for people in the community to volunteer. The discussion that followed was also very lively.
The final speaker was Pam Shaw. There was a mini legislative seminar. Pam discussed how to approach legislators. First, the person must know the issues? and tell his or her story, saying, "I am blind," or "I have low vision, and this is how this legislation affects me personally."? She had audience participation in role playing. It is okay to say, "I don't know," but important to follow through by saying, "I will get an answer for you." Bring such things to the legislator, such as the Braille Forum, the ADVOCATE, etc.
There was a 50-50 drawing. After Pam spoke, Jay commended everyone for coming, and thanked Serita Holliday, Janet Facemyer, and Shirley Brotman for organizing the regional meeting. PCB regional meetings are always informative, interesting, and inspirational. No one can attend these meetings without learning something. We look forward to these meetings every year.--Ethel Siegel
The Southwestern Regional convention of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind took place on Saturday, May 19, 2007 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the American Legion in Houston, PA. It was hosted by the Washington County chapter of PCB. There were approximately 60 people in attendance.
The day started at 8:45 with coffee and doughnuts, and entertainment by Jody Majesky, a very talented member of our chapter. The convention was called to order at 9:00. Our first presenter was Tom Johnson, from the Cameron Wellness Center in Washington, PA. According to Mr. Johnson, some of the biggest risks for heart disease include a sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health. For this reason, we should strive to do appropriate cardiovascular exercises for 30 to 60 minutes 3 to 5 days per week. Mr. Johnson also gave tips for selecting appropriate exercises, setting realistic goals, motivation, and what to look for when selecting a fitness program.
The next segment of the program was an emotional one, as we took the time to remember two dedicated members of PCB, who are no longer with us. First, Tony Evancic made some remarks in memory of Ed Cramer, who recently passed away. Then, Darlene Barton spoke about Gene Barton, and the Washington County chapter presented her with a plaque in his honor. We ended this part of the program with a moment of silence in honor of other PCB members who recently passed away.
The next part of the program was dedicated to news from PCB, as President George Holliday brought us up-to-date on the work of PCB committees, Braille Day, which is scheduled for May 22 in Harrisburg, and the National ACB Convention. He also spoke about the PCB State Convention, which will take place the weekend of November 2-4, 2007 in Bethlehem. This year PCB is inviting surrounding states to participate in our convention. Again, there will be a sale of used books on tape and music CD's, as well as an auction similar to the one we had last year. PCB is seeking donations of audio books, CD;s and auction items from chapters and individuals. Finally, Mr. Holliday spoke about the need for each chapter to develop a list of blindness-related resources in their area of the state, and the importance of signing the petition for accessible currency.
Next, PCB Executive Director John Horst spoke to us about the activities of the PCB office. State lottery tickets for the month of August will be available in June and can be ordered by calling the PCB office. As another fundraiser, PCB will be holding a sidewalk sale on August 11. Anyone wishing to donate items should contact the PCB office to arrange for pick-up. Finally, Mr. Horst announced that PCB has a new toll-free telephone number: (877-617-7407).
At 10:45, Linda Smith of Mobile Optical Services highlighted some of the new CCTV's available from her company. Those include standalone and portable units as well as CCTV's which can be connected to regular televisions.
The morning session ended with an update from Tracey Morsek and Devon Gary from the Carnegie Library for the Blind and Physically handicapped about the digitization of the NLS talking book program. Even though the last cassette player recently rolled off the assembly line and digital talking books and players will be available to everyone in 2008, we shouldn't get rid of our cassette players just yet; talking books on cassette will be available through 2010. Since there are no plans currently to produce magazines in a hardcopy digital format, magazines on cassette will continue to be available through 2017. Also, we were urged to contact our legislators about the importance of increasing funding of the National Library Service. Unless funding is increased, NLS could face a severe shortage of cassette players and parts by 2017 and the digitization of the talking book program could be curtailed.
We broke for lunch at 11:45 so that attendees would have plenty of time to visit the exhibits. Exhibitors included Mobile Optical Services, the Carnegie Library for the Blind, Lengua-Learn Communications, BVS, and PCB. Lunch was delicious! The menu included chicken, ham, parsley potatoes, green beans, rolls with butter, salad, beverages, and cookies.
The program resumed at 1:15 with a presentation by Senator J Barry Stout. According to Mr. Stout, Pennsylvania has over 25,000 bridges and 6,000 of them are in need of repair. Until this problem is solved, it will difficult to resolve all the problems with mass transit. Stout supports a tax on gasoline and/or an increased sales tax to fund public transportation. Stout also dealt with the issues of accessible voting machines and state web sites, and answered questions from the audience.
At 2:00, Debbie Armbruster, District Manager of BVS, reported on the activities of OVR and BVS. She stated that BVS is searching for a new director. They have been able to increase staff, adding mobility and orientation? and rehab teachers, as well as a vocational rehab counselor and 2 more clerical workers. Also, all OVR offices are acquiring accessible public access computers, which clients can use for job searches and other tasks.
The regional convention also included the usual chapter reports, raffles, and door prizes. There were plenty of opportunities to mingle and socialize with friends.
As you can see, the Western Regional PCB Convention was a busy, informative, fun-filled day. Space only permitted me to present highlights of the day's activities. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who made this convention possible, and to thank all those who attended for making it a special day. -- Carla Hayes, President, Washington County Chapter
Oil City chapter annual picnic. June 8, 2007. Hosted by Oil City chapter. No report as yet.
By John A Horst
For the third consecutive year, the importance of Braille was celebrated at the state capitol. Ceremonies began with remarks by Stephen Schmerin, Secretary of the State Department of Labor and Industry, William Gannon, Director of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the reading of a proclamation by Governor Rendell, designating May 22, 2007 as Braille Day in Pennsylvania.
The keynote speaker for the day was Joseph Wassermann, a former teacher of Braille at Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children. He addressed the theme of the day, "What If There Was No Braille", emphasizing that the reading and writing of Braille is as important for blind people as the learning to read and write is for sighted people.
This year, again, the PCB Braille Committee, chaired by May Davis, conducted a Braille writing essay contest for blind children. The three winners were in attendance, read their essays, and each received a certificate and a $50.00 check from PCB. This essay in Braille contest will again take place during the 2007-08 school year. Agencies and organizations that produce, teach, and/or distribute Braille, also exhibited Braille materials and equipment. PCB considered it a privilege to work with? the Advisory Committee of the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services, who was the major planner of this Braille Day program.
The names of the three essay winners and the essays they wrote and read on this special occasion follow. There were three age catagories and each was the top winner in their particular age group.
Anna Beige, Grade 10, from Seneca Valley Intermediate High School in Harmony, PA. She is totally blind and uses a cane to travel, is a good student, and enjoys writing and loves music. Her essay:
"What If There Was No Braille"
What if there was no Braille? That is a good question. If there was no Braille, I don't really know how people would react. If completely sighted people tried to write this essay, I'll bet they couldn't. It would be like saying, "What if there were no print?"? I think that sighted people would probably panic. I would panic, too, if there was no Braille.
Honestly, if Louis Braille hadn't invented Braille, I think someone else would have. Technology has advanced so much. I mean, look at the PacMate and the BrailleNote. If technology hadn't advanced so much, we would all be using braillewriters. I would hate to carry that around all the time.
I am in the 10thgrade, and right now we are doing literal equations in math class. If there was no Braille, I wouldn't be able to understand what my teacher was trying to teach me. I wouldn't be able to do math because I wouldn't be able to read if there wasn't any Braille! It would be annoying if we couldn't read. I would feel frustrated if I couldn't read and had to have everything read to me.
I use Braille in many places. I use it in school, for homework, and research papers. I use Braille to write short stories, write lists and phone numbers. At home I like to write short stories about Animal books. I write some of it out in Braille first, and then type them on the computer for other people to read. I use the computer, too, but I use Braille a lot, also. Braille is very useful, you can't always get hold of a computer. Sighted people use a pen or pencil as their backup, but I use Braille.
Leanne Faith deIuliis, Grade 6 from Linton Middle School in Pittsburgh, PA. Leanne is 12 years old, is totally blind and uses a cane. She is in a gifted program, and attended the University of Pittsburgh Young Writers program in 2005, 2006, and will attend this year. She has had 2 stories published, and worked with a teacher to produce a book, called "Seeing Through God's Eyes."
"What If There Were No Braille?"
Braille is essential to all blind and visually limited children and adults. Ask yourself this question: "Where would a blind person be without Braille?"? Without the ability to read and write efficiently, which Braille provides, the blind youth of the globe could not compete successfully with their sighted peers. As an incapable adult who does not know or use Braille, one is forced constantly to rely upon another individual to perform daily activities. These include reading and paying bills, filling out various forms, reading a child a bedtime story, deciphering a cooking recipe, identifying a label of a product in a grocery store, etc. Labels could not be stored featuring the color of an article of clothing, the type of food in the pantry, cupboard or refrigerator, or the print book your spouse or child loves. The reason for this is that those labels would be in Braille. Blind children could not do their homework. Visually handicapped adults would be unable to be of assistance to a child with his or her homework.
Unfortunately, modern-day technology has planted bazaar ideas into the heads of our current visually impaired population that they do not need to read! A brand new piece of machinery, entitled the Curtswile Reader which reads print aloud to the blind and dyslexic, is being sold at an extremely skyward price. Would you prefer to spend a fortune on a Curtswile Reader, or do you desire convenient, cheap Braille books We are all aware that technology, especially prototype technology, almost always shuts down. If you refuse to learn Braille for the sake of the Curtswile Reader, which is uncooperative, what would you do The only alternative is Braille. Refusing to learn Braille is the equivalent of a sighted person saying, "There will always be someone to read to me. Screen readers are provided on computers. Why is print reading mandatory?" Imagine this line of reasoning belonging to a friend who is able to see. You may think less of them. If the person with whom you reside feels this way, who would write a check to the water, electricity or cable company Would you miss out on your favorite television programs simply due to the fact that you cannot write a check or money order The only way to escape a water bill is to dig a well and make trips back and forth to drink, wash dishes, and wash yourself.
All of this unnecessary trouble would be caused just because you will not learn Braille. Consider this the next time you say to yourself, " I do not want to waste my time learning Braille. Braille is merely an optional method of reading and writing. Why should I do either of these things It is tedious to memorize so many key combinations. I will not learn Braille."? Braille is mandatory for a successful life.
Angel Ayala is in Grade 4 at Overbrook Education Centre in Philadelphia, PA. He is 10 years old, totally blind and uses a cane. He is described as being very bright, an avid reader, and "somewhat mischievous."
"What If There Were No Braille?"
If there were no Braille, it would be the same as if there were no print. People who read and write Braille depend on it the same as people who use print.
If I could not read and write Braille, how could I learn I use Braille in all of my subjects, such as math, reading and history. Also, I have to take tests in Braille like the Benchmarks and the Terra Nova. Books help you to imagine and dream.
If there were no Braille, I would not be able to write things down. Sometimes I have to take notes in class. I also need to write down the phone numbers of my friends. Also, I like to write poems and songs. I use Braille for other things too; I use a Braille compass so that I will know where I am going. I use Braille a lot in math; I need to write down numbers so that I will not forget them. All of my math books are in Braille. Also, I can read the numbers in our elevator at school.
People use Braille to label lots of things. People can label clothes, food and records. Braille labels can be used for lots of things.
These are some of the reasons that we need Braille. Braille is very, very important for people who do not use print.
By Tony Swartz, Convention Chair
What influences have shaped us into who we are For most of us, the answer to that question would include the people, events, and places we have experienced through our lives. But, for some of us, an additional determinate would be the books we have read. This is indeed the case for me. Reading has shaped my attitudes, my very character.
Perhaps, like you, I read for both pleasure and learning. Finding a talking book in my mailbox is like receiving a gift. Access to an operators manual for a product newly purchased is deeply satisfying. Reading my local newspaper through it's web site is a pleasurable daily habit. For those of us who have grown up on a world where access to the printed word has been so limited, these are such exciting times, and within the next year, access to the printed word will take a giant technological leap.
Beginning in 2008, the National Library Service will begin disseminating talking books in a digital format. Books will be distributed on a flash cartridge and available to patrons through digital download via the internet.
Do you read talking books Are you satisfied with the technology as it is Does this digital stuff all sound mystifying, perhaps even threatening Why can't things just stay the same Now, listen to me, have I ever steered you wrong Yes, ok, there was that can't miss stock tip for a franchise chain of ski resorts in sub-Sahara Africa, but besides that, I positively guarantee that once you've handled a flash cartridge and listened to it's crystal clear sound, you'll never want to deal with cassettes again. Alright! Don't take my word for it, instead come to the Lehigh Valley, to Bethlehem, the Christmas city. Begin making your plans to attend the 2007 PCB State Conference and Convention and see for yourself.
This year's convention will center around the NLS move to digital, and in fact, all reading matters digital. Presentations from the National Library Service, the Philadelphia Library for the Blind, and Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic will demystify the digital and have you excited about the future of reading. In addition, both presenters and vendors will display a range of products for accessing digital content.
Quiet card, at first blush the concept sounds desirable, an attempt to dampen the cacophony of our noise polluted world. But in truth, it's the latest assault to our ability to travel independently. With the manufacture of the hybrid vehicle, a number of models which travel up to 25 miles per hour before engagement of the internal combustion engine, we have little choice but to exercise greater caution and awareness as we travel. A presentation by an orientation and mobility instructor, well versed in the issue, will inform us in the O&M adaptations we'll? need to consider.
Any Other Reason to Attend?
There's lots more to our PCB 2007 State Conference and Convention. The Lehigh Valley has both a rich cultural and indus trial history. Our Friday morning tour will begin to acquaint you with our past. See a companion article in this issue for further details of our tour.
Mike Godino, ACB Treasurer, will bring us greetings from ACB, and will serve as our after Banquet speaker. Mike has led an interesting life and will share from what he has learned.
What else This being an odd year, all PCB state offices are up for election. We'll have business to attend to, including chapter reports, a candidate's forum, presentation of the annual budget, introduction and consideration of resolutions, and more.
Over the last several years, the Friday evening program has included a :Name That Tune contest, and it's been great fun. This year, however, we're dropping the tunes, but keeping the contest and the fun. How good are you at trivia No, you're not that good! No Not when we get to choose both the contestants and the questions. The only thing guaranteed are the laughs.
The Monroe County Council of the Blind, the Lehigh Valley Council of the Blind's neighbors to the north, are planning this year's after banquet celebration. What I learned attending their Christmas party last year is that these folks, in addition to working hard, know how to have a good time. What do they have planned Why ruin their surprise?
The Convention Details:
The 2007 Convention and Conference of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind will take place from Friday, November 2ndthrough Sunday, November 4that the Best Western Holiday Inn, Bethlehem, at the Gateway Conference Center, Route 22 and 512, Bethlehem. The room rate is $79.00 per night, plus tax.
By mid-September, all members of PCB will receive a registration letter, including a registration form listing the cost of all events and meals, and a check list of attendee preferences. If you are not a member of PCB and wish to attend our convention, you may request a registration letter by calling our state office at 877-617-7407.
Meal Plan:
While the Best Western includes a large main restaurant and two small bar lounges where sandwiches may be ordered, because other nearby restaurants are located on the opposite side of a very busy highway from the hotel, a meal plan will be available. In addition to the customary banquet and Sunday Morning breakfast business meeting meals, a Friday evening dinner and Saturday lunch meal have been added. Those wishing to take advantage of the additional meals will have a selection of at least two menu choices from which to select. The registration letter will include the price for all meals and menu selections for the Friday evening dinner and Saturday lunch meals.
Hotel Amenities:
You will find the Best Western to be an excellent and comfortable hotel. With all sleeping rooms for our convention located on the first floor, it is suggested that those using a guide dog request an outside room, which in addition to having a door leading from the hotel's corridor, includes a door to the outside. To reach the dog relief area, one need only exit the sleeping room and cross a wide driveway to reach a long grassy area, which surrounds much of the hotel. All sleeping rooms include a refrigerator and microwave oven. A large restaurant, two lounge bars, a fitness center, make the Best Western an ideal location for our 2007 conference and convention.
With presentation topics important to us all, exciting and entertaining activities, comfortable surroundings, you'll want to mark your calendars now. This year's convention you absolutely won't want to miss.
Friday Morning Convention Tour: November 2, 2007. We hope you are all planning and saving your pennies, to come to the PCB Conference and Convention. The tour on Friday morning will include a bus ride through the famous Christmas city, the city of Bethlehem, founded by Moravians. You will hear about the historic buildings and Moravian customs. Your tour guide for this part of the tour will be a Moravian 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, where you will hear about and be able to touch and climb into some of the 15 antique Mack Truck vehicles, built between 1905 and 1925. There is a 28-seat open air bus; a Mack Junior, used to deliver dry goods and grocery products; an A.C., built for World War I; a fire engine, and more. 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 "Four Points" restaurant in the Sheraton Jet Port hotel for lunch. This spacious restaurant offers delicious food and affordable menu prices. After lunch, we will return to the Best Western for the afternoon activities.
Watch for your registration form in the mail in early fall, and sign up for the tour. It will be a memorable experience. -- Jeanette Schmoyer, Chairperson of Host Committee
By Rhonda Hanafi
Administrative Assistant of PCB
This year PCB will be having a first annual Sidewalk Sale fundraiser in Harrisburg. It will be held at 1613 North Front Street and will begin at 9:00 AM. We are asking that Chapter Presidents petition their members to donate items that can be sold at the sale.
We are accepting household items, electronics (that work), children's toys, clothing, and more. We suggest that all items be gathered in one location and when ready, please contact the PCB office at 1-877-617-7407 so that we can arrange for items to be picked up via UPS. There will be no cost to the chapter, as we have a UPS Shipping Account that Rhonda is allowing us to use. We do however, need the items to be boxed and taped up and ready for the UPS driver to pick up. So, don't forget to gather your items.
We have had an enormous response in the local community already. Friends have graciously spread the word, and people who have had yard sales here locally, have donated to PCB's sidewalk sale, items that they did not sell. So far, we have 3 storage spaces full of items that include small TV's, tape recorders, computers, printers, small appliances, dishes, silverware, pots and pans, lamps, kitchenette, desk, glass coffee table set, music, tapes, toys, golf clubs, shoes, clothing (all sizes, some new) handbags, curtains, sheets, comforter sets, wall d?cor, and the list goes on! We even had to turn away some larger items, such as livingroom sets, bedroom sets, because we simply do not have anywhere to store the larger items; but it shows the willingness of the community to help.
Some of the people who have donated have even said that from now on, each year they will donate their items to our annual sidewalk sale. A list is being kept and "Thank You" letters will be sent to these individuals.
There will also be a volunteer manning a grill at the sidewalk sale. We will be selling hot dogs, hamburgers, sodas, water and chips (all being donated by local companies) for those hungry shoppers, and for all the workers to purchase.
So, for all the locals and non-local members, donate your items and if possible, please come out and attend this fundraiser. There will be plenty of FUN, selling, sitting in the sun, meeting people, and interacting with one another. Items that do not sell may be saved for PCB's annual Convention auction, or be donated to Goodwill or the Salvation Army.
A reminder that there will again be a Caucus breakfast for PCB members at no cost, at the convention. The breakfast will take place at 7:00 AM on? Thursday morning, during which time candidates pursuing election in ACB will visit and present their qualifications for office. After their visits, we will discuss who we think we should support; however, these choices are not compelling, since each person at election time will be free to make his or her own choices. Check the calendar in the program for the location of the breakfast.
Taken from PA Governor's Advisory Committee for the Blind
HB 192 of 2007: Amends the Dog Law in two ways. First, it adds dogs in training to the definition of "service dogs." Second, it gives service dogs the same protections in public places as police dogs have.
HB 498 of 2007: Would repeal the right of blind persons (or their drivers) to use handicapped placards or license plates. Blindness and lack of use of one or both arms are the disabilities specifically EXCLUDED in the proposed legislation.
SB 790 of 2007: Provides for the shared-ride program for persons with disabilities; ensures Statewide coverage; and makes an appropriation.
From Advisory Committee for the Blind Of Pennsylvania
As of April 16, 2007:
Total subscribers - 1148. This is an increase of 30 new subscribers since February 12, 2007.
Users in April - 129
March 2007
Total subscribers - 1138
Users in March - 140
February 2007
Total subscribers - 1128
Users in February - 131
If you call the ACB office during business hours beginning May 29, you are likely to hear a new voice at the other end of your phone. We have added a new member to our support staff. Her name is Natasha Janifer, and she is a native of Washington, DC. She is learning the ropes quickly and we are happy to have her on board.
She is coming at a good time, because, unfortunately, Doug Powell will be leaving the end of May. However, he will remain active in ACB and I expect that many of you will get a chance to meet him in person at one of our national conventions fairly soon.
I am also very pleased to tell you that we have hired a new Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs. Eric Bridges, of Arlington, Virginia, will join our staff on June 18. We are excited to have Eric working with us in this capacity, because he is very familiar with both blindness-related public policy issues, and working on Capitol Hill. He has spent the last six years working in the public policy department of National Industries for the Blind. I think he is as excited about the opportunity to work for ACB as we are over the prospect of his coming to work for us. He is very committed to advancing ACB's advocacy and legislative agenda.
I hope you will join me in welcoming both Eric and Natasha to our staff, and that many of you will have a chance to get to know them better in the near future. -- Melanie Brunson, Executive Director, ACB.
Exerpts from Carla Ruschival
Convention Coordinator
The convention dates are June 30 to July 7 in Minneapolis, MN. The ACB convention has filled the Hyatt Regency and the Millennium hotels, located literally across the street from each other on the Nicollet Mall. (As of this date, both hotels are already full). If you still need to make reservations, do not call either hotel, but call or email Carla Ruschival immediately! adamcarla@bellsouth.net
Phone: 502-897-1472.
The local host committee is extremely well organized and hard at work. The 24-story Hyatt will house two-thirds of the sleeping rooms. Room rates are $81 single/double, $91 triple/quad, and the Millennium Hotel $84 single/double, $94 triple/quad, plus tax. General sessions and exhibits will be on the first floor, across the hall from each other, and many break-outs and other activities will be on the second and fifth floors of the Hyatt.
Across the street at the 14-story Millennium will be the remaining one-third of the sleeping rooms. Some meetings and events will also be housed there. The two hotels are connected by a skywalk on the second floor.
The hotels are in downtown Minneapolis, so you will be within easy walking distance of many restaurants and stores. The light rail stop is about seven blocks away, and there are lots of buses passing by all the time. It costs 50 cents for people with disabilities to ride either the light rail or city bus. Taxi fare from the airport is about $18, plus an extra small fare for each additional passenger. The shuttle costs $16 per person. For questions about the convention, or to discuss arrangements for suites, contact Carla Ruschival at 502-897-1472 or by email at: adamcarla@bellsouth.net
NOTE: Carla has requested that you please DO NOT cancel any unwanted reservation at the Hyatt. Instead, call her at 502-897-1472, or email her and give her the name on the room, the arrival and departure dates, and the confirmation number if you have it. She will contact the hotel directly and reassign the room to another person who wants it. She cannot emphasize enough HOW IMPORTANT IT IS THAT YOU DO NOT CANCEL THE ROOM DIRECTLY WITH THE HOTEL. We want to be sure that ACB conventioneers get to use every room available, and we can only do this if you allow Carla to handle your cancellation for you. Based on the cancellations she now has, Carla says that there is no need for an overflow hotel. However, if there are folks of whom she is unaware that need a reservation, she cannot assess the need and make appropriate arrangements. If you would desire a roommate to lessen your hotel costs, please let her know your name and a daytime and evening phone number where you can be reached, also a cell phone number or email address if available. She also needs to know if you already have a hotel room, where it is and the name under which it is reserved. Tell her if it is smoking or non-smoking, and if it is a king or double room.
Convention isn't all work and no play. There will be many fun activities? at the hotels and the surrounding area is packed with interesting things to do. Lots of family fun is also planned for those attending convention. The Youth Activity Center has grown so much that some separate programs for teens and the younger set will be offered this year. There will be opportunity to visit fabulous historic and fun sites, lots of hands-on activities, so blind kids are welcome!
YAC Information: We have received several requests from families who wish to take children under 6 on some of the YAC tours. Younger children will be permitted to participate in YAC trips ONLY IF accompanied by a parent or guardian who will be responsible for, and supervise, the child. You must pay registration fees for each child and pay for the tour tickets for each child at $5.00 each. Each child must be registered on a separate form. YAC tickets purchased for a child on an adult form WILL NOT BE HONORED. Please accompany your child to the YAC the first time so you can sign all permission forms. Children will not be able to participate without your signature.
By Melanie Brunson, Ex. Director
American Council of the Blind
June 13, 2007
First, I want to thank everyone who responded to our pleas for help recently. Although we still have a lot of work to do to convince Congress of the importance of the Talking Book program, the calls, faxes, and emails have apparently had some effect on attitudes.
Yesterday, the House Appropriations Committee marked up its bill to authorize funds for the Legislative Branch, which includes the Library of Congress, and thus, the NLS. You may remember that last week, a subcommittee recommended a $7.5 million appropriation for NLS. During yesterday's proceeding, Rep. Jack Kingston (R-Ga) offered an amendment to increase the appropriation to the full $19.1 million requested by NLS. He suggested moving some money from a project that will renovate an office building on Capitol Hill so it can be used for Congressional office space while other office buildings are being renovated. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fl) offered a substitute amendment to add $5 million to the $7.5 million approved by her subcommittee last week, taking the extra funds from the Government Printing Office appropriation. On a party line vote, the Wasserman Schultz amendment was adopted. The result was that the recommended appropriation for NLS that will go to the House floor later this year is $12.5 million for the first year of the digital talking book program.
This is progress, but, as you might expect, there is still concern over whether it will be enough to meet the program's needs. Fortunately, we have additional opportunities to persuade other members of the literacy needs of our community, both in the House and the Senate. That means you can still influence the end result of this process. If your member of the House is not on the Appropriations Committee, he or she will vote on the committee's recommendations shortly. Members of the Senate have not begun their consideration of Appropriations yet. Please let them hear from you. Thank you very much.
From "Slice of Pie"
This new guide has been developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and is available at nfpa.org.
From "Slice of Pie"
As of March 30, 81 countries have signed the UN Convention that establishes the rights of the world's estimated 650 million people with disabilities. Only 19 more ratifications are needed before the convention comes into force. The convention requires countries to guarantee freedom from exploitation and abuse for people with disabilities, while protecting all current human and civil rights. According to the latest UN figures, about 10 per cent of the world's population lives with a disability, making up the world's largest minority. The United States has said that it will not ratify the convention. To read the document, go to un.org
To view or sign a petition urging the US to sign, go to aapddc.org
Submitted by Joe Wassermann
This new system costs $499. It has no controls on the unit itself, but uses a small credit card-size remote, which has a membrane-type touch pad. However, they offer a Braille remote! They have two sizes of remotes. The larger one is better because the Braille is not so crowded; however, you can get both of them. Also, the remotes can be ordered for older units for $19.95.
I told the representative when I called that we as a blind community appreciated their considering our needs and that I would put this information out to people who might already have the Bose, or might be considering getting this new one.
Its nice when we find items that are accessible.
From the Editor's Files
Erwin M. Soukup has compiled a list he calls "The Seven Steps to Stagnation."? You have, no doubt, heard these statements before. Most of us have said them! They are:
1. We've never done it that way before.
2. We're not ready for that.
3. We are doing all right without trying that.
4. We tried that once before.
5. We don't have money for that.
6. That's not our job.
7. Something like that can't work.
There is tremendous power in belief. Our beliefs shape our future; what we BELIEVE to be true quite literally becomes true for us!
There is a bold and exciting future awaiting anyone with the courage to believe something new can happen -- things can be different in your life -- your organization (PCB). Things can be stagnant or things can change. Will you be an avenue for making a difference for tomorrow by what you believe?
George Holliday, President 215-748-3556
Rodger Simmons, First 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
Jay Doudna, Past President 610-519-9633
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 Hersch 717-872-1192
Jerry Weinger 856-874-0957
Michael Zaken 412-655-1234
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 Jay Doudna
Washington County Carla Hayes
York County Roberta Simmons
Special Interest Group -- Delaware Valley Council of Citizens with Low Vision Jerry Weinger
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