The PCB Advocate
Published by the
Pennsylvania
Council of the
Blind
Summer Edition 2010
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 September 1
June 1 December 1
You may send articles 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.
The submission date for articles for the Fall 2010 edition of the ADVOCATE is September 1, 2010.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Tips and Tricks at the Convention
PCB Commentary on 2010 Fiscal Year VR State Plan
PRESIDENT'S REPORT
George Holliday, President
Summer is here and time for fun, vacations, family get-togethers, and more. This is the time when our elected officials are preparing for summer break to their home offices. So, when you're thinking about social activities, don't forget about contacting them to sponsor a bill, or thank them for supporting one. It is always good to have a friendly rapport. Believe it or not, they remember your visits and want to hear from you.
The Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet of the House Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing to discuss HR 3101, the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act.
Expect to hear more about this bill and others in the near future. Without your advocacy efforts, this bill and others would not have traveled this far. Keep up the good work.
As of today, I have hosted two state-wide conference calls that were very informative. PCB officers, Board members, committee chairs, and PCB members were in attendance. There were discussions on various committee projects. These calls enable PCB members to ask questions and give comment. This gives you another tool, in addition to the ADVOCATE, the opportunity to get more involved and stay informed. All committees are very hard at work, but they continue to look for your support.
The next state-wide conference call is scheduled for Wednesday, July 7 from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
To attend this conference call, dial 1-712-432-0800 and at the prompt, use the participant access code: 200723, plus the pound key. All members are welcome to attend. This is a toll call. If you know someone without long distance service, you are encouraged to three-way them in.
Have a great summer! My telephone number is: 215-748-3556 Email: george.holliday1@verizon.net
FROM THE DIRECTOR'S DESK
John A Horst, Executive Director
For those of us who go to work everyday or who are active participants in community affairs, smooth and obstacle-free walkways are a major concern. Although it takes some determination and courage, low vision and blind people can learn to safely travel independently in their neighborhoods and downtown areas. Rides provided by family, friends, and others are sometimes necessary and appreciated, but blind and low vision persons of working age and good health should be employed or seeking employment, getting out and sharing in the dynamics of community life.
Although sometimes delayed, travel training by the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services and some Associations for the Blind is available. If you need it for safe travel, you should insist, perhaps even demand, it.
We live in a vehicle-dominated culture that many times causes us much frustration. Drivers are often inconsiderate and people who intend, will at times, attempt to provide inappropriate assistance. In community planning and government services, not enough attention is given to people who do not drive. This is part of the reasons why there is a Pennsylvania Council of the Blind. It is our job to point out to community leaders when sidewalk surfaces are hazardous, construction barriers force one to walk in the street, when right turn on red rules are not enforced or when it is unsafe to cross a high traffic intersection where there is no audible pedestrian signal. We commend the PCB chapters that have been doing this. It is important to know what the requirements are from ADA, from the Federal Access Board, and to know how to file a complaint when needed, and to follow up. These are community issues and we would like to challenge all the chapters to get to work on these issues if you are not doing so already.
There is no reason for PCB members to be staying at home if they have places to go and things to do.
Cities in Pennsylvania have paratransit and public transportation. Outside the cities, shared ride is now available, and some Associations for the Blind continue to offer transportation for medical services and other needs. We understand that shared ride functions better in some parts of the state than in others. This also is something for chapters to work on if the service is not satisfactory. Let us know if you need assistance.
Joseph Perry, Past President, is PCB's Transportation Alliance delegate. This is the organization that coordinates shared ride. I use shared ride weekday mornings to go to the train station to catch my train to Harrisburg. It provides great service as long as I remember to call in. If you live in a rural area and have not tried shared ride, we encourage you to do so.
As you read this ADVOCATE, I am sure you will agree that much is taking place within PCB. We hope that you are an active part of it. We continue to look for response from readers on items in the ADVOCATE or on issues about which you are concerned. We would like to see a "Letters to the Editors" column. But if you wish to make a comment and do not wish it to be published, your choice would be honored.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
AWARDS COMMITTEE
Sue Lichtenfels, Chair
Nominations sought for PCB's 2010 awards:
PCB believes that individuals and companies who make a difference in the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired need to be recognized for their commitment. Each year at the PCB State Conference and Convention we celebrate the work of advocates by bestowing the Distinguished Service Award, Honorary Service Award, and the Corporate Service Award. This year's awards dinner will be held Saturday, October 23 at 7 PM at the Pittsburgh Radisson Hotel. Nominations for any of the awards can be made by any individual or organization that supports the work of PCB.
Nominations are due August 21, 2010. The criteria for these awards follow:
Criteria for the PCB Distinguished Service Award:
Criteria for the PCB Honorary Service Award:
Criteria for Corporate Service Award:
Submit your nominations in your preferred format by August 21, 2010 to Sue Lichtenfels, 96 Robb Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15243 or email to: susan@lichtenfels.us
Please give the following information about your nominee:
Name:
Address:
Phone: (Home) (Alternate)
Email:
Name of the award for which you are making this nomination:
_____Distinguished Service
_____Honorary Service
_____Corporate Service
Nominated by:
Address:
Phone: (Home) (Alternate)
Email:
Please include the reason for your nomination in 100 words or less, along with any additional supporting materials.
-- Submitted by Sue Lichtenfels.
BRAILLE COMMITTEE
Louise Chuha, Chair
You will remember that for several years, the Braille Committee has held an essay contest for students, with a prize of $50 for the winners. To publicize this contest, we contacted the Intermediate Units throughout the state, as many vision teachers as we could find, some private schools, we asked PATTAN to send emails to all the vision teachers, and this year we sent Braille letters to all the Braille-reading students in the state (there were about 630 of them). We received only 4 essays, 3 of them in the grades 7, 8, and 9 group. There seems to be a communication gap, but we don't know where, or what the problem might be. It appears that students are not really interested in writing essays, even for prize money!
One of the committee members suggested that we ask students to write a story instead of an essay.
Another suggestion was to send a print letter along with the Braille one when we send the letters to the students so that parents would know about the contest.
Now we are asking for your help! Do you think we should continue to have a contest? If so, how else should we publicize it? What should the contest be about? Do you think there is another project we should be considering? Please send any comments and suggestions to Louise Chuha with PCB Braille Committee. Email address: Louc01@verizon.net
Another subject that the Braille committee considers very important: Sometime in the future, there will be some changes in the Braille Code. (Don't panic, it will not happen in the next 2 or 3 years.) There are 2 alternatives, the United English Braille Code and the Nemeth Unified Braille System. The idea of both of them is to combine the literary, math and scientific, and computer codes into one code. The Braille Authority of North America is currently evaluating the Nemeth Unified Braille System, known as NUBS. The Braille Authority of North America, BANA, would like as many Braille readers as possible to evaluate this proposed new code. If you would like to receive a sample of this Braille system for evaluation, call Judy Dixon, BANA Chair, at 202-707-0712. Be sure to say that you would like to receive your sample in Braille. (It also comes in SimBraille). The sample comes with a questionnaire to fill out for evaluation. I trust as many of you as possible will help with this evaluation.
-- Submitted by Louise Chuha, Chair
EMPLOYMENT COMMITTEE
Carla Hayes, Chair
Are you getting ready to graduate from college and are looking for that first job? Are you a successful employee considering a career change? Have you been out of the job market while raising a family or caring for an elderly parent?
If you answered "yes" to any or all of these questions, the Employment Seminar, to be held in conjunction with the PCB State Convention has something to offer you. Tentative topics that are in the planning stages, with more details coming soon, are: Appropriate Job-seeker Skills, Characteristics of Successful Employees, Disclosing Your Disability During the Job Search Process, Dressing for Success, Electronic Resume Databases, Job-seeking Skills with Specific Emphasis on Social Networking Sites, Interviewing Techniques, and Self-employment.
The dynamic speaker with which this workshop will end is Jim Homme, Director of Access Technology with Bender Consulting Services.
When: Friday, October 22nd.
Where: Radisson Hotel Greentree
TIME: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, with sign-up
and receipt of materials from 9:00
To 9:30 AM.
Pre-registration through the PCB office will be necessary. For registration information and any other questions, please call the PCB office at 877-617-7407 or Carla Hayes at 724-941-8184. Call and pre-register early for an informative workshop you won't want to miss!
-- Submitted by Terri Winaught.
FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE
Sue Lichtenfels, Chair
Calendar Raffle Update: Congratulations to the Golden Triangle Council of the Blind for selling the most tickets in the PCB Six Month Calendar Raffle.
GTCB members sold 145 tickets and altogether we sold 740 tickets. Only after a final drawing date of September 30 will we be able to determine exactly how much each ticket is worth that your chapter sold. Each time an unsold number hits, the value of each ticket sold increases.
As of the end of May, we have had 49 winners out of 61 days. Lists of winners are posted to the PCBL at the end of each month. Twice each month, Sue Lichtenfels checks the spread sheet for the winners, and works with Tony Evancic, our PCB Treasurer, to have checks in the mail in a timely manner. Occasionally, Sue needs to contact winners or sellers to obtain complete name and mailing address. If you receive such a call, please respond as quickly as possible.
Ticket Sales by Chapter:
Beaver -- 32 Lehigh Valley -- 98
Capital City -- 30 Monroe -- 112
Hank Bloomberg -- 28 Oil Valley -- 10
Carl Shoemaker -- 10 Philadelphia -- 40
Cumberland -- 66 Red Rose -- 18
Golden Triangle -- 145 Washington -- 50
Lackawanna -- 28 York -- 35
Luzerne -- 3 PCB -- 35
No Measure Cookbook Project:
This summer the PCB Fundraising team is compiling a "No Measure Cookbook." The book includes recipes that do not require any use of measuring cups or spoons. For example, 1 box of this, 1 can of that, 3 eggs, and a handful of nuts.
The cookbook will be targeted to working moms, bachelors, college students, people losing vision, and "kitchen phobes." If you have any recipes that meet this "no measure" requirement, or which could easily be adapted, we invite you to share them for consideration in the cookbook. Please send recipes to Morgan Park, using mmp5067@gmail.com
You may also call her at 814-598-5048. We hope to collect 200 recipes by August 1 so we can publish in the Fall.
Seeking Media Donations:
PCB is once again seeking donations of your used media for our annual sale at the convention.
Media, including audio books, music CDs, computer software and games, movies, Braille or large print story books, and the like are needed. These items will be sold in the vendor hall for $3 each, or 2 for $5, to raise funds for PCB. Your donated media items can be sent "Free Matter for the Blind" to the PCB office: 931 N Front Street, Harrisburg, PA. 17102 or to Sue Lichtenfels at 96 Robb Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA. 15243. If possible, label your items in Braille, and do not donate cassette items, since they do not sell anymore.
Help Wanted:
As you can tell, the PCB Fundraising Committee is undertaking several fundraising ventures this year.
We are seeking additional individuals to serve on the committee. Our team meets via conference call on the third Wednesday of each month at 8 PM. To join us, please call the PCB office (877-617-7407) for the dial-in number and access code for Fundraising conference calls. Additional volunteers are also needed to assist on-site at the upcoming state convention. If you can help in any way, contact Sue Lichtenfels at 412-429-1727.
Submitted by Sue Lichtenfels.
GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Mary Ann Alexander, Chair
The members of the Governmental Affairs committee are dedicated to developing a working relationship between themselves and the general membership of PCB.
We are hoping that in the future when the word "Advocacy" is bantered about, it will mean something more than just speaking with legislators, albeit that this is an important and necessary function of advocating. We're hoping that it will mean the sharing of information with education as a main focus. We're hoping also that it will mean a more comprehensive understanding of Pennsylvania government for all, and we are hoping above all that more PCB members will feel comfortable in their roles as advocates.
So, what are we doing to insure that this happens over the next couple of years? Well, first of all, the committee will soon be releasing a periodic audio clip dealing with some aspect of advocacy; a description of how best to reach a particular level of government, an important issue in the legislature, a success story or an event important to us all. The committee intends to be more active than ever in writing letters to our representatives, both on a national and on a state level. The committee offers its collective knowledge for you as PCB members to call upon for assistance when dealing with specific difficulties which require advocating on any governmental level. (See a list of members and contact information below.)
Over the next year and a half, pending PCB Board approval, the committee will be hard at work in planning an Advocacy and Governmental Awareness Seminar. It is our hope to hold this seminar one day prior to and in conjunction with the 2011 State Convention, already planned for Harrisburg. Again, our focus would be in assuring that our members become more comfortable with the advocacy process through education. We hope to present seminars on some of the best methods for advocating, on the governmental process and structure in Pennsylvania, and of course, there will be the visits to Capitol Hill.
If you've asked yourself what it is that you can do now to help promote issues important to our overall mission, here are some points for your consideration and immediate action.
H.R.3101, the 21st Century Communication and Video Accessibility Act still only has two congressional representatives signed on from Pennsylvania. You can contact your local representative to encourage him/her to sign on to this important piece of legislation which would assure access to many digital devices and onscreen menus vital to operating such devices as DVD players and other features on our television sets.
The bill would increase audio descriptive programming and allow for access to onscreen emergency information.
Recently introduced is the new Senate companion bill S 3304, the Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act. Now that the primary is behind us, let's ask our senators to support this bill.
Finally, it remains vital that we all contact our local representatives and senators to ask that they make funding for transportation a priority.
To learn more about our efforts or to request information or assistance in working through a particular issue which your chapter may have on its agenda, contact:
Chair: Mary Ann Alexander, 570-807-1276
Christie Bower, 570-688-7589 christiebower@gmail.com
Christie Gilson, 610-625-7015
Edward Hersh, 717-872-1192
Harry Epstein, 954-557-0639
Jacqueline Wissinger, 814-765-6768
Joseph Wassermann, 412-687-5166
Rodger Simmons, 717-885-3055
Monitor: Thomas Reid, 570-421-2543
LOW VISION COMMITTEE
Sarita Holliday & Ed Facemyer, Chairs
In recognition of Blindness Awareness month, the Low Vision Committee of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind, in collaboration with the Little Rock Foundation, Wills Eye Hospital will host a Low Vision Symposium on Saturday, October 9. This all day event will address four major topics:
Look for more information. Speakers list soon to be announced. Our sponsors lend their support as we offer this educational day free to all who live with low vision, as well as our family members and professionals who support us. For more information, contact committee chairs.
Sarita Holliday, 215-476-0362 Email:
Edgar Facemyer 610-647-3365 Email:
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
Christie Gilson, Chair
The PCB Membership committee is seeking blind or visually impaired persons who, with some regularity and skill, use Facebook. We would like to begin using this social media to reach young persons who would benefit from PCB services and activities. If you would be willing to work with a few others to prepare clear instructions for people who are blind or visually impaired in using Facebook, please contact Christie Gilson at: cgilson@moravian.edu
-- Submitted by Christie Gilson, Chair.
PUBLICITY COMMITTEE
Bill Newland, Ed Facemyer, Co-Chairs
Do you regularly check out "PCB Reports"? To hear the show, go to our new and improved web site www.pcb1.org and go to "PCB Reports."
Don't forget ideas for future PCB reports are needed, and your input is welcome. If you plan to attend the 2010 ACB Convention and you feel there is someone you would like to interview, go for it! If you have ideas for interviews that you would like to see for the program, please contact Ed Facemyer (610-647-3365, email: efacem@verizon.net) or Bill Newland (412-487-4995 or email: bnewland1@verizon.net)
RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE
Carla Hayes, Chair
New Deadline for Resolutions: As you know, the deadline for submitting resolutions to the Resolutions Committee has traditionally been Friday evening of the PCB State Convention weekend immediately following the opening session. This year, PCB is trying something new.
We will present the resolutions the first time at the opening session on Friday evening so that PCB members will have time to consider them carefully before voting on them during the Sunday morning closing session. To make this possible, it is necessary to move the deadline for submitting resolutions to September 1st so that the Resolutions Committee will have plenty of time to consider them and prepare them for presentation to the convention body. We need your cooperation to make this work. Please note that September 1st is the FINAL DEADLINE! No resolutions will be accepted after this date! As usual, the Resolutions Committee stands ready to help you with your resolutions. If you need assistance with the format or wording of your resolution, please do not hesitate to give us a call.
Resolutions should be submitted by mail (Braille or audio preferred, but all formats accepted) to Carla Hayes, 230 Robinhood Lane, McMurray, PA 15317 or by email to lengual@verizon.net
If you have any questions or need help writing your resolutions, call me. Don't wait until the last minute to write and submit your resolutions. We will accept them at any time until the September 1st deadline, but NOT AFTER THAT DATE! Together we can make this deadline work and the Resolutions process will go smoothly for everyone involved.
TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
Rodger Simmons, Chair
This is a very busy time for this committee. We are very concerned about future funding for transportation in this state. Therefore, I have asked all chapters to urge their members to contact their state representatives and senators and tell them how important mass transportation is to us blind or visually impaired persons. I am glad to report that many chapters have urged their members to do so.
The Governor has called a special session of both state houses to try and resolve this problem. If funding is not approved this year, many bus companies will be in serious financial trouble. We as a committee are keeping abreast of this situation. I will post updates on the PCB ListServe when necessary. You may contact me at 717-885-3055 or email me at: rsimmons5@comcast.net
WEB SITE COMMITTEE
Michael Zaken, Chair
The PCB web site was totally restructured to look more professional, and to make access easier. On every page there will be 3 links: the first link is a jump to support PCB link, which includes GoodSearch, Amazon, and the vehicle donation link. The second link is the jump to navigation link.
This is where the main links for that page are located. The third link is the home page that takes you to the main page.
The other information that will be on most pages include: PCB contact information, a link to email the PCB office, a link to join the PCB-L email list, and the mission and vision statements. There is a donation button using PayPal to donate to PCB, and there is a Facebook link.
On the main index page there is a link on how to set the preferences in your browser to display most web pages for color and font. The other pages on the web site are "calendar of events" page. Events can be posted on the PCB web site under "Calendar of Events." Contact a member of the web site committee if you want the information posted.
On the PCB Advocacy page, you can address correspondence to a senator, etc. On the Governmental page you will find links to articles about advocacy, how to pursue it, and what it takes to succeed.
There are also links to other sites where you can find members of your government, elected official's biographies, contact means and voting records.
You can find out what is currently being discussed and voted on; what issues seem to have the most interest, and what other topics some of the discussions have brought up. Contact senators, U S representatives, state governors, and state legislators nationwide. Find information on bills before the Senate and Senate committees in Pennsylvania.
Other pages include: Pennsylvania state agencies, the ADVOCATE page containing PCB Reports for 2010, 2009, and 2008; a convention update page, everything you need to know about the PCB organization page, employment page, fund raising page, corporate partner sponsor page, multiple resource pages which include low vision resources, special resources, technology resources, and general information resources. Please try to use the merchant links, such as GoodSearch, Amazon, and MaxiAids, because it will earn PCB some revenue. Any comments or contributions to the web site would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks to Bob Lichtenfels, Blaine Clark, Bill Newland, Ed Facemyer, and Joe Fagnani for their work on the Web Site committee. Happy web surfing!
-- Submitted by Michael Zaken
CHAPTER NEWS
Cumberland Care and Share: Our monthly meetings usually open with the "Pledge of Allegiance" and prayer, followed by roll call and reports. The Sunshine Box is passed for contributions from members for the lunch.
During the business meeting, it was decided to keep our raffle in July, rather than change it to September, since one of the top prizes would be void after the end of August. One thousand July raffle tickets are being printed, with all prizes but 4 listed. Some items include: a quilt and pillow sham, made by Esther Bailey and a gift basket from Newville Pharmacy. We welcomed Veron Woieiechowski back after his two strokes, and he and Veronica were thanked for getting our Amvet's and Marine Corps donation.
Five of our members will be attending the state convention in October in Pittsburgh. Everyone received a door prize, and the meeting was closed with the "Lord's Prayer." -- Submitted by Mary Ann Worthington
Golden Triangle Chapter: The Golden Triangle Council of the Blind has been busy this spring.
Prior to the March general membership meeting there was a low vision discussion group. Topics included organizing and labeling and talking products used for everyday accessibility. The discussion was moderated by Sherri Crum. The event lasted approximately one hour.
We had a very enlightening speaker at our April meeting--John Hofmeister, employed by the Veterans Administration as a Blind rehabilitation outpatient specialist. He works with veterans both young and old in order that they will be able to accept his/her disability. Once the veteran received rehab from one of the major centers and returns home, it is the responsibility of the local center to determine the specific needs of the individual. As a Blind Rehabilitation Outpatient Specialist, John determines those kinds of services needed, or he will refer the person to the agency, such as BBVS to obtain the necessary assistance.
The Veterans Administration will also assist individuals in finding gainful employment. On Friday, October 15, John Hofmeister will be hosting a White Cane Day for the Veterans Administration, with the purpose of introducing awareness of blindness issues. We have been invited to participate in this activity. John, along with others, has been invited to our state convention.
The GTCB monthly meeting structure was changed in order to attract more people, as well as keep our members more informed. The chapter meetings begin at 1:00 PM. There will be a speaker on alternate months for the first 45 minutes or a low vision discussion group, followed by ACB and PCB news until 2 PM. This will be followed by a 15-minute break, prior to the GTCB general business meeting. We hope this will encourage people to come to hear the speaker and learn about ACB, PCB, and GTCB.
The Port Authority web site is almost impossible to navigate by those using adaptive speech. Several people, including Mike Zaken and Bill Newland, are looking at improvements to this web site.
The Host committee is actively working on the PCB Convention that will be held in Pittsburgh in October. Don't forget those badly-needed items for the "goodie bags."
Sue Lichtenfels and her committee are putting together an expo, entitled "Living Well with Vision Loss" to be presented Friday afternoon, October 22, from 1:15 PM until 4:30 PM. There will be 4 presentations: fitness at home, hobbies unhindered, adapting ways to garden, and arts and entertainment, with an emphasis on audio description. We are inviting the public of the southwestern Pennsylvania area to this event. To learn more about the "Living Well with Vision Loss," and how you might participate, check out the convention update on "PCB Reports" for June 2010. You can hear the program by going to the PCB web site www.pcb1.org and go to the PCB Convention updates link. You may also contact the PCB office for a copy of the June 2010 program.
In order to reach out to the community, GTCB members will be attending the Pittsburgh Pirates disability night. Prior to the game we will be showcasing our organization by having a table display.
The Davis' are excited about the Accessibility Pedestrian Signal which has been installed at Friendship and Howley. Hopefully, this means that the city of Pittsburgh is beginning to respond to our needs.
Our Bowl-a-thon was a success due to our fundraising committee, chaired by Bonnie Newland. Our Drinks and Dogs fundraiser will be held July 30 through August 1. If you are looking for an excellent way to raise money, as well as get ACB, PCB, and your chapter recognized in your community, consider holding events like this to accomplish your goals. Also, Giant Eagle supermarkets will be using the PCB activity sheets in the Eagle Nest nursery for the kids.
We are also happy that GTCB sold the highest number of raffle tickets for PCB.
Bill and Mike attended the Legislative breakfast in April at the Three Rivers Center for Independent Living. We had a great dialog with the speakers.
The support we gave the New Castle chapter has paid off. They will be receiving their charter at the PCB Convention.
-- Submitted by Mike Zaken and Bill Newland.
Hank Bloomberg Chapter: (Formerly Clearfield-Jefferson Chapter)
May marked the 4th anniversary of our chapter. On the occasion of this anniversary, we decided to honor the memory of our chapter founder, Hank Bloomberg, and so have changed the name of our chapter. We want to keep his memory alive.
We had elections and a Christmas party in December.
Results of elections:
President - Jacqueline Wissinger;
Vice President-Susan Frazier;
Treasurer-Blair Wissinger;
Recording Secretary-Robin Clark;
Corresponding Secretary-Blaine Clark;
Membership-Joanne Kline;
Activities-Bill Aravich;
Fund Raising-Morgan Park.
Our chapter participated in a health fair, hosted by the DuBois Regional Medical Center Women's Health, which dealt with eye health care, particularly a focus on glaucoma. We were warmly welcomed and invited back to participate anytime they have a presentation that would be appropriate for our interests.
Another event we were a part of was a video games marathon, hosted by Living Independent Today. We were welcome and we all had a good time. Five of our members attended--two of them used our vision simulation kit to show the participants how things would look with different vision impairments. The last presentation we did was at Jeff Tech.
Along with staff from BBVS in Erie, we presented information on working with visually impaired people to a group of EMT students. Robin and Blaine Clark did another demo of the vision stimulation kit with Jim Joyce, the O and M instructor from BBVS. We also discussed how they might best support someone with vision impairment in a medical emergency. There was also discussion as to how best handle a situation where a service animal in involved.
At our April and May meetings, we had speakers from the Clearfield and Dubois libraries to talk about what each library has in the way of accessibility for those with vision impairments.
Our chapter is also exploring various recreational activities. We think this will help us to socialize more with each other, as well as help us to better get to know each other outside chapter meetings.
Our first venture will be an evening of bowling. We also want to explore audible darts as a possibility.
Finally, we are working on a working relationship with our local PAB. The acting director is also a PCB member and has welcomed our suggestions.
The PAB started a support group in the Clearfield area, and each month have a speaker and an entertaining game of bingo. We are also discussing having a low vision expo in October, which will include participation from our chapter and the Blair and Clearfield Association for the Blind.
Lancaster Red Rose: Our advocacy efforts in recent months have again focused on the city of Lancaster and the installation of Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) in the downtown area. The ADA complaint we filed with the Federal Highway Administration nearly two years ago yielded a decision letter in our favor, stating the city was in violation of the ADA on several accounts. We are now in communication with the city in that they have been required to produce a plan to explain how they will rectify the situation. We have also been in discussions with the city concerning accessibility needs considered at the beginning of the planning stage for new projects. This will hopefully relieve some of the problems of retrofitting accommodations as an afterthought.
Being proactive about designing and implementing solutions for the needs of people with low vision will benefit everyone in the community.
Another example of where we are trying to be proactive is in the town of Millersville. Millersville borough council and the mayor asked citizens for input on how to spend a portion of grant money awarded by the state. We attended a meeting of the finance committee to present a letter asking for the intersections to be equipped with traffic signaling which includes APS. Many municipalities have minimal involvement by their citizens, therefore, attending a meeting almost guarantees an opportunity to voice your opinion. Attending your city, borough, township, or whatever public meetings are held in your community can make a huge impact in being a voice for necessary change that will help persons who are blind or visually impaired.
RRCB continues to be a player in the Lancaster Abilities Coalition (LAC). LAC is planning a 20th anniversary celebration for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 23rd at Binns Park in the city of Lancaster. Members of our chapter will be participating in various capacities.
Our publicity efforts have made progress. On May 5th, Ed Hersh was given several minutes during the Millersville Business Association meeting to share about RRCB and what we can offer as partners in the community. Yvonne Garris created a Facebook page for our chapter. On May 21 and 22, Laura Griffith, her husband Gordon, Stephanie Hersh, Nathan Roth, and other members and nonmembers alike worked together to conduct a plant sale fund raiser which yielded nearly $1,000. Thank you Laura and crew!
The RRCB regularly scheduled meeting is the second Saturday of each month at 10:30 AM in the Public Library on North Duke Street in Lancaster.
If you would like to be on an email list to receive reminders and updates about chapter events, please call Ed at 717-872-1192 to be placed on the list. Please call the same number with any ideas or questions.
-- Submitted by Edward Hersh, President
Lehigh Valley Chapter: LVCB was pleased to host the Northeast PCB Regional meeting in May. It was fun to gather with members of other chapters to listen, learn, and share with one another. Please see the article elsewhere in the ADVOCATE for a report on the Northeast Regional meeting.
We have welcomed two new members to our chapter in the past few months--Hattie Tyson and Dorothy Montero. That brings our membership to 43. We are pleased to welcome these fine ladies to our chapter.
LVCB members reported a variety of experiences in voting in the primary election. As would be expected, where the election board members remained the same, voting went more smoothly than where those setting up the machines were unaccustomed to doing so. The LVCB Membership Committee has prepared a welcome letter that is regularly sent out to guests who attend our meetings. The committee also has created a brochure focusing on people with low vision. We will soon begin distributing these brochures to doctor's offices, agency offices, and any other places where our members can get them in.
Our chapter has begun distributing the PCB activity sheets/placemats. They will be used this summer at a camp retreat where about 50 sighted persons and 10 blind persons will gather at mealtime. They also are being distributed at libraries, pizza shops, vision care centers, and other places where children will gather. So far, members of our chapter have accepted 1,000 sheets to distribute.
We have members in the Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton areas, as well as a member in Schuylkill County, and another in Montgomery County, so we are covering a large area.
We wish everyone a happy summer, and look forward to seeing many of you at the convention in October.
-- Submitted by Jeanette Schmoyer.
From the Editor: If you want your chapter represented in current issues of the ADVOCATE, the information must come from your chapter. If your chapter is not represented in the "Chapter Reports" column, it is because we have not heard from you.
Chapter reports come from YOU. Let the rest of our readers know what your group is doing.
- June Horst, Editor
STATE NEWS
REGIONAL MEETINGS
Northeast Regional: May 1, 2010
Host Chapter -- Lehigh Valley
Location -- Holy Family Manor, Bethlehem, PA.
Three chapters were represented: Lehigh Valley, Luzerne County, and Monroe County Councils of the Blind. The program opened with greetings from LVCB's Vice President, Rita Lang, who welcomed us, and passed along regrets from Sherry Hancik, LVCB's president, who was unable to attend due to a sudden health issue. Rita read Lehigh Valley's mission statement, which is read at the beginning of each chapter monthly meeting, as a means of reminding the membership of its purpose.
In the absence of PCB Executive Director, John Horst, who could not attend because of a death in the family, Tony Swartz, PCB's 1st Vice President, delivered the Executive Director's report. While a good number of items were discussed, of special note was the continuing effort by PCB chapters to plan and conduct low vision seminars throughout the state. Also discussed was PCB's testimony at local OVR-BBVS hearings on the State Plan, John Horst's election to another three year term on the PAB Board of Directors, and the development of a new PCB chapter, the Newcastle Regional Council of the Blind in Lawrence County.
Tony Swartz explained the rationale for, and a brief history of the process to consolidate the two Lehigh Valley PCB agencies into a single entity, the Center for Vision Loss, which served as an introduction of the agency's newly-appointed Executive Director, Dr. Stephanie Olexa.
Dr. Olexa detailed the efforts and difficulties of bringing two, sometimes competing agencies together. She then went on to outline an emerging strategic plan, and her vision for a "healthy and smart" agency which could serve its current customers and be responsive to the community's future needs to serve those with vision loss.
Mary Ann Alexander continued the morning's presentations, providing a description and demonstration of both the Trekker Breeze, an audible GPS solution, and the PenFriend Labeler, a pen-like device which matches labels with an audio recording which can be affixed to almost any item as a means of identification.
In her position as PCB's Chair of Governmental Affairs, Mary Ann concluded the morning's presentations by reviewing the efforts of the Governmental Affairs committee and detailed our support for current legislation. She also mentioned future plans of the committee, which includes a Legislative Seminar to be held in conjunction with PCB's State Convention in the Fall of 2011.
The afternoon began with a convention report by Tony Swartz (see the convention article). MCCB member, Caroline McFarland, explained and demonstrated how she, as an individual with low vision, used a closed circuit television magnification system to continue her work as a crafts artist. She provided low vision members of the audience the opportunity to examine more closely her CCTV system.
Chapter reports were concluded, followed by an audience participation exercise. Those in attendance were split into four groups, each group given a question and a ten-minute limit to consider a response.
The questions were:
1.What can I do as an individual for PCB?
2.What can my chapter do for PCB?
3.What can PCB do for me as an individual? And
4.What can PCB do for my chapter
Each group was given the opportunity to then report back. It is planned that responses will be forwarded to PCB's Board of Directors. Rita closed the Regional, thanking everyone for their interest and participation.
In addition to the presentations, the day included door prizes, box lunches, refreshments, and time for attendees to meet and mingle. It was a successful and enjoyable Regional.
– Submitted by Jeanette Schmoyer.
Southwest Region: May 1, 2010
Host Chapter -- Washington County Chapter
Location -- George Washington Hotel, 60 S. Main St., Washington, PA. (Across from Court House) There were approximately 60 people in attendance for our meeting. We kicked off the day with coffee, pastries and doughnuts, registration and exhibits. Some of the products featured included the Kapten Voice Activated Personal GPS, the True Speak Talking Bible, the new Olympus digital recorder, a telephone recording device which even records from cell phones, and a talking blood pressure monitor. During this time, we were also entertained by our chapter's own Jody Mullis, who has a beautiful singing voice.
The convention program began at 9 with the Pledge of Allegiance and "God Bless America," led by Jody. Following introductions, our first presentation dealt with choosing a Medicare plan.
Our presenters were Eric Holmes and Rachel Schultz, who are both independent agents specializing in Medicare, representing UMPC and several other companies. They gave useful information on Medicare parts A, B, C, and D, and explained the differences between HMO's and PPO's, also explaining how Medicare Advantage plans work and what they include. Printed information and audio CD's were also provided.
"Gardening for People who are Blind or Visually Impaired" was discussed by Eileen Bender, a Rehabilitation instructor and recreation coordinator from BBVS of Pittsburgh. Location of the garden, tactile aids, such as PVC pipes to mark borders, stakes to mark plant rows, useful other tips were included in her discussion. She also passed out tactile aids and tools used by blind or visually impaired gardeners, which made her presentation very easy to follow, and very interesting.
Representative Timothy Solobay, 48th Legislative District, Washington County, updated us on some of the initiatives which are in committee on the state level, including a bill which would increase the average blind pension to $250, the creation of an office for people with disabilities, improving dental care on health plans, and a decreased property tax for people with disabilities. On the national level legislation is being considered which would require all pharmacies to provide Braille labels on prescriptions.
For the final part of our morning program, we literally "went to the dogs." Jamie Benton, a dog trainer from Doglegic Doggie Day Care, gave us an entertaining presentation on dog behavior, training, and psychology. An interesting fact he mentioned was that for every litter produced, only 30% are accepted as service dogs. He gave several tips on house breaking and stopping dogs from nipping and encouraged us to visit www.dogstardaily.com for additional tips and videos.
The noon meal was a hot lunch, followed by Scott Hanley, General Manager of WDUQ and Radio Information Service of Pittsburgh, who reported that even though WDUQ is for sale, Duquesne University is continuing to operate RIS on a limited basis. There was a question-and-answer session with audience participation on radio reading services.
The remainder of the afternoon included chapter reports (we regretted that our new chapter in Newcastle could not be present) and President, George Holliday's report. He stressed the importance of advocacy and how letters and phone calls to legislators really make a difference. He also urged us to hand out chapter and PCB brochures and the placemats for children, containing activities and information about PCB.
Soon chapters will be able to post chapter
information on the new PCB web site. Since the average age of PCB members is going up, sponsorship by chapters of young people to come to the state convention was also encouraged.
We ended the afternoon with closing remarks and additional time to visit the exhibits. Our chapter would like to thank all those who made our day a success.
-- Submitted by Carla Hayes, President.
Southeast Region: May 8, 2010
Host Chapter -- Philadelphia Region Chapter.
Location -- Marriott Courtyard, Center City,
Philadelphia, PA.
The theme of our Regional was "Let Freedom Ring.
Jim Saylor called the meeting to order and thanked everyone for their good wishes during his hospital stay and recovery period, and especially the Philadelphia chapter for their support. During a moment of silence, we remembered those who need prayer, after which President Saylor thanked Giant Foods for donating the donuts for our coffee hour.
Roll call.
John Horst, Executive Director, PCB, was
introduced, who mentioned that he was glad to be at the Regional since it was at a different location. He informed us that the office signed a 3-year lease, which will prevent office rent from increasing each year.
Last year there were 3 issues of the ADVOCATE, but this year publication will be restored to 4 issues. We hope everyone reads the ADVOCATE since there is much information about PCB and its activities in it. There is also a new chapter in western Pennsylvania, the Newcastle Reg. Council of the Blind. They will be receiving their charter at the PCB state convention in October in Pittsburgh.
ACB national convention is in Phoenix in July. Next year, the PCB state convention will be in Harrisburg, and will include a Legislative Seminar in which two representatives from each chapter will be present, but anyone is welcome. He stressed the importance of recruiting younger members for PCB, since the present membership is getting older. If you have any questions or concerns, call the state office. Also, send in articles or comments for the ADVOCATE.
George Holliday, PCB President, has 3 goals for PCB-- advocacy, membership, and publicity. He does not want committees just to meet, but to have goals and work toward accomplishing them.
Fourteen committees meet monthly by telephone conference call. There are many sponsors for the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act, both in the House and the Senate, and more sponsors signing on for the 21st Century Video and Telecommunications Accessibility Act.
PCB members should call their legislators and thank them for their sponsorship and let them know how important this legislation is to blind and visually impaired people. Low Vision seminars are being held throughout the state, one at Wills Eye Hospital in October and one in Pittsburgh in conjunction with the state convention. Theme of the state convention is "Accessing Your Future," watch the pcb1 web site for additional information. If you have an unusual hobby, let the convention committee know--they are seeking panelists for this segment of the program.
Major John L Harrison, one of the Tuscugee bomber airmen during World War II was our first guest speaker. He related that there were 900 airmen in this elite group, all of then African-American. They flew 200 missions and not one of the bombers were lost to enemy fire. Now 88 years old, he told of the many instances of discrimination he experienced growing up, in service training, and during the war. Black airmen were required to go through twice the number of years of schooling as white men. The name was given to this group of airmen by native Indians in Alabama "Tuscugee" airmen, which means "warrior." The little school "shack" they started training in is now a prestigious university! Truman ended discrimination in the armed forces in 1948. Later, after the war, Major Harrison led the Peace Corps in Africa, and was received at the White House during President Bush's term, and given the Congressional Medal of Honor.
Mr. G W Stilwell, Coordinator of Visual Impairment Services, Philadelphia Veterans Administrative Medical Center, spoke about the VA's work with blinded veterans. He gave a brief history of how blinded veterans came to be. Following World War II, there were many blinded veterans returning from the war, which resulted in forming the Blinded Veterans group. There are several centers around the country where veterans go to be evaluated and receive assistance to meet their needs. East coast veterans travel to Connecticut.
Blinded veterans also partner with other blindness organizations for equipment, help, counseling, etc.
Three areas of assistance include: cemetery burial, disability needs, and veterans benefits.
James Saylor gave a report of Philadelphia Regional chapter activities, thanking chapter members and officers for their support during his illness. He also thanked the hotel staff for their assistance and cooperation in planning for the Regional meeting.
John Luttenberger entertained us during the lunch hour with some of his "jokes."
Patricia Russell chaired the awards presentations.
The Francis Williams award went to Rita Davis, a volunteer at Associated Services for the Blind, for her many hours there, at her church, with AARP, as well as many other community activities. The Mae Davidow award, given to someone who has been involved in the blindness field, was given to PCB President, George Holliday. He has been involved with PCB and ACB for about 13 years, was a teacher in the field of technology, and now works at Wills Eye Hospital helping newly blinded folks in their needs for assistance.
Meeting adjourned at 1:40 PM.
Central Region: May 15, 2010
Host Chapter -- York County Chapter
Location -- Meadow Hill Restaurant, York, PA
We welcomed members from Capitol Cities chapter, Red Rose chapter, Cumberland chapter, as well as our own chapter members to our Regional meeting.
John Horst, Executive Director gave his report, and unfortunately, President George Holliday could not be with us.
Each chapter gave an update on their activities. It should be noted that many chapters are really becoming advocates for PCB's many issues of interest for this year.
Tony Heat, from Foresight Vision, gave a very interesting talk on some of the many devices that are now available to improve our lives. He demonstrated such items as: CCTVs, the Victor Reader Stream, a talking Bible, and the NLS digital player.
After the meeting, we had some fun with a white elephant sale. All the funds raised ($231) were donated to PCB. -- Submitted by Rodger Simmons, President
Northwest Region: June 11, 2010
Host Chapter -- Oil Valley Chapter
(No report)
PCB'S 2010 STATE CONVENTION
Tony Swartz, Chair Convention Planning Committee
"Accessing Our Future"
I really do hate to fly and avoid it as much as I can, but I needed to be in Savanna, Georgia for a conference related to my work. I do, however, love traveling by train and fortunately in October of 2001 the cost of travel by train to Savannah was roughly the equivalent of that by air out of Allentown, satisfying the requirements of my employer. I thoroughly enjoyed my eleven hour ride down the east coast tucked in my private compartment, involved in a good book, soothed and relaxed by the rhythm of steel wheels rolling over steel tracks.
I arrived in Savannah just before midnight and took a cab from the train station to the hotel.
Pulling up to the hotel, I asked the cab driver for directions to the front door. She said that it was a slow night and had never been in the hotel and wondered herself what the lobby looked like. We walked through the double doors of the hotel into a cavernous lobby, complete with a jazz piano player.
Later I was to learn that there was no musician, instead an automated electronic piano on a center dais, keys moving up and down as if played by invisible hands. I stopped to listen to determine the whereabouts of the registration desk, but the piano drowned out any audible clues. I appealed to the driver who provided directions. Wishing her "good night" I turned and made my way to the desk.
The bellhop who had accompanied me to my room inquired whether there was anything further that he could do. Tipping and thanking him, I assured him that I needed nothing more. Wishing him "good night," I closed the door to my room. Even though I have been traveling independently most of my life, I must admit to still feeling a bit of self satisfaction upon arriving at a far flung destination alone.
Savannah October weather can be sultry, and I had noticed in my ride from the train station to the hotel, the evening's warmth and humidity. But upon closing my door, I noticed that wither the hotel staff or the prior occupant of the room had left the air conditioning turned all the way up. My room could easily have served as a meat locker. I did that "blind person search the room" thing, looking first to find the unit producing the cold, but there was just a vent unit in the wall. Next, I searched the walls and found what seemed to be a little thermostat control panel. "Ah, here we go. But what's this?" There were four buttons side by side. I thought one button must increase and another decrease the temperature, but what would the others do, and which was which? It would make sense that up would be on the right, so I pressed the most right one. Nothing happened, the north wind continued to blow. "Ah, maybe the two left most buttons control the temperature, so I pressed the second button from the left. No change. "Well, nuts." I resigned myself to a very cool night.
Laying out my toiletries on the bathroom vanity, I discovered a coffee maker. Though I might be cool through the night, I could at least wake up to a nice warm cup of coffee. I examined the coffee maker for controls. Interesting! A little flat panel, but if I felt very carefully I could sense under the thin clear plastic covering, two or were there three, buttons under the covering? Next to the coffee maker was a little basket of paper packets, I assumed one was coffee, one tea, but what's the third, oh, and a fourth? I sniffed each of the packets. They all smelled like, like, paper? Maybe I would just hold off and have my coffee in the restaurant. Later during my stay I learned how to operate the coffee maker, but forgot to ask about the packets. Back in my room I tore open what I thought was the coffee packet and poured it into the coffee maker basket and brewed up a mixture.
Ah, I suppose there's some satisfaction knowing that I will go to my grave knowing the taste of warm camel drool!
Still a bit wired, I thought that before turning in, I'd take in a few minutes of CNN headline service.
Hunting around, I located the TV remote inside the TV cabinet. Pulling the device out of its leather pouch and examining it, "wait, this isn't a TV remote! Should I call down to the desk? Was a NASA astronaut the last occupant of my room and had they inadvertently left behind a sample shuttle control panel? Was I violating national security looking at this thing? Hold on, look for discernible patterns, try to find the differentiation, no pattern here." I remembered the last time I fiddled with a hotel TV remote and had to argue my way out of being charged for a movie that I never watched.
"Oh forget it, I'm going to bed!"
Laying and shivering a bit in my cold bed, I thought about how within a few moments my feeling of independence and self satisfaction had disappeared. Was I less capable than I thought myself to be? But the more I thought about it, in each circumstance the thermostat controls, the coffee maker, the TV remote, I had employed my remaining senses and had met the world more than halfway. But the designers of each of the appliances did not take into account that someone without vision would use their product and would need more than visual confirmation, whether a visual display or labeling of controls. The design of a product that considers the needs of all who might use it is known as Universal Design.
To paraphrase, "Universal Design Education Online" -- Universal Design is an approach to the design of all products and environments to be as usable as possible by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability, or situation. It accommodates people with disabilities, older people, children, and others who are non-average in a way that is not stigmatizing and benefits all users. For instance, stereo equipment labels which can be read by someone with low vision are easier for everyone to read, public telephones in noisy locations that have volume controls are easier for everyone to hear, and building entrances without stairs assist equally someone who moves furniture, pushes a baby stroller, or uses a wheelchair.
Designing for a broad range of users from the beginning of the process can increase usability of an environment or product without significantly increasing its cost. It results in easier use for everyone and it reduces the need for design modification later when abilities or circumstances change.
Universal design seeks to achieve accessibility by integrating accessibility features into the overall design. This integration is important because it results in better design and avoids the stigmatizing quality and much greater price to the consumer for accessibility features added on late in the design process, or after production completion as a modification. Universal design does not have standards or requirements, but addresses usability issues.
I'm certain that most of you reading my tale of frustration have also had similar experiences. Is there something we can do about it? How can we get manufacturers to pay attention to our needs?
When will we be able to purchase an electronics based product that is fully accessible rather than the alternative of having to purchase something retro-fitted and twice the price, or greater? But, perhaps you are one of those people who would rather complain or stand by and wring your hands, inwardly content with your plight. If instead, you want to learn how we as advocates can play an active role in shaping the future of product accessibility, then you will want to join us for our seventy-fifth annual Pennsylvania Council of the Blind State Convention. Our program will include a number of presentations focusing on the basic principles of universal design, what design engineers want to hear from us, and the approaches we can adopt as effective advocates.
Convention Tour:
With anticipation, we return to Pittsburgh for our 2010 convention. Having shed its former dingy gray-skied industrial personality, the city has evolved over the last thirty years into a postindustrial metropolis. Its physical characteristics, a triangular strip of land wedged within the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers, 151 high rises creating a dramatic skyline, and 446 bridges tying the city's land area and ethnic neighborhoods together, all contribute to its singular appearance. Though a modern city in every sense of the word, Pittsburgh has nevertheless retained its diverse and unique historical character.
Our host chapter, the Golden Triangle Council of the Blind, has arranged a tour to the Heinz History Center, a magnificent six-story museum housing a vast collection of the city's historical artifacts, memorabilia, and exhibits. Because the museum's collection is so extensive, two subject areas have been selected for audio tours. One will feature the history of Pittsburgh and will highlight the city's varied ethnicity. You will have the opportunity to learn about Pittsburgh's tradition and innovations, such things as a 19th century home, George Washington's time in Pittsburgh during the French and Indian War, the dominance of glass manufacturing, steel production, Westinghouse Electric, H J Heinz, development of transportation, and why Pittsburgh was the fourth largest corporate headquarters in the US.
The alternate tour will center on the achievements of the Pittsburgh sports teams. Learn about the Pirates, Steelers, and Penguin greats and the western Pennsylvania college teams, along with the inspiring story of the Pittsburgh Grays. You will have the opportunity to relive some of Pittsburgh's greatest sports moments. Each tour track will be approximately two hours in length, covering 3 floors. Wheelchairs are available if needed. At the conclusion of the tours, lunch will be available in the museum's cafeteria. The total cost of the tour, including transportation, tour tickets, and lunch will be $25.00. Participation is limited to approximately 36 participants, and reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Friday Activities:
On Friday morning, PCB's Employment Committee will hold an Employment Seminar, targeted particularly to high school and college-age students of the southwestern portion of our state.
For further information, please reference the Employment Committee's article, found in this edition of the ADVOCATE.
On Friday afternoon from 1:15 to 4:30 PM, our host chapter, the GTCB, has also planned what they have entitled, "Living Well with Vision Loss Expo," which will focus on four topic areas. The first, "Fitness at Home and Nutrition" will discuss home exercise and healthy eating with a minimum of label reading. The second presentation, "Hobbies Unhindered" will present three panelists from our membership who will describe what methods and adaptations they have developed to continue to enjoy their particular hobbies.
The third presentation will discuss audio description as it applies to arts and entertainment from television and movie productions to theater productions, museum tours, recreation facilities, and more. The final seminar topic, "Activities Abound," will focus on specific physical activities, recreational and sports opportunities, and adaptations which make them possible. The emphasis and goal of the Expo is to have us consider areas of our lives in which we can, by being informed, improve our quality of life.
Celebrating our 75th anniversary, to mark the occasion, on Friday evening, we are invited to a pizza, salad, and dessert repast. A program is planned to note the history and accomplishments of our organization. In addition, we will recognize and hear from representatives of our two longest serving chapters. As we have a tradition, we also have a future, and our celebration will also include recognition of those who are attending their first PCB convention. We will then directly segue into the opening session of the convention. A notable addition to our opening session will be the first reading of resolutions. In the last several years a number of members have expressed concern that leaving resolutions until our Sunday Morning breakfast business meeting leaves little time for consideration of their content. Responding to this concern, resolutions have been scheduled for a first reading during our opening session with debate and action to follow on Sunday morning.
On Friday evening following the close of our opening session, two activities are planned. There will be a workshop on dating and relationships held in the President's Suite. Mike Gravitt and Christie Gilson will facilitate a discussion on topics such as tips for dating with little or no sight, how to locate potential dating partners, and dating sighted or visually impaired people. Triumphant relationships, as well as embarrassing stories of not-so-successful attempts will be shared. As an alternative for those of us who have mastered romance, or perhaps find ourselves far removed from its entanglement, I will attempt, once again, to host a trivia game, pitting the intelligent, educated, or the bold members of chapters against one another. Friday evening's late activities will provide you with a clear choice, love, or laughter.
Saturday Activities:
In last year's convention article, I wrote that, "We are first and foremost an advocacy organization with legislative advocacy a cornerstone of our efforts." With that in mind, we will open our morning session with a report from the chair of our Governmental Affairs committee, Mary Ann Alexander, who will highlight current legislative issues and advocacy efforts.
We are relying on our membership to contribute in the creation of one of our Saturday Morning presentations. Among all of us, we have, through our personal experiences and interests, built a body of information and techniques in our adaptation to life with vision loss. In a presentation entitled, "Tips and Tricks," selected individuals among our membership will be given the opportunity to share with us a particular technique. Please refer to an accompanying article in this edition of the ADVOCATE for further details.
As mentioned earlier, universal design will be a main topic of our Saturday program. We will learn a bit about the principles behind universal design and what design engineers who develop products want to hear from us. Two design engineering students will follow with their idea for a product employing universal design principles. A panel from our membership will then consider and discuss their proposal. We will wrap up with a panel of presenters who will discuss their efforts in advocating for universal design and accessibility.
If you are concerned that discussions of engineering design are either boring or beyond your understanding, then consider that the goal of universal design is to bridge the gap between the technical and a solution for a common need.
Rather than struggling to reach them, those who design must instead understand and reach out to us.
On a related topic, do you know what is meant by an interface? Putting it simply, it is the way we communicate with a product or device, and how that product or device communicates with us. For instance, interfaces with a computer would be a keyboard, monitor, or speech synthesizer and speaker. Early in my training as a software designer, I remember a professor explaining that with respect to interfaces, we remain in the stone age. But over the last decade a number of products have emerged that have perhaps moved us beyond flint knapping. Touch screens and motion interpretation are just the beginning. What will this mean to us? Our own Thomas Reid will offer us some explanations and perhaps allay some of the fears that some of us may have as he presents "Interfaces: the New Frontier."
On August 13, 2007, David DeNotaris was appointed Director of Pennsylvania's Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services. He will join us on Saturday to discuss the successes of his tenure and his concerns. He has graciously accepted the opportunity to answer questions from our membership as well.
Our Saturday program will conclude with the presentation of the budget and the election of members to the Board of Directors. The day's activities will continue with a cocktail hour, which will include various drawings, in particular, our room rate fund drawing. Our convention banquet will follow. At the conclusion of our banquet festivities, we will hold our third live auction. Can we possibly top both the fun and funds raised last year? The Fund Raising committee is in the process of securing a radio personality to be our auctioneer, so regularly check the PCB web site for breaking news. Our convention weekend will close with a breakfast business meeting on Sunday, featuring committee reports and the second reading, debate, and action on resolutions.
Convention Details:
The 2010 annual convention of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind will be held from Friday, October 22nd through Sunday, October 24th at the Radisson Hotel Pittsburgh Greentree, Pittsburgh, PA. The room rate is $93.00 plus tax for up to four occupants per night.
By the first of September, the membership of our organization will receive a registration letter, including a registration form listing the cost of all events and meals, a check list of attendee preferences, and a brief description of both the hotel, and directions to the dog relief area. 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.
A Four Meal Plan:
This year in addition to the banquet and business breakfast, the meal plan will include the Friday evening 75th Anniversary pizza-salad-dessert meal, and a Saturday lunch. Details regarding pricing for all meals and menu selections for the Saturday lunch and banquet will be included in the convention registration letter.
Hotel Specifics:
A good number of our membership will remember that the location of our 2005 convention was also at the Radisson Hotel Pittsburgh Greentree. As in 2005, the sleeping rooms of Tower A have been reserved for our use, assuring us quick and easy access to the hotel lobby, restaurant, and meeting facilities. Hotel amenities include: an indoor/outdoor pool, sauna, a well-equipped fitness center, and a hair salon. All sleeping rooms are equipped with a coffee maker, complimentary high-speed internet access, a work desk with an ergonomic chair and data ports. Hotel eateries include: the Rivers restaurant and Lounge, and for more casual dining, the Market Snack Shoppe.
Convention Web Page:
Please note that a convention news page has been added to our web site, which will contain both written and audio notices, dealing with evolving details of the convention. Please check the page throughout the summer, particularly as convention time approaches.
As you will have observed, the members of the Convention Planning committee have been hard at work in an attempt to create an interesting and enjoyable convention weekend, but the success of a convention is achieved only in part by its planning and coordination. Its ultimate ingredient is, of course, you: your willingness to attend and the energy and interest that you bring.
We, the members of the Convention Planning committee, welcome you to Pittsburgh and anticipate your arrival, interest, and energy.
TIPS AND TRICKS AT THE CONVENTION
By Jeanette Schmoyer
On Saturday morning, October 23, at the PCB Conference and Convention, we will have a panel of PCB members who will share with us their interesting tips and tricks in dealing with a life activity with vision loss.
In order for us to have this panel, we need your help. We need volunteers who have a special way of doing something that is not conventional, not taught by a rehab teacher, but makes your life easier. We are looking for clever unique tips and tricks. Have you figured out a way of doing something that you think might be of interest to others?
All the ideas submitted will be reviewed, and those volunteers chosen to participate will be notified.
We will work with you on your presentation, so if you have a good idea, don't let fear of talking about it scare you off. We hope to get many ideas from you, the membership. Please submit your tip or trick to Tony Swartz at his email address: tbswartz@ptd.net
CALLING ALL HOBBYISTS
As your host chapter for the 2010 PCB Convention, the Golden Triangle Chapter is preparing the "Living Well with Vision Loss" expo for Friday, October 22 from 1:15 to 4:30 PM. One presentation in particular, "Hobbies Unhindered" seeks involvement from the PCB membership.
During this presentation we would like three members to take 10 minutes each to discuss their favorite hobby, and what strategies/adaptations they use in order to enjoy the hobby, despite limited or no vision. For example, if you crochet, you might tell us what types of items you have made and stitches you have used. You should also tell us how you keep your colors and patterns in order if you cannot see these details. It would also be good to include what resources you use to learn about new patterns and stitches. Once the three panelists have spoken, there will be 10 minutes for questions.
If you plan to attend this year's convention, will be available Friday afternoon, and are enthusiastic about a hobby , we encourage you to submit your name for consideration as a presenter. Please provide your name, contact information, type of hobby, and examples of adaptations/strategies you use, to the GTCB host committee by Saturday, August 1. Our committee will review all candidates and decide on three presenters by mid August.
Preference will be given to individuals who:
a. Are good public speakers
b. Have had some vision and lost it
c. Will bring a good topical mix to the panel
Submit your information to:
Michael Zaken 412-655-1234 or Michael.zaken@verizon.net
Sue Lichtenfels 412-429-1727 or susan@lichtenfels.us
2010 PCB AUCTION
What do Martin guitar and an autographed Pittsburgh Penguins jersey have in common? No, penguins can't play the guitar--at least I don't think they can. Yes, a Pittsburgh Penguin could use the guitar to beat on an opponent--but that's not it either. You guessed it--both of these fantastic items will be up for bid in PCB's 2010 Live Auction. Plans for an exciting and lucrative auction are off to a great start with the donation of our first two prize items. You will want to tell your friends and family who either play or want to play the guitar that C. F. Martin & Co. has generously donated a six-string, white acoustic guitar, valued at $500, to the auction. For the sport lovers in your life, the autographed #11 Jordan Staal Penguins jersey would make a fabulous gift. These two marquis items are not enough though. We need assistance from members, chapters, and friends of PCB to acquire additional prizes. Our goal is to have a prize list filled with great items that will appeal to a variety of individuals with varying interests and budgets.
Here are some ideas for where you might get prize donations and what types of items to request. Go to the chain restaurants and hotels in your area to ask for a gift certificate. Visit local businesses to request either a retail item or gift basket of smaller items. Ask your area's chain stores, such as Wal-Mart, Barnes & Noble, and JCPenny for a gift card that could itself be a prize, or use it to purchase a prize. Drop in at a Radio Shack or Best Buy to solicit for an electronic prize. Talk with your local chapter members and together create a theme basket from your area. Think about your own skills and talents and consider making a personal donation to the auction (i.e. baked goods, woodworking product, crocheting or knitting project, etc.) Perhaps you, your employer, or someone you know can donate professional services (i.e. tax preparation, web site design, legal consultation, audio production, etc). Contact your area's sports teams, museums, and tourist attraction to request admission tickets.
As you can tell, there are a variety of ways you can help to secure excellent auction prizes. To help you, we have composed a letter that explains all of the details of the auction, as well as gives information about PCB's advocacy work. The prize request letter is available online at www.pcb1.org and will be periodically posted to the PCB-L. You can also request copies of the letter from Sue Lichtenfels at 412-429-1727. When you acquire a prize, please pass along the details to Sue Lichtenfels or Lyle Sine. The detailed prize list will be posted regularly to the PCB-L.
This year's PCB Live Auction will be held on Saturday, October 23 in conjunction with the Awards dinner at the convention. Our auction committee has invited a Pittsburgh radio personality to be our celebrity auctioneer. Cash, credit cards, and checks will all be accepted. There is even an ATM in the lobby of our hotel to replenish your cash supply. For those who cannot make it to the auction, our committee is working out plans that will enable you to make a proxy bid before the convention. More auction details will be forthcoming through the "PCB Reports," PCB-L, and on www.pcb1.org
Feel free to contact the Auction committee:
Mike Gravitt 412-344-2313 or mgravitt2@comcast.net
Sue Lichtenfels 412-429-1727 or susan@lichtenfels.us
Lyle Sine 215-879-6489 or lf.sine@verizon.net
PCB COMMENTARY ON 2010 FISCAL YEAR VR STATE PLAN
By Tony Swartz
Each year the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, and more specifically as applies to us, the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services, invites public comment on its proposed Fiscal Year Combined Agency State Plan. The purpose of this period of comment is to provide individuals, advocates, and other interested parties and/or organizations with the opportunity to present their views and recommendations regarding Vocational Rehabilitation services for, in the case of BBVS, persons with a visual impairment. In addition to vocational services, BBVS further accepts public comment on the Business Enterprise program, specialized services for children and adults, and Independent Living services for older persons who are blind. At this spring's meeting of the PCB Board of Directors, several issues of concern were identified and the below statement of comment was prepared and shared with those among our membership who would offer testimony at public hearings held throughout the state.
Pennsylvania Council of the Blind Commentary of the 2011 fiscal year combined State plan for Vocational Rehabilitation Services Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services. On behalf of the membership of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind, we express our appreciation for the opportunity to offer comment on issues pertinent to the provision of rehabilitation services by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services to blind and visually impaired citizens of Pennsylvania.
Timeliness of Service Delivery
Crucial to the effectiveness of the rehabilitation process is the timeliness of service delivery. We, the membership of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind, are extremely concerned that statewide BBVS is unable to respond to its customers' service needs in a timely fashion. This may result in newly blinded individuals having to wait weeks or even months for an initial visit from a BBVS vocational rehabilitation counselor. The longer the wait, the greater the likelihood the individual will turn to a more dependent lifestyle, with a concomitant loss of interest in the pursuit of vocational goals.
We are aware that in some district offices a significant number of direct service staff positions within the Bureau remain unfilled. We can only conclude that BBVS would be in a position to respond with greater expeditiousness to potential customers if more emphasis was placed on recruiting individuals to fill these positions. We also believe that the recruitment of qualified individuals with vision loss to fill these positions would further enhance the overall effectiveness of the Bureau. We, therefore, urge the Bureau to make every effort to fill these positions, and do so as soon as possible.
Accessible Communications
In state plan hearings across the state during 2002, members of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind called upon BBVS to develop a policy and to implement a strategy to disseminate all materials and to communicate with its customers in accessible formats.
Paraphrasing our request from 2002, we pointed out that today the ability to produce materials in alternate accessible formats has never been more possible. Yet, some district offices within BBVS have not demonstrated an interest in communicating with its customers via accessible formats. Why is it that customers of the Bureau continue to receive correspondence and forms in an inaccessible format, specifically twelve point print? In 2002, we requested, but now we most strongly encourage and would fully expect the Bureau to study this issue and quickly create a policy and implement a strategy that will insure that in the future, customers of the agency will receive all materials, letters, documents, etc in a format appropriately accessible to that customer, in accordance with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. We would further expect that the policy be developed, published, and circulated to customers by January 1, 2011. Again, we must point out that it is hypocritical for agencies which purport to advocate for accessible employment environments for their customers, to then fail to live up to those accessibility standards urged upon others.
With further respect to the issue of accessibility, yearly the Bureau participates in conducting these hearings on the Vocational Rehabilitation State Plan. Rather than limiting participation to individuals who are able to travel to regional meetings to attend these hearings or to those who provide written testimony, wouldn't accessibility to the process be enhanced if there were further options for participation, including other communication techniques? We would ask the Bureau to consider telephone and web conferencing as an additional reasonable accommodation of access.
The Creation of an Employment Position Database
A primary question for many working age individuals who leave or are forced from their employment position as a result of vision loss, and who aspire to return to employment is, "What can I do now with less or no sight?" Many BBVS vocational counselors have traditionally been encouraged to respond, "What is it that you want to do?" While we fervently believe that no individual with vision loss should be restricted from pursuing any reasonable employment goal or interest, we do believe it would prove helpful if customers were given some idea of successful fields entered and positions held by individuals with impaired vision. We also believe that this information would not only prove helpful to customers of the Bureau, but to the Bureau's vocational rehabilitation staff and to the staffs of private for-the-blind agencies who provide collaborative services to the Bureau. We, therefore, encourage BBVS to develop a database of employment positions held by customers over the prior ten years, that the database of employment be regularly maintained and, that the information be disseminated to those whom it would benefit, customers, Bureau staff, the staffs of private agencies serving those with vision loss, and the leadership of the consumer organizations of the blind. In addition to any other data which would prove advantageous to the Bureau, populations holding specific employment positions should be further defined, being broken down by broad degrees of visual acuity, say between 20/70 and 20/200, and 20/200 and less.
Once again, on behalf of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind, we thank you for the opportunity to discuss our concerns. It is our hope through the expression of these concerns that we might contribute to the overall improvement of vocational services to all Pennsylvanians with vision loss.
Thank you.
NATIONAL NEWS
FROM THE ACB OFFICE
Eric Bridges
Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs A huge success! Eric Bridges, who attended the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee markup session reports that the "Quiet Car" language has passed as part of S. 3302, the Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 2010. Because the language appears in both the House and Senate versions, when the bills go to conference to work out any differences, the "Quiet Car" language will remain in the bill that will be signed into law by President Obama.
On Thursday, June 10, the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet of the House Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing to discuss HR 3101, the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act. With the hearing on S 3304, Equal Access to Twenty-First Century Communications Act, it seems as though both bodies of Congress are attempting to move these bills through the legislative process. The only reason why these pieces of legislation are moving is due to the unwavering advocacy of affiliates across the country. Please keep it up!
-- Eric
Personnel Changes in ACB National Office:
Melanie Brunson, Executive Director of ACB, reports that two of our staff members will be leaving.
Dena Wilson, ACB's Development Director, is planning to open a consulting business of her own.
She took the job with ACB at a time when economic conditions made it a much larger challenge that any of us could have anticipated. Her hard work on our behalf enabled her to make some good inroads for ACB, particularly in the area of direct mail fundraising. Hopefully, we will continue to see additional positive results from the projects she started while she was with us.
After nearly 12 years of employment with ACB, Patricia Castillo is accepting a new position with an insurance company in Washington, DC. Her contributions to the work in the ACB office were not always visible to many people, but she was central to the smooth operation of the office for a long time. She will be sorely missed and hard to replace because of her commitment to ACB, her quiet efficiency and her sensitivity to the needs and feelings of blind and visually impaired people. (Patricia worked closely with me [June] in the ACB Registration office at national conventions, and I counted her among my closest ACB friends. She was a wonderful person to know.)
PCB BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2010-2011
George Holliday, President 215-748-3556
Anthony Swartz, 1st V President 610-799-4565
Wm Newland, 2nd V President 412-487-4995
Cathy Long, Secretary 717-737-1979
Anthony Evancic, Treasurer 412-621-4046
John A Horst, Executive Director 717-367-6346
Joe Perry, Past President 717-766-4351
Mary Ann Alexander 570-807-1276
Joe Wassermann 412-687-5166
Jeanette Schmoyer 215-703-4072
Edward Hersh 717-872-1192
Bob Lichtenfels 412-429-1727
Sue Lichtenfels 412-429-1727
Thomas Reid 570-421-2543
Harry Epstein 954-557-0639
CHAPTER PRESIDENTS - 2010
Beaver County Ken Sheets
Capitol City Ray Bogardus
Carl Shoemaker Geraldine Zeigler
Cumberland Care & Share Catherine Kingsborough
Erie Ernest Wright
Golden Triangle Mike Zaken
Hank Bloomberg Jacqueline Wissinger
J. F. Kennedy David Shaw
Lackawanna County Janice Hargick
Lancaster Red Rose Ed Hersh
Lehigh Valley Sherry Hancik
Luzerne County Thomas Walsh
Monroe County Thomas Reid
Newcastle Region Tim Johnson
Oil Valley Scott Roberts
Philadelphia Region James Saylor
Washington County Carla Hayes
York County Rodger 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 $10.00 ______
JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP DUES 5.00 ______
AGENCY/NON PROFIT MEM. DUES 20.00 ______
AGENCY/FOR PROFIT MEM. DUES 60.00 ______
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:
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