June, 2008
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2008 MCB Convention
Memo From The Office
Committee Reports
Smoke It If You Got It
Blind Governor Adjusts As Does Albany
Worlds First True Bionic Eye
Visiting The Guidedog School In Israel
National Church Conference for the Blind
The Editorial Eye
Affiliate Affairs
The MCB Rhymoceros
From The Lower Lefthand Drawer
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Its that time of year to start making arrangements to attend the 2008 MCB state convention. This year's convention will be hosted by the St. Charles Council of the Blind. The convention will be held at the Holiday Inn Select in St Peters Missouri. The address is 4341 Veterans Memorial Parkway St. Peters Missouri 63376, Phone (636) 928-1500 to make reservations. Room rates are $65 per night plus tax, be sure to mention that you are with MCB to get these rates. Convention dates are October 9th through 12th. Preregistration is $6 and onsite registration is $12. Preregistration must be postmarked by September 5, 4:00 PM.
You can also pre-register by going to:
http://www.moblind.org/forms/2008convention.php
Here you can pay for the pre-registration with a credit card, debit card or e-check.
The banquet menu is a brest of chicken stuffed with apple and walnut dressing, cranberry sauce, wild and long grain rice, vegetable bouquetiere, dinner salad, hot roll and butter coffee and iced tea. Dessert will be New York style Cheesecake with fruit topping for $25. Friday's hospitality meal will be a croissant club consisting of ham, turkey, swiss cheese a crisp strip of bacon, tomato and a leaf of lettuce served with a dinner salad and potato salad coffee iced tea and a slice of apple pie cost will be $4. Vegetarian and diabetic banquet meals may be arranged please let the office know by September 5th.
Donna Giger has requested volunteers both blind and sighted to help with voting, mike runners and door monitors, contact Donna if you can help 417-866-5778.
Convention Coordinator
Eldon Cox
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This is a reminder: The Convention passed an amendment last year which requires proposed
amendments and resolutions to be sent to the Resolutions Committee Chair by July 15.
The Resolutions and Amendments chairperson is Sabrina Fowler.
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Education and Welfare Committee
Dear MCB family and friends,
“Let us never forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us. The ultimate rulers of our democracy are not a President and senators and congressmen and government officials, but the voters of this country.”--
Franklin D. Roosevelt
I would like to begin my report by thanking all of those of you who assisted and participated in this year's legislative session. Without a doubt, the huge success we enjoyed can only be attributed to your participation. Words can not express my deepest gratitude to you for your involvement.
So I thank all of you who joined together with us on a legislative level to help make a significant difference in the lives of all blind Missourians.
On February 9th, 10 of us boarded a plane in Kansas City to fly to Washington D.C. for the American Council of the Blind Legislative Seminar.
I would like to thank the following individuals for taking time out of their busy schedules to be a part of this important event: Linda Gerken, MCB first vice president, and Linda's daughter, Terrica Sanders, and Terrica's daughter, Courtlin, and James Hollins, MCB second vice president, as well as Marie Thompson, Mary Pendleton, and
Mary's grandson, Alec Kinder, and Linda Burris, as well as my lovely wife, Linda. I thought our group worked extremely well together in addressing our U.S. Senators and Congressional leaders regarding the legislative imperatives outlined by ACB.
On February 12th, the 10 of us arose early only to be greeted by a bitterly cold day. After touring the White House early that morning, we made our way to Capitol Hill to begin the legislative work at hand.
The three issues we addressed with our legislators were the Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act discussion draft, accessibility To commercial web sites, and pedestrian safety issues regarding hybrid and other quiet vehicles.
Essentially, the Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act deals with television programming that often relies on visual information to communicate with consumers, i.e. products that are created to utilize on-screen menus, and significant emergency weather advisories that are scrolled across screens, and telephone numbers that are displayed on television screens unaccompanied by verbalization. People who are blind, or have visual impairments, are thereby denied access to a significant portion of the vast array of communications services available today. ACB had strongly urged the House of Representatives to formally introduce the Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act discussion draft that had been created by the House Energy and Commerce committee in close consultation with the Coalition of Organizations for Accessible Technology (COAT) to require television programmers to transmit and deliver video description. (Video description is the provision of verbal descriptions of the on-screen visual elements of a show provided during natural
pauses in dialogue.) For instance, this could mean (a) audio output where on-screen text menus are used to control video programming functions. This particular imperative has been long in coming but hopefully we will see some positive results.
The WEB SITE ACCESSIBILITY Issue deals with business and commercial web sites making its internet goods and services accessible to people with disabilities. Title III of the ADA bars discrimination on the basis of disability by "places of public accommodation" and "commercial facilities" "engaged in commerce," yet experts report that currently as many as 98 percent of all commercial web sites are inaccessible to the disabled. ACB had strongly urged the House of Representatives and Senate to formally introduce language as stand-alone legislation. Specifically, ACB briefly requested the following: “It shall be discriminatory to provide an individual or class of individuals, on the basis of a disability or disabilities of such individual or class, directly, or through contractual, licensing, or other arrangements, with a good, service, facility, privilege, advantage, or accommodation that is different or separate from that provided to other individuals, unless such action is necessary to provide the individual or class of individuals with a good, service, facility, privilege, advantage, or accommodation, or other opportunity that is as effective as that provided to others. To be effective, such a good, service, facility, privilege,
advantage, accommodation, or other opportunity must be provided to the individual or class of individuals at no additional cost and with the same timeliness of delivery, accuracy of communication, privacy, and independence as is provided to others.” Basically, this bill states that it shall be discriminatory for business and commercial web sites to provide persons with disabilities on the basis of their disability a good, service, or accommodation that is different or separate from that provided to other individuals. It further states that such goods and services must be provided to the individual or class of individuals at no additional cost and with the same timeliness of delivery as is provided to others.
The legislative imperative regarding quiet vehicles deals with automobile manufacturers producing increasing numbers of vehicles that are meant to be environmentally friendly. This has led to an increased number of vehicles on the road which not only utilize alternative fuels to power their engines, but also run much more quietly than older automobiles did. Though many aspects of this trend are laudatory, efforts by the auto industry to make the environment less noisy have placed pedestrians who use that noise to evaluate the safety or danger of the area in which they are traveling at serious risk. The American Council of the Blind had urged Congress to pass a resolution in support of research by both government and private entities into means by which the issues outlined above could be addressed. ACB believes that Congress should provide the U.S. Department of Transportation, or other appropriate federal agencies, with funding for such research, should direct that the agencies conduct such research in a timely manner and report back to Congress at its conclusion with recommendations, and should direct that appropriate federal agencies have the
authority to commence implementation of recommended solutions within two years after the
passage of this legislation.
One suggested implementation was that the automobile manufacturers develop some sort of device that would emit a certain sound warning the pedestrian of the oncoming vehicle. The device would be attached to the vehicle and not be the responsibility of the pedestrian to carry.
For additional information regarding any of these three imperatives, you can visit the ACB web site and link on the Washington Connection for more details.
On February 19th and 20th, we had our MCB Legislative Days in Jefferson City. Again, I would like to thank all of the affiliates who sent their affiliate legislative representatives to be a part of this vital legislative cause. It was my distinct pleasure to have worked so closely with all of you good folks.
On February 19th, during our legislative meeting, we had honored Mary Pendleton with a set of ceramic praying hands for her strong dedication and commitment for having served MCB the past two years as MCB Education and Welfare Chairman. Thanks Mary for the legacy you left in having served MCB in a legislative capacity on a local, state, and national level.
I would also like to take a brief moment to publicly thank Marty Exline, from MATP, and Mike Merrick, from RSB, for providing us with their expertise on the issues we had taken to our legislators. Their input was extremely valuable in helping us to better understand the issues.
The issues we asked our legislators to consider were as follows: HB 1544, sponsored by Representative Tim Jones, requires publishers of instructional materials to provide electronic copies of the material to schools for specialized use.
The companion bill is SB 719 sponsored by Senator Harry Kennedy. At the time of this writing, the bill did have a hearing, but the committee changed the bill at the request of the publishers in a way that would actually do more harm than good. SB 719 has not been scheduled for a
hearing. It is doubtful that a bill will pass before the session adjourns.
HB 1345, sponsored by Representative Charles Portwood, increases the tax credit amount available for individuals making home modifications. The companion bill is SB 717, sponsored by Senator Harry Kennedy. Both bills were voted do pass out of their committees. The bills now need to be placed on the House or Senate Perfection Calendar and be passed on the floor of the House or Senate.
SB 848, sponsored by Senator Wes Shoemyer, relating to accessibility in State Capitol making the Capitol accessible to persons with disabilities. This bill had a hearing, but the committee has never voted on the bill.
HB 1662, sponsored by Representative Bill Deeken, requires certain information be disclosed to consumers by audiologists and persons who dispense hearing instruments. a committee substitute bill was recently voted do pass by the committee.
We had also asked our legislators to move the Blindness, Education, Screening and Treatment (BEST) fund under the direction of RSB.
We had also asked our legislators to include $100,000 appropriations in the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) budget for the Equipment Technology Consortium (ETC) loan program administrated by Missouri Assistive Technology Project. The bill was HB 2002 and was left in the budget by the House but was removed in the Senate. The item is now in the House/Senate budget conference committee which is meeting around the time of this writing.
I would like to thank Marty Exline for providing me with the updates to these bills. I will continue to give periodic updates on these bills as they become available.
In conclusion, I would like to thank MCB for all of its support and the confidence of its members for giving me this wonderful opportunity to serve as MCB Education and Welfare Chairman. I truly feel it is a privilege to serve MCB in this capacity. Thanks again and may God continue to bless MCB in all of its endeavors.
Respectfully submitted,
Chip Hailey
MCB Education and Welfare Chairman
Youth Services
This year youth services is doing something a little different. We are teaming up to help some kids at the Missouri School for The Blind, and we are using our annual Youth Hospitality to do it. So along with our fun and games that you all have come to love and look forward to we are asking you to get involved. It is a sock hop! Yes, that's right a sock hop! So along with just your need and desire to have fun we are asking you to bring socks for admission. So if you would bring a new pair or package of any size socks for boys and/or girls. We hope to see you their ready to have fun and thank you all for helping us with a great cause, It's a sock hop!
In our continuing effort to increase membership in the organization it is that time again! As you all know a new venture as been occurring for the last few years which is known as the youth hospitality. From that idea youth services have decided that with the help and support of this organization, it would sponsor first time young adults to the state convention.
The plan is for each affiliate to submit the name and information of a person or persons that should be considered for sponsorship. The person should be between the ages of 18 and 35. The person does not have to be a current member of any affiliate. Each person should be currently residing in the state of Missouri.
If selected, each person will be responsible for completing assigned tasks while attending the convention. A meet and greet on the convention floor will be held to make the assembly aware of their presence. The committee will provide two nights in the hotel, with no more than two meals a day and a ticket to the banquet. Please be mindful that no more than four people will be selected.
Thank you all so much for your continued support. The committee looks forward to receiving all nominations for sponsorship.
For more information you may contact James Hollins: jlhollins21@hotmail.com phone (816) 921-8659.
Please submit applications to Linda Gerkin: no later then July 31, 2008.
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By Don Shaw
Once in a great while a product comes along that is “blind friendly” right out of the box. I have found a product like that I want to do a review on.
Last Saturday, morning was just one of those east Texas mornings, with just really great weather. Nice and sunny cool, with really low Humidity. You know just the kind of day that you might want to fire up the BBQ pit/smoker. I new about a thing, Sam's club stores sell called a masterbuilt
electric smoke house. In fact, I had looked at it already, liked it allot, just didn't know it was so blind friendly.
To describe this thing, it looks allot like a large dorm size refrigerator. It stands about 42 inches high, around 23 inches wide, and about 16 inches deep. The one I bought is made of stainless steal. You can all so buy it in a black metal configuration, however the model that Sam's sells is the stainless. model. This smoker is a double walled well insolated smoker. in fact when it is up to normal smoking temps you can lay your arm across the top of the smoker, the outside is only warm to the touch.
Some info from a web sight, then some comments from me: “Digital controls help you make culinary masterpieces with the new Masterbuilt Smoker. The heating element adjusts from 100 to 275 degrees, and is regulated by a digital thermostat, providing evenness in cooking temperature. The wood of your choice smolders in the electrically heated, removable wood chute. Insulated walls trap heat and eliminate drying. Four racks for cooking sausage, chicken, ribs, turkey, ham, fish, jerky and vegetables, providing 640 sq. inches of cooking space. Available in Black, Stainless Steel. Product sold with removeable cover.”
The control panel, located on the top of the smoker, is very blind friendly, if you know a couple of things going in. Going from left too right, the buttons are: power, temperature and time plus and minus buttons. This thing gives you an audible beep, each time you press a button. Hit the power button, one beep, tells you it is on. next press the temp button, you hear a beep, then press the plus or minus buttons, The default, where it always starts if you push the plus button first, always starts at 100 degrees. Each press of the button will increase the temp by one degree, and each press of the button will give you the audible beep. On the other hand, if you push the temp button, then the minus button the upper temp range, is preset for 275 degrees, so knowing this, I just press the minus button, and count down backward. from 275 degrees. That is because, most things you smoke/BBQ, you need a temp of around 215 degrees, give, or take ten degrees or so. If you should get lost any where in this process, just push the power button, again, and you will turn off and clear the settings. Then you could start over. The timer button works the same way. turn on smoker, after you set the temp, press the time button, its default starts off zero,
each push of the plus button will give you one hour. You can have up to 24 hours of smoking time. At the end of the time you chose, the smoker goes to the keep warm cycle, and it will keep your food warm until the point you turn off the power and remove your dinner.
For the folks that have some eye sight, the digital read out has a very large nice and bright L E D read out. I'm sure they did this, so sighted folks could read the panel, in bright sunlight or at night on a all night smoke, after drinking a few cool ones. In either case, the digital, read out is excellent for those with a little eye sight.
The four shelves or racks they talk about are nice. Depending on how much meat you are cooking, you can either add are remove the racks. The grills, just slide in to some medal bars, on each side of the smoker cabinet. You have a water pan, which sits below the bottom grate. For easy clean up, I would recommend lining this pan with heavy duty foil. Then you have the wood chip compartment below that, then an additional drip pan below that, which sits on the bottom of the smoker, just in case any grease, are juices, should miss your drip pan.
From experience, I realize these folks thought of every thing. One of the other big pluses of this smoker: It has a cylinder on the side you pull out, and load wood chips in to., and then close and turn, that drops the wood chips in to the removable wood chip compartment. Saves you from having too open the door, if you need to add more wood during the long smoke. A great idea, if you ask
me, which you didn't.
So in wrapping up here, from experience of smoking meat for a few years now, this smoker is just so fine! The Sam's club, stainless model retails for around$300. I have seen the black steel model on line for around $200. I bought this one at Sam's, I wanted the stainless steel, and I wanted it right now, so I was willing too spring out the extra dollars. All in, all, it is a good price, In the world of smokers, you can spend thousands of dollars, If you buy a good gas grill, you will spend probably that much are more. I would highly recommend this smoker, for any one that wants too cook real slow cooked Texas BBQ. It's a real winner, and blind friendly. In my book, that's a great combo. This would even work outside an apartment. If any one wants the manual, I could send a PDF version.
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By Jeremy W. Peters
(The New York Times April 21, 2008)
ALBANY - It is a phone number that just a handful of the governor's senior aides know. At the end of each day they call in and record briefings, laying out what he needs to know about the following day. They recite his schedule, read talking points and explain the intricacies of issues likely to come up. They read memos from staff members and relate biographical details about the people he is likely to meet.
Lots of governors rely on thick briefing books and helpful e-mail notes from their staffs. New York's governor, David A. Paterson, who is legally blind, has his ears and what his aides call his Batphone. Usually at night, in the Executive Mansion or at his family's home in Harlem, the governor listens to the recordings on the designated phone line. They run up to five minutes each and can pile up quickly, taking hours to absorb.
"Last night I had 43 messages, all of them five minutes in length," Mr. Paterson said in an interview. "That would be 215 minutes worth of material –over three hours."
He stayed up that night from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. listening to the recordings, which covered everything from his prepared remarks for a press conference on energy to articles on economic growth in The Economist. But that was only enough time to get through half of them.
To the general public, the transition to a governor who is legally blind has been almost imperceptible because Mr. Paterson, 53, acts in many ways like a person with 20-20 vision. He does not walk with a cane or read Braille. He threw out the first pitch at a Mets game at Shea Stadium last week. And when he is in the Capitol's familiar stone and marble corridors, where he has worked for two decades, he walks at a brisk pace, slowing down only when an aide alerts him to someone approaching.
But behind the scenes, Albany is a different place since Mr. Paterson was sworn in last month. With a blind man in charge - the governor can see nothing out of his left eye and only color and large objects out of his right – everything from speech preparation to the instructions for the staff at the governor's mansion has been custom-fitted to Mr. Paterson's needs.
"Now that he's governor, it's a whole new ball game," said Assemblyman Keith L. T. Wright of Harlem, who has known Mr. Paterson since they were boys. Since he cannot read from a prompter, the governor tries to commit his speeches to memory, by listening several times to an aide's recording of the speech. Delivering an address just from memory can be nerve-racking.
"It's like a high wire," he said. "You trip, there's no net."
He travels with a phalanx of assistants, typically a half-dozen, including aides and bodyguards, who act as a buffer zone around him in large public settings, from hotel ballrooms to school classrooms. The bodyguards gently steer him, often with a hand on his back or arm, toward an exit or into a waiting vehicle. At news conferences in the Capitol's ceremonial Red Room, it is not the governor but his press secretary, standing just to the side of the lectern, who calls on reporters, reminding them to state their names and affiliations before asking a question.
Glad-handing a crowd poses a challenge for Mr. Paterson because he cannot fully make
out people as they approach him. So when his aides spot someone they recognize coming toward him, they tell him who it is. He instructs the aides not to whisper, but to speak in their normal tone of voice, because he wants the exchanges to appear as ordinary as possible.
Mr. Paterson, a Harlem Democrat who has been blind since infancy, has been making adjustments to his surroundings throughout his life. But, with the added demands of the job of governor and the relentlessness of his new schedule, staying on top of his work now takes a lot more time. He said much of his day can feel like a big game of catch-up. "I'm always trying to get back that time that I'm losing," he said.
Given the volume of material he must take in, he tries to find ways to do things faster. He listens to very long articles or books on a special tape recorder for the blind that plays at speeds so fast, it is difficult for others to comprehend.
"You get used to listening to that Alvin and the Chipmunks voice," he said.
At the Executive Mansion, staff members have been trying to keep up with the needs of their new boss. They were instructed shortly after he moved in last month to watch the level of his drink during receptions and offer him a refill if it looked too low. He was still learning the layout of the house and could not find the bar easily. Mr. Paterson has told the staff not to move any of the furniture in the 40-plus-room home on his account, and has said that he will learn where everything is.
He is used to adapting, in big and small ways. When he wants more salt on his food, he takes the shaker and sprinkles its contents into his hand first so he can feel whether he actually has the salt, and not the pepper, which is less chunky to the touch. When he jogs through his former neighborhood in Guilderland, near Albany, he runs the same route each time. He purposely avoids Route 146 because of the gullies that run along the side of the road.
"The secret is how to adjust," he said. "I ask myself how am I going to fit into this world, and how am I going to do it without killing myself."
As a baby, he suffered from a condition known as optic atrophy, which damages the optic nerve. His parents decided not to send him to school in New York City, where teachers could not promise that he would be able to interact with students who were not blind. So they sent him to school on Long Island, where he received special attention but also learned with students who were not disabled.
The minimal sight in his right eye - in which his vision is 20/400 –affords him a limited ability to read. If he holds a book very close to his eye, he can make out the words. And he said he will occasionally write himself reminder notes. But reading is so straining that it tires him after only a few minutes. His reliance on his hearing has helped him sharpen a talent useful in politics: an ability to focus on people in a way that makes them feel that they were truly heard.
His attentiveness to people's voices has other political benefits, too.
"He can pick up a phony faster than somebody who has sight," said Assemblyman Wright.
He also uses humor to poke fun at his disability, offering anecdotes about how he once showed up at a press conference wearing two different-colored shoes, or how as a young man he would occasionally miscount the number of subway stops on his way home and get off at 145th Street instead of 135th Street. "Back in the '80s, you didn't want to go there at night," he said, laughing.
Although Mr. Paterson often says he does not want people to go out of their way for him, he says society should recognize that he and other blind people cannot do everything on their own.
As one of his first acts as governor, he added instructions to his official state Web site on how to enlarge the type on the screen. "It's just being more sensitive to people who feel that government and institutions ignore them," he said.
(Following is a response to the above article from UWB member, Nancy Lynn.)
“You know, I'm not all that impressed. He makes things harder on himself by not learning and reading braille, and it doesn't sound like he has good computer skills either or he'd be able to read email like others in his job. He makes it harder on himself and those who work for him who have to read all that stuff to him rather than emailing or sending him links to the material he needs.”
“One day he may be sorry for not using a cane either. You know, one of the other things he did as governor was to cut funding for mass transit so they had to raise the fares.”
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by Thomas Moore, Health correspondent
Doctors have exclusively shown Sky News the world's first true bionic eye that could allow the blind to see. The pea-sized video camera is small enough to fit inside the eyeball. The camera is linked to an artificial retina that transmits moving images along the optic nerve to the brain. It could be implanted within three to five years.
The man behind the breakthrough is Dr Mark Humayun, Professor of ophthalmology and biomedical engineering at the Doheny Eye Institute in Los Angeles, California.
He said: "The camera is very, very small, and very low power, so it can go inside your eye and couple your eye movement to where the camera is. With the kind of missing information the brain can fill in, this field is really blossoming. So in the next four to five years I hope, and we all hope, that we see technology that's much more advanced."
The institute has already pioneered artificial vision with the company Second Sight. The existing Argus system has been used in clinical trials, giving rudimentary vision to blind patients with conditions like macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. The Argus device relies on a video camera which is built into a pair of glasses to capture images. These are converted into electrical signals which are transmitted wirelessly to an implant behind the retina. The electrodes in the implant unscramble the signal to create a crude black and white picture, which is relayed along the optic nerve to the brain.
Linda Moorfoot is one of the few patients to be fitted with the implant. She had been totally blind for more than a decade with the inherited condition retinitis pigmentosa. But she can now see a rough image of the world made up of light and dark blocks.
She said: "When I go to the grandkids' hockey game or soccer game I can see which direction the game is moving in. I can shoot baskets with my grandson, and I can see my granddaughter dancing across the stage. It's wonderful."
Linda's implant has just 16 electrodes but the US surgeons last week helped to fit an even more advanced device to British patients. The updated model has 60 electrodes to give a clearer image.
The identities of the patients have been concealed while doctors at London's Moorfields Eye Hospital monitor their progress. Meanwhile in California, scientists are developing an implant with 1,000 electrodes, which should allow facial recognition.
(Response from Linda CoccovissoJ
“I have to admit I had a good laugh over this article. It's not at all that I am discounting the story or the miracle it would be to once again be able to see even were it just lights and moving objects. I laughed because I got to thinking about how we in the blind community are so excited when we land upon what we think to be the latest and greatest of equipment. We have just spent thousands of dollars on something that comes so close to what our sighted peers can purchase for 10% or less of the price we paid. Three months later we hear about how it has been upgraded with all kinds of neat little bells and whistles, and we either have to pay several hundred more for the newer model, or to enjoy all of these new upgrades to our device, we will have to purchase a new one. I'm just wondering. How would it feel to hear that your implant had been upgraded, and replacing would not only cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars if not more, but probably be almost impossible because it would very likely create too much scar tissue? I just found this somewhat amusing.”
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September 2007
By Judith Hawley
When my husband Harold, my dog guide Flora and I arrived at the Israel Guide Dog Center in Beit Oved, near the Tel Aviv airport, we were met by Orna Braun. She and I had been corresponding by e mail, so felt we were already friends.
We entered a lovely modern facility. The building is just three years old. We set in the lounge and talked and we were also introduced to other staff members and to two students in training, with new dogs.
We were invited to eat lunch with the staff and students. All food is Kosher. Dogs are settled down under their owners’ chairs. One of the first things we learned was that all dogs are worked inside the buildings with no harness on them.
A tour of the building was most interesting. The building is built with the low vision and blind in mind. When one approaches a door, the texture of the floor changed from smooth to rough. In the dorm lounge, the lighting has a dimming switch so the low vision with glare problems can dim the lights when using the lounge. The doors to each dorm room are not built directly across from another room, so dogs will not be distracted when leaving a room.
Outside in the rear of the building are lovely flower gardens and sidewalks, with picnic tables, and benches. Students living at the center are encouraged to have their family come often to be a part of their adjustment.
When a person applies for a guide dog, they are first invited to a two or three day stay at the center. During this time, the students are allowed to work with a dog in harness. This gives the student the opportunity to see if they really want a dog. This also gives the staff the opportunity to decide if this student is a good candidate for a guide dog. If all are in agreement, the student is asked to return and a definite class date is scheduled for them.
When the student returns for training, he/she, is allowed to work with two dogs which had been chosen as possibilities for them. Thus, the student helps in the selection of their dog. The center trains two to three students at a time. Remember Israel is a small country, not like our big United States.
When the student returns home with their guide dog, an instructor goes with them and works with them for a week in their home area. Ownership of the dog is retained by the school.
There is a graduation upon completion of the training and at that time the Puppy Walker as they are called and graduate meet. This can then be a long-term relationship depending on the feelings of both parties.
Dogs used in their programs are full-sized labs, golden/lab crosses and golden retrievers. These dogs are very calm and laid back. Breeding of the dogs is done right on the grounds in a state of the arts facility.
The Puppy Walkers tend to be mostly university students who take the puppies with them everywhere, even to their classes. More and more university students are requesting to be Puppy Walkers. In the states these people are often called Puppy Raisers.
We came away with a real joy in our hearts. We had played with dogs in training in the play area. I had held a most adorable golden retriever puppy named Lady who was scheduled to go to her puppy walker and we had met and made friends with lovely people. We found these new friends to be dedicated to the point of sacrifice. Noah and Orna Braun have given their lives for this work, having begun the school 21 years ago in their back yard. We will forever remember this most enlightening visit to the Guide Dog Center in Israel.
Reported by
Judith Hawley
Independence, Missouri
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NATIONAL CHURCH CONFERENCE
The National Church Conference for the Blind will be held in St. Louis this year. If you have never attended you are in store for a great time. You will meet blind Christians from all over the United States and from all consumer organizations. The details are below.
It is time to plan for our 2008 conference. This year’s dates are September 13-18, at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63131. Phone (314) 993-1100. The room rate is $95.00 per night, 1-4 in a room. You need to make your own reservations. Since NCCB is tax exempt in Missouri, your room rate will be paid to NCCB, not the hotel. Jim Fox needs to have the money in the NCCB bank account before conference time, so he can pay the bill while at the hotel. Please send your check or money order in advance, payable to NCCB. We are not able to do credit cards. If you need room breakdown contact me.
Transportation from the airport, bus and train stations will be provided by the hotel.
The conference theme this year is: Equipping Everyone For Effective Ministry, Ephesians 4: 11-16.
Membership dues are $15.00; registration is $10.00; and the banquet $25.00. If you have dietary needs, such as a sugar-free dessert for the banquet, I must know this when you send in your information sheet and monies. Thanks for helping out with this in advance. All other expenses such as meals are your own responsibility.
This year’s tours will be to the Westward Expansion Museum And The Gateway Arch Riverboat ride on the Mississippi River with a boxed lunch. The cost is $30.00. Only one 55 passenger bus is being used; so make your decision early, if you want to go.
There will be no afternoon workshops during the week. The morning enrichment sessions will replace them. The display room will be open Sunday from 2 PM to 4 PM, Monday and Wednesday from 1 PM to 4 PM only.
Come join us for an exciting week of worship, fun and music.
If you have any questions you can reach me at (970) 895-2352 or e-mail at: radioman@mindspring.com or
website: www.thenNccb.com
In His service,
Rheba Dunn, Membership Secretary
If you want to be in the combined choir, please let the secretary know when you call and if you have a talent be ready for the talent show.
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Guest Editorial by Mike Jolls
Before my cataract surgery, things had gotten pretty bad. No need to go into everything I couldn't see. Suffice it to say that things had gotten bad enough that print was simply too small to read, and it was a blur. I learned how to read Braille. After my cataract surgery, things began to come back, and with the implants in my eyes I can now read some things without glasses..provided the print is large enough. Up until my cataract surgery, I had been reading Braille novels on the bus regularly. One day, a woman who I ride the bus with asked me.. "Now that your eyesight is restored, are you going to stop reading Braille?".
I know she meant well, but it really made me stop and think about how inconceivable it is to people that a sighted person would even want to consider reading Braille. Even if you tell them you're partially sighted, they just don't understand that you might be too slow at reading print, or there might be reasons why you might want or need to read Braille. For me personally, it's all about being able to get through a novel or something at work faster than I can if I'm reading it in print, even though now I can read print. But for the normally sighted person, you're either blind or you're sighted. And if you're sighted at all, even to eyecare professionals, if you see, you MUST read print. There doesn't seem to be any middle ground. There doesn't seem to be any consideration for what such a decision will mean as far as productivity on the job, or that reading print might discourage a person from a life of reading enjoyment. No. if you can see, you HAVE TO READ PRINT. Braille, after all, is ONLY for totally blind people.
This also made me wonder if educators steer partially sighted children away from Braille because they don't know Braille themselves, and figure the child can see and therefore doesn't need Braille. Therefore, they don't have to force themselves to learn it.
I suppose in the end the normally sighted person means well because they are trying to get the partially sighted person to be in the sighted world, and let's face facts, it IS a sighted world. So, I guess I can't be totally upset about that. I do wish they'd stop and realize that legally blind people are called that for a reason, and maybe they need to resort to blindness skills such as Braille to cope with life, and that Braille is NOT a bad word.
Should low vision people use a white cane?
Because we don't use a service animal or a cane and we function so well, people don't get it" When people don't see the service animal and don't see the white cane, they automatically assume that everything is normal. As we've said before, there's no middle ground for them. Unless they're
educated and understand that there is low vision between normal sight and no sight at all, and that the low vision brings problems that cause the person to need assistance sometimes, they take it for granted that a person that doesn't use either of these aids must be normal. Conversely, they assume that a person that does use these methods must be totally blind. At least that's been my experience.
I don't know about service animals. I've never had one. But I have used a white cane before I had my cataract surgery. I can tell you from experience that people are more understanding when you use a white cane. They say "he's blind". There is absolutely no doubt about it. It
clearly sends a message that people are aware of. You don't even have to say anything. It's an automatic thing with them. It tells them that special accommodation may be needed. This can be both good and bad. It's good because people are more willing to give you accommodation. I've walked into a grocery store and needed help finding something. With the white cane, people bend over backwards to help you. The white cane can be a double-edged sword, because if you can see well enough to get around without one (as I do in most situations now after having my cataracts removed) and you use one, people can get upset with you when they find out you can see because they must think you're trying to gain undeserved sympathy and pity. Clearly they associate the white cane with total blindness. It's true that you can correct them and tell them that you use the cane because your vision is below what is considered normal, and that sometimes you might get into situations where you NEED people to understand that there is a potential problem.
An example could be crossing a street in extreme bright light where you might experience temporary blinding from the sun. However, people are pretty quick to judge when they think they have all the facts and see someone using the cane who they don't perceive deserves to use it.
So this brings up the questions..
Should a low vision person use a cane even though he has vision that he might be able to use to get around in most situations without one?
Is it important to use one so people understand the way things are and because if you don't, they simply forget? Would a white cane send that constant reminder that might help people in the workplace be more understanding? Would using it in the workplace mean better accommodations for people?
This is sort of like the "should low vision people read Braille" thing that I've been talking about. It IS a personal choice, and there ARE reactions from people you have to deal with. As you all know by this time, or you should, I'm a real advocate of Braille. For a low vision person who is a slow reader, I believe that Braille could be a good alternative that would allow them to go faster than his or her limited vision permits. I believe that's one of the benefits and that's why I personally use it.
Would using a white cane help more or hinder? Perhaps the changes in people's perceptions are so important that the low vision people really need to consider what their life will be like if they don't use one.
Ultimately of course it is a choice.
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Over, Around and across Missouri
Let’s Find Out What’s Happening Where
Blind of Central Missouri
Hello to Everyone from Sedalia,
April showers bring May flowers,
June will bring us very merry tunes.
We did not have our annual bowling party on Saturday March 15. The bowling alley didn't have enough lanes for us. We decided to have a pizza party at our next meeting which was April 10. We had assorted kinds of pizza, hamburger, sausage, cheese, taco, the works, mushroom, and pepperoni. We had assorted soda donated by Pepsi, and an assorted variety of cookies donated by Wal-mart. We had 35 members and guests. One of our guests was Joe Morgan from Odessa Mo. Everyone that attended had a great time of food, fun, and fellowship.
One of our members, Liberty Brandel, is in California getting a guide dog. Another one of our members Alicia Starner will be going to get a guide dog.
Some of our members will be going to summer camp the week in
June, the week in July, and the weekend in September. We always
look forward to summer camp. It is a way to get away from it all, and the staff are always so nice, and they go out of their way to be accommodating to everyone. The camp committee also does a great job of getting people with whom they want to be with.
Our club is having a 50- 50 raffle for a fund-raiser. The tickets are $1.00 a piece, or 6 tickets for $5.00. The drawing will be at our picnic on July 3.
We will have our annual outreach picnic on July 3. We will have hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken patties, potato salad, baked beans, chips, relish trays, fruit trays, s'mores, and assorted soda to drink. We will have the Sunrise Optimist club run the little train for us again this year for those that want to ride it.
We hope to se a lot of you at camp.
Until next time, keep your smile, and a song in your heart, and, if you can't be good, be good at it.
Trudy Blood, Recording Secretary
Missouri Guide Dog Users
We have had a great year with our wonderful guide dogs. Several of us will take our guides to the National convention this summer and then to summer camp and finally to state convention in October. We were fortunate to receive a nice grant from the Alice Gahn estate.
It is very important for all Missouri Guide Dog Users to call me before September 15 to let me know if you are coming to our Guide Dog breakfast on Friday morning at the convention. We will have a full bacon and egg breakfast with juice and coffee. Dues will be paid at the breakfast. We also need to discuss several matters of business such as suggestions for using our grant that we received this year and for any changes in our health grants for the guide dogs. .
The guide dog relief area is out the basement door. Please be aware that it is advisable to get a security guard to go with you if you take your dog out after eleven pm or before seven Am.
We will also be electing new officers so think about what position you might want to serve. Again, please call me at816 637 9006 or 816 591 0354 or e-mail at mpendleton@mchsi.com or you can call Marie Thompson at 573 379 5007 if you are coming to the guide dog breakfast. Thanks and take care of those puppies.
Lake Stockton Area Council
Greetings from Lake Stockton
After all the rain, we hope that you are not stuck in the mud as Jean Dody was. She went out to check her garden. The garden was quite muddy and as Jean took a step forward her foot went down causing her to fall. She was able to reach a fencepost to pull herself up; then she pulled her shoe out of the mud and preceded back to the house. Helen Gillham had a similar experience while visiting with an over-the-fence neighbor. So, was that too much rain or was that too much rain.
We have three new members. Helen VanZandt and Wayne Deason joined Lake Stockton in April. Kathryn Dawes joined in May.
The affiliate members are planning a rummage sale and bake sale this summer. Lunch to be purchased will also be available. This event will be opened to the public and, hopefully, this will put some spending money into the treasury.
Lake Stockton’s Board Rep Eujean Dody and members Marie Davis and Linda Dawes traveled to St. Peters for the April Board Meeting. Never a dull moment at the Board Meetings as the lively discussions surely will keep you awake. The St. Charles affiliate members responsible for the Hospitality Night did an awesome job. Thanks for a great Friday evening.
In closing, we sadly report the death of Dorothy Benes. She passed away on March 9. Dorothy joined the Council of the Blind in October 1998 after her marriage to Leo, a long-time member. She was a faithful member, treasurer, and a good friend. “Your loved one will always be as close as a memory, and the God of all comfort as close as a prayer.”
Linda Dawes, Secretary
River City Workers
Greetings from Cape Girardeau,
It is such a joy to have the martins and humming birds back.
It’s been a very busy year so far.
In January we honored Darlene Felts with a retirement party. She retired from the Sikeston Rehab. Center. She helped our affiliate with our Christmas service project (toys for visually impaired children) for several years. God bless you, Darlene, as you experience new adventures in life.
In February we had that big ice storm of 2008. Needless to say, our February meeting was canceled.
Never fear though, when March rolled around we really celebrated! We had Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and Easter all in one big party. We had a great time and lots of good food.
For those of you who may remember some of our long-time members, here is an update: Mary Howard is still in the Lutheran nursing home. Gladys McCain is at Life Care Center now. They love receiving mail and getting visitors. Thank you, nursing home committee.
In late November we extended sympathy to the Paul Probst family, and in January to Robin McCollough and Sharon Davis on the loss of their brother-in-laws after an extended illness. God bless these families and comfort them.
Debby Barrett fell and broke her arm in two places, and, consequently, has not been able to attend our meetings. Hope to see you at the May meeting, Debby.
At our April meeting Fredia Gamblin consented to serve as our board representative. Her husband, John, will see that she gets to the meetings, and we appreciate him very much.
In May we will be electing officers for 2008 and’09.
Our annual picnic will be June 21 beginning at 11 a.m., eating at noon and over whenever. It will be at the Kiwanis Park on Perryville Road.
Remember to keep America, our wonderful country, in our prayers. We would like to remind all affiliates to exercise their right to vote. It’s one of the privileges we have living in this great country.
Have a great summer, and God’s blessings on all of you.
The Communications Committee
The RITE Report
Hello from RITE:
It has been awhile since we have written a report for the Chronicle but we are well and going strong.
I am happy to report that we have three new members. They are: Scot Trapasso, Bob Spear and Ona Hardey. Scot is sighted and Bob and Ona are blind.
To bring you up to date on our activities for the past few months, here is a brief summary. Our holidays were bright and joyous. We did all the usual things such as a dinner at a local restaurant, exchanging gifts and caroling. We participated in the Salvation Army's tree of lights by sending a nice donation.
The harsh winter weather kept us from planning a lot of activities during the passed few months. However, four of us did go to Jeff City for legislation days. We also attended the board meetings in November, December and April.
The Trapassos, Blanche Burrell and George Hunsicker plan to attend summer camp, and Maryan Harrison is planning to go to Louisville for the Acb convention.
We were saddened by the death of Lee Manske. We send our prayers to Carol and Calvin. Lee was a special lady and she will be missed by a lot of friends.
Another citizen of the blind community of St. Louis, John Hall, passed away recently. Our thoughts and prayers also go out to his family.
Now that spring and summer our upon us I promise to have a longer and more interesting article in September. Until then, We wish you good health and lots of happiness and warm blessings.
Bunny Maginnis, recording secretary
Southwest Missouri Friendship Council
February:
Our club met on Tuesday, February 5th. at 7p.m., in the Webb City Senior Center. Franklin Johnson reported that the Thrift Stores should have closed January 1st. He also reported on the status of MCB’s E-bay Website.
Chip Hailey reported that during ACB’s Legislative Seminar in Washington, D.C., blind issues, earnings and currency would be discussed with Legislators. During the trip to Jefferson City, blind student accessibility, moving fund under Rehab Services, making the State Capitol accessible, loan program to increase appropriations will be discussed with State Legislators.
We decided to meet at the Webb City Family Restaurant on Monday, February 18th. at 7p.m., for our February Social. We all gathered at the Webb City Family Restaurant for an evening of good food and great company. As we all left the restaurant, it had begun to snow. The snow flakes were as large as quarters and were gently falling. As we traveled in our car it began to snow very hard. We passed the American Flag and Praying Hands display; on Mc Arthur Blvd., we noticed that the huge snow flakes were highlighted by the flood lights at the base of the flag. It was so beautiful!
March:
We assembled at the Webb City Senior Center on Tuesday, March 4th. at 7:00p.m. and realized there weren’t enough members present to conduct a meeting. We visited for a while and then everyone went home.
We all met on Monday, March 17th. at 7:00p.m. at the King’s Palace (Chinese) in Joplin for our social event. We enjoyed an evening of good food and fellowship.
April:
Everyone met at the Webb City Senior center on Tuesday, April 1st. at 7:00p.m. We discussed the upcoming Board Meeting (regarding the Executive Director Position) scheduled for the 26th in St. Louis.
The club voted on holding our social at the Red Onion Café in Joplin on Monday, April 14th. at 7:00p.m. The occasion will be our belated Easter Dinner.
We all assembled at the Red Onion Café; had a large turn-out. Everyone enjoyed the food and the opportunity to be able to visit with one another.
I will leave all of you with the following thought: “Dance to the music in your own heart.”…(Patience Lawrence)
Cathie Brauner,
Public Relations
The Tower Club Report
The Tower Club of the Blind was established on a hot August day in 1957 at 2251 O’Fallon, Apt. 309. The founders were: Thomas Reece, John Reed, Leroy Miller, Hubert Hibbler, Andrew Haymon, Carl Mack, Joseph Powel, and George Jenkins. All had the same vision and dream. This was the beginning of the Tower Club.
Twenty-five years later Mr. Carl Mack was the first Afro-American president of the Missouri Council of the Blind from 1982 to 1985. To be elected to this office was a distinguished honor.
Before the Tower Club could become chartered by the MCB in 1958, they had to include women members. Those first female members were: Doris Mack, Marie Haymmon, Bessie Reece, Ann Reed and Josephine Hibbler.
Their fund-raisers included concerts and candy sales.
These courageous men and women were pioneers in the fight for rights for the visually impaired. Both their integrity and moral character were seen by all people. Their influence in the community was ever-lasting, and reached far beyond St. Louis. These men and women overcame extreme circumstance, and showed super tenacity. We salute these people because they are our heroes and the wind beneath our wings.
Jesuita Tabor, President
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After visiting the Galleria
My southern aunt was heard to drawl:
“If you’ve seen one shopping center, Honey, you’ve seen a mall.”
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Spring seemed a little late arriving this year, but I’ll bet we’ll all be complaining about the heat soon.
We have several very interesting items this time that have accumulated in the drawer. Before we examine them, however, don’t forget that mention of a product or service does not constitute either a solicitation or an endorsement. We simply want you to know of them for their news interest.
Braille Flag: With both Memorial Day and Flag Day coming up soon, I thought the following item would be quite appropriate. Our National Cemetery is paying homage to America's first Braille flag and blind veterans nationwide. World War II veteran, Jesus Sanchez Cabral, displayed an American flag on his porch each Memorial Day, Flag Day, and Fourth of July until he went blind from glaucoma. He tried to hang the flag after losing his sight, but gave up. He died 10 years ago at the age of 82. But his son, Randolph Cabral, was so moved that he designed a Braille flag. It informs the blind of the flag's colors, the 13 stripes and 50 stars, and includes a raised inscription of the Pledge of Allegiance. The tactile flag will be formally dedicated at the cemetery this spring as a tribute to the nation's blind veterans and other Americans without sight. Cabral says at least 5,000 of the flags have been distributed to blind veterans, many of whom fought in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Further Battery Information: Debbie Cornman called in some further info she gathered on the OxyRide batteries we talked about last time. They come in AA and AAA sizes only; and cost (w/shipping) $7.98 for 4 pac from Battery Depot at (1-516) 543-5444.
Dogs For Diabetics: The following comes from the Blind Diabetics Listserve: “There is a 2 year old program in northern CA called Dogs 4 Diabetics. They take dogs from Guide Dogs for the Blind who do not make it as guide dogs, but seem to be very sensory aware dogs. They train them to warn their person (or the parent of a child) who is going into a low blood sugar. The dog makes the rounds during the night and wakes up a parent when one of the children is having low BG during the night. They are presently cross training a German Shepard (who is working guide) to also be a medical alert dog. At this moment, they are taking only people in northern CA who are type 1 diabetics, but they will be opening a school in southern CA within a year. They are the only such school who is not charging for their medic alert dogs.
They have a website if anyone is more interested: Dogs4diabetics.com
E.A.R.S. is a nonprofit public charity. We provide, free of charge, audio cassette lesson tapes that teach adaptive daily living skills to the vision impaired and their caregivers. We are committed to teaching, each of the 1 out of 6 seniors who have developed limited vision, the skills necessary to continue living their lives with confidence and dignity. YOUR INDEPENDENCE IS OUR GOAL. By listening to E.A.R.S. lesson tapes, you'll hear uncomplicated, straight-forward ways to help you do the things made difficult by low vision. Personal grooming, doing the laundry, dialing the telephone, can once again become simple, enjoyable events. By listening to E.A.R.S. audio taped lessons you'll learn many new ways to successfully continue to do everyday activities when you have reduced vision.
Telephone (toll free) 1-800-843-6816
Susie Says: The following comes to us from the California Council of the Blind Listserve: “SusieSays.com is a site that helps users with online shopping, from coupons to shopping tips. All of the content on the site is well organized into clear categories, from home and garden to kids’ clothing. Once you choose a category, there are sub-categories like sizes and types of clothing. SusieSays.com also has price ranges so you can search for items within your budget. The items on sale have a photo and a brief description of the item along with the brand logo. You can also use the key word search to find the coupons you are looking for. Using the coupons is simple, either click on them to check out or copy the code at check out and paste in the appropriate place. A unique aspect of the site, separating SusieSays.com from The competitors, is when visitors comparison shop, they offer the option of checking for any additional promotional offers, such as discounts, coupons or Free shipping, to help save even more. www.SusieSays.com can help you shop online and save money.”
Info On The Phone: Virgil Calhoun posted the following: “I was at a Lion Meeting and a person gave us a phone number to call to get news sports and a lot of other stuff like that. The number is 1-800 555-8355. It is operated off of voice prompts. Very nice and easy to use. can even get the results of the cardinals losing.”
“OPEN SESAME”: If opening cans or jars is becoming more of a problem you might be very interested to see the One-Touch can opener and One-Touch jar opener. My friend, John Iman, put me on to these items. Each costs around $20, requires 2 AA batteries; and does its particular job like a charm. You simply place the opener on top of the jar or can, and the One-Touch takes over and does the rest of the job for you. Both these items are available from Walgreen’s, Wal-Mart, Target and probably other stores as well. Thanks, John!
Tip On Cooking Steaks: Robert Riddle offers the following tip on determining the doneness of a steak. “I can give one rule of thumb, as it were, about steaks: No matter the cooking method, You know that little wedge of flesh between the thumb and index finger? Well, use this as a guide. Hand completely relaxed, spread open, the tension of that flesh is about the same as the feel of a rare steak. Put your thumb on your middle finger, and squeeze that wedge of flesh, That's a medium steak. Put your thumb all the way over on the pinky, that's a well done steak. In other words, compare how that wedge of flesh between the thumb and index finger feels when you put your thumb in those various positions to the feel of the cooking steak and you'll have a reasonable approximation of doneness.”
A Couple Tech Tips: This first one comes to us from Victor Gouveia. “This site houses tons of free service manuals for a large number of electronics, computers and more, and it's all free for the download. Website Address:
http://www.eserviceinfo.com/index.php?what=search2&searchstring=Satellite+Pro+A100+%2F+A105+-+Tecra+A7
Secondly. Panasonic provides a truly wonderful service. If you can provide the model number of a Panasonic item they will provide you with a Braille copy of the manual. I understand that it might take as long as six weeks but, even so, it is really nice to see a company giving such consideration to their blind customers. The number to call to request a manual is: (800) 833-9626. Should you wish to take advantage of this service, and would like to express your appreciation to the company, the number to call to do that is (888) 275-2595.
Accessible Online Credit Reports:
The nation's three major consumer credit reporting companies--Equifax, Experian and TransUnion--have begun working to make online credit reports and related information accessible through their jointly operated web site, AnnualCreditReport.com, the official site to help consumers obtain free credit reports. Accessible credit reports for people with visual impairments will be available online by October 31 of this year. By the end of the year, the companies will also make credit reports available in Braille and other formats at no charge to qualified individuals who cannot access print information. This development will help people with visual impairments fight identity theft by independently monitoring and reviewing their credit reports as all members of the public should. For more information, contact: Lainey Feingold: phone: (510) 548-5062; e-mail:
LF@LFLegal.com.
Repair Service: A Florida company called Computers And Assistive Technology offers repair service for most assistive technology devices. I understand their prices are very reasonable, and turn-around is usually within 2 weeks. Their phone number is: (772) 546-8950.
Job Opportunity: This comes to us via the Missouri Listserve and courtesy Steve Schnelle. “If you are legally blind and looking for work, or know someone who is, consider Envision. Envision is a not-for-profit agency based in Wichita, KS. Envision has jobs in Kansas as well as at our military base stores in nine states. Job
opportunities include administration, retail, and manufacturing. At Envision you will earn competitive pay, enjoy a generous benefits plan, and can be provided relocation assistance. Envision has immediate job openings for the following: Assistant Store Manager - Ft. Leavenworth, K;S Bindery/Packaging/Assembly Associate Box Maker - Kansas City; Cashier/Stocker - Fort Riley, KS and Lemoore, CA; Machine Operator - Kansas City, KS; Palletizer Picker - Kansas City, KS; Picker – Wichita; Print Section Lead Sales Marketing Manager for Envision Xpress stores; T-Shirt Bag Machine Operator; and Zip Lock Bag Machine Operator. To learn more about these and other positions, please check our website at: www.envisionus.com or call Mark Benson toll-free at: 1-888-425-7072
All positions are open until filled.
Envision is dedicated to assisting persons who are legally or totally blind, with living a more independent life style, and those qualified Visually Impaired and Blind workers that are looking to be a part of a TEAM.”
Especially For Diabetics: The New 2008 Secrets To Normal Blood Sugars BONUS CD is now Available... For only $19.95
Introductory offer, Regular price will be $49.95
Previously only available as a part of the Secrets To Normal Blood Sugars package from Dr. Bernstein, now the Bonus CD included in that package is being made available to you at an introductory discounted price. Contains all the following features on one CD: Twelve 1-Hour Seminars where Dr. Bernstein answered questions submitted by people with Diabetes. Transcripts From Webcasts & Teleseminars; Every transcript from the (12) 1-Hour Seminars. Read them while you listen to the webcasts, or print them and take them with you wherever you go. Videos were recorded of Dr. Bernstein, where he explains in detail how to do the following: a.. How to fill a syringe without bubbles. b.. How to give a painless injection. c.. How to give a muscle injection. Complete audio clips recorded of Dr. Bernstein discussing the following: a.. Complications In Diabetes; b.. Negotiating An Alternate Meal Plan Without Red Meat; c.. New Diabetes Drugs, a.. Glucograf Form; b.. Cell Diagram Information From Dr. Bernstein's Books, a.. Diabetes Diet Excerpts; b.. Diabetes Solution Excerpts
Sample Meal Plans and Recipes.
Listen To Movies On The Computer:
Movies for the Blind takes public-domain movies and adds audio description to them, making them available for free listening or download. http://moviesfortheblind.com/
Handy Hint: The following tip comes from Donnie Parrett: “I've been using aluminum foil for more years than I care to remember. Great stuff, but sometimes it can be a pain. You know, like when you are in the middle of doing something and you try to pull some foil out and the roll comes out of the box. Then you have to put the roll back in the box and start over. The darn roll always comes out at the wrong time. Well, yesterday I went to throw out an empty Reynolds foil box and for some reason I turned it and looked at the end of the box. And written on the end it said, "Press here to lock end". Right there on the end of the box is a triangular-shaped tab to press in and lock the roll in place. I then looked at a generic brand of aluminum foil and it had one, too. I then looked at a box of Saran wrap and it had one too! I'm sharing this with my friends that did not know this. I hope I'm not the only person that didn't know about this.”
Well, we’re down to an empty drawer once again. I did want to remind you that Helen Keller was born In June, and, also, passed away in June. May I leave you with one of my favorite Helen Keller quotations. In 1925 she remarked, "The chief handicap of the blind is not blindness, but the attitude of seeing people towards them."
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MISSOURI COUNCIL OF THE BLIND
5453 Chippewa, St. Louis, MO 63109
Phone: 314-832-7172
Toll-free: 800-342-5632
Fax: 314-832-7796
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