THE WHITE CANE BULLETIN
FLORIDA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND, INC.
May - June 2009
FCB OFFICERS, 2008 - 2010
President:
Debbie Grubb
4215 17th Ave. W
Bradenton, FL 34205
(941) 749-6178
E-mail: debbiecg@verizon.net
First Vice President:
Robert Miller
2201 Limerick Dr.
Tallahassee, FL 32309
(850) 906-9821
E-mail: easytalk@earthlink.net
Second Vice President:
John S. Richards, Jr.
939 NE 18th St.
Ocala, FL 34470
(352) 629-4530
E-mail: jsrj@embarqmail.com
Treasurer:
Patti Land
6933 Alpert Dr.
Orlando, FL 32810
(407) 521-9047
E-mail: pattianne1@cfl.rr.com
Membership Secretary:
Sally Benjamin
1531 Dempsey Mayo Road
Tallahassee, FL 32308
(850) 877-1512
E-mail: floridacouncil@comcast.snet
Recording Secretary:
Sharon Youngs
237 Maple Ave.
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 937-8631
E-mail: sky11@tampabay.rr.com
Immediate Past President:
Paul Edwards
20330 NE 20th Ct.
Miami, FL 33179
(305) 692-9206
E-mail: edwpaul@bellsouth.net
Editor of White Cane Bulletin:
Sharon Youngs
237 Maple Ave.
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 937-8631
E-mail: sky11@tampabay.rr.com
Articles for the White Cane Bulletin must be submitted to Sally Benjamin no later than the 20th of the month before it is published.
Sally's E-mail is: floridacouncil@comcast.net.
If you do not have access to a computer and E-mail, please find someone in your chapter to help send it. We would like to hear from
anyone who wants to contribute to our newsletter. If you don’t have a way to write an article, you can call Sharon Youngs at the number
above and she will be glad to write it for you.
Articles published in The White Cane Bulletin are in compliance with Public Law No. 104197, Copyright Law Amendment of 1996.
This law allows authorized entities to distribute copies of previously published non-dramatic literary works in specialized formats,
including Braille, audio or digital text that are exclusively for use by Blind people or those with disabilities. Any further distributing of such
articles in another than a specialized format is an infringement of copyright.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARE YOU MOVING? - by Sally Benjamin
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE - by Debbie Grubb
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND WALK/RUN - by Debbie Grubb
2009 LEGISLATIVE IMPERATIVES - Submitted by Debbie Grubb
GUIDE DOG USERS OF FLORIDA - by Kathleen Trutschel
JIM KRACHT: IN THE SPOTLIGHT - HUMANITARIAN, FAMILY MAN, ADVOCATE, ATTORNEY - by Sila Miller
POETRY CORNER - by Shelley Justice
MY FRIEND, MY LOSS, MY FEELINGS: ROB ANDERSON - by Sila Miller
JIM LAMB - Submitted by Sila Miller
TECH TIPS - by John Richards for the FCB Technology Committee
CHAPTER NEWS - Mid-Florida Council of the Blind
HEALTHY LIVING (GRAND FORKS HEARLD) - Submitted by Patricia A. Lipovsky
FCB TRADING POST
HANDY TELEPHONE NUMBER REFERENCES
ARE YOU MOVING? - by Sally Benjamin
If you are moving, please notify me of your new address so you will continue to receive your White Cane Bulletin. Also, if you know of
anyone interested in joining FCB and would like to receive the White Cane Bulletin and the Braille Forum, please contact me at
1-800-267-4448 or E-mail floridacouncil@comcast.net.
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE - by Debbie Grubb
Hello FCB.
Shortly after I drafted my last message to you, I traveled to Washington, DC to represent our organization at the ACB Presidents'
meeting. Subjects discussed during the Presidents' meeting were fundraising; conducting a successful state or regional leadership
seminar; the importance of having an ACB presence on state rehabilitation councils; growing a website; a town hall meeting with the
ACB Board; ACB Radio; the ACB walk-a-thon; and duties and responsibilities of affiliate presidents when conducting meetings. I had
the pleasure of serving on this last panel during which I spoke about running an effective meeting. This year's Presidents' meeting
was very productive and I believe that all affiliate presidents who attended were enriched by participating in it.
Debbie and Mike Drylie then joined me to represent FCB at the ACB Legislative Seminar. The issues that we brought to Capitol Hill
were dedicated to making quiet cars accessible via a standardized sound and the Twenty-First Century Communications and video
accessibility Act. The information on these initiatives that we took to the Hill will appear in this issue of the "White Cane Bulletin."
Over a two-day period, the Drylies and I visited the offices of every member of the Florida Congressional Delegation. As is usually
the case, we spoke with Legislative Aides. However, we were able to speak directly with Rep. Gus Bilirakis, who pledged his support
for the quiet car legislation, and Rep. John Mica, who pledged his support for the quiet car legislation and who called together a
ransportation round table as a result of our meeting with him. What follows is the message from Eric Bridges, Director of Advocacy
and Governmental Affairs for the American Council of the Blind, regarding this Transportation Round Table.
This morning, the ranking member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Rep. John Mica (R-FL), hosted a
roundtable discussion dealing specifically with issues surrounding transportation and people with disabilities. ACB was one of only
5 disability organizations invited to attend and give remarks. Furthermore, we were the only blindness organization represented at
the event. My remarks centered on the following:
1. H.R.734, the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2009 and the need for its passage.
2. A considerable amount of funding for capital transportation projects appeared in the economic stimulus legislation. The disconnect
that many in the disability community observe is that while new projects are being funded, existing local transit and paratransit
services on the operational side of the business are being cut. These cuts are occurring as ridership and demand for these services
continue to increase.
ACB's views were warmly received by all that attended. Rep. Mica kicked off the roundtable by saying "About a month ago I had the
chance to meet with representatives of the American Council of the Blind's Florida affiliate.
"They spoke with me about the challenges that people who are blind have in independently identifying hybrid vehicles. This
conversation with them prompted me to construct this roundtable this morning."
I would like to recognize the Florida Council of the Blind for their hard work and advocacy. It doesn't get much better than this!
This is yet another shining example of the value that continued advocacy with members of Congress can provide to your state-special
interest affiliate and ACB's legislative agenda. Rep. Mica was by no means the only member to attend and ask questions of the
panelists. The Chairman of the committee, Rep. James Oberstar, attended this meeting for 90 minutes and asked several probing
questions. The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure is interested in continuing the dialogue that began today as various
transportation legislative vehicles begin to ramp up over the next year. ACB will have a seat at the table for these discussions.
The Florida Council of the Blind is largely responsible for this fact.
By agreeing to send representatives to the ACB Legislative Seminar, you are largely responsible for the success that was ours on
Capitol Hill.
The March and April FCB Chapter Presidents' meetings were devoted to training officers and those who aspire to be officers. These
training sessions were recorded and will soon be available on the FCB website. If you don't have access to the FCB website, contact
Sally Benjamin and she will supply you with a CD version. Ardis Bazyn, Chair of the ACB Membership Committee and author of an ACB
Officer Training Manual, provided this excellent training.
On March 21st, my husband, Frela, and I traveled to Clearwater to attend a meeting of the Pinellas Council of the Blind. While there,
I spoke to the members about our upcoming State Convention and I had the honor of installing Sharon Youngs as the Council's
President. I often wish that Florida weren't such a large state so that I could visit every Chapter once a year.
In early April, the second meeting between the Division of Blind Services and the consumer organizations was held. For this meeting,
FCB was the only consumer organization represented. I urge you to attend these meeting teleconferences. You have the opportunity to
listen and at the end of the meeting, there is an opportunity for public comment. These meetings are publicized on the FCB e-mail
list and at the Presidents' meetings. It is extremely important that we hear DBS and are heard by them. What follows is a statement
by Joyce Hildreth, Director of the Division of Blind Services, for the membership of the Florida Council of the Blind.
The Division of Blind Services is very pleased with the support we have received from the Florida Legislature. Because of the
efforts of advocacy groups and associations, members of the legislature are aware of the needs of individuals with visual impairment.
I want to express my appreciation to all members of FCB for their support of the Division of Blind Services.
The ACB Host Committee, ably chaired by Sally Benjamin and Debbie Drylie, is hard at work performing the many and varied duties of
the Host Chapter. You can be very proud of our Mid-Florida Chapter and the other FCB members who serve on this committee. Carla
Ruschival, ACB Convention Committee Chair, says that the FCB Host Committee is a wonderful group to work with and that all during
this process, have been ahead of schedule. The Host Committee is one of the best committees on which I've ever served. If you have
some nice things around your house that you no longer need, such as audio books, CD's, DVD's, videos, or special memorabilia, or if
you would like to purchase something special, please consider making a donation to the Host Committee door prize drive for the ACB
Convention. If you are not planning to attend the ACB Convention, scheduled for the week of July 4th through 11th in Orlando, you
may send your door prize submissions to Sheila Young at 2304 Amherst Avenue, Orlando, FL 32805. William Benjamin and I serve on the
ACB Auction Committee and I serve on the ACB Program Committee. I truly believe that the Florida Council of the Blind will do
itself proud at this event.
FCB will also host our own annual State Convention in Daytona Beach from June 4th through June 7th. By now, you will have received
the convention announcement letter and you will receive your convention registration packet soon. Many thanks to Chair Sila Miller
and the fantastic Convention Committee for working so tirelessly to bring you one of our best conventions ever. Please plan to
join us in Daytona Beach because without you, our convention will be less successful.
I look forward to seeing many of you in Daytona Beach as we come together once again to work and to celebrate all that the Florida
Council of the Blind means in our lives.
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND WALK/RUN - by Debbie Grubb
The American Council of the Blind, (ACB), will hold its 48th Annual Convention at the Rosen Centre in Orlando, Florida, July 3rd
through 11th, 2009. In addition to the numerous activities, tours, workshops and informative sessions, ACB will partner with Track
Shack (Watermelon 5K) for our first-ever Walk/Run. It is estimated that there will be approximately 3,000 participants.
When: July 4th, 2009
Time: 7:30 AM
Where: Orlando, Florida at Mead Garden Park (which is seventeen miles from the convention hotel)
This is an excellent opportunity to showcase the abilities of the blind and visually impaired as they join with sighted individuals
in this event. The Walk/Run further serves to improve the fiscal and physical condition of ACB and its members!
Individuals will be asked to seek pledges to bring much needed funds into ACB to continue its efforts to advocate for accessible
paper money, full internet accessibility, point-of-sale accessibility, to help fund the production and distribution of our monthly
publication, fund the operation of ACB Radio, provide scholarships, enhance our national and state conventions, support our
legislative efforts on Capitol Hill and in our state legislatures, and many other important activities.
ACB is a nonprofit, 501(C) 3 charitable organization and all donations are tax deductible. Checks should be made payable to the
American Council of the Blind and mail to the national office at the below address:
American Council of the Blind
Attn: Dena Wilson, Director of Development
2200 Wilson Blvd., Suite 650
Arlington, VA. 22201
If you wish to pledge support using a credit card, please contact Lane Waters at (612) 332-3242. Be sure to specify the individual
to be credited with your pledge.
Thanks so much for your consideration. Your support is deeply appreciated.
Sincerely,
Dan Dillon
Chair, ACB Walkathon Committee
Phone: (615) 874-1223
E-mail: dan.dillon@bellsouth.net
Support ACB's first-ever Walk/Run to benefit the American Council of the Blind
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
2009 LEGISLATIVE IMPERATIVES - Submitted by Debbie Grubb
There are 7 to 10 million blind and visually-impaired people in the United States, and with the aging of the baby-boomer generation,
that number is expected to increase by another 4 million by 2015. The American Council of the Blind (ACB) is one of the leading
national organizations of people who are blind and visually impaired and is dedicated to improving the quality of life, equality of
opportunity and independence of all people who have visual impairments.
Two issues are at the forefront of our 2009 legislative agenda: the Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act,
and pedestrian safety issues regarding hybrid and other quiet vehicles that are addressed in H.R. 734, The Pedestrian Safety
Enhancement Act of 2009.
I. TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION
Issue: With increasing frequency, television and Internet products and programming rely on visual information to communicate with
consumers. Products are created that utilize on-screen menus, and in programming, significant events are portrayed visually, such as
emergency weather advisories which are scrolled across screens. 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.
Proposed Action: ACB strongly urges the House of Representatives to reintroduce and pass the Twenty-first Century Communications and
Video Accessibility Act which was originally introduced by Rep. Ed Markey as H.R. 6320 in the 110th Congress. ACB strongly supports
the following provisions in the legislation:
1. Restoring the modest requirements for production of video description and having such requirements extend to digital television
and shows that migrate to the Internet.
2. Require non-visual access to on-screen emergency warnings and similar televised information such as boil water and amber
alerts.
3. Require TV user interfaces to be disability accessible, including devices used to receive and display Internet-based video
programming. This means accessibility of functions of such devices (on/off and volume controls, program selection). For instance,
this could mean (a) audio output where on-screen text menus are used to control video programming functions, and (b) a conspicuous
means of accessing closed captioning and video description, including a button on remote controls and first-level access to these
accessibility features when made available through on-screen menus.
II. QUIET VEHICLES
Issue: When vision is reduced or completely eliminated as a means of understanding and responding to one's environment, an
individual's hearing takes over as the primary source of environmental information. Traditionally, people who are blind or
visually impaired have learned to rely on their hearing to navigate safely across streets and through other vehicular ways, such
as parking lots. In so doing, the sound of traffic is their primary focus. Traffic sounds provide information about such things
as the position of vehicles, their direction of travel, and the speed at which they are likely to move. With this information,
the pedestrian can make informed decisions about when to cross a street or other vehicular way safely.
In recent years, automobile manufacturers around the world have responded to public concern for our environment by 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.
Proposed Action:
The American Council of the Blind urges Congress to pass H.R. 734, The Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2009 as introduced
by Reps. Edolphus Towns (D-NY) and Cliff Stearns (R-FL).
The bill directs the Secretary of Transportation to:
1. Conduct a study beginning within 90 days of passage of this legislation and to complete it within two years of its
commencement, at which time, the Department of Transportation shall report the study's findings to Congress.
2. Within 90 days after the conclusion of the study, the secretary is then directed to establish a standard that will take into
account the results of the study, and will set forth the minimum information that must be provided by motor vehicles required
for blind and other pedestrians to travel safely and independently in urban, rural, and residential environments.
3. The bill provides that the standard shall apply to all "new motor vehicles."
For further information, contact:
Eric Bridges
American Council of the Blind
2200 Wilson Blvd., Suite 650
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (202) 467-5081
E-mail: ebridges@acb.org
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
GUIDE DOG USERS OF FLORIDA - by Kathleen Trutschel
Kathleen Trutschel
123 Palm Drive
Daytona Beach, FL 32117
Phone: (386) 257-9337
E-mail: ktrutschel@cfl.rr.com
February 19th, 2009
Dear Florida Council of the Blind,
Re: 4th Annual Southeastern Guide Dog Top Dog Workshop
Thank you for your most generous contribution to the recent weekend event which our organization hosted in Daytona Beach,
Florida. Your assistance helped make this event a great success. There were in attendance at least sixty working guide
dogs with their handlers, and some guide dog puppies in training with their puppy raisers. There were many spouses as well
as friends, along with presenters and representatives of seven guide dog schools from throughout the country.
Those who attended took away with them a lot of information about current environmental changes that are affecting working
guide dog teams as well as updated material about guide dog training.
Guide Dog Users of Florida is an affiliate of the national organization of Guide Dog Users, Inc. Please feel free to share
any and all information about our non-profit group with your friends and colleagues. If you have any questions, comments,
concerns, or suggestions, please contact me.
Thank you again for your support.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Trutschel, President
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
JIM KRACHT: IN THE SPOTLIGHT - HUMANITARIAN, FAMILY MAN, ADVOCATE, ATTORNEY - by Sila Miller
James Kurt Kracht, Jim to most, was born on April 8th, 1950, in San Francisco California to Kurt and Thelma Jean. He grew up
in Los Altos, which is on the west side of the San Francisco Bay. Jim has 3 sisters, one of whom is his twin. From Jim's last
name, you might guess that he has a Strong German lineage. His paternal grandmother, Wilhemena Kracht, worked as a governess
to a Chinese princess and found herself stranded in Hawaii just before World War I. She made it to San Francisco but couldn't
get back home to Germany. She met Jim's grandfather who Was also a German immigrant and they settled in California and thus
began the Kracht Klan. Jim's dad was a deliveryman who worked as a teamster and eventually as a salesman in the beer and wine
business and his mother was a bookkeeper.
During his childhood, Jim had a very limited amount of vision. He attended public school and was assisted by a vision resource
teacher. He was able to ride a bike in his neighborhood. Then, during his first year in college, he developed a massive
hemorrhage in his eye and lost his remaining light perception.
Jim's eye condition is Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a potentially blinding eye disorder that primarily affects premature
infants weighing 2 3/4 pounds or less who are born before 31 weeks of gestation. The smaller a baby is at birth, the more
likely that baby is to develop ROP. This disorder which usually develops in both eyes is one of the most common causes of
visual loss in childhood and can lead to lifelong vision impairment and blindness. ROP occurs when abnormal blood vessels
grow and spread throughout the retina, the tissue that lines the back of the eye. These abnormal blood vessels are fragile
and can leak, scarring the retina and pulling it out of position. This causes a retinal detachment. Retinal detachment is
the main cause of visual impairment and blindness in ROP.
Jim met the love of his life, Patricia Nielsen, (Pat) during the summer between his junior and senior years of high school.
Both Pat and her sister, Judy were working as counselors at a summer camp where Jim was residing while attending another
summer program that focused on accelerated mobility and other daily living skills. Jim and Pat courted all through Jim's
senior year, and decided to marry shortly after graduation. The young newlyweds left home right after marrying and moved
to Cambridge, Massachusetts to attend Harvard University, where Jim earned both his Bachelors and Law degrees. Last August
24th, they celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary.
"It was a big step to pick up stakes and move 3,000 miles away but once my dad and in-laws realized they weren't going to
change our minds, they did everything they could to support us. We didn't have a whole lot of money. We did it on a
shoestring, a prayer and a whole lotta love. We Moved into a 1-room efficiency apartment in married students housing and
stayed there for the first 4 years and walked a mile and a half to school each way. Finally, after our 6th year there,
somebody gave us a car but those were great years. My wife kept her foot up when it needed to be up and she kicked me in
the backside when I seemed to need it but we had a lot of fun too," Jim reminisces.
"I was fascinated with American history," Jim explains, "And I concentrated on American government, history and literature –
I kind of created my own major, focusing on the United States. I knew I wanted to attend law school and when I began, I
envisioned myself working in either family law or probate issues since I'm a people-person." Jim had been awarded a 4-year
scholarship to attend Stanford University, just 10 miles from his childhood home, but passed it up to attend Harvard.
Luckily, Jim was able to obtain scholarships and loans to Harvard. But they were in 1-year increments as opposed to the
usual 4-year scholarship. Jim believes that choosing to attend Harvard College and law school over Stanford was the best
decision he made in his adult life, aside from getting married to Pat and having his children. "I never dreamed that I'd
get into Harvard and once I was in, it was imperative that I stay," Jim says.
Harvard ran a very extensive placement program through the law school and Jim Began giving serious consideration to public
interest jobs around the country. He saw a notice for the Miami-Dade County Attorney's office in a law school publication
and purchased a ticket to South Florida for a job interview. His grandmother and an aunt lived in Florida and it was
inviting to consider moving there. At the last minute, he received a call telling him not to make the trip, that they'd
hired someone else and no longer had any openings. Jim was devastated and even began questioning whether or not to take
his finals for that last semester of law school. This was the first real closed door to Jim, who up until that point, had
been blessed and in his words, "pretty much been able to write my own ticket. I had worked both summers during law school
and had some decent experience but wasn't prepared for the degree of discrimination and prejudice that faced me as I
started talking to the high-brow law firms that like to interview at schools like Harvard. I could wallpaper 2 bedrooms
with the number of rejection letters that I collected," Jim recalls.
Then, right in the middle of finals, the First Assistant County Attorney from Miami-Dade called. He explained that the
County Attorney would be in the area and would like to meet with Jim. Jim, being "over it" by now was quite annoyed and
flippantly asked, “Why would I waste my time talking to him? You indicated the job had already been filled and there
wasn't an opening.” To make a long story short, Jim and the County attorney, Stuart Simon had a 3-hour interview and
another lengthy phone conversation. The following day, the First Assistant called to say how impressed the boss was with
Jim, that they wanted to offer him a position, but needed to ask more questions – questions it turned out that the boss
had already asked. Jim being in the middle of finals week, was quite impatient and told him to get answers from his boss.
They must have appreciated that abrasive edge since Jim has been with the Miami-Dade County Attorney's office for 34
years now. "I don't recommend that attitude and demeanor to anyone looking for employment," Jim laughingly says.
Within 5 years of taking the job, Jim was supervising a couple of employees. "Today, I have 10 attorneys working under
me, the office is 75 lawyers strong and I love what I do," Jim proudly says. Jim coordinates the tax and finance section
of the Miami-Dade County Attorney's office. He works with Property Tax, Occupational licensing, and new business taxes,
utility, convention and tourist development taxes, special assessments and bond and government finance. "I basically
represent the County in financial dealings in which they are involved," Jim explains.
Jim and Pat came to Florida in 1975. Their plan was to work in Florida for a few years to get some legal experience and
then return home to California. However, fate wouldn't have it that way. Four years after Jim and Pat arrived in Florida,
their son, Brian Matthew, arrived and in another two years along came their daughter, Jennifer Margaret. "By then,
Florida had become our home, I had an excellent opportunity to grow and develop in my law practice here and I was
respected for the work that I did. So, we finally settled on the plan that said I would pick where we spent the working
years of our lives and when I retire, Pat could go wherever she wanted to go and I'd follow. And now that we're getting
close to the retirement years, I say to my wife, "Well, are we going back to California? And I think there's about as
much chance of us going back as rediscovering gold in a mother load," Jim says.
Jim is an avid reader and he and Pat both love music and traveling to folk and acoustic concerts throughout Florida. He
enjoys baseball and considers himself fortunate to be able to attend many Marlins games each year. He is a family man
and shamelessly brags on his children and grandson. "My daughter Jen is married to David and works in sales and
marketing for a high-end hotel chain in Orlando. They live in Clermont. My son Brian and his wife Sandi are both
attorneys and Brian just recently started his own practice. You can visit him on line at
www.krachtlawfirm.com. Jim's 27-month old grandson, Jackson Taylor, will
soon have a baby sister and, needless to say, has grandpa Jim wrapped around his little finger!
One of Jim's desires is to someday teach children who are visually impaired. "Maybe I'll teach after retiring from
practicing law in 3 years," Jim thoughtfully says.
Jim served on the Miami Lighthouse's Board of Directors for 15 years, and has been quite instrumental in bringing about
accessible voting for Florida's blind citizens. He has been active in the American Association of Visually Impaired
Attorneys since 1977 and has held several different offices and served on its board. He devoted much time to the Diversity
Independence group, working on access to the legal system and the courts in the state for attorneys with disabilities. He
has been a member of the Braille Revival League for approximately 10 years and currently serves on the Academy for
Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) Board as their Treasurer. ACVREP certifies
O & M instructors and low vision, and vision rehab therapists.
Here at home in FCB, Jim has chaired the Constitution and By-Laws committee for the past 6 years, and serves on both the
Resolutions and Convention committees. He's never too busy to lend his legal expertise in reading over contracts, giving
wise and considered counsel or just being a down-to-earth friend and supporter.
When I asked Jim to offer some words of advice to young people, he said, "You have to shoot for the highest. You can always
step down a little bit but you can't step up once you've stepped in. If you don't believe in yourself, promote yourself and
sell yourself; nobody else will do it. You are your best advocate. I encourage anybody, go to the best school you can, pick
the most desirable profession that you can, even if it means you're going to have to work harder. In the long run, it's
going to mean more."
When I asked Jim about influential people who'd touched his life he said, "My life has had an incredible array of people in
it from start to finish. I've built and kept more relationships than I haven't. I wouldn't be where I am today if I had been
doing it by myself. If I hadn't had my wife kicking me, prodding me, helping me, if I hadn't had my family, my friends, and
my teachers. My life has been blessed with opportunity in so many respects. People get caught up in this whole belief that
they're unique unto themselves. Remember, 'no man is an island, no man stands alone.'"
Those blessings certainly didn't end with Jim as he continues to extend them to others by lending his leadership, knowledge,
support and uncommon love for his fellow man. He sets an example to others and does much more than most know, seeking no
praise or acclaim. I am grateful he carved time out of his busy schedule for this interview and finally caved to my persistent
hounding. FCB has benefited richly from his and Pat's involvement and participation. As I have told you before, Jim, you are
one of my heroes. I hope this article does you a small modicum of justice.
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
POETRY CORNER - by Shelley Justice
Once again, our selection comes from Sila Miller. Many of us knew Rob Anderson and called him friend, but I think Sila knew him
better than many of us did.
Thanks again, Sila for opening your heart and sharing your thoughts, feelings and creativity with all of us.
Sandra, I have stood where you are standing, and I feel your pain. The journey is a rough one, but it does get easier eventually,
I promise you. You are daily in my thoughts and prayers. Below is Sila's poem, a tribute to Rob Anderson.
How do you react to the horrible news
of a friend's eminent demise?
This is so unexpected, sad, crummy, unfair –
this cancer demon, I despise.
Aggressive, fast growing, malignant tumors
adhered to the brain,
Tears, questions and anger, feeling helpless,
need someone to blame.
Six months with treatment, three months without,
Tests and more tests, now there's no doubt.
What a young, good, upstanding man,
such a grievous loss,
Wish I were in charge of who "bites it badly"
and who wins the toss.
The passing of an old person who'd lived a good life
would be easier to take,
Someone who'd sipped liberally of life’s nectar
and grown old with their mate.
Why couldn't this befall some of humanity's dregs,
murderers, molesters and such?
Instead of snatching someone like you,
who lends goodness to all you've ever touched.
I'm selfish and weak, not dealing well with this shock,
Wish I could do something to help,
be like you, solid as a rock.
The saving grace of all this tragedy
is your awesome and unshakable faith,
A strong belief in Jesus Christ,
you know you're headed for that heavenly place.
Such an Angel, expressing selfless concern
for your hurting wife,
Such an example on coping with a horrid ordeal
and living a good life
My Friend, I've known you for too short a time
and I have much more to say,
But I know the time draws near so I'll leave it just this way,
Go with God,
and know you were a blessing to many people here,
Rest easy knowing Sandra has precious memories to hold close and dear.
Those of us left will support each other
through this difficult time of loss and grief,
Until God and time bring comfort, piece and relief.
Enjoy driving that car and wielding that Cannon camera
like you did in the past,
Flying around, beholding so much beauty,
I bet heaven's gonna be a blast.
I have been blessed to call you Friend!
I love and respect you!
Dedicated to Rob Anderson, with love from Sila Miller
on March 7, 2009
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
MY FRIEND, MY LOSS, MY FEELINGS: ROB ANDERSON - by Sila Miller
I'd like to share Rob and Sandra Anderson's sweet story with you before you read his poem. They were both members of FCB. In
fact, an FCB convention in Ft. Lauderdale is where they met in May, 2005.
Rob, having just recently lost his vision, was attending his first gathering of blind people. He spoke to Zach, Sandra's yellow
lab guide dog, who has never met a stranger in his life, saying, "hi Boy, what's your name?" Sandra, wanting to educate Rob
about guide dog etiquette, explained politely that while Zach was working, it was not a good idea to talk to him, especially
without her permission. Rob, never missing a beat said, "well, what's your name?"
They hit it off, hanging out together that entire weekend. Sandra went to Clearwater to visit, went back home to Starke for a
short while and decided Clearwater and Rob absolutely had to be her new home. She relocated to Clearwater and the couple were
married in early 2006.
They were blissfully happy together and formed an awesome team. Rob didn't see very well but could navigate during the day. At
that point, Sandra's vision was better at night. She had experience at the "blind thing" and would often give him helpful advice
about doing things by feel rather than by sight. Rob worked at a nearby grocery store and was able to walk to work. He opened up
a whole new world to Sandra, cooking different foods for her, traveling and introducing her to his friends, many of whom were
fully sighted.
Then, late last year, Rob lost a good portion of his remaining vision and began feeling weird. He almost passed out at work and
was suffering with a persistent headache. One day, it was so bad, he was sent home. Sandra began walking with him to and from
work, since he wasn't yet proficient in cane travel. Part of Rob's job was bagging groceries and he had a couple of accidents,
dropping and breaking things. He felt badly about not doing a good job and would confide in Sandra. She tried to encourage him
as best she could. His employer was supportive through this whole ordeal and told Rob not to worry, that his job was safe.
Rob went to the doctor and explained his symptoms, was given tests and told all was ok, not to worry. When the symptoms
persisted, Rob contacted his doctor again and asked for more tests. This request wasn't taken very seriously until his headaches
began to become unbearable. When he contacted the doctors this time, he was finally given a Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
This technique is most commonly used in radiology to visualize the internal structure and function of the body. MRI provides
much greater contrast between the different soft tissues of the body than computed tomography (CT) does. Sadly, the MRI revealed
advanced brain cancer. There were 3 large tumors, all connected and all adhered to his brain.
Rob decided against chemo or radiation therapy, since it would only offer a few more months of life and those months would be
fraught with the accompanying side effects of these treatments. He passed away on March 6th, 2009, at Haven Hospice in
Gainesville with Sandra, his best friend, and Greg, his second best friend, by his side. He was sure of his destination in
heaven and is there now, no longer in any pain.
Rob's Celebration of Life service was sweet and poignant and I was honored when Sandra asked me to read a poem I'd written for
him. I will share it with you here as well, at her request. Needless to say, Rob will be missed so badly by Sandra and those of
us who were lucky enough to know him. It is so very unfortunate that Rob's medical advocacy wasn't enough. Shame on that Doctor.
God bless and comfort you, Sandra
Sila
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
JIM LAMB - Submitted by Sila Miller
Hello Everyone,
FCB has lost a wonderful leader and friend. I know that Jim Lamb played a major role in making the Florida Council of the Blind the
wonderful organization that it is. I know that many of you counted him as a special friend and our thoughts are with you as well.
Debbie,
It is with a heavy heart that I let all of you know that Jim Lamb, one of our founding fathers of the Mid-Florida Council of the Blind,
passed away in the hospital this morning, April 7th.
Sheila
My memories of Jim were all great times.
Jim, for a long time, was our permanent chairman of the Public Education committee reporting on all those House and Senate bills in the
State and Federal governments. Anything which affected the blind community, he was out making sure our voice was heard on the issue.
This was all before e-mail and the Internet took over.
Jim was also our Convention Director for many years until the process changed. He went out to all the potential hotels bidding from the
chapters requests and inspected each. He always tried to come up with great rates and great add-ons (freebees or not) for our
conventions and board meetings.
He finally made it to President in 1994 after Terry Blessing (another dear part of our past) decided not to run for another term. I
believe, after all the years he worked with our organization, it was the first time he was nominated for the position.
I remember many times sitting down with him after the proceedings of a board meeting completed for the evening, in the bar for a casual
drink and having great conversations with he and others.
He will be truly missed. Well, Cheers to Jim Lamb and to all of FCB.
Past President (1990 - 92)
Vince Mistretta
I can only agree that Jim was a great asset to the State Affiliate and the Mid-Florida Chapter as well. He was a nice and thoughtful
gentleman and will definitely be missed by all of us who were privileged to know him.
Bill Freeman
I'll certainly miss him too. Jim and Carl were the ones that inspired me down the road to advocacy and legislative change. I loved his
voice and it got your attention.
Robert
I too will miss Jim. He was so very sweet to me when I wrote his spotlight article. We talked of Millie and the yesteryear of FCB. Jim's
voice, unforgettable. When I first met him, I was afraid of him. When I confessed this to him during our interview, I thought he'd bust
a gut laughing at me! He was very proud of the MFCB and had high hopes for that chapter. I am beyond glad he was at our last convention.
We discussed mutual worries about events during convention being of interest to members and he commiserated with me by saying I dealt
with the same things too. Time marches on oh so quickly and those we respect and love leave all too soon. I hope FCB's younger
generation won't lose "sight" of some of the founding principles and reasons why FCB came to be in the first place. Rest in peace, dear
Jim, and know you made a difference.
With love and respect, Sila
I never knew him, but I am sure sorry he is gone now. My condolences to all who knew him and all who loved him.
Kristine A. Beltz
Thank you for all you have done keeping us up to date. I am razing a glass right this moment. I first met Jim when he was president and
for some crazy reason he asked me to become chair of Resolutions. I am certain someone told him I could do the job and here I still am,
to the memory of all the glasses I razed with him, certain he is razing one now.
Jesus Garcia
Yes, Vince, I would hope we would all say "cheers to Jim". I had an opportunity recently to get to know him a little, and what a kind,
gentle man he was. Under all that rough, was a gentle giant. He was also a wealth of knowledge when it came to the FCB. I am sure his
dear friends will miss him terribly, as well as his nephew, Bob, and his family.
Sheila
We all miss Jim. If it were not for he, MFCB would not be here today.
David Land
Jim, Bobbie, and Terry, were mentors in my life with FCB years ago and are all missed today. Jim had a great sense of humor that will
not be forgotten.
Cheers Mr. Lamb! Rest in peace.
Rosanna
Thank you Debbie and Sheila for the not-so-good message. I'm sure that we'll all miss Jim Lamb. I believe I first met him at the FCB
Convention in Miami in 1977, a few months after I moved to Florida and joined the organization. What a man! What a wonderful and
dedicated member and leader of FCB! Jim was a powerhouse. Us old-timers (now that I'm getting there), remember how aptly he headed
our Public Education Committee, obtaining and distributing legislative information to our members and other interested people. I also
remember how well he coordinated hotel arrangements for our Board meetings and conventions. Nancy and I enjoyed visiting him in
Orlando and when he came to Daytona Beach to coordinate conventions. He had such a way to work with hotel staff, obtaining good rates
and accommodations. Are we lucky to have Rosanna to carry on this important task!
Doug
Let me join my voice to those who have already spoken about Jim Lamb. He was among the very best lobbyists we have ever had. He could
speak to legislators, mobilize support for a huge range of issues he was passionate about, and was a good leader of FCB. More than that,
he was a truly nice person with a great sense of humor and a capacity for fun that was just as strong as his capacity for hard work. We
will all miss him and hope his family can find solace in just how many people valued and respected a truly talented and compassionate
person that was Jim Lamb.
Paul Edwards
Same here.
I met Jim in 2004 when I moved back to Florida and settled in the Orlando area. He was very knowledgeable in public advocacy and was
always in the know when it came to the legislative issues concerning the blind community. I will miss him very much. It won't be the
same at the MFCB monthly meetings without him being there.
Larry Turnbull
To FCB members and friends,
I would like to convey my heart-felt sadness at learning of the passing of Jim Lamb. I have known Jim since the mid-seventies when I
came to Florida. I made my first Florida friends in the blindness community through Jim and through MFCB. Jim was always gracious and
a friend to me. He and his sister Connie, along with Jackie and Patty, made me feel welcome as a new resident of Florida. When I
learned about NFB through some friends in another state, we had no active Central Florida chapter at that time. It was Jim Lamb who
put me in touch with the state affiliate and thus began my involvement with NFBF and finally, the organization and chartering of our
NFB-Greater Orlando Chapter in March of 1983. Jim has done much over the years to further the causes of MFCB and of Central Florida's
blind community. He also has made many friends and will be very much missed. My thoughts and prayers are with him, his family and
friends and the MFCB community.
Sherri Brun
I was out of town when I first learned about Jim's death, and have just caught up on my e-mail. It was gratifying to read all your
kind memories of Jim and I can just add my ditto. He was as many of you had said, a dedicated worker for all the years he was in FCB,
both in the leadership positions he held, but any time he was asked.
The last big job he took on for me at the national convention in Orlando, was to get a crew together to prepare packages for the
convention and lots of other details preparing for the convention, and you know if he took on the job it would be done, and with
good humor. He and I always met for dinner at recent conventions, to hash over old times, and we stayed in touch by phone, I TALKED
TO HIM about ten days ago, and he was his usual good natured self, after a brief episode, and thought he was fine. So what can I
add not much but to say he was a great advocate and great friend. And I will indeed miss him. So Jim, this one is for you, cause I
know you would do the same for me.
Carl
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
TECH TIPS - by John Richards for the FCB Technology Committee
Portions of this article are taken from Jaws Help
Using The Jaws Tandem Feature in Jaws 10 or later
Jaws Tandem is a new feature found in Jaws 10 or later. This feature allows two computers, both using jaws to be connected by
using Jaws Tandem. One of the computers in the session will be the controller and the other will be the target. The target
system has to allow the controller to gain access to the target computer in order to initiate the session.
Two types of sessions may be initiated. A connection of two computers over the internet is known as a Tandem Center session. A
connection conducted through a private network is known as a Tandem Direct session. Since the Tandem Center session is more
widely used, it will be discussed in more detail.
To initiate a Tandem Center session between two systems, you must first decide who is going to be the controller and who will be
the target. Both systems need to be at the screen which on the controller system, a meeting Id will be generated and displayed.
On the target system a screen displaying an edit field is present in order to receive the meeting ID generated by the controller.
In order to run a Tandem center session, the controller system operator should navigate to the jaws window. Press alt+u to pull
down the utilities menu. The first selection in that menu is the Jaws Tandem submenu. Press enter and you will be placed on the
Tandem center sub menu. Press enter again and you will be placed on the first of two selections entitled, "allow access to my
computer". Arrow down to the next selection entitled "get access to a computer". At this point, press enter and you will be
placed in a screen on the "get access" button. Press enter to activate the button and you will launch a screen containing the
meeting Id. Provide the meeting Id to the target system operator. In order for the Target system operator to initiate a tandem
center session, press insert+alt+t. This is a shortcut which will launch the "allow access to my computer" selection which will
activate a screen containing an edit field to receive the meeting Id. Type or paste the meeting Id in to the edit field. At
this point, either the controller or target systems can initiate the session by pressing enter. If both meeting Id's match, the
controller system will gain access to the target system.
Below are some Jaws Tandem FAQs. These will answer some of your questions in reference to the Jaws Tandem feature. You can also
access the Jaws Tandem Quick start guide in the Jaws help system.
Listen to the September 2008 FSCast for an Overview of JAWS Tandem at:
http://www.freedomscientific.com/FSCast/episodes/fscast022-september2008.asp
JAWS Tandem FAQs
Question: What version of JAWS must the controller and target system have?
Answer: JAWS 10 or later. An authorized license is needed if you are going to be a controller.
Question: How responsive is the JAWS Tandem session?
Answer: You'll be amazed! It’s very much like Remote Desktop or Citrix.
Question: Can JAWS Demo or JAWS 40-Minute mode be used with JAWS Tandem on either the controller or target system?
Answer: Yes, you can use JAWS as a Demo for a target system during Tandem sessions.
Question: Can a sighted user who is using a mouse on the controller computer work with the target computer or is it limited to
keyboard use only?
Answer: The mouse is also active when running JAWS Tandem provided that you turn on the video output on controller side.
Question: What are the main uses of this outside of AT training and tech support? For example, can it be used to work with Web
developers for usability testing?
Answer: Yes. It can also be used by consultants to help with scripting and debugging issues from a distance.
Question: Can JAWS Tandem be used by a JAWS user to remote into computers of sighted colleagues that don't necessarily use JAWS?
Answer: Yes, if the sighted colleagues install JAWS 10 as a demo on their computers.
Question: What is the difference between JAWS Tandem and Remote Desktop, Citrix, or terminal services?
Answer: JAWS Tandem lets you, the controller, run in the target's user session while the target user is on the computer at the
same time. Remote Desktop/Terminal/Citrix is running on your own desktop on the remote machine, and no one on the other side
can see or hear it. For support purposes, JAWS Tandem is perfect.
Question: Why can I not use the CAPS LOCK key as the JAWS cursor in laptop layout, when pressing the three different JAWS
Tandem keystrokes?
Answer: JAWS Tandem keystrokes are not changeable. You can only use the INSERT key regardless of JAWS being in laptop or
desktop layout. You should not attempt to change these.
Question: Can I use a USB Thumb Drive version of JAWS and still work with JAWS Tandem as either a controller or target?
Answer: No. Because of installation and registry entries, it is not possible at this time to use a USB Drive version of JAWS
10 or later if you intend to establish JAWS Tandem connections. In fact, the JAWS Tandem options will not be present in the
JAWS menus if you are using a USB Drive version of JAWS.
Question: While in a JAWS Tandem session, can the controller use the Task Manager on the target computer?
Answer: Yes. To launch Task Manager on the target side, you must use the keystroke CTRL+SHIFT+ESCAPE, or press WINDOWS
Key+R to open the Run dialog box, and then type taskmgr and press ENTER. Note that if you try to use CTRL+ALT+DELETE to
open the Task Manager, this command will be executed on the controller's machine.
Question: From the controller system, can I hear the target system's audio?
Answer: No. However, this is being studied for a future update.
Question: Can I change my synthesizer during a session?
Answer: No. After a session is established, you can only change the pitch or volume of your synthesizer.
Question: Can my English United States (ENU) computer use JAWS Tandem to connect to an English United Kingdom (ENG) or
Australian (ENA) computer?
Answer: Yes. Systems with different minor languages (dialects) will work in JAWS Tandem.
Question: Can my English computer use JAWS Tandem to connect to a computer with a different major language such as French
or Spanish?
Answer: No. You would first need to switch one of the computers to match the others’ major language before starting the
JAWS Tandem meeting.
Question: Can a controller temporarily turn off any JAWS user settings on the target computer, in order to troubleshoot a
problem that the target computer is having?
Answer: Yes. Use the Manage Application Settings dialog box located in the Options menu of the JAWS application window. In
this dialog, you can choose to disable all settings, default settings, or selective applications without having to restart
JAWS. A restart would end the JAWS Tandem session. This is a great way to troubleshoot a problem by ruling out any user
modifications or third party scripts.
Question: If either the controller or target computer needs to be restarted, what will happen to the JAWS Tandem session?
Answer: You would need to start a JAWS Tandem session again with a new meeting ID after the computer restarts. It is
suggested that the controller or target use end the JAWS Tandem session with INSERT+ALT+T before rebooting the computer.
Question: How many computers can join a JAWS Tandem Meeting?
Answer: There can only be two. One controller and one target, at this time.
Question: If you are using Skype to talk from between two different computers, can you also use JAWS Tandem without ending
the Skype call?
Answer: Yes, this can be very useful as well. The controller can explain what is being done and the target user can ask
questions over Skype during the entire meeting consequently avoiding a phone call.
Question: What if either computer receives a Skype call during a JAWS Tandem Session? Can it be answered?
Answer: If the call is on the target computer, then either the target user, or controller for that matter, can answer. If
the call is on the controller side, then the controller can answer it by toggling back to his or her own desktop by using
INSERT+ALT+TAB without having to end the JAWS Tandem session.
Question: Can I run JAWS and MAGic simultaneously with JAWS Tandem?
Answer: Not at this time. However, this functionality will be available in the next MAGic update scheduled for the first
quarter of 2009. If you want to run JAWS Tandem, exit MAGic first before starting a JAWS Tandem session. You can restart
MAGic after you close the session.
Question: What is the role of the Tandem Center?
Answer: The Tandem Center allows two arbitrary JAWS users anywhere on the Internet to connect to each other. The Tandem
Center gets data from one user and passes to the other user.
Question: Who runs the Tandem Center?
Answer: The Tandem Center is hosted by Freedom Scientific.
Question: How secure are Tandem Center sessions?
Answer: All communications between the Tandem Center, JAWS on the controller system, and JAWS on the target system is
encrypted using industry standard encryption algorithms.
Question: Does Freedom Scientific know about what I am doing if all data travel through the Tandem Center?
Answer: Freedom Scientific does not record the contents of any session. The session infrastructure is set up so that
once a session begins; the data are encrypted so that the Tandem Center server cannot decipher the information.
Question: Can the target user disconnect the session if they do not like the controller user's actions?
Answer: Yes. Any user can disconnect at any time by pressing INSERT+ALT+T.
Question: My Firewall is blocking the connection to the Tandem Center. What do I do?
Answer: The Tandem Center runs at a well-known Internet address and port. The Tandem Center address is
tandem.freedomscientific.com. The port is 12000. If Tandem Center is being blocked, configure your firewall to allow
access to this address and port.
Question: For a Tandem Direct session, what port does the target system listen to for a connection to the controller
system? Can I change the port?
Answer: For a Tandem Direct session, the target system listens on port 3000 by default. If you need to change the port
setting, choose the Options button in the Allow Access to my Computer dialog box, and type a new port number in the
Port edit box. Remember to tell the user on the controller side so that JAWS Tandem on the controller system can be
configured for the same port. The Options button is in the Get Access to a Computer on the controller system.
Question: I use the DECtalk hardware synthesizer. My friend wants to connect to me and help me configure e-mail. He
does not have DECtalk and uses RealSpeak Direct. Can we have a JAWS Tandem session?
Answer: Yes, JAWS Tandem will detect that you and your friend have different synthesizers. It will offer to switch
both of you to Eloquence for the length of the sessions. You both will connect and work for the length of the session
using Eloquence. After the JAWS Tandem session ends, both you and your friend will go back to your synthesizers
automatically.
Question: My Tandem Direct connection fails and JAWS announces the following message: A connection attempt failed
because the connected party did not properly respond after a period of time, or the established connection failed
because the connected host has failed to respond. What happened?
Answer: On the target system, you must add an exception to the JTTarget program in the Windows Firewall dialog box.
To do this, open Control Panel and choose Windows Firewall. Next, press CTRL+TAB to switch to the Exceptions page.
In the Programs and Services list, use the ARROW keys to move to JTTarget. Press SPACEBAR to select the check box.
Press TAB to move to the OK button and press SPACEBAR to save the change and close Windows Firewall. Make a Tandem
Direct connection again. If this still does not work, restart JAWS and try to connect again.
The Technology Committee urges everyone to use the FCB chat rooms that are linked to:
http://www.fcb.org.
Click on the "Voice Chat for FCB" link. When the page loads, you can either click on the "Florida Council of the Blind General Chat Room"
link or the "Florida Council of the Blind Board & Committee Chat Room" link. When the page loads, First time users should click the
"download here button" to install the plugin called tcConference. tcConference is a little piece of software that lets you talk with others,
anywhere in the world. When you click the "Download Here" button you will be prompted to download or run the tcConference software.
Select "Run" and tcConference will be installed to your system. When tcConference has been installed, click on the "Finish" button to
complete the installation process. At that point, you should return to the web page you were at before you performed the software
installation. Now, click on the link that says "Click here to enter in the room." A page will load with two edit fields, prompting you for a
username and password. Type your name in the first edit field and leave the second edit field blank. Press "Enter" and you should be
launched in to the room. You should hear a sound when you enter the room. If others are present, you may hear them talking. Press your
Control key to talk and release it to listen. If you are unable to perform any of the above tasks, feel free to contact a Member of the
Technology Committee for assistance.
If you know when you have a meeting scheduled in either of the rooms, ask for assistance a day or two in advance so someone can assist
you in a timely manner. Please feel free to contact me if you are having difficulty with either of the chat rooms. My contact information is
located in the "FCB OFFICERS, 2008 - 2010" section of this publication.
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
CHAPTER NEWS - Mid-Florida Council of the Blind
Mid-Florida Council of the Blind - by Jay Bader
MFCB continues to look forward as we approach the upcoming FCB and ACB Conventions. But first we made our annual donation to
Southeastern Guide Dogs (SEGD) for the school’s Annual Walk-A-Thon, which took place shortly after the last Chapter News was
submitted. MFCB Membership Secretary, Jay Bader participated in this year’s event, and including the $100.00 donated by MFCB,
SEGD raised over $270,000.00. This was higher than expected. Congratulations to SEGD for a successful Walk-A-Thon.
Now an update on the fundraising MFCB is planning, especially for the upcoming conventions: in March, it was decided that the
VoiceMate donated to MFCB would be awarded in a Raffle. The cost for each ticket is $3.00. If any readers of the White Cane
Bulletin are interested, please contact Leslie Spoone at (407) 678-4163 as soon as possible. The VoiceMate will be awarded at
the MFCB Annual June Awards Luncheon to take place on Saturday, June 13th, at Mimi's Café in Altamonte Springs.
After much discussion at the March and April General Meetings, the MFCB Membership voted to have keychain flashlights for
fundraising at the FCB and ACB Conventions this June and July respectively. These were gladly donated to the chapter and
will have the MFCB logo on them. These flashlights are actually very handy and MFCB is confident that at $1.00 each, it will
be a popular fundraiser. So please plan on seeing the chapter in the Exhibit Halls at either Convention and check them out.
For Guest Speaker at the March general meeting, MFCB featured interesting people. Officer Kevlon Kirkpatrick from the Orlando
Police Department talked about personal safety, including tips especially for those with disabilities. And at our April
meeting, Sherri Brun, President of the National Federation of the Blind-Greater Orlando Chapter (NFB-GOC), gave a presentation
on Louis Braille, the use of Braille (past and present) and had a demonstration of NFB-NEWSLINE. The NEWSLINE has improved
features that are valuable to current and new subscribers of the free service.
Also, at the April General Meeting, MFCB welcomed a crew of students from Full Sail, who were recording a documentary based on
MFCB President Shelley Justice. Shelley was honored to be asked, and the crew recorded much of the meeting. The Crew also
talked to some Members who know Shelley very well. MFCB hopes to hear about a finished documentary in the future.
As this Chapter News is submitted, MFCB just finished participating in the Carter Family Blind Bowlers Association's Annual
Bowl-A-Thon, which took place April 18th in Winter Garden. While no final totals have been announced, it was a neck-and-neck
competition between groups of bowlers from MFCB and NFB-GOC for who would knock down the most pins for charity. MFCB was
proud to have been again part of this annual fundraiser, and looks forward to hearing about another person being sent to the
National Blind Bowlers' Tournament in Cleveland later this year.
The chapter continues to prepare, along with the ACB Local Host Committee, for the 2009 ACB National Convention at the Rosen
Centre Hotel on International Drive from July 4th through 12th. Much of the plans are in place, from Church Services to
Invocations to the Welcome Party that will happen on July 4th. However, there is always a need for volunteers throughout the
duration of convention, and MFCB hopes that not only will Members assist, but those in the Orlando area be a part of it as
well. In the next Chapter News, there will be a final word as we get ready to welcome ACB Members from around the world to
The City Beautiful.
Finally, some sad news to pass along: Jim Lamb, the patriarch of MFCB, passed away suddenly on April 7th. Many with FCB
posted their condolences and remembrances on the FCB E-mail Discussion List, but one in particular stands out locally, and
that is from MFCB Immediate Past President Rachel Schroeder, who currently resides in Springfield, Illinois, and is still a
Member of MFCB. Here is her posting:
"I am saddened to hear of Jim Lamb's passing. I do have some great memories of him though which I will definitely carry with
me and keep in mind throughout my life and my work for both Florida and Illinois Councils of the Blind and ACB.
"In my four years as President of MFCB, I knew I could always count on Jim for his unending support and honest advice not to
mention some great laughs. I very much valued his friendship and his opinion as an individual who had worked so hard in this
organization long before I ever knew it even existed or cared, as little kids don't pay attention to that kind of stuff.
"In my leadership of MFCB, it was always my goal both as President and for our chapter, to continue the important work that
Jim and so many others started years before, with the same enthusiasm and diligence that Jim brought to everything he did
for FCB, MFCB and the blind community in general. From the conversations he and I shared, I know that it was his great
concern and hope as new leadership and Members continued FCB's mission, that things remain in perspective. He always wanted
us to remember that just because we won so many victories along the way through the work of dedicated members before us, we
can't just sit back then and take things for granted and that we need to continue working to keep our issues and concerns in
the forefront and in the minds of the legislators and individuals who could help us make a difference.
"I couldn't think of a more fitting tribute to Jim now than for all of us to continue serving FCB with our time and our
talents in the same spirit as he did for so many years. Jim will certainly be missed."
And when MFCB has a cookout just a few days after this submission has been sent, we will grant Jim what he wished: we will
have a drink for him and celebrate his life. Thanks for all you have done, Jim, and that will never be forgotten in MFCB.
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
HEALTHY LIVING (GRAND FORKS HEARLD) - Submitted by Patricia A. Lipovsky
EAT FOR LIFE: Head South of the Border
By: Jill Wendholt Silva, McClatchy Newspapers
If you've walked through a supermarket recently, you've surely noticed the aisle devoted to an ever-widening array of pasta
meal kits.
One of the newest brands to hit the market is a spinoff of the Romano's Macaroni Grill restaurants. The suggested retail
price on the meal kit is nearly $5 -- for a few ounces of pasta with a flavor packet of powdered chemicals.
From a nutrition standpoint, nearly all of these pre-fab meal kits quickly ring up calories, fat and sodium. But if you
make your own, you can save money and bump up the nutrition.
The Star's South-of-the-Border Pasta Bake combines whole-grain pasta with bits of boneless, skinless chicken breast napped
in a made-from-scratch sauce of skim milk, flour and reduced-fat cheese. By focusing on bold flavors such as cumin, coriander,
chili powder, garlic and jalapeno, the homemade pasta casserole gains restaurant-quality appeal.
Make-ahead tip: Pasta-based casseroles are handy to have on hand when company comes or you're scheduled for a potluck. Prepare
recipe according to directions. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Preheat oven to 375 degrees and bake 20 to 30 minutes or
until heated through.
South-of-the-Border Pasta Bake
INGREDIENTS:
8 ounces whole-grain penne rigate
3/4 pound boneless, skinless, chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 Tablespoon ground coriander
2 tablespoons chili powder
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped finely
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups skim milk
1 cup reduced-fat shredded Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup chopped, fresh cilantro
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cook pasta according to package directions; omitting oil; drain and set aside.
2. Place chicken in a zip-top bag. Add cumin, coriander, chili powder and pepper. Toss to coat. Heat olive oil in
large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until nearly done,
about 5 minutes.
3. Add onions, peppers and garlic to skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, whisk flour and salt into milk. Pour into a small saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
Reduce heat and stir in cheese. Remove from heat and stir until cheese is melted. Add cilantro and stir to blend.
5. Add pasta to chicken mixture. Pour cheese sauce over all and stir to blend. Spoon into a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through and bubbling.
Yield: Serves 6.
Approximate nutritional analysis per serving: 327 calories (16 percent from fat), 6 grams total fat (2 grams
saturated), 38 milligrams cholesterol, 41 milligrams carbohydrates, 27 grams protein, 406 milligrams sodium, 3 grams
dietary fiber.
JEANNE'S HEALTHY MEXICAN SPINACH DIP WITH HEALTHY TORTILLA CHIPS
Shared by Jeanne, MAM,
Submitted by Patricia A. Lipovsky
INGREDIENTS:
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 quart jar salsa
2 cups shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese
1 (8 ounce) package reduced-fat cream cheese, softened and diced
1 cup reduced-fat evaporated milk
1 (2.25 ounce) can chopped black olives, drained
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2-3 drops Tabasco sauce (I like the smoky Chipolte flavor)
salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees F. Thaw spinach and drain in a colander. Using your hands, squeeze out all the liquid.
2. In a medium baking dish, mix together all ingredients until well-combined. Spray a casserole dish lightly with cooking
spray.
3. Bake uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Serve with homemade tortilla chips.
And if you are really ambitious...
JEANNE'S HEALTHY TORTILLA CHIPS
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 packages whole-wheat tortillas
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Fine sea salt
DIRECTIONS:
1. Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees F. Brush both sides of tortillas with extra virgin olive oil. Salt both sides lightly.
2. Cut each tortilla into 12-16 triangles (depending upon the size you want). Place on a cookie sheet that has been
lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Bake at 400 degrees F for 8-10 minutes.
3. Using a pancake turner, turn the chips over and bake another 8-10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
FCB TRADING POST
Sale Ad
I have some things that were collecting dust in my closet. I am a big fan of technology, and think all technology
can find a home. I will sell the following items.
1. Rarely used APH handicassette recorder/player that I will sell with an AC adapter and extra battery packs for
$75.00 or best offer.
2. Alva 20 cell Braille display that needs a new battery that I will sell for $150.00. The new battery costs $185.00
plus shipping from vision cue. The unit comes with a Braille manual. Last but not least.
3. Imp voice diary that I will sell for $75.00. I have the tutorial and carrying case that came with it.
Isn't it something when you clean out your closet?
For more information call Elizabeth at (850) 345-0822.
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page
HANDY TELEPHONE NUMBER REFERENCES
Project Insight: 1-800-267-4448
Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library Services: 1-800-226-6075
Division of Blind Services (Tallahassee): 1-800-342-1828
American Council of The Blind: 1-800-424-8666
(available only 3:00 to 5:30 PM EST Monday-Friday)
ACB's Legislative Hotline: 1-800-424-8666
(Evenings 8:00 PM - 12:00 Midnight EST
Weekends 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM only)
A T & T Disability Services: 1-800-872-3883
Press 00 and speak with your long distance carrier
BellSouth Disability Services: 1-800-982-2891 from anywhere
Social Security: 1-800-772-1213
24-hour voice and touch tone accessible
Table of Contents
Back to WCB Main Page
FCB Home Page