FCB OFFICERS, 2006 - 2008
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@earthlink.net
Treasurer:
Patti Land
6933 Alpert Dr.
Orlando, FL 32810
(407) 521-9047
E-mail: pattianne1@cfl.rr.com
Membership Secretary:
Linda Jacobson
2915 Circle Ridge Dr.
Orange Park, FL 32065
(904) 272-8405
E-mail: jacobsli@bellsouth.net
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@comcast.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: salbenjamin@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.
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 Linda Jacobson
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE - by Debbie Grubb
ACB MEMBER BENEFITS - by Ardis Bazyn
SUCCESSFUL MEETINGS - by Ardis Bazyn
CONVENTION 2007 - by Sila Miller
NOVEMBER IS BOARD MEETING TIME! - by Rosanna Lippen
AWARDS 2007 - by Sally Benjamin
WHITE CANE LAW PROTECTS BLIND PEDESTRIANS (OCTOBER 15TH IS FLORIDA WHITE CANE DAY):
VIOLATION OF THE WHITE CANE SAFETY LAW AS A PUNISHABLE OFFENSE - by Carl F. McCoy (Past President of FCB)
DINING IN THE DARK - by Barbara Ross, FIRE Executive Director
LUCENTIS, VISION-PRESERVING TREATMENT FOR WET AMD, APPROVED BY FDA (JUNE 30, 2006) - by Ben A.
Shaberman - Submitted by Jack Varnon
PROTECTING YOUR COMPUTER - Submitted by Patricia A. Lipovsky
VOTE OF CONFIDENCE: MACHINES LET BLIND CAST BALLOTS INDEPENDENTLY - by Fred Hiers, THE
STAR-BANNER - Submitted by Sally Benjamin
SECURITY AT THE AIRPORT - by Jackie Hull
SCENES AND IMPRESSIONS FROM THE ACB CONVENTION - by Sharon Youngs
BLIND INTERIOR DESIGNER? - Submitted by Pat Lipovsky
WE’RE BAAAACK! - by Sharon Youngs
CELL PHONE INFORMATION - Submitted by Sila Miller
TECH TIPS - by John Richards for the FCB Technology Committee
CHAPTER NEWS - Mid-Florida Council of the Blind
RECIPE CORNER
FCB TRADING POST
CHAPTER LIASONS
HANDY TELEPHONE NUMBER REFERENCES
ARE YOU MOVING? - by Linda Jacobson
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 (904)
272-8405 or E-mail jacobsli@bellsouth.net.
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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE - by Debbie Grubb
One of the happiest duties of the President of any organization is to thank individuals who have given above and beyond the call of duty.
It is my honor to perform this wonderful task in this President’s Message. From July 8th through July 15th, the American Council of the
Blind held its Annual Convention in Jacksonville, Florida. For well over a year, the Convention Host Committee appointed by Immediate
Past President, Paul Edwards, and consisting of members from our fine Jacksonville and Clay County Chapters, has worked diligently
to carry out the responsibilities of this committee. These responsibilities are many and varied and the FCB Host Committee carried out
each one with professional efficiency and style.
I would like to thank the two people who ably chaired this committee. Linda Jacobson held this job for most of the committee’s
existence. When family responsibilities made it impossible for her to continue in this role, Dan O’Connor took over and the committee
never missed a beat. Although she was no longer Chair, Linda Jacobson continued to work tirelessly on the Host Committee. Barbara
Brown carried out tasks too numerous to mention here; but the committee could never have done its job nearly so well without her. The
same can be said of Debbie Drylie who was never too tired or too busy to do whatever was asked of her.
When Barbara Brown was asked whom she would particularly like to thank publicly for their work on the Convention Host Committee,
she wrote, "The Jacksonville Council of the Blind would like to thank all FCB members who attended the Convention. Special thanks to
the following JCB members: Bobbie and Bill Probst who are always willing helpers, Jeanne Struhar for her help at the exhibit table and
volunteering at the YAC (Youth Activity Center), Robert Jones, Pamela Jones, and new member joining at Convention, Sally Trayer for
their many hours at the exhibit table; David Brown for his many trips to the store to purchase items for the exhibit table and for the beach
party items (ice, table covers, drinks, cold drink containers, and monitary support); Gloria Simmons for her making the Saturday Host
Party a success, and many volunteers during the week of the convention; Mahalah Va'Shem for endless hours as a volunteer; We must
thank all who came to help stuff the registration bags on the Thursday prior to Convention: Eugene Richards, Valicia Pettaway, David
Brown, Gloria Simmons, Robert A. Jones, Dan O'Connor, Barbara Brown, Doug Hansard, Hazel Hansard, Toni Burrell and her daughter
Summer and Mahalah Va'Shem. Thanks to Toni Burrell and her daughter Summer for their help at the ACB Beach Party."
When asked whom she would particularly like to thank, Linda Jacobson wrote, "Those from Clay County who also helped in stuffing the
registration bags on Thursday as well as set up for the stuffing were: Wayne Jacobson, Dawnielle Jacobson, Andre Warner, Robert
Balcomb, Paul Kaminsky, Maureen Kaminsky, Debbie Drylie and Linda Jacobson. Dan O'Connor was the liaison with the Jacksonville
Mayor's Disability Office Chief, Jack Gillrup. This office donated the registration bags as well as presented a proclamation to the
Convention. Barbara Brown worked extremely hard in more areas than can be mentioned, from setting up General Session Speakers to
organizing the Beach Party to finding parking and working all Convention week at the Information Desk. Michael Taylor worked with
Margarine Beaman to organize and recruit volunteers. He also made arrangements for one of the entertainers at the Welcome to Florida
Party. Paul Kaminsky worked on some of the handouts for the Information Desk. He and his wife Maureen volunteered at the airport
greeting conventioneers. Lynnette Taylor was our liaison for the Temple Sisterhood Braille Group, Jessie Johnson helped at the
Volunteer Desk. Debbie Drylie kept us all organized and without her help during Convention week, many activities and events would not
have run smoothly. She was always there with a smile and a helping hand. Needless to say spouses: David Brown, Jean O'Connor, Pat
Taylor, Maureen Kaminsky, Mike Drylie and Eric Jacobson were extremely helpful. As for me, I enjoy hard work and a challenge, and this
Convention offered both. It takes all the workers, not just one person, to make an event this large successful.
We in FCB have been very busy since last I wrote to you. Barbara Grill took the lead in writing a letter for us commenting on the
Department of Transportation’s Rule Making Process regarding proposed changes to the Americans with Disabilities Act and section
504 regulations addressing reasonable modifications of policies, practices and procedures by transit providers while still offering them
the protection of the “undue burden” clause of the ADA. In her excellent letter, Ms. Grill advocated for a proposed rule change requiring
public transportation agencies to provide door-to-door paratransit services rather than the less safe and acceptable curb-to-curb
services.
An exciting event occurred in the life of FCB on August 17th. We held our first Presidents’ Meeting via conference call. Issues such as
setting up a White Cane Law Safety Day, membership building, meeting location, meeting programming, transportation, and many other
exciting and fruitful topics were discussed and plans were made to address all of them in detail at future meetings. Each Chapter
represented was given the opportunity to tell the group at the conference call what it is doing. There were some very exciting things going
on in our chapters that you will hear about as we give you updates of future Presidents’ Meetings as well as in the Affiliate News column
of this publication. If your Chapter was not represented at this meeting by the President or the President’s representative, please make
sure that you are represented at our next meeting to be held on Tuesday, September 19th at 8:00 PM. To learn how to join the
conference, please contact Sally Benjamin at the FCB Project Insight Office.
In Mid August, Robert Miller represented FCB in Tallahassee and Rachel Bader represented FCB in the Orlando area at the Rule Making
Workshops for the legislation mandating AEIT (Accessible Electronic Information and Technology) for people with disabilities working for
the State of Florida. They discussed equipment maintenance and enforcement of the law.
On August 22nd, Barbara Grill, Ed Wess, Ruth Book, members of the FCB Sarasota affiliate, and I attended the Governor’s ADA Working
Group (ADAWG) Public hearing held in Sarasota. Barbara passionately spoke about accessible bus stops being moved to inaccessible
locations in Sarasota County, a county that is supposed to be a state model for fixed route transit services. She told of how bus stops'
located near signalized intersections have been moved to grassy areas with ditches. She explained that individuals have fallen as they
have exited the bus, whether on foot or in a wheelchair. Ms. Grill made it very clear that bus stops that are not located near an
intersection are difficult for individuals who are blind and visually impaired to locate and can be dangerous for all riders of fixed route
transit. The Chair of the ADA Working Group Board promised to put Ms. Grill in contact with individuals in the Sarasota area who can
assist her with this problem. She was told that the ADAWG has no authority over fixed-route transit. I was disappointed that we were not
given more assistance as accessible bus stops are being moved to inaccessible areas throughout the state.
During my presentation to the ADAWG, I spoke about the new precedent set by a suit brought by the ACB of Maryland to the Federal
Highway Administration against the Maryland Highway Administration because the Maryland Highway Administration refused to place
Accessible Pedestrian Signals in intersections until the Federal Highway Administration created standards. I now quote from the crucial
portion of the Federal Highway Administration’s letter. “The ADA regulations at 28 Code of Federal Regulations Part 35.130(b)(1)(III)
requires that the aids, benefits, or services provided to individuals with disabilities must be as effective in affording equal opportunity to
obtain the same result, to gain the same benefit, or to reach the same level of achievement as those provided to others. The FHWA
finds that the lack of accessibility for blind pedestrians is a violation of the ADA.
Therefore, the MSHA is not in compliance with the ADA.”
This quote was shared with the ADAWG and the letter in its entirety will be sent to them per their request. I then raised the issue of the
FCB’s endeavors to have the Governor create a task force to study the creation of a statewide seamless system of transportation. I
spoke about the unsatisfactory responses we had received from the Governor’s Office directing us to the Transportation Disadvantaged
Commission. This issue was not well received by the ADAWG. When I asked what action we might expect from them, they told me that
my time was up and that they would have to talk about it. They asked no questions nor did they make any comments even though the
lack of a seamless statewide system of transportation is devastatingly problematic for all individuals with disabilities as well as to all
individuals who do not drive due to age or lack of financial resources. I plan to raise the issue with the ADAWG again in the near future.
FCB will also investigate other avenues of bringing this issue to the attention of those who can bring about the creation of this most
necessary task force.
On August 24th, our two Vice Presidents, Robert Miller and John Richards met via teleconference with State Representative Dennis
Baxley, Chair of the State Legislature’s Vision Caucus. They discussed the transportation task force addressed above, retrofitting of
equipment for state workers that is not covered under the AEIT legislation addressed above and the lack of resources for children who
are blind and visually impaired and who are educated in Florida’s public schools, especially in terms of their accessibility to Braille and
orientation and mobility instruction. According to Robert Miller, Rep. Baxley was very receptive to the issues raised. He will send Mr.
Miller the necessary contact information that FCB needs and he will receive written correspondence from us regarding the issues raised
in the teleconference.
Please plan to attend FCB’s Annual Board meeting to be held at the Sheraton Safari from November 3rd through 5th. I look forward to
seeing many of you there. FCB will continue to work tirelessly to carry out its mission with your help.
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ACB MEMBER BENEFITS - by Ardis Bazyn
(Note: this and the next article were distributed at the Membership session at the ACB Convention.)
-- Purpose: Provides positive advocacy for blind and visually impaired persons and helps change stereotypes of society and promotes
social, economic, and educational opportunities
- Provides education about blindness, resources, and support
- Advocates for members on specific issues: discrimination, housing, employment; availability of talking ATMs, accessible pedestrian
signals, accessible websites, and talking voting machines
- Awards student scholarships
- Donates scholarships to first timers for conventions
- Finds mentors to give advice and help in problem-solving
- Publishes monthly magazine: Braille Forum
- Hosts listservs for sharing blindness issues
- Updates Website with information and resources: http://www.acb.org
- Produces Internet radio shows: http://www.acbradio.org
- Plans an Annual Convention including Special Interest Affiliates
Affiliate Benefits
- Build local chapters as support network for members
- Award Scholarships for students
- Develop loans for employment
- Grant crisis funds for emergencies
- Produce brochures with tips and ideas
- Disseminate up-to-date information through phone or E-mail
- Publish quarterly affiliate newsletters
- Hosts listserv sharing blindness issues
- Update websites with information and resources
- Plan Annual Conventions and seminars
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SUCCESSFUL MEETINGS - by Ardis Bazyn
(Note: this article was distributed at the Membership session at the ACB Convention.)
When, Where, and How?
- When do you hold meetings? Are they convenient for most people -- Saturday or weekday, daytime or evening? Daytime during the
week might keep some from coming.
- Where do you hold meetings? Restaurant, public meeting place, church, library, or senior center? Senior centers might keep younger
people away.
- How do you invite people to meetings? Phone trees, email lists, flyers, PSAs or ads on radio and in newspapers
- Do you plan your meeting in advance? Speakers, topic of discussion, agenda preparation
- Does your president run a good meeting? greeting, welcome to newcomers, tenor of meeting, handling difficult people with "thank you
but we must move on"
- Is your meeting organized? Reports, Old Business, New Business, Speaker or Program
- Are meetings interesting and/or challenging for most members? Advocacy, support mechanism, networking, as well as socializing
- Does your meeting incorporate some networking and getting acquainted time? Lunch, dinner, or snack time either before the meeting
starts or afterward
- Do you have an assistive listening system? These systems include a cordless microphone and whatever number of assistive listening
transmitters you purchase. This might help those with hearing difficulties. Consider applying for a grant from a Lions Club in your
area.
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CONVENTION 2007 - by Sila Miller
Hello Friends and Members of FCB:
Recently I was blessed or cursed, whichever way you choose to look at it, with an appointment from our President, Debbie Grubb, to
chair our Convention Committee. I accepted this appointment with high hopes and a little trepidation, as I’ve never chaired a state
committee with so many responsibilities. At any rate, I’m honored that that much faith has been placed in me and I hope to live up to
it!
As many of you already know, our 2007 State Convention will be hosted by my own chapter, the TCB chapter, and will take place here in
Talley town from May 17th through May 20th, 2007. Our chapter is very excited to have been chosen to host a state gathering and anxious
to make it one of our best!
In my capacity as Chair of the Convention Committee, and as one from the local affiliate who wants to make this convention a huge
success, I’d appreciate your thoughts and suggestions regarding plans for this as well as future Conventions. Not everyone can serve
on a committee but everyone can have a part in planning, serving and having their voice heard. This is your organization and I want to
hear from you.
"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." So, give your input, time and participation. What can we do to
make you feel welcome, draw newcomers and make folks want to become involved and stay involved with FCB? E-mail or call me with
your comments at silam@earthlink.net or (850) 894-9203.
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NOVEMBER IS BOARD MEETING TIME! - by Rosanna Lippen
The 2006 FCB Annual Board Meeting will be held at the Sheraton Safari Hotel and Suites in the Lake Buena Vista area of Orlando. This
is the same hotel where FCB enjoyed this year's Annual Convention and also the venue for Board Meetings for the past several years.
The address is 12205 Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32836. As you most likely know, the hotel offers shuttle service to all Disney
Theme Parks and is in the middle of hundreds of things to do and places to eat.
The Board Meeting will take place from Friday, November 3rd, through Sunday, November 5th, 2006. The room rate is $86.00 per night
and occupancy can be up to 4 adults.
The cutoff date for anyone making their own reservations is October 4th, 2006. Please call the hotel directly at (407)239-0444 or you
may use the toll-free number of 1-800-423-3297 and advise the reservationist you are a member of the Florida Council of the Blind and
need a reservation for the November Board Meeting.
Any questions or problems, please call me at (954) 721-9834 or E-mail at
rmlippen@bellsouth.net.
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AWARDS 2007 - by Sally Benjamin
Hello FCB Friends and Members:
It’s time to begin thinking of that special someone who is an advocate, worker and organizer and deserves recognition. Below is
information regarding the nominations and criteria that I hope will be helpful to you when deciding whom to nominate. Volunteering is
often a thankless job and this is our opportunity to recognize and celebrate that person and their contribution. It is also a wonderful
opportunity to include high school students, as they are our tomorrow. Please read on and consider nominating someone for an
award.
An award is a recognition of excellence, which the recipient ought to be able to cherish. It is better not to give an award than to give it to
someone who does not embody the spirit of the award. Since the standard of excellence is so high each award may not necessarily be
given every year. Each award consists of a plaque, with the exception of the Chapter Award and the chapter may purchase a plaque for
their award recipient at a cost of $32.00. The plaque will be presented during the Awards Ceremony held at our 2007 Annual Convention
scheduled for Thursday, May 17th, thru Sunday, May 20th, at the Ramada Conference Center Hotel in Tallahassee.
Each nomination, (with the exception of the Chapter Award) must contain the following:
· name of the award
· name of nominee (spelled as you wish it to appear on the plaque)
· name of group/person(s) making the nomination
· reasons why the nominee meets the criteria for the award
All nominations for awards to be presented at the Annual Convention must be received by the Awards Committee Chairperson, Sally
Benjamin, no later than January 31st, 2007. This deadline is necessary in order that all nominations can be collected and organized so
our Committee may deliberate and select award winners. We request that all letters, nominations and other materials be either
e-mailed, taped, typed or brailled (no handwriting please) for easy processing. Please E-mail to
salbenjamin@comcast.net.
R. HENRY P. JOHNSON AWARD
R. Henry P. Johnson trained as a lawyer. He had very little formal training when it was necessary for him to adjust to substantial visual
impairment. Nevertheless, he remained active in his community and constantly sought to extend the boundaries of activities that he and
other blind persons could become involved in.
The R. Henry P. Johnson Award will be presented to a legally blind person who has, through their work and through service to their
community, demonstrated the kind of pioneering spirit and exemplary adjustment that Mr. Johnson demonstrated. Individuals who are
likely to be considered for this award must succeed far beyond the average person who is visually impaired.
DOLLY GAMBLE AWARD
Dolly Gamble, by her actions and example, was able to establish a climate in which the Miami Lighthouse could be started. Throughout
her adult life, Ms. Gamble worked tirelessly to promote the betterment of blind people in her community, state, and the nation.
The recipient of the Dolly Gamble Award must have demonstrated a commitment to and success with the extension of services for the
blind and visually impaired people of this state. The recipient may be blind or sighted, but should, in general, represent a high level of
expertise and commitment to serving blind individuals.
W. A. OUZTS AWARD
William Alfred Ouzts, known as W. A., was a member of FCB from 1971 until the time of his death in 1992. He held state office for 20 of
those years, including 12 as Treasurer and 4 years as President. For many years he had the White Cane Bulletin printed, prepared and
mailed. Whatever his official status, W. A. was always quietly working and networking with other members behind the scenes. Officer,
consultant, advisor, supporter, worker, whatever his role, W. A. never sought recognition for what he did.
While no one could replace W. A., a recipient of this award would display many of the superb qualities exhibited by W. A., including
dedication to FCB, responsibility and effectiveness. The individual must have taken a leadership role in numerous FCB projects and
actively participated in the organization for a minimum of 10 years. This award would only be given to an outstanding FCB Member, an
individual we would all wish to emulate.
WILLIAM (BILL) FERRELL ("JUST BILL") HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Bill was involved in visual impairment issues for much of his life. He was a Project Insight peer advisor since that program’s inception.
He worked endlessly both locally, in Brevard County, and at the state level, serving as a member of several vital FCB committees and
representing his chapter on the FCB Board of Directors for many years.
The recipient of this award may be blind or sighted but must have gone to great lengths to better the quality of life of people, be they
sighted or not. The recipient should have demonstrated a sincere concern for his/her fellow humans, just as Bill always did. A good
candidate for this award would be one who has worked in the field of rehabilitation, i.e. mobility instructors, teachers, or rehab
counselors, for example. Membership in Florida Council of the Blind is not a prerequisite for this award. Anyone who, over they years,
has contributed their time and caring for others, especially people who are blind or visually impaired, may be a candidate for this
award.
Recipients of this award will be selected based upon their demonstration of humanitarian qualities, which emphasize efforts to improve
the quality of life for others, having communicated, educated, facilitated and updated to ensure equality, independence and dignity for
others.
COOK CHAPTER PRESIDENT’S AWARD
Each chapter may nominate a chapter president from the previous year to receive this award. The following accomplishments will be
considered when selecting a recipient for this award: regularity of meetings, effective programs, increases in membership, cooperation
in local and state projects, participation in community organizations. Overall leadership skills, including innovation and cooperation with
neighboring chapters, as well as the state organization will be considered when assessing the performance of a nominee.
LEGISLATIVE AWARD
The purpose of this award is to honor a Florida elected official who through his/her statewide and/or federal legislative efforts must have
made a significant and positive impact on the welfare of blind and visually impaired people in Florida. Legislative recipient must be a
Florida elected official exhibiting outstanding legislative activities on behalf of people who are blind.
CHAPTER AWARD
Each chapter or special affiliate is encouraged to submit the name of a member they wish to honor. The criteria for the selection is up to
the chapter/affiliate. All that is required by FCB's Awards Committee is the name of the recipient, as you wish it printed, and the name of
the chapter/affiliate submitting the name. Chapter Awards are printed on paper certificates, unless the chapter wishes to purchase a
plaque.
OUTSTANDING HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR AWARD
This award is intended to honor a legally blind high school senior in Florida, who in academics, school and community has performed
better than all his/her peers. The award consists of a plaque and a $50 cash award. At the time of graduation, the student will be
presented the plaque. Should the student choose to attend FCB's Annual Convention, FCB will offer to pay the student's expenses and a
$50 cash award.
The name and address of the school, as well as the names of the principal and teachers must accompany the narrative nomination.
Evidence of superior scores on the SAT, ACT, College Boards or an equivalent instrument shall be presented with the nomination. The
narrative should include details of the student's involvement in extra-curricular activities, student government and community service.
Supporting letters from teachers, employers, etc. would be helpful.
MOBILITY AWARD
This award is intended to honor a high school senior at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind who has demonstrated the most
improvement in orientation and mobility while at the school. Two nominations have been solicited from the head of the mobility
department. The award consists of a plaque to be presented to the student at graduation. FCB shall pay the student's expenses and a
$50 cash award if the student chooses to attend FCB's Annual Convention.
Thanks in advance for your time and consideration. We look forward to receiving your nominations!
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WHITE CANE LAW PROTECTS BLIND PEDESTRIANS (OCTOBER 15TH IS FLORIDA WHITE CANE DAY):
VIOLATION OF THE WHITE CANE SAFETY LAW AS A PUNISHABLE OFFENSE - by Carl F. McCoy (Past President of FCB)
There is little doubt that the American intersection is becoming more and more hazardous to blind pedestrians. In one recent week
alone, there were five incidents of persons struck by motor vehicles resulting in one being killed and the other four being seriously
injured. With ever-increasing traffic volume everywhere, hearing about a person who is blind becoming a traffic victim somewhere in the
U.S. is almost a daily occurrence.
As a countermeasure, many states have adopted legislation designed to protect this vulnerable group who must cross busy streets to
conduct their daily activities. Florida Statute 413.07 is named "Traffic Regulations To Assist Blind Persons" and states:
1. It is unlawful for any person, unless totally or partially blind, or otherwise incapacitated, while on any public street or highway, to carry
in a raised or extended position a cane or walking stick which is white in color or white tipped with red.
2. Whenever a pedestrian is crossing or attempting to cross a public street or highway, guided by a dog guide or carrying in a raised or
extended position a cane or walking stick which is white in color or white tipped with red, the driver of every vehicle approaching the
intersection or place where such pedestrian is attempting to cross shall bring his vehicle to a full stop before arriving at such intersection
or place of crossing and before proceeding shall take such precautions as may be necessary to avoid injuring such pedestrian.
3. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to deprive any totally or partially blind or otherwise incapacitated person not
carrying such a cane or walking stick, or not being guided by a dog, of the rights and privileges conferred by law upon pedestrians
crossing streets or highways; nor shall the failure of such totally or partially blind or otherwise incapacitated person to carry a cane or
walking stick, or to be guided by a guide dog upon the streets, highways, or sidewalks of this state, be held to constitute, or be evidence
of, contributory negligence.
4. Any person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided
in section 775.082, section 775.083, and section 775.084.
Since there seems to be little public awareness that violating the legal rights of blind pedestrians is a punishable offense, we urge that
every driver in Florida, both residents and visitors, at least learn and observe this law. If it would enhance their sensitivity to mentally
place themselves in the role of the unsighted, they might imagine being blindfolded and told to "Now, cross the street." Would a careless
or reckless driver have a clearer insight into the plight of the blind and observe safety?
October 15th is traditionally designated as National White Cane Safety Day.
We, the members of the Florida Council of the Blind, challenge Florida's drivers to observe the rights of blind pedestrians, and indeed all
pedestrians, to take into account the lives of these courageous pedestrians and respect those who carry a white cane or are led by a
guide dog.
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DINING IN THE DARK - by Barbara Ross, FIRE Executive Director
FIRE, the non-profit serving the blind in the Big Bend, will be holding the "2nd Annual Paula Bailey Dining in the Dark," a three-course
dinner in pitch black darkness, at the University Center Club on Sunday, October 15th...but with some new twists this year.
This year, a reception with honorary host Representative Loranne Ausley will take place at 5 PM on the first floor. She will say a few
words, there will be live music, a cash bar, and a sample table set up identical to the one at which you'll be eating in the dark.
Before dinner, there will be lessons on walking and eating in the dark held in a quiet area on the first floor, to take place during the
reception. Tables will be called by number so guests can go up to the ballroom together and be seated at 5:45 PM, when the dinner
officially begins. You will be guided to your seat by volunteers that are blind and navigate in the dark every day.
Another exciting addition is the Leon County Sheriff's Office SWAT Team. They have volunteered to use their night vision goggles to
serve dinner and wait on you. The menu will be new so you can savor the intensified tastes and smells as you eat without your sight.
During the dinner, there will be quiet background music and a fun surprise between courses. Afterwards the lights will come up as FIRE
presents the "Paula Bailey Inspirational Community Member" award.
Tickets are on sale now, so please consider buying a table of eight for $500. Single seats are available for $50. Just call (850)
942-3658 to reserve yours. We look forward to Dining in the Dark with you!
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LUCENTIS, VISION-PRESERVING TREATMENT FOR WET AMD, APPROVED BY FDA (JUNE 30, 2006) - by Ben A.
Shaberman - Submitted by Jack Varnon
Genentech announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Lucentis(TM) for the treatment of wet
age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
"This is great news for the millions of older Americans at risk of losing their vision to wet AMD. People affected by wet AMD have had few
alternatives," says Stephen Rose, Ph.D., Chief Research Officer, Foundation Fighting Blindness. "Lucentis is not only a new option, it
appears to be safe and highly effective."
Two-year results from the MARINA study showed that Lucentis halted vision loss in more than 90 percent of individuals with wet AMD.
The treatment restored some vision in 33 percent of individuals receiving the higher of two doses (.5 mg). In the MARINA study,
participants received Lucentis monthly via intravitreal injection (injection into the eye).
Lucentis is the second FDA-approved alternative in an emerging group of wet AMD treatments, which are said to be "anti-angiogenic," a
term given to treatments that inhibit or block the growth of vision-robbing blood vessels under the retina. Approved in late 2004,
Macugen(R) was the first FDA-approved anti-angiogenic treatment for wet AMD.
Lucentis works by inhibiting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A (VEGF-A), a protein that is believed to play a major role in the
development of leaky, vision-robbing blood vessels under the retina. Growth of these unhealthy blood vessels is the hallmark of wet
AMD.
AMD is the leading cause of legal blindness in Americans who are 55 years of age or older. Approximately nine million people in the U.S.
are affected by AMD. The number of people affected by AMD is expected to double by 2020, because of the aging of the Baby Boomer
population.
AMD occurs in two forms: wet and dry. The wet form causes significantly more cases of severe vision loss than dry. However, people
with dry AMD are at risk of developing the wet form.
The urgent mission of The Foundation Fighting Blindness is to drive the research that will provide preventions, treatments, and cures for
people affected by retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, Usher syndrome, and the entire spectrum of retinal degenerative
diseases.
For more information about The Foundation and retinal degenerative diseases, visit
http://www.fightblindness.org.
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PROTECTING YOUR COMPUTER - Submitted by Patricia A. Lipovsky
TOPICS DISCUSSED BELOW
- Lightning!
- Protect your CMOS!
Lightning!
One of the hazards that all computer owners have to deal with is power surges, sometimes called spikes. Even a slight increase in
voltage can fry the electronics. So, it is very wise to connect your computer to a surge protector rather than plug it directly into the wall. If
you want to get really fancy, you can purchase one with a built in power supply that will keep your computer working for a few minutes if
the power goes out.
But, do not put too much confidence in surge protectors. Suppose lightning should somehow find is way into your wiring. Do you really
think a surge protector can hold back a million volts? So, to be safe, it is best to turn off the computer when there is lightning around.
Even better, unplug it. Taking a few minutes to do this could save you the cost of a new computer.
Also, if your modem is hooked up, remember that telephone lines get struck too. Some surge protector boxes have a connection for the
modem cable. This would be a good investment. I know someone who had to replace the modem on his new computer after a
thunderstorm. So, if there is nearby lightning, disconnect the telephone line too.
Protect Your CMOS!
The Problem
There is a part of your PC that never sleeps, even when your computer is turned off. This is a segment of the computer's memory
containing the Computer Setup Information, CMOS for short. Mundane things such as the time and date are stored here. A large number
of very forgettable settings are also here. A rechargeable battery keeps this small part of the computer on all of the time.
Sooner or later, even the best quality batteries die. And when this happens, the CMOS will forget everything. The date will go back to the
default 1980. But, much more seriously, the computer will not be able to read the hard drive. When you try to boot up, you will get an error
message, and the computer will hang up. How well you have prepared for this will determine how long you will be deprived of the use of
your computer.
Preparing for CMOS Failure
First, find out how to access your CMOS. The combination of CTRL-ALT- DEL works with many PC's. You may have to read your manual
to find out what works with your computer. Once you have accessed the CMOS (Also called BIOS), you should copy down all of the
settings. Do not change anything: it could cause problems.
Second, make one of your floppies into a boot disk. Windows provides a program that will create an emergency floppy disk. Put a
formatted disk into the A drive. and run the program.
What to do if your CMOS fails
If you need to access the computer right away, you can boot it with your emergency disk. Put it in the A drive. Reset the computer
(CTRL-ALT-DEL will do this), or turn the computer on if it is off. Once you are in Windows, you should be able to access your CMOS in the
usual way. In some computers you can access the CMOS by pressing a key early in the boot up process. If the CMOS values are all
wrong, you can be fairly confident that the battery is bad.
Using the CMOS information you wrote down, reenter all of the values. There is probably a provision in the CMOS to reboot the computer.
Otherwise, exit the CMOS and reset the computer as before. As long as the power is on, the CMOS values should remain, and you will
have full access to your hard drive again.
The battery, of course, will have to be replaced. It is a lot less trouble to have a service person do it, though you could do it yourself. Give
the service person the CMOS data so that he can set it up properly.
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VOTE OF CONFIDENCE: MACHINES LET BLIND CAST BALLOTS INDEPENDENTLY - by Fred Hiers, THE
STAR-BANNER - Submitted by Sally Benjamin
Wesley Wilcox, Marion County's Assistant Supervisor of Elections, demonstrates new iVotronic voting machines Wednesday at the
Florida Center for the Blind, on Southwest 32nd Street in Ocala.
When glaucoma robbed Jim Culmo of his sight nearly 20 years ago, the disease also stripped him of his independence. His vision is
gone forever, but the 73-year-old former Lipton Soup employee now wages a private battle to try to take back a little of that
independence.
"I had to give up so much when I lost my sight," he said. "So I look for ways to be more self-sufficient."
On Wednesday, Culmo took another step forward in his struggle to win back another freedom glaucoma snatched away. Until now,
Culmo depended on his wife to help him vote, usually with an absentee ballot, his wife reading off his choices and Culmo verbally
responding about the issues and candidates. "I've never been able to vote by myself after losing my sight," he said.
But in compliance with the federal Help America Vote Act, the Marion County Supervisor of Elections office bought 175 voting machines
that can easily be used by the visually impaired or blind.
Wesley Wilcox, Assistant Supervisor of Elections, demonstrated the new equipment to about 30 visually-impaired people at the Marion
County Florida Center for the Blind at 7325 S.W. 32nd St.
After using one of the machines, Culmo said he would never vote absentee again. "Because this is something I can do myself without
someone reading the ballot to me," he said. After trying the iVotronic voting equipment, which involves headphones and verbal
commands as to how to use the machines, Culmo said the process could not be easier.
"I'm very happy with it," the Belleview resident said. "I don't see anything they could do to make it any easier. It was very easy to
operate."
Although Culmo could continue voting using an absentee ballot, he will make the trek to a voting station regardless of the additional
time it will take, he said. "Because that way I can vote by myself," he said. "It's about being independent."
The machines cost $6,000 each. The county bought 175, Wilcox said. The machines will be available at polling places during early
voting and during the day of elections this year at all of the county's 151 voting precincts, Wilcox said.
There are about 198,000 registered voters in Marion County. About 21,000 are legally blind, said John Richards, Executive Director of
Florida Center for the Blind. "It's their constitutional right to cast their independent vote," he said.
Kristine Beltz, blind since birth, said the voting machines allow her the same opportunity sighted people have. "Most other folks don't
ask for help voting," she said. "It's kind of embarrassing even though you know (your blindness) is not your fault." Until now, Beltz has
relied on her father to step into the voting booth with her. "But our families are not going to be with us forever," said the 36-year-old
Beltz. "Besides, this makes us more like everyone else."
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SECURITY AT THE AIRPORT - by Jackie Hull
Security at the airports has been commanding major news attention in the past few weeks.
We just had the opportunity to fly to Detroit for the Abilities Expo. The night before our outbound flight was a sleepless one. We were
thinking about all the "what ifs?" What if I pack something I shouldn't have? What if they give us a hard time traveling with a guide dog?
What if we are delayed at security and miss our flight? What if.....? What if.....?
To prevent any delays on our part, we purposefully left for the airport with plenty of time to spare. We packed according to the terms and
conditions the news was telling us that the Transportation Safety Administration wanted us to pack. We carefully heeded all their
requests and our security check through went flawlessly.
Constant announcements over the public address systems warned about carrying any liquids, gels or pastes in the carryon luggage.
Items that fall into this category are shampoos, suntan lotion, creams, beverages and toothpaste. Formula for babies, prescription
medications in their original container prescribed specifically for the traveler, small bottles of saline solutions and other similar
products are allowed in limited quantity.
The security personnel were very helpful with every aspect of the process. We always request a manual scan for Dr. John because the
harness and leash will set the alarms off. They were very accommodating.
Some helpful hints for traveling by air during these heightened security periods.
1. If you don't need it.....don't take it. Pack lightly, avoid clutter. This will facilitate screening.
2. Arrive earlier than usual to avoid any rushing and the stress that goes with it.
3. Don't try to see if you can get away with something. If it is on the restricted list, pack it in the check in luggage or obtain it at your
destination.
4. Cooperate with TSA personnel at checkpoints, and airline personnel both at the gates, check-in and while on board.
5. Treat them with the same respect that you expect. Kindness is contagious.
6. Be attentive and vigilant to any suspicious activity.
7. Keep your belongings with you at all times - do not allow yourself to become vulnerable to someone who may slip something into
your items without your knowledge.
8. If you need assistance, it would be wisest to accept it from the professionals that are there to help.
9. Don't allow pride to compromise safety.
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SCENES AND IMPRESSIONS FROM THE ACB CONVENTION - by Sharon Youngs
I’d like to thank the members of FCB for the opportunity to go to the ACB Convention in Jacksonville. Because of my work schedule, I
was only able to attend for three days. When I made my plans to go, my hopes were to get some new ideas about the exhibits for our
own convention and to be of assistance to whomever I met there.
The registration process wasn’t very much different than with FCB. Sila is every bit as efficient as the ACB folks were. I had, of course,
pre-registered. So all I needed to do was to pick up my packet.
While I was still in that area, I saw Confetti, the guide horse. That’s right, there was a miniature horse (no bigger than most guide
dogs) acting as a guide for a woman. Confetti has her own harness works as well as a lot of guide dogs. There were LOTS of guide
dogs at the Convention too.
I was off to the exhibits hall. The Hyatt is a large hotel and the exhibits were in the main ballroom on the third floor. Every inch of the
ballroom was needed too! I saw high tech stuff that I had no idea what I was looking at. I saw low tech gadgets that I understood
better. Some of the folks that are at FCB’s Conventions every year were at this one too. Kurzweil has a new product that was being
introduced there. As a person with Low Vision, rather than no vision, I felt that this product would be very difficult for most totally blind
people to use. There were at least two displays of people selling jewelry. William Benjamin was there selling music boxes, etc.
Freedom Scientific had a huge display. Some of our chapters were selling t-shirts. I supported them by purchasing one of the last
ones the Jacksonville Chapter had for sale.
Saturday evening I had a bit of a problem. I had two events to attend. I went to the “Welcome to Jacksonville” party for a while. All of the
FCB Officers had been urged to attend this and I did my part. But I am also a Lion. The annual American Council of Blind Lions' Pin
Swap Party was calling me. I was able to extend the welcome that Florida is so famous for to all the Lions attending that event. I met a
Lion from Mississippi who told me about some fundraising efforts to help with their further Katrina recovery efforts.
On Sunday, I attended the interdenominational worship service., took in some more of the exhibits and generally visited with people
from all parts of the country. I always enjoy the Official Opening of the Convention. I must admit the trooping in of the colors by a military
color guard stirs my heart. I enjoyed Christopher Gray’s President’s Speech. I love to hear how our organization has been helpful to
individuals. We were treated to hear from Mike Hingson who had been working in the World Trade Center, Tower II on that fateful day.
He told of how his guide dog had assisted him out of the building and the rest of the harrowing experience of that day. I just wish you
all could have heard him speak. Sure hope he writes an article for the Braille Forum so you all can experience this dynamic
speaker.
Monday morning General Session was interesting. More awards were presented. I, personally, enjoyed this because I have been
allowed the privilege of hosting our Awards Ceremony every year and served on the awards committee until May 2006. I attended
some of the program sessions of the Council of Citizens with Low Vision International and was very warmly greeted by the officers of
that group.
Monday evening was my time to have some fun. As some of you know, one of my hobbies is singing. Monday evening was designed
just for me. First I attended a good ol’ fashioned gospel sing. We started out with only about 20 or so folks in attendance. But by the
time we had to call it a day there were about 3 times as many people singing. And, as if that wasn’t enough fun for one evening, the
next event I attended was the RSVA karaoke night. Of course, you all know how shy I am but I was able to be coaxed to get up and do
my thing. I was in my element but it was very warm in that room and I didn’t stay up to sing too long.
Tuesday was an informal meeting of the Board of FCCLV. It went very well and we are hoping to revive this dormant, statewide special
interest group. There will be more about FCCLV in upcoming issues of the White Cane Bulletin.
I wish you all could have attended the convention. I’m told that you better start saving your pennies because ACB has scheduled
another convention for the year 2009 in Orlando.
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BLIND INTERIOR DESIGNER? - Submitted by Pat Lipovsky
August 2, 2006 -- WOULD you hire a blind interior designer?
For A & E, the answer is yes. The cable channel has hired one - Los Angeles-based Eric "Eric B." Brun-Sanglard - to star in its new
weekly design series "Designing Blind." The concept raises an obvious question: How does he do it? "I walk in a room and the first
thing I try to do is to get in touch with the energy of the room, the flow of the room," Eric B. explained in a phone interview. "And that's
something that's really hard to explain to someone who totally relies on sight," Eric B. acknowledged.
The half-hour series, which premieres this Sunday at 5 PM on A & E, will show how Eric B. redesigns interiors for homeowners
who are unaware he is blind until he and host/sidekick Alexandra Hedison show up at their door. In this Sunday's premiere, a
skeptical husband expresses his anxiety to his wife. Says the hubby, "The room is going to be upside down!"
He needn't worry, however. Eric B., 43, has been renovating and redecorating homes in the L.A. area for the last 10 years, starting with
his own, since shortly after going blind from CMV retinitis, an inflammation of the retina. He established his design firm, The Blind
Designer Inc. (designingblind.com), eight years ago and has dealt often with skeptical clients.
"When people want to redo a home, it's because there's usually something going on in their life," he said. "And I first try to understand
that. "And when they know that I know what's happening and they realize I'm onto them, I start getting their trust."
As a blind person, the French-born designer relies on other senses. "If I clap my hands, the way the sound resonates in a room often
gives me the sense of height and volume and also the kind of materials used in the room," he said. "Through sound, I can find where
the windows are because I can hear the sound from the outside, and from there I can feel the sunlight and so it gives me a sense of
how much light comes into the room."
He also has helpers who can answer his questions about aspects of a home's décor. As for choosing colors, Eric B. was an
advertising creative director before he was struck blind, so he already had experience in color selection.
Today, he is aided by tools such as a "talking" tape measure and a special printer that produces "raised" blueprints and floor plans that
he can then "read" with his fingers.
For Eric B., the TV show is an opportunity to inspire others.
"It's really to show people who think that, because bad things happen to you in life, it suddenly gives you limitations," he said.
"Limitations are what you decide for yourself."
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WE’RE BAAAACK! - by Sharon Youngs
After a few years of dormancy, the special interest group known as the Florida Council of Citizens with Low Vision is back. The newly
elected officers and Board have vowed to bring this once thriving chapter back from the brink of extinction. At the FCB Convention,
officers were elected. These Officers are: President: Jesse Johnson from Clay County; First Vice President: Barbara Grill, from the
Sarasota County area; and Second Vice President: Debbie Drylie from the Clay County area. Diane Bobrowsky from Tampa was,
once again, elected as Secretary. Bill Freeman, who resides in the Orlando area, was elected as Treasurer. And, because she has
nothing else to do, Sharon Youngs was picked to act as Membership Secretary. We were very pleased that this group of dedicated
people chose to serve and to get us back on track.
An informal Board Meeting was held during the ACB Convention and the members present voted to re-join the larger group, the
Council of Citizens with Low Vision. This was done so we could better serve the dedicated people who have been faithful throughout
the period of dormancy.
If you are interested in joining or rejoining this group, please send your name, address telephone number and format choice to me. My
address is part of the list of FCB Officers. The dues for this special interest group are $20.00. This will make you a member until
October 31st, 2007. I look forward to working with this group to help to serve the low vision community of Florida. If you have questions
or I can be of help to you, please communicate with me.
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CELL PHONE INFORMATION - Submitted by Sila Miller
Here is something worth knowing if you have a mobile phone...
Why pay $1.00 or more for 411 - information calls when you don't have to? When you need to use the 411 / information option, simply
dial 1-800-FREE-411 or 1-800-373-3411 without incurring a charge.
Have you ever wondered why phone companies don't seem interested in trying to prevent the theft of mobile phones? If you have ever
lost your cell phone or had it stolen and are on one of those 24-month plans, you know that you must continue paying the plan
premiums plus purchase another handset and possibly enter into another contract. This is more revenue for the phone company.
There is a simple way of making lost or stolen mobiles useless to thieves and the phone companies know about it, but keep it quiet.
Simply record your phone's unique serial number and if its ever lost or stolen, phone the service provider and give them this code.
They will be able to block your handset, so even if the thief changes the sim card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably
won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use or sell it either.
To check your mobile phone's serial number, key in the following on your phone: star-hash-zero-six-hash (* # 0 6 #) and a 15-digit
code will appear on the screen. This is unique to your handset.
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TECH TIPS - by John Richards for the FCB Technology Committee
(Portions of this article provided by Microsoft)
Windows Vista: Will it be Accessible for the Blind and Disabled?
In early 2007, Microsoft intends to launch its new operating system called “Windows Vista”. Is accessibility an issue? Below is a brief
description of accessibility features contained in Microsoft’s new operating system.
Microsoft Windows Vista includes built-in accessibility settings and programs that make it easier for computer users to see, hear, and
use their computers. Microsoft invested in more than three years of research to better understand the needs of people who experience
a wide range of physical challenges that can impact their computer use. The accessibility settings and programs in Windows Vista are
particularly helpful to people with visual difficulties, hearing loss, pain in their hands or arms, or reasoning and cognitive issues.
The new Ease of Access Center in Windows Vista provides a centralized location where you can get quick access to adjust
accessibility settings and manage assistive technology programs. The Ease of Access Center can be found in the Control Panel of
Windows Vista, or by selecting Winkey+U. The Ease of Access Center replaces the Accessibility Wizard and Utilities Manager in
previous versions of Windows.
Microsoft works closely with assistive technology (AT) manufacturers through the Microsoft Assistive Technology Vendor Program to
ensure that AT products are ready when Windows Vista is available. Many AT products, including multiple screen readers, will be
available on Windows Vista when it is released. Be sure to check with your AT manufacturer before upgrading if you have concerns.
Accessibility Features in Windows Vista
*Ease of Access Center: Provides a centralized location where you can adjust accessibility settings and manage accessibility
programs.
*Speech Recognition: Enables you to interact with your computer using only your voice while maintaining, or even increasing, your
productivity.
*Magnifier: Enlarges part of the screen while you work, leaving the rest of your desktop in a standard display.
*Narrator: A text-to-speech program that reads aloud on-screen text and describes some events (such as error messages) that
happen while you're using the computer
*On-Screen Keyboard: A visual, on-screen keyboard with all the standard keys that you can use instead of a physical keyboard.
On-Screen Keyboard also lets you type using an alternative input device.
*Keyboard Shortcuts: Use keyboard shortcuts as an alternative to the mouse. Keyboard shortcuts can be found in the menus of
programs, or, if a letter is underlined on a menu, that usually means pressing the ALT key in combination with the underlined key has
the same effect as clicking that menu item.
*Mouse Keys: Instead of using the mouse, you can use the arrow keys on the numeric keypad to move the pointer.
*Sticky Keys: Instead of having to press multiple keys at once (such as when you must press the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete keys
simultaneously to log on to Windows), you can press one key at a time when Sticky Keys is turned on.
*Filter Keys: Ignores keystrokes that occur in rapid succession and keystrokes that are held down for several seconds
unintentionally.
*Visual Notifications: Replace system sounds with visual cues, such as a flash on the screen, so system alerts are announced with
visual notifications instead of sounds.
*Captions: Turn on text captions for animations and video.
Microsoft claims that the accessibility features in Windows Vista are to be available to users when installing the operating system.
According to Microsoft, before purchasing and installing Windows Vista, you must have a Windows Vista capable PC.
What is a Windows Vista Capable PC?
A new PC that carries the Windows Vista Capable PC logo can run Windows Vista. All editions of Windows Vista will deliver core
experiences such as; innovations in organizing and finding information, security, and reliability. All Windows Vista Capable PCs will
run these core experiences at a minimum. Some features available in the premium editions of Windows Vista - like the new Windows
Aero-user experience - may require advanced or additional hardware.
A Windows Vista Capable PC includes at least:
- A modern processor (at least 800MHz)
- 512 MB of system memory
- A graphics processor that is DirectX 9 capable
Windows Vista Premium Ready PCs
To get an even better Windows Vista experience, including the Windows Aero user experience, ask for a Windows Vista Capable PC
that is designated Premium Ready, or choose a PC that meets or exceeds the Premium Ready requirements described below.
Features available in specific premium editions of Windows Vista, such as the ability to watch and record live TV, may require
additional hardware.
A Windows Vista Premium Ready PC includes at least:
- 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
- 1 GB of system memory
- Support for DirectX 9 graphics with a WDDM driver, 128 GB of graphics memory (minimum)
2, Pixel Shader 2.0 and 32 bits per pixel
- 40 GB of hard drive capacity with 15 GB free space
- DVD-ROM Drive
- Audio output capability
- Internet access capability
In conclusion, this new Windows Vista operating system is on the horizon. Are the AT providers ready?
The FCB Technology Committee hosts a Tech Talk session in the FCB General Chat Room on the first Monday of each month at 8:00
PM. Please take advantage of this free tech support session. Have you paid for tech support lately? If so, then you're aware of the
cost.
The following link will take you to the sign-in screen:
http://www.fcb.org/FCBGenRSigIn.htm.
At that point, type your name into the edit field and press the Enter key. If you are using speech, press Enter while pointing to the edit
field and depending on the screen reader you are using, you will enter forms mode if you are a JAWS user, or you will turn off MSAA
mode if you are using Window-Eyes. Type your name and press Enter.
Give the chat program time to load to your system. After the chat client has loaded, press the Ctrl key to talk and release to listen. If
people are already talking, you will hear them when you enter the room.
I will be glad to help anyone if you are having difficulty getting into the chat room. You can E-mail me at:
jsrj@earthlink.net.
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CHAPTER NEWS - Mid-Florida Council of the Blind
Mid-Florida Council of the Blind - by Jay Bader
MFCB has had a relaxing Summer for many of its Membership, a busy one for others. President Rachel Bader, as well as the majority
of the MFCB Officers, not only attended the ACB National Convention in Jacksonville this past July, but also participated in some of the
events and conferences scheduled during Convention, as well as the activities during General Session. Rachel may have been one
of the busiest Members of ACB there, as she had to move back and forth being a part of two exhibitors' booths during the week and at
the last minute, attending the Banquet as she assisted with a prize presentation. It was a great time had by all, and our friends in the
Clay and Jacksonville Chapters deserve much of the credit for that.
Also, MFCB was proud to participate in a public presentation for Voting Accessibility, held at the Orange County Supervisor of Elections
office in Orlando. Rachel was shown on many of the local television stations as she, as well as others who are disabled, were
demonstrating the use of the iVotronic machine. She and guide dog Kelly were also interviewed as well. Rachel was proud to be a
part of what will be an important process of making the public aware that those who are disabled can now cast a secret, independent
ballot in Orange County.
As we prepare for the fall, White Cane Day 2006 will be another important event for MFCB. Again joining with the National Federation
of the Blind-Greater Orlando Chapter, MFCB looks forward to making the public aware of how the blind and visually-impaired of Orange,
Osceola and Seminole counties deal with walking the streets and the laws that protect us. The result of our White Cane Day will be in
our next Chapter News for the November-December White Cane Bulletin.
MFCB is also in the process of laying the groundwork for a proposal to have Accessible Pedestrian Signals in, at the very least, part of
the city of Orlando, within the next year. However, this is something that will take a group effort to accomplish, as earlier attempts have
resulted in the response that it costs too much money to implement. So if there is anyone in FCB who would like to offer any
suggestions in making APS a reality in our chapter's area, please call Rachel and Jay Bader at (407) 658-2479 or E-mail
mfcbinfo@bellsouth.net.
All will be much appreciated.
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RECIPE CORNER
SPINACH STUFFED CHICKEN BREAST
by Sila Miller
INGREDIENTS:
1 (10 oz.) package fresh spinach leaves
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup shredded pepperjack cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
1 pinch ground black pepper
8 slices bacon
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Place spinach in a large glass bowl, and heat in the microwave for 3 minutes, stirring every minute or so, or until wilted. Stir in sour
cream, pepperjack cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts out on a clean surface, and spoon some of the spinach mixture onto each one. Roll up chicken to enclose
the spinach. Then wrap each chicken breast with two slices of bacon. Secure with toothpicks, and arrange in a shallow baking
dish.
4. Bake uncovered for 35 minutes in the preheated oven, then increase heat to 500 degrees F, or use the oven's broiler to cook for an
additional 5 to 10 minutes to brown the bacon.
Yields: 4 servings
ITALIAN ZUCCHINI
by Sila Miller
INGREDIENTS:
6 Small Zucchini
1 Teaspoon Salt
2 Tablespoons Italian Dressing
1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Paprika - to top
DIRECTIONS:
1. Cut zucchini in halves crosswise, then lengthwise into fourths.
2. Place zucchini in 1 1/2 qt. casserole dish and sprinkle with salt, salad dressin, and Italian seasonings.
3. Cover tightly and microwave on high for 3 minutes. Stir.
4. Cover and microwave until tender, about 2-3 minutes longer. Sprinkle with Parmesan and paprika.
Yields: 4 Servings
ICE CREAM SANDWICH CAKE
by Sila Miller
INGREDIENTS:
16 ice cream sandwiches, softened
1 16-oz. container chocolate Cool Whip topping
1 12-oz. jar chocolate fudge topping
2 bags (about 16 ounces M & M candies)
1/4 cup chocolate syrup
DIRECTIONS:
1. Layer 8 of the sandwiches in a 9 x 13 baking dish side by side, press down a little to join them.
2. Evenly spread 1/2 of the Cool Whip and 1/2 of the topping. Sprinkle 1/2 of the candy over layer.
3. Repeat with another layer of same. Drizzle with chocolate syrup to finish.
4. Cover and freeze 3 hours or until firm. Slice with a serrated knife.
Yields: 12 Servings
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FCB TRADING POST
For Sale:
Braille Lite Millennium 20 (Braille notetaker)
Approximately 4 years old. Includes external disk drive and carying case. In good condition. Has current update. Asking $800.00.
Andromeda (Transportable Video Magnifier CCTV)
6 months old in excellent condition. Still under 1-year warranty. 15 inch flat-panel desktop CCTV which may serve as just a CCTV or
may be shared with the desktop PC to save space. Compact, Collapsible with a durable roller case for transporting and foot pedal for
switching from CCTV to PC monitor views. Asking $2,900.00
Call or E-mail Sila Miller at (850) 894-9203 or silam@earthlink.net.
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CHAPTER LIASONS
Alachua: Patti Land
Brevard: Paul Edwards
Clay: Patti Land
Greater Miami: Linda Jacobson
Halifax: Paul Edwards
Inter-County: Debbie Grubb
Jacksonville: John Richards
Miami Metro: John Richards
Mid-Florida: Robert Miller
Palm Beach: Linda Jacobson
Pensacola: John Richards
Pinellas: Robert Miller
PSLCB: Sharon Youngs
Sarasota: Linda Jacobson
Tallahassee: Sharon Youngs
Tampa: Debbie Grubb
Venice: Paul Edwards
The following Special Interest chapters only meet during Convention:
CCTB (Coalition for the Concerns of the Totally Blind): Patti Land
FCBS (Florida Coalition of Blind Students): Jesus Garcia
FCCLV (Florida Council of Citizens with Low Vision): Robert Miller
RSVF (Randolf Shepherd Vendors of Florida): Paul Edwards
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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 State Headquarters): 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 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: 780-2273 from anywhere
Social Security: 1-800-772-1213
24-hour voice and touch tone accessible
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