President, Paul Edwards
20330 N.E. 20th Ct., Miami, FL 33179
edwpaul@comcast.net
(305) 692-9206
1st Vice-President, Debbie Drylie
1544 Walnut Creek Dr., Flemming Island, FL 32003
debbiedrylie@gmail.com
(904) 264-5095
2nd Vice President, Sharon Youngs
237 Maple Avenue, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
sky11@tampabay.rr.com
(727) 937-8631
Treasurer, Dale Roberts
919 S. E. 8th Terrace Unit #2, Cape Coral, FL 33990
tosco59@embarqmail.com
(239) 458-7845
Membership Secretary, Sally Benjamin
1531 Dempsey Mayo Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308
floridacouncil@comcast.net
(800) 267-4448
Recording Secretary, Sila Miller
2201 Limerick Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32309
silam@earthlink.net
(850) 894-9203
Immediate Past President, Debbie Grubb
4215 17th Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205-1418
debbiecg@verizon.net
(941) 749-6178
Editor of White Cane Bulletin, Sharon Youngs
237 Maple Avenue, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
sky11@tampabay.rr.com
(727) 937-8631
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 email is: floridacouncil@comcast.net
If you do not have access to a computer and email please find someone in your chapter to help send it. We would like to hear from anyone who wants to contribute to our news letter. 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 other than a specialized format is an infringement of copyright.
ARE YOU MOVING? – 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 who would like to receive the White Cane Bulletin and the Braille Forum please contact me at: (800) 267-4448 or E-mail: floridacouncil@comcast.net
FCB Officers 2010 – 2012
Presidents Message: by Paul Edwards
2011 Raffle Tickets: by Bill Freeman
2011 AWARDS Nominations: by Wanda stokley
Jim Warth - In the Spotlight: by Sila Miller
Miami Lighthouse Congratulates: Natalia Sulca: Submitted by Kristina Pham
Exhibits 2011: by Wanda Stokley
Poetry Corner: by Shelley Justice
Chapter News
Mid-Florida Council of the Blind: by Jay Bader
White Cane Day in Orlando: By Patti Land
Palm Beach Council of the Blind: by Jason Goldfield
Healthy Living
Recipe Corner
Handy Telephone References
Turkey, Tinsel And Tomorrow
Today is the deadline for submitting my President’s Message. It should not surprise anyone that I am racing to meet that deadline. We are hurtling toward Thanksgiving Day and Christmas is just around the corner. My birthday is, too; and, for me, that is significant since I am turning 65 in December and will truly be a senior citizen. When I was younger, I never imagined that I would get to the stage where I would be a senior and am still a little amazed that I am that “old”.
I am proud of a number of our chapters who, over the past couple of weeks, have participated or initiated White Cane Day activities. I believe these are immensely important. They offer us a chance to create relationships with local government and police forces and, more importantly, get us an opportunity to show the public what we can do. I am hoping to work with all of our chapters to see that next year every single one of our local groups is out there using White Cane Safety Day to publicize who we are and what we can do.
I have just returned from a meeting of the Florida Rehab Council of the Division of Blind Services of which I am a member. It is too soon for us to know just what the budgetary situation is likely to be but all indications are that the state will once again be looking at a deficit budget and will need to look for ways to cut costs. It is essential that all of us work with our local lighthouses, the Division of Blind Services and other organizations of and for the blind to stave off major cuts in funding for the services that blind people in our state desperately need. Some of the programs that are most vulnerable are those that serve blind babies, children, and seniors who are blind. Much of the funding for these programs must come from state general revenue. I will be talking with you more on our email list and in other ways once we know more about just where we may need to intervene to protect these vital programs.
At this time of year, though, I think it is important for us to reflect on just what we do have rather than focusing on what we lack. We have a lot about which we can and should be thankful. We live in a state where all the “blindness” groups work together, where we have legislators who are members of the Vision Caucus and know about our issues, and where we have a whole network of private agencies who provide services to people who are blind. Many states can say none of those things and are already seeing huge cuts in services. We can also be thankful for the technology that allows us to have access to more information than we have ever been able to get. I reflect back to the place we were when I was going to school and college and am amazed at just how far we have come.
Perhaps the most important thing we should be thankful for is each other. The FCB is an organization that is built on the idea that we are a community of blind people with shared values and a vision of what it ought to be like to be blind. We have a commitment to work to make things better but, most of all, we live every day being there for each other. We give each other the gift of understanding what it is like to be blind. We give each other the courage to carry on when things get rough. We give the world the gift of being proud of who we are as blind people. We go out into the community and demand to be included.
So, as you are planning for Christmas, it does not matter whether you have money to buy gifts to give to your family or friends. It does matter that you are open to seeing that you are yourself a gift. You are a unique individual with an immense number of capabilities that you share with those around you. Each of those around us has gifts for us, too. We must be open to receiving them, though. So, as we look ahead to the time of giving, whether it be thanks or presents, let us give ourselves to others and take what others have to give. Money cannot buy such priceless presents.
Meanwhile, I am still wondering whether I will be able to handle being 65. Will I ask for a Senior Card at Denny’s??? Will I apply for senior discounts with airlines? Why am I reluctant? Stay tuned to this column. I will tell you how it goes as the fateful day passes! In the mean time, thank you for all your gifts to me and for the privilege of working with you to make our world understand what gift blindness is!
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Just a reminder to all FCB chapters that the 2011 FCB Raffle Tickets will be distributed at the mid-year Board meeting in St. Petersburg in December. Please be sure to instruct your board representative on how many tickets to pick up for your chapter.
This is your once-a-year opportunity to boost your chapter treasury with a high profit fund-raiser. Your Chapter keeps 65% of the first $1,000 you sell and after that you bank the whole buck!
If you are unable to attend the board meeting, contact me at: billfreeman34@embarqmail.com or 407876-3706 and I will get your tickets to you. As always, good luck to all!
“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” ~ Henry Ford
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It is time to prepare your nominations for the FCB Awards which will be presented at the 2011 FCB State Convention. Do you know someone who deserves one of these awards? Please review the following guidelines and criteria, and then submit your nominees!
Each nomination, (with the exception of the Chapter Award) must contain the following:
· Name of the award
· Name of nominee (spelled as you want 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, Wanda L. Stokley, no later than January 31st, 2011. Subsequently, all nominations will be collected and Organized in order for the awards Committee to review and select the Recipients. We request that all letters, nominations and other materials be either e-mailed, on tape, typed or in Braille (no handwriting please) for easy processing. Please E-mail to wanda.stokley@dbs.fldoe.org or send them to my home address: 111 Ponce De Leon, Tallahassee, FL 32305-3403.
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 Albert 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 all would 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, and 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. The 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 will 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 and reviewing your nominations!
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James Robert Warth Jr. (Jim) was born in Rushville Indiana on November 17th, 1958. The oldest son of James and Alice, Jim grew up with two brothers. James Senior was in the Air Force for 22 years and then went to work for Lockheed Martin, where he worked for another 22 years. Alice Kocher-Warth stayed home with her boys until they began school and then went to work in the dry cleaning industry.
It wasn’t until Jim was ready to start school in Puerto Rico that his visual problems were discovered. Unfortunately, even then, he was misdiagnosed and it was believed that he was a “slow learner.” Alice wouldn’t accept this and kept pushing the military doctors to conduct further tests. Finally, Jim was diagnosed with congenital nystagmus. This term means involuntary eye movements present at birth or within the first month or two of life. However, detection of the nystagmus varies significantly and may not be recognized until five or six months of age, given that young infants sleep most of the time. Congenital nystagmus typically involves horizontal eye movements that worsen and increase in size and frequency when the patient is tired, sick or fatigued. “My eye condition skips a generation and I don’t have any color detection,” Jim explains.
The Warth family spent three years in Puerto Rico and then relocated to England, Maine, Arkansas, and Georgia, following James Senior’s Air Force assignments. Jim’s education finally got up and running in Georgia. He attended the Academy for the Blind in Macon, Georgia from kindergarten through fifth grade as a day student. Jim then went to public school in Georgia until the Warth family moved to Florida, following James Sr.’s retirement from the military and career change.
Jim attended public school in Dunedin, near Clearwater. In his tenth-grade year, he enrolled in the vision program, run by Karen Teets and began attending Pinellas Park High school. “I went there because of a girl named Kathy Biver, not the education,” Jim declares. “I ended up marrying her though, so I guess it wasn’t all bad. I said, I’m gonna marry that girl someday and I did.”
Jim graduated from high school in 1978 and in 1981, obtained his AA degree from St. Petersburg Junior College. “I was involved in student government there and was a councilman. That’s where I got my first taste of politics,” he chuckles.
Jim then began attending Florida State University (FSU) where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, with a minor in Finance. “I actually started out to get a degree in Business,” Jim says. “One day, my roommate, Larry Sherrer was complaining about how hard his classes were and I said, are you kidding? I can take that class and get an A. It looked pretty easy to me. And I did. I said, you mean people actually get paid to do this? We actually ended up trading majors.” Jim read for his first wife, Kathy and yet another friend named ’Kathy’ Lynn during college. “A lot of times, my personal education suffered because of the time I spent reading for and helping the ‘Kathys’, but it didn’t suffer to the point where I didn’t graduate,” Jim says. “I remember one time, I was doing something else and couldn’t help my wife. She wrote an entire paper and it was all on correction paper. You know how you fix that? You retype it. She must have spent hours typing that paper,”
Jim and Kathy Biver were married in 1984, following her college graduation and Jim went to work for the Division of Blind Services (DBS), balancing retirement reports and double-checking vending operators’ reports for the Business Enterprises Program. “I’ll never forget the first retirement report I was given to work on. Here I was, using third-generation carbon paper. I finally balanced that report to within a penny but you would not believe how hard it was to read it,” he groans.
Jim then took a job with the General Services Administration, an agency that manages inventory of owned and leased state properties, generating custom reports. “I programmed in a system known as (SAMAS) State Automated Management Accounting System. I worked in a room with three terminals and two printers. The systems were just that unstable. When one broke down, I’d just move on to the next one. And, that wasn’t even what I was hired to do,” he laughs. I asked Jim about his computer programming instruction and Jim said, “I have a gift of being able to look at something and duplicate it. I was basically self-taught regarding programming.”
Along about this time, Kathy got a job with DBS, doing in-home teaching in Pensacola. She and Jim found an apartment and moved. “I finally got a job interview at Danielle’s Fine Jewelry,” Jim recalls. “When I went for the interview, I was really nervous. I mean, I HAD to have a job. I was praying, please, Lord, I have to get this job because I didn’t get many interviews because I was legally blind. I had to walk up there in my nice suit and all. So when I got there, I went into the bathroom to comb my hair and check myself out in the mirror. I’m combing my hair, and this lady walks in. She turns around and walks out and into the other bathroom. Turns out, I’m in the ladies room!” Jim declares with a self-deprecating laugh.
“So, I tried to pull myself together and went into my interview with this man, Wesley J. Allen, a real fancy guy. I remember thinking, this guy’s never gonna hire me. I mean, it was obvious, his suit was very expensive and this was a very classy jewelry store,” Jim remembers. Telling Jim to just look around, Wes left him waiting for almost 20 minutes. “I think he was trying to make me sweat,” Jim says. Finally, Jim was called into Wes’ office for the interview, where they talked for about a half hour. Jim was sent back out and again, he waited. When Wes came back, he said, “You’ll be leaving tomorrow for Lafayette.” “I thought to myself, well, I guess this means I’m getting the job,” quips Jim.
“Wes mostly hired me because of my abilities using software. Back then, software was more complicated. You couldn't just turn a program on and start running it,” Jim explains. “I'd fly into New Orleans and then take a little puddle jumper to Lafayette, where the store headquarters were. I think that plane went up 50 feet and down 60. I worked for Wes a couple of years. He trusted me quite a bit and I helped him open up a couple more stores," Jim reminisces.
Jim then took a job with TMS Computers, "The Most Service" or, as Jim later learned, it really stood for "Tommy, Melody, and Shelby," the family of the man who owned the company. Jim was the General Manager and oversaw the repair department and built their sales team from the ground up. One day, a huge black man named Willie C. Lawrence Jr. came in to apply for a secretarial job. Jim told him he was looking for a salesman, not a secretary. Willie replied, "I can't sell anything." Jim said, "I tell you what, I can make you the sales manager, and within six months he was!” It all came to be over a bet between Jim and Willie. A lady who was disabled came into purchase a computer but insisted that TMS should discount it $100.00 since the competition sold the same system for $100 less. Jim told Willie, "I tell you what, if I can go out there and sell this lady this computer at our price, in less than 30 minutes, will you agree to become the Sales Manager tomorrow?” Willie agreed. Jim went out, made the sale, and Willie became the Manager of Sales!
“Then I got divorced at 31 years old and I thought my world was going to cave in. We had been together for a total of 17 years. We had to make some very hard decisions and they essentially destroyed our marriage," Jim says, a bit nostalgically. "But, I would have never met ‘this Kathy’ without it happening that way. So, everything happens for a reason," he concludes. Unfortunately, on the heels of a very painful divorce, Jim remarried and within six months that ill-fated relationship ended in divorce as well. Jim returned home to Clearwater to get his life straightened out and get back on his feet.
Back home, Jim landed a job with C&F Curtis Construction as their Accountant and, simultaneously, started his own accounting and consulting business, Your Personal Accountant. Jim soon discovered that he could earn more money by working for himself and so, quit his job with the construction company. That was in 1989, and Jim still serves about 50 clients. All his advertising has been done through word of mouth.
Jim first learned about FCB thru a lady named, you got it, Kathy, and became involved in the late 80s. He joined the Upper Pinellas chapter and then became interested and involved at the state level. He was elected as FCB's Treasurer in Jacksonville, at the 1992 convention and served in this capacity for eight years. He has also served as the Second Vice President as well as on the Budget and Finance, Convention, and Publicity committees. Jim printed and assembled the White Cane Bulletin in his home for several years. He has been recognized with such prestigious awards as the Dolly Gamble, in 1997 and the W.A. Ouzts, in 2001. Additionally, Jim was active with Florida Council of Citizens with Low Vision (FCCLV) and served as their President for two years. He and Kathy are also members of the Randolph-Sheppard affiliate of FCB.
"The first day I met Kathy, in 1988, I asked her if I could walk her to the bus," Jim reminisces. "The meetings were in a rough area of downtown and I didn't like the area and was concerned for her safety," he explains. “She told me,” "I'm a happily married woman." Jim recalls thinking, “gosh, ya try to help somebody out and they think you're trying to take ‘em on a date.” Kathy was serving on the Outreach committee for the Upper Pinellas chapter and had called Jim a couple of times, inviting him to their meetings.
Jim and Kathy's friendship matured and as fate would have it, their relationship deepened into a strong and lasting union of love. On September 5, 1992, they were married. Now their blended family boasts two children and four grandchildren, two of whom live in the area and Jim loves to spoil them all.
In 2000, things again began to unravel for Jim, due in no small part to what he would later learn was full-blown and uncontrolled diabetes. "I'd forget conversations I'd had because my blood sugar level was low at the time. People who knew me knew something was wrong but they didn't know what and neither did I. I thought I was losing my mind," Jim relates. It was during this same time, that Jim's niece, Shawna, who was like a daughter to him was killed. "I was in total denial for about three years," Jim now admits. “I finally hit bottom and did some hard soul searching, made some life-altering changes like reducing my stress level and changing my diet and began to pick up the pieces.”
Jim downsized his accounting business and enrolled into the Florida Business Enterprises Program (BEP), one of the largest vending and food services programs operated by people who are legally blind in the United States. He now operates a single location vending operation at the Manasota post office in Brandon, while Kathy operates a similar facility at the main post office in Tampa. Both have managed several other facilities, served as District Representatives or alternates and trained new BEP employees during their vending careers.
Jim names two “late greats,” Paul Verner and Van Folgham as his FCB mentors. “They were both committed people, they loved what they did and had a lot of integrity. They always looked at the positive side of somebody.
“I wish I could do that more,” he sighs. “We could argue like hell in a board room and then drink together later. My mom has been there through my entire life for me. She’s driven me around for 52 years and there’s nothing she wouldn’t do for her kids. And, she treats Kathy just like one of her kids,” Jim reflects.
Jim enjoys online gaming, specifically Starfleet Command and Star Trek, traveling, and his grandchildren. He is now involved with the Tampa chapter of FCB and serves as their Treasurer. He’s seen the best and worst of folks’ involvement with FCB, abuse of funds and power and basic corruption. Jim is proud to have played his part in recouping funds early on for a floundering chapter.
Jim says, “You’re not always gonna make the right choices but make the best choices for your life that you can. If someone asks you for help, help them the best way that you can. Always take time to help somebody else. There’s always someone worse off than you. No matter what you think, or where you are in your life, there’s someone out there suffering more than you are. I think about a parable that Gayle Krause shared with me, about a man complaining that he had no shoes while the man next to him had no feet.”
Jim practices what he preaches. He “made a choice to help” and was invaluable to me when I first took on the job of FCB Registrar. He helped me to learn MS Access, software in which databases are created, and pushed and pulled me through learning and using QuickBooks, a horribly inaccessible finance management software package. He was almost successful in teaching me to note take as fast as he talks but I never did quite master that! Jim, your contributions to FCB and what it stands for shall not be forgotten and are valued and appreciated. Thank you for candidly sharing your life and story with me and with FCB!
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We are so proud to announce that Natalia Sulca, pictured here performing with her peers in the acclaimed Miami Lighthouse music program, has been accepted by the competitive and prestigious Berklee School of Music in Boston, Massachusetts.
Natalia has been a part of Miami Lighthouse for many years, receiving vocational rehabilitation, including instruction in songwriting, music performance and production. Natalia is a talented singer and songwriter, and her compositions and performances have been featured on Miami Lighthouse CDs.
"The music instructors here at Miami Lighthouse have been wonderful, and I will always be grateful for their help," she said.
Just a few years ago, she was a child, confronting the hurdles of adolescence—difficult enough, but can you imagine doing it when you are totally blind? Today Natalia is a successful and educated young woman, well on her way to a career in music and a very fulfilling life. Her story shows what a child at Miami Lighthouse can achieve. "I'm a great believer in Braille, because without it you just don't have access to a full range of knowledge," said Natalia, a voracious Braille reader who graduated from Michael Krop Senior High in Miami with a 4.0 GPA. Miami Lighthouse teaches Braille to children and adults; for a blind person, Braille means literacy.
Congratulations, Natalia, and best wishes for a bright future.
For more information please contact Jessica Cerda-Antomarchi at 786-362-7513 or jcerda@miamilighthouse.org www.miamilighthouse.org
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Adaptive technology,… adaptive technology,…Hmm and what else? The “what else” could be a lot of different things. So give it some thought and send me the contact info! It is now time to begin thinking about exhibits for next June’s convention. And remember, variety makes the exhibits! There are many other products besides our favorite state-of-the-art technology. Do you know someone who does a craft or a hobby, creating specialty items? Please have them contact me. Non-profit groups and affiliates only pay a $15 registration fee. Many folks like to pick up gifts from the vendors at the convention. Give it some thought and let me know! Let’s make it the exhibits with the most variety ever! You may call me at: 1-850-309-0821 or e-mail me: wanda.stokley@dbs.fldoe.org.
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Do you have a favorite song? Is there a song that when you hear it the words move you to tears, laughter, or to have almost total recall of a cherished or not-so-cherished memory? I think that some of the most wonderful poetry is found in song lyrics. The following is a favorite of mine. It is found on a John Denver album called Seasons of the Heart; although John Denver did not write the words to the song. If you have a favorite song, and you would like the words to appear in the Poetry Corner, please let me know and I will try to make it happen. In the meantime, please enjoy this one.
Relatively speaking you make me who I am
I need you exactly like the ocean needs the land
I need you like the sunshine needs the shadows and the night
I need you the way love needs the savage hurtful fight
Relatively speaking I’m nothing without you
You are where I’ve been before you are where I’m going to
You are living out my dreams and you are all my fears
You evoke my laughter, you unleash every tear
The rich ones need the poor ones
The blind need those with sight
Sinners need the pure of heart
The black ones need the white
Relatively speaking the contrast makes it go
Every action taken is related in the flow
Stars and losers, kings and fools go dancing hand in hand
Relatively speaking you make me who I am
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Our Annual MFCB Membership Drive is in the final stages. This drive is done in cooperation with the Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library. Material was sent with the hope that there are people who receive it who would be interested in becoming members of MFCB. Renewals are being accepted as well, with the annual dues remaining at $12.00. If you are a Talking Book subscriber in Orange, Osceola or Seminole County, this information will be arriving. So MFCB members, if you know someone who you think may be interested in becoming a member of MFCB, or if they would like to donate to our organization, pass it along. Just as they are on the state level, donations are always gladly accepted. Memberships and renewals can be paid by check or money order; however, if you attend the MFCB November General Meeting, you also have the option of paying by cash. The deadline for dues is November 15th. If you cannot attend in November, please send check or money order made payable to MFCB to the following address:
MFCB Membership Secretary
5611 Pecos St.
Orlando, FL 32807
Dan Spoone, Chairperson of the Nominating Committee reported the following slate of Officers for MFCB for 2011.
President – Sheila Young
1st Vice President – Larry Turnbull
2nd Vice President – Leslie Spoone
Recording Secretary – Martha James
Treasurer – Bill Freeman
Membership Secretary – Jay Bader
Current MFCB President Shelley Justice informed our Membership, “We hold our Election of Officers every year at the November Meeting. I encourage all Members to try their very best to attend this very important Meeting. This election is a bit special, as I have termed out, and a new President must be elected this year. It is the privilege and the responsibility of chapter Members to elect and then support their leaders. Please come and support the proposed slate of Officers, nominate someone from the floor, or run for an office yourself, if you feel that there is a job for you to do as an Officer. (As) Always, please remember that the chapter is only as effective as those Members who participate and support its efforts. There is something for everyone to do, and everyone's ideas are important. Your voice cannot be heard if you don't speak up. I urge everyone to come to this important Meeting, support the chapter and help elect the Officers for the coming year.”
MFCB was involved in this year’s White Cane Safety Day event. Please look for Patti Land’s article in this issue of the White Cane Bulletin.
Finally, MFCB Members should take note as to the next 2 Meetings: Saturday, November 6th, we hold our November General Meeting from 12 Noon to 2 PM at William Booth Towers, 631 Lake Dot Circle, Orlando, FL 32801, on Saturday, December 11th, MFCB will have its Annual Holiday Luncheon from 12 Noon to 3 PM. This year, it will take place at Logan’s Roadhouse on 3060 W. Sand Lake Rd., Orlando, FL 32819. Their phone number is (407) 351-4599. Our telephone committee will be notifying members in a timely manner about both these important meetings. If you have any questions, please contact Sheila Young at (407) 425-9200.
As this is our last submission for Chapter News before the Holidays, MFCB wishes all a very happy and safe Holiday Season, and we will report on our membership total and election of officer results in 2011.
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On Friday, October 15, some 75 people gathered in front of Orlando City Hall in recognition of White Cane Safety Day. Represented were Lighthouse Central Florida, Division of Blind Services, Mid-Florida Council of the Blind, NFB Orlando, and veteran’s organizations. Several dignitaries were on hand, including Orlando Mayor, Buddy Dyer, several commissioners, and Orlando Chief of Police Val Demmings. Carrying banners, and distributing flyers of the White Cane Law, the group crossed and recrossed Orange Avenue and South Street. The Orlando Police Department was on hand, providing assistance to the crowd, and education to drivers who did not take this law seriously.
At noon, to the background of church bells playing, which still can be heard in downtown Orlando, along with the busy sounds of downtown traffic, Lee Nasehi, President of Lighthouse Central Florida, gave a brief history of use of the white cane, and the eventual legislation associated with the current White Cane law as we know it. Mayor Dyer read a proclamation of support, several commissioners spoke briefly, then Chief Demmings spoke. She assured the crowd that her department, Orlando Police, are very aware of the rights and challenges of blind travelers, and that they will do all possible to educate the public and enforce the laws.
The weather could not have been more perfect! We also received local television coverage for this event. Thanks to all who participated!
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On September 4th, the Palm Beach Chapter celebrated 30 years of service to the community, with a luncheon held at the Atlanta's Country Club. We had approximately 45 people in attendance. Annette Watkins from the television show Cooking without Looking was our guest speaker, and gave an excellent inspirational speech on how she copes as a blind person, and how we can use this in our own daily lives.
Also in attendance was our very own Paul Edwards who was asked to give a speech on the Palm Beach chapter. He did an outstanding job as well, as he was quite familiar with one of our former chapter presidents. The media from a local TV station were also in attendance, and interviewed both Jason Goldfield, current President, as well as Paul Edwards. The event would not have been the success that it was, if it were not for the coordinator Cathy Koyanagi who really put the whole event together, and made it the success that it was.
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These five hot spices can be good for everything from easing arthritis pain to keeping your heart healthy.
Recent studies suggest that when it comes to cuisine, kicking it up a notch can be as good for your health as it is tasty for your palate. Some spices, particularly hot ones, contain phytochemicals that may help ward off cell damage associated with chronic diseases.
Chili Powder
Potential health perk:
Relieves achy joints. Research shows that capsaicin, found in chili peppers, has an anti-inflammatory effect, which may help ease arthritic swelling and pain. Hot way to dish it: Sprinkle a few shakes of chili powder and salt on baked French fries.
Cinnamon
Potential health perk:
Protects against Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
A 2003 study found that about half a teaspoon lowered blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Hot way to dish it: Mix half a teaspoon of cinnamon into your coffee, or jazz up whipped cream with a couple of pinches.
Curry Powder
Potential health perk:
Safeguards your brain. The yellow curry pigment curcumin may fight Alzheimer's by thwarting development of the disease's signature amyloid brain plaques, says a study. Hot way to dish it: Whisk 1 1/2 teaspoons mild curry powder into mayonnaise to dress up sandwiches.
Garlic
Potential health perk:
Improves your heart's health. Brigham Young University researchers found that garlic consumption can lower total cholesterol and triglyceride levels by an average of 10 percent. Hot way to dish it: Add minced garlic and chopped cucumber to plain yogurt for a light dip or salad dressing.
Wasabi
Potential health perk:
Prevents ulcers. A 2004 South Korean study suggests Japanese horseradish can kill ulcer-causing Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Plant chemicals may also prevent tooth decay. Hot way to dish it: Mix a smidgen of wasabi paste with mashed avocado for a snappier guacamole.
Originally published in Ladies' Home Journal magazine, May 2005
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Recipe for candied sweet potatoes serves 4.
This tasty sweet potato casserole contains butter, vanilla, mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and pecans.
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
2 eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups cooked mashed sweet potatoes
Topping
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup flour
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Preparation:
Beat eggs, granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup butter. Add milk and vanilla. Combine with the mashed sweet potatoes; spoon into a greased 2-quart casserole. Combine brown sugar, flour, 2 tablespoons softened butter, and pecans, mixing until crumbly; sprinkle over sweet potatoes. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes. Serves 6.
BROCCOLI & CHEESE CASSEROLE
1/2 lb. cold sliced chicken
1 lb. broccoli crowns
3 tbsp. freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
2 tbsp. unsalted butter plus 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves finely minced garlic
1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
1/2 tsp. paprika
3 tbsp. fresh parsley, minced
Preheat oven to 350°F. Steam or briefly boil broccoli for about 5 minutes (depends on maturity of the broccoli), or until almost, but not quite tender. Plunge into cold water to stop the cooking. The broccoli should be a bright green in color and should retain a crisp crunch. In a 2 1/2 quart casserole, melt butter and olive oil in microwave with minced garlic until butter has melted and garlic is sizzling. Toss bread crumbs with the melted butter mixture, to coat; stir in parsley. Scoop most of the bread crumb mixture onto a sheet of wax paper, and set aside (some bread crumbs may remain in casserole to make a base for the chicken). Arrange cooked chicken slices in a layer along the bottom of the casserole and top with the steamed broccoli. Cover with sauce (below). Sprinkle with the buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers. Top with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Sprinkle with paprika for extra color and a piquant flavor. Brown on the top third shelf in a 350°F. oven for about 15 minutes or until nicely golden. Variation: Cooked elbow macaroni and sliced mushrooms may be added before being topped with the sauce.
Sauce:
1 cup milk or cream
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. flour
1 egg yolk
1/2 cup Gruyere or sharp Cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp. Coleman's Mustard
In a microwavable bowl, melt butter; whisk in flour and when blended, slowly stir in milk. Heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until mixture thickens. Beat a few tablespoons of the hot liquid into 1 egg yolk; then transfer the egg yolk back into the sauce, whisking quickly. Add Gruyere or sharp Cheddar cheese and dry mustard. Microwave for another 1 or 2 minutes or until cheese has melted.
To save on clean-up and extra preparation steps, (an important consideration in the Cooks.com Test Kitchen!) this sauce is easiest to prepare in a microwave, but may also be made in a double boiler, as is done traditionally.
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Project Insight: 800-267-4448
Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library: 800-226-6075
Division of Blind Services: (Tallahassee) 800-342-1828
American Council of The Blind: 800-424-8666 (available only 3:00 to 5:30 PM EST Monday-Friday)
ACB Legislative Hotline: 800-424-8666 (Evenings 8:00 PM - 12:00 Midnight EST Weekends 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM only)
AT&T Disability Services: 800-872-3883 Press 00 and speak with your long distance carrier or, Florida only 800-982-2891
BellSouth Disability Services: 800-982-2891 from anywhere
Social Security: 800-772-1213 24-hour voice and touch tone accessible
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FLORIDA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND
1531 Dempsey Mayo Road
Tallahassee, FL 32308