A publication of the National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky
Cathy Jackson, President
210 Cambridge Drive
Louisville, Kentucky 40214
Phone: 502-366-2317
Edited by Denise Franklin, 3639 Hurstbourne Ridge Boulevard,
Louisville, Kentucky 40299
Phone: 502-499-0759
E-mail: {denise.franklin@nfbky.org}
Editorial staff: Lora Felty, E-mail: lora.felty@nfbky.org
Jayne Seif, E-mail: jaynep20@insightbb.com
We invite and encourage your participation in this newsletter. Articles may be edited for length, and the editors reserve the right to judge suitability for this publication. Material may be submitted to any of the editors.
2008 NFB OF KENTUCKY CONVENTION:
WHERE THE ACTION IS
By Cathy Jackson, President
The National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky annual convention will be here before we know it. The convention dates are September 26, 27 and 28 in Louisville, at the Holiday Inn Downtown, 120 W. Broadway. The members of the National Federation of the Blind of Greater Louisville have already begun preparing for your arrival.
We can begin making reservations by calling the Holiday Inn directly at (502) 582-2241 or toll-free at (800) 626-1558. Rates are $79 plus 15.01 percent applicable taxes per night per room with up to four occupants. To guarantee a room at the convention rate reservations should be made on or before September 11, 2008. After this date the hotel is not obligated to honor this special rate. Be sure to tell the reservation-taker that you are with the NFB of Kentucky convention so that there is no confusion when you arrive at the hotel.
The Board of Directors of the NFBK believes it is important for the members to be able to attend state conventions. So, as has been the custom in years past, we will be offering financial assistance to those who otherwise might not be able to attend. Charles Allen is chairing this committee and has instructed us to contact him for details. You can reach Charles at, (502) 875-1413. Applicants will be notified in advance of the amount to be awarded.
Pre-registering has become the most efficient way of handling attendance, the purchasing of tickets and reserving space in child care. This procedure gives our Treasurer, Dennis Franklin, the opportunity to take care of such business as printing badges and tickets in advance. It also makes it easier to work with hotel catering to plan social events and meals. Checks should be made payable to NFB of Kentucky and mailed to Dennis Franklin, 3639 Hurstbourne Ridge BLVD., Louisville, Kentucky 40299 no later than Monday, September, 15th. The registration fee is $5. This fee is merely a way to help defray some of the convention expenses. By registering you automatically become eligible for door prizes. The registration fee is NOT your dues. The cost of this year's banquet tickets will be $20. The open meeting of the NFB of Kentucky Board of Directors will take place during the noon hour on Saturday. This is a luncheon meeting and you can purchase a meal for $10.00. Procrastinators are welcome, however, you will pay the price. Your registration will be $10, your lunch $15 and your banquet $25.
A registration table will be set up on Friday, September 26th on the mezzanine level from 5:00 until 7:00 PM and again on Saturday, from 8:00 until 8:45 AM. Stop by the registration table to pick up name badges, banquet tickets and agendas. Late-comers should register at this time. For your convenience, a registration application follows this article.
We are thrilled to have as our national representative Dr. Fred Schroeder, First Vice-President of the National Federation of the Blind and President of the NFB of Virginia. Fred will be a most welcome addition to our program. For those of you who do not know Dr. Schroeder, you must not miss the opportunity to meet him.
As is customary our divisions will be holding their business meetings and election of officers. The Student Division, Kathy Athey, President, will gather on Friday afternoon beginning at 6:00 PM in the South Room. The Merchant's Division, Charles Allen, President, will conduct a breakfast meeting on Saturday morning beginning at 7:00 AM in the hotel restaurant. Maria Jones, president of the Parent's Division says the parents will meet Saturday morning at 7:30 for a short meeting and election of officers, room to be announced. The Technology Assistance Division, Cindy Sheets, President, will call to order on Sunday Morning, September 28th, at 8:00 AM until 9:30. The National Association to Promote the Use of Braille in Kentucky will follow at 9:30 until 11:00, says president, Lora Felty. The Sunday morning meetings will both be held in the South Room.
The Louisville chapter will sponsor a Monte Carlo night. Put your poker face on and join us around 9:00 PM on Friday evening in the Bienville Room. NFBGL will also be selling raffle tickets on a split-pot jackpot. The more tickets sold means the winner will take home more cash. Since the Bienville Room is just a few feet away from the hotel bar, we have opted not to have our private cash bar; instead, everyone is invited to take advantage of lower prices and a more complete selection of soft drinks and other libations at "Bricks". Munchies will be served in the Bienville Room.
For the first time in quite some time, we are going to have exhibitors at the convention on Friday afternoon from about 4:00 PM until 9:00 or, perhaps a little longer. Exhibits will be in the Bienville Room. At this point in time we do not know who may be available. Contacts and arrangements for set-up are still in the planning stage.
We will call the convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky to order at 9:00 AM on Saturday, September 27th. The theme of this year's convention is "NFBK, We're On The Move". Our new director of the Kentucky Office for the Blind, Beth Cross, will speak to us about her plans for the future of the agency. With the recent closing of the Talking Book Library here in Louisville we will have a representative from the Frankfort Library and Archives to speak to us about the changes in the Talking Book service. The American Printing House for the Blind is celebrating 150 years of service to the blind of this nation. Let's hear what exciting things are happening at APH from Dr. Tuck Tinsley. I am hoping to be able to impose upon Dr. Schroeder just a bit to have him talk with us on the subject of Orientation and Mobility. Techniques and the types of canes being used have drastically changed over the years. It would also be to our advantage to learn proper etiquette from both the standpoint of a cane-user and a sighted individual.
Saturday afternoon is devoted to legislation, resolutions, the election of officers and the annual business meeting. Everyone should obligate themselves to be present during this important session. It is essential that the members of this affiliate be aware of what is happening in our organization. I can think of no better way than to become actively involved in learning about the legislation that affects all of us as blind people, setting the policies which reflect our philosophy, and electing those who will lead the NFB of Kentucky for the next year.
If you have a resolution to submit, or an idea for one you should contact Pamela Glisson, our Legislative Chairwoman, at pglisson@independenceplaceky.org or by phone at (859) 335-9282. She has held this position for many years and has cultivated a good working relationship with our Kentucky legislators.
Child care will be available during both general sessions, the board meeting and the banquet. There will be no cost for this service. I urge those of you who will be utilizing child care to please enroll your child(ren) in advance so that adequate provisions can be made. Please complete this portion of the registration form.
George Stokes has agreed to chair the awards committee this year. You can contact him via e-mail at george.stokes@nfbky.org or by phone at (502) 875-3111. The Harold Reagan Award is given to a blind person in the organization who has given willingly of his/her time and talent and has shown outstanding leadership. The Susan B. Rarick Award can be given to either a blind or sighted person who continues to support the efforts of the Federation by being a proactive force in our movement. The Tim Cranmer award can again be given to either a sighted or blind individual who, over the years, has exhibited unwavering dedication and spirit to the philosophy and teaching of the National Federation of the Blind. The Robert Whitehead Award is presented to the chapter or division in NFBK that has shown growth not only in membership but in the projects and activities planned both in the organization and throughout our communities that result in furthering our cause.
Reverse raffle tickets are available for $10 each. The grand prize winner will collect $500 and the second place winner will receive $250. Just to keep things exciting we have added more prize money. The first name drawn and every twenty-fifth name thereafter will receive $25. A reverse raffle is exactly what its name implies. The last two names drawn will be our grand prize winners. Every ticket sold will be pulled beginning at the Friday social and concluding at the banquet on Saturday evening. The individual selling the most tickets will receive an amount equal to one night's stay at the convention. The seller of the winning chance will get a cash prize equal to the price of a banquet ticket. Proceeds will go to the state treasury to support the many projects and activities sponsored by NFBK. Our chapters and divisions will most certainly be sponsoring their own fundraising so be sure to bring a few extra dollars.
Who wouldn't want to win a door prize? We are asking for contributions. Most anything is acceptable. Just make sure it is a new item and don't forget we need things for both men and women. If you are uncertain about what to bring, money is always a crowd-pleaser. Mario Eiland, a member of the Board of Directors of the NFBGL, has been given the assignment of door prize guru. You can turn over all prizes to him when you reach the hotel.
We put a great deal of emphasis on our annual banquet. We anticipate who will receive our scholarships and other NFBK awards. And it is during this time that we will be privileged to hear an address given by Dr. Fred Schroeder. Although the banquet is somewhat of a more formal occasion, it is still a time to relax and enjoy the company of others. We will conclude the evening with the division drawings and the reverse raffle.
We are still suffering through the dog days of summer but as sure as the seasons change the convention will happen. I hope you will plan to be a part of this event.
SOUND OFF
The NFB of Lexington is beginning to host a "Saturday School." The grand kick-off will be September 20 from 1 to 3 PM. Participants are urged to stick around for the NFB of Lexington's regular chapter meeting which will immediately follow. The "Saturday School" is open to anyone of any age who is blind or visually impaired and who would like to learn Braille or details about available resources, services and programs. For further information contact Pamela Roark-Glisson toll-free at (877) 266-2807.
As of September 12, 2008, the Louisville Talking Book Library will close its doors. Library patrons living in Jefferson County will begin receiving their Talking Books from the state library in Frankfort on September 15. Although we have been assured that service will continue in a seamless manor, it won't be easy to say goodbye to the great folks who have kept that steady stream of leisure reading materials coming for the past thirty years. As I sat in the Mayor's Disability Roundtable Meeting listening to the rhetoric, I had the distinct feeling that deals had been made and papers signed long before we were made aware that there just wasn't enough money to keep the facility open. I am truly hopeful that the overworked and understaffed Frankfort Library will be able to handle the influx of 1300 new patrons without long delays in service and excessive confusion for reader advisors. I'm sure we will all be willing to work with the staff in making the transition as smooth as possible. Good luck to all the employees of the Louisville Talking Book Library in their new endeavors. Denise Franklin, Editor
KENTUCKY ROUNDUP
By Jayne Seif
Hello from Louisville!
We are on a roll here in Louisville. We've added about six new members to our chapter since April. Most of them have come to us from the McDowell Center and are wonderful additions to our chapter. We are looking forward to having them around for a long time.
In April we held our annual business meeting and luncheon. Our board saw a shift in gender. For many years women have dominated the board but now it's 50/50. The board is as follows: Nickie Pearl, President; Cindy Sheets, Vice President; Tonia Gatton, Treasurer; Kevin Pearl, Secretary; Scott Spaulding, Director and Mario Eiland, Director. It may be 50/50, but the women still hold the important positions!
In June there were ten of us who headed to Dallas for the national convention. Cathy Jackson, Denise and Dennis Franklin and Joan Balot marched in the March for Independence. They were four out of hundreds who braved the early hours and high temperatures.
Near the end of July we got wind of the closing of our Talking Book Library. As you can imagine, we were none to happy. Cathy Jackson and Denise Franklin began contacting the media while the rest of us called our metro council representatives to spread our opposition to the close. On July 29, 2008 many NFB members and other patrons of the library attended the Mayor's Disability meeting. The Director of Library Services "Craig Buthod" was also in attendance. The matter was first on the list. Mr. Buthod said his piece, Denise and some others made comments and the issue was closed. Due to lack of funding from the state our Talking Book Library will be closed and our service will be coming from Frankfort beginning September 15, 2008.
We're going to take a break from the serious stuff in August and go bowling. You know us Louisville folks, we like to let loose once in a while and have some fun, especially since we have been hard at work for the convention in September.
Bring your poker face to the Friday night social. We've planned a great time. You can take part in our Monte Carlo Night, where there will be a cash prize for the person who has the most poker chips at the end of the night. We'll also have other card games if you'd rather not play poker. Plus we'll have scrabble and chess. It's going to be a blast so please plan on joining us. Split pot jackpot tickets will be available for $1.00 each starting Friday. The winning ticket will be drawn at the banquet Saturday night. Hope to see everyone in September.
NFB of Lexington continues to represent the National Federation of the Blind of Kentucky in fine fashion, writes President Pamela Roark-Glisson. The Spring Luncheon and annual election of officers was held at Ryan's Steak House in Lexington. A good diversity of chapter members, Office for the Blind personnel, local Visual Itinerant teachers and coordinators, potentially new members and family, and other guests were present and privileged to here the keynote address delivered by NFBK State Affiliate President, Ms. Cathy Jackson!
The audience was amazed by the KNFBREADER MOBILE which was demonstrated by John Glisson. Of course, the KY NFB-NEWSLINE® was also highlighted, and the teachers of the Visually Impaired displayed great enthusiasm for the impact of the magnitude of information for visually impaired middle and high school students in Fayette County, an enthusiasm that is shared across the state and nation as reported to the KY NEWSLINE COORDINATOR.
The election of officers which occurs annually during the Spring Luncheon includes: Pamela Roark-Glisson, President; Mr. Michael Freholm, Vice President; Harley Cannon, Secretary and Desh Collier, Treasurer.
The Saturday School is NFB of Lexington's latest innovation in an effort to change what it means to be blind in the community. The Saturday School offers the opportunity to people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired to learn about services and programs which are available. In addition, peer mentoring, Braille classes, training with assistive technology and resources are offered.
Saturday School occurs in conjunction with the monthly chapter meetings on the third Saturday of each month in Suite 103 of Independence Place, Inc. at 824 E. Euclid Avenue For information regarding NFB of Lexington, call (859) 266-0210. Join us in changing what it means to be blind.
The Technology Assistance Division has been exploring many new ways to help its members, reports its president Cindy Sheets. The Technology Assistance Grant is now accepting applications. If you need financial assistance to pay for SMAs, repairs, or cleanings for your assistive technology, you may apply by downloading the application directly from the website at www.nfbktad.org.
The board is diligently trying new ways to hold the monthly meetings. In the future, you will be able to listen to recordings of the meetings or attend live meetings via a conference call system. Once all of the nuances of the system have been worked out, TAD would like to hold workshops or other types of special meetings for the membership to interact between state conventions.
Jennifer Hall is working on a newsletter for the division that will be available in large print, Braille, email, and possibly on the website in daisy and mp3 formats. One of the regular features will be a technology question and answer section. If you would like to submit a question to be covered in an upcoming issue, please go to division website, click on the contact page, and submit it to the editor. The first issue is in the works so submit your questions soon.
Scott Spaulding is the chair of the website Committee and he is looking for volunteers to help with revitalizing the site. You do not need to know html or anything about building a website. TAD wants your input on the organization and content of the division's webpage. Please contact Scott directly via the website contact page.
Have you heard about the new Trekker Breeze, the simplified GPS system from Humanware? You won't want to miss the demonstration of this "very simple and affordable GPS for people who are visually impaired." Bring your questions and come to the meeting where you can learn how this device will fit into your daily life. And if that is not enough inducement for you, TAD is excited to offer one free license of Mobile Speak, the screen reader for cell phones. You must be present at the annual meeting on Sunday, September 28. For more details, go to the website or contact Cindy Sheets, President. TAD looks forward to seeing you there.
Lloyd Agnew, the president of the Henderson Chapter, was excited to share with us the interesting guests that provided the entertainment at their most recent meeting. On July 17, the chapter in Henderson gathered to hear a five-woman dulcimer group perform. After a picnic supper and the concert the ladies graciously let all those who were interested explore the instruments. Each of the thirty-five or so who were in attendance enjoyed themselves so much that they might just have to have the guests return to share more music. The group plans to get together again this fall and Lloyd says that they will as always enjoy the celebration of Christmas together with their yearly party.
As we have been told in years past the Merchants Division, led by Charley Allen is deeply concerned with making sure that the systems of the Randolph-Sheppard Program are both maintained and allowed to progress, affording new and greater opportunities for blind workers. As Charley tells us, the vending program has been the main source of income and job opportunities for blind people and needs to be maintained and expanded. Together venders and licensing agencies have felt a concern with what is occurring in Washington and protecting their interests. These groups come together each spring at their BLAST Conference, which this year was held in Memphis, Tennessee. Charley, along with his wife, Betty, were able to attend, though some last minute transportation issues left the rest of the Kentucky contingent at home. Next year's conference is slated to be held in Indianapolis and the Kentuckians are excitedly planning to attend.
The Merchants Division was enthused by the response to their last year's Surprise Drawing held at the State Convention. Five-dollar tickets were sold for a prize which was revealed at the last moment. The package included a small refrigerator, Pepsi coolers, and an Elvis Presley CD collection, among other things. Though the group has not officially announced this year's fundraiser, they are looking at a silent auction as a possibility and as always the group plans to meet for Saturday breakfast at the convention.
The Kentucky Parents of Blind Children has been active over the past months. The group has been meeting each month for a fun and exciting family-friendly Saturday morning. Some of the group's activities have included: a chow wagon to celebrate Derby Festival, a story time and crafts to highlight president's day, and sometimes they have just gathered to play and enjoy the company of other families with visually impaired children.
The families of the division gathered recently for a fun-filled retreat weekend at Camp Crescendo. The kids and parents enjoyed boating, hiking, swimming and a bonfire. As it was the Fourth of July the families were able to join with the campers and staff to watch the fireworks. More importantly, the division was able to share information and literature with the campers and their parents and hope in this way to expand and grow throughout the state.
The Murray Chapter is still keeping busy says member Jennifer Hall. Seven of our members just returned from the ADA Rally in Frankfort. It is always refreshing to have the opportunity each year to be reminded what has been done in the past and what still needs to be done in order to keep our rights intact.
We had our annual cookout in June with one prospect and his family attending. We are gearing up for a busy September. In September we will celebrate with an anniversary dinner, participate in the Briggs and Stratton Dice Run (we do this to give something back to the community that gives so much to us), and will end the month as several of our members attend the State Convention in Louisville! All you men get ready! The Murray Chapter will be selling raffle tickets for a basket just for you! The "Big Boy's Basket" tickets will be $1 each or 6 for $5. See everyone there!
This past spring on May 17, the National Federation of the Blind of Ashland participated in the first ever NFB Tri-State Spring Seminar. The event was hosted by the Huntington, West Virginia NFB, and members of the Ohio River Valley Chapter of the NFB of Ohio also attended. There were approximately thirty attendees in all. Issues on the program concerned local transportation, orientation and mobility training issues, NLS library services and the new digital talking books, and discussion on how the three local NFB chapters can make a difference in the local communities of the tri-state area. Our own Cathy Jackson gave the keynote address during the luncheon. Following lunch, there was an opportunity for hands-on experience with new technology for the blind, and a chance to learn some minor house repairs. The day was a great success, and it is hoped that the spring seminar will become an annual event. Later this month, on August 23, the NFB of Ashland will host a family picnic for the tri-state area NFB chapters. We look forward to getting to know our new tri-state NFB friends even better, and want to extend an invitation to anyone from across Kentucky to join us. Contact Lora Felty for details.
HAVE YOU HEARD?
By Lora Felty
Our Federation family continues to grow. Congratulations to Mario and Sharon Eiland on the birth of their new baby daughter, Jasmine Milagro Eiland. Milagro means miracle in Spanish, and she is their little miracle. She was born on July 1, at 3:22 PM. She weighed 7 lbs. 9 oz. and measured 21 inches long. Her daddy says she is a sweetheart and Sierra is proud to be her big sister. She is strong and healthy and loves to eat.
Another new addition to our Federation family is Miss Brenna Louise Athey. She was born to proud parents Kevin and Kathy Athey on July 10. Brenna weighed 7lbs. 14OZ. And measured 20¼ inches. Mom says that no one can agree who she looks like. It depends on who you ask. Some say she looks like mom while others say dad. Regardless of who she looks like, she is loved and welcomed into our Federation family. Congratulations Kevin and Kathy!
We extend our congratulations and best wishes to Steve Johnson and Barbara Miller on their retirements from the Kentucky Office for the Blind. We appreciate all that they have done to make the lives of the blind of Kentucky better. Beth Cross has taken over as Director of the Kentucky Office for the Blind. We wish her the best in her new position and look forward to working with her in the future.
Members of the Greater Louisville Chapter are saddened at the death of Mary Rusche. Mary had been a member of the NFBGL for a number of years. She passed away on July 6. Mary had been in poor health for a time, but a heart attack was the cause of her death. She was a fun-loving person who will be greatly missed. NFBK president, Cathy Jackson, says that Mary's sister told her that Mary often talked about the good time she had working hospitality at the three NFB national conventions held here in Kentucky. Mary will not only be missed in Louisville but across the state as well.
It's a new home for the Harrod family of Louisville! Mary and DJ had been living in a condominium, but when baby Ian came along last year they decided it was time to find larger accommodations for their growing family. They have moved into a wonderful 3-bedroom home in suburbia with plenty of space in the backyard so that Ethan can run and play. We wish them much happiness in their new home.
Scott Spaulding of Louisville had a close encounter of the scary kind with a moving vehicle. The mishap took place on Sunday, August 3, as he was attempting to cross Bardstown Road at the Midcity Mall. Scott suffered minor injuries, but made a trip to the emergency room just to make sure. He was sore for several days, but perhaps most upset to learn that his cell phone had been destroyed in the accident. We are glad he is feeling better now and happy to hear that his new phone is even better than the one he lost. Watch out, Scott, those "quiet cars" are coming.
Murray's chapter members have been dealing with some sadness the first part of the year. Sue Rudd's husband, Bill Rudd, has been in and out of the hospital since June. The road to recovery has and will continue to be a long haul. However with prayers we all know nothing is impossible. Jennifer Hall had an overnight stay in the hospital due to pneumonia and Ms. Pat Hall's father passed away. Annetta Perry is also mourning the loss of her father. Barbara Monts lost a close friend. We ask that you remember these folks and their families in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
It's onward and upward for two very bright young ladies from Murray. Jennifer Dixon, Secretary for the group, graduated in June with her two-year associate degree and is now working on her Bachelor of Science in Business. Jennifer Hall, Vice President, is working on her Master's in Christian Counseling. We wish the girls the best of luck as they pursue their degrees.
THE COOK'S NOOK
Aunt Bebe's Bean Bowl
Mix everything together and marinate in the fridge for twenty-four hours.
- 1 cup canned green beans
- 1 can cut wax beans
- 1 can red kidney beans, with the juice thoroughly washed off
- 1 medium chopped onion
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup salad oil
- ⅔ cup vinegar
Stir it a few times if you happen to think of it while it marinates. Before serving, drain all the dressing off and pour the beans into a lettuce-lined bowl. Makes 6 servings.
Italian Tuna
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cans tomato sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoons basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cans chunk tuna, plus the oil it's in Parmesan or other grated cheese Parsley
Cook spaghetti and drain. Fry garlic and onion in the cooking oil until they are just tender. Add the tomato sauce, basil, salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Turn the heat low and let simmer for about ten minutes. Add the tuna and continue heating until tuna is heated through. Serve over drained spaghetti and garnish with parsley and grated cheese. Makes 6 servings.
Pineapple Cherry Squares
- 1 ½ cups fine vanilla wafer crumbs
- 1 3 ½-ounce can (1-1/4 cups) flaked coconut
- ½ cup butter or margarine
- 1 ½ cups confectioners sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 9-ounce can (1 cup) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup broken California walnuts
- ¾ cup Maraschino cherries, well drained
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Place half the crumbs in bottom of 9 by 9 inch pan. Sprinkle with half the coconut. Cream butter, gradually adding confectioners sugar, creaming till light. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Spread mixture over coconut. Fold pineapple, nuts and cherries into whipped cream. Spread over mixture in pan. Sprinkle with remaining coconut and crumbs. Chill about 4 hours; cut into squares. Makes about 9 servings.