The California Connection (2012 Edition)

May 11, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on May 11, and will be updated on May 18. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

CCB Sacramento Office

Due to driving duties on May 14th, Capitol Day on Tuesday, May 15th and meetings on May 17th, Ed Branch will be out of the CCB Sacramento office on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday of next week.

Evaluation of the Spring 2012 CCB Conference and Convention

The organizers of the Spring 2012 CCB conference and convention would very much like to express their appreciation to those who answered the evaluation questionnaire.
We received extensive and useful information which will assist in guiding the organizers when putting on future conference and conventions.
It has been brought to our attention that there were many individuals who participated in the conference and convention via the streamed general sessions and CAT CCCLV breakout session. These individuals would like to provide feedback on the presentations and were wondering even if the deadline has passed, could they do so.
The organizers would like to receive input from these individuals and anyone else who might want to comment on the presentations during the Spring 2012 conference and convention.
Please provide any comments about the presentations on or before Friday May 18th, 2012. Email comments are to be sent to Eugene.lozano@ccbnet.org
or calling the CCB office at 1-800-221-6359.

From CCB President, Donna Pomerantz

Happy Friday to all Members and Friends in the CCB Family!
First I'd like to wish each and everyone out there a Happy Mother's Day! I will be spending the day with my wonderful mother who I am blessed to have in my life! Hopefully she will let us spoil her just a little bit on Sunday.

Now onto the business at hand. Below this message you will find the Meeting Agenda of the Blind Advisory Committee. Several of us are serving on behalf of our CCB. However I would ask that you read the meeting agenda and take note of the call in number and code. If you can not attend the meeting in person, I would urge you to call in and participate via the conference line. The quality of services for people in California who are blind or visually impaired depend on each of you out there to remain active and let those who are decision makers know you care about the quality of services for our community! Please call in, listen in, and let your voice be heard!

Blind Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda

State of California
Health and Human Services Agency
BLIND ADVISORY COMMITTEE (BAC)

May 24, 2012
Department of Rehabilitation
721 Capitol Mall
Sacramento, CA 95814
Conference Room 169
Specialized Services Division

721 Capitol Mall
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 558-5480 Voice
(916) 558-5481 FAX

Teleconference line: (866) 707-6821
Pass code: 7878511

Notes
Public Participation - Interested members of the public are invited to attend the meeting in person or to join via the conference line.
To ensure all attendees can hear the committee members, and the speakers, those joining via the conference line are requested to mute their phone. If your phone does not have mute function, pressing *6 will toggle mute on/off.

* Agenda Times - Times are approximate and may be adjusted if pressing new business is brought to the attention of the committee.
* Bagley-Keene Act Notification - The following are the locations and BAC members who will be participating by teleconference:

Don Queen and Shannon Dillon, BAC members, will be participating from:
Orientation Center for the Blind
400 Adams Street
Albany, CA 94706

1. 8:00 a.m. Opening & Welcome, Introductions, Announcements Bryan Bashin, Chair

2. 8:15 a.m. Approval of Minutes

3. 8:25 a.m. Department and Program Strategic Planning - This will include an overview of the process and information relevant to each program.
a. Process overview.
b. Review program strategic planning schedules.
c. Review vision statements.
d. Review each program planning accomplishments and status.

4. 8:55 a.m. Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB), Business Enterprises Program (BEP), and Orientation Center for the Blind (OCB) Strategic Planning – The committee will engage in planning to build on what has been established thus far. The discussion will be guided by the questions in the strategic planning function document.

5. 10:30 a.m. Break

6. 10:45 a.m. Continuing Program Strategic Planning

12:00 Lunch

7. 1:00 p.m. Continuing Program Strategic Planning

8. 2:30 p.m. Break

9. 2:45 p.m. Continuing Program Strategic Planning

10. 3:45 p.m. Public Comment

11. 4:00 p.m. Adjourn

San Diego Braille Club Laughlin Trip

The San Diego Braille club trip to Laughlin that has been mentioned in earlier Connections has now been canceled.

Redwood Empire Council of the Blind - Human Race Chapter Fund Raiser

From The Redwood Empire Council of the Blind: We are doing the Human Race for our chapter fund raiser. We are walking in the Human Race. We are asking for donations. Please make checks payable to the Human Race, please in the memo line write RECB.
You can send checks to Bill Gillespie at 850 Russell AVE. Apt. S11, Santa Rosa, Ca 95403. This fund raiser helps fund our general fund and the Life enhancement fund.
Thank you, Bill Gillespie

KNFB Reader for Sale

Margie Donovan has a KNFB Reader for sale, asking $1,190.00 or best offer. It is about three years old, but rarely used. I have all documents and it includes a Nokia phone.
For further information, please call Margie at (916) 293-9505. Please only serious inquiries.
I will make a 10% donation from the sale to the CCB. Thanks for your interest. Margie Donovan

State Voter Information Guide for the June 5, 2012, Presidential Primary Election

Cassette Recording of state voter information guide for the June 5, 2012, Presidential Primary Election are now available.
To obtain copies of these cassettes, free of charge, please call the Secretary of State’s Elections Division at (916) 657-2166.
For a downloadable version of the Voter Information Guide please visit www.voterguide.sos.ca.gov/audio

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

May 4, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on May 4, and will be updated on May 11. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

CCB Capitol Day

From Jeff Thom, Chair, CCB Governmental Affairs Committee:
Remember that Tuesday, May 15, 2012, from 10 AM to 3 PM is CCB Capitol Day. If you will be joining us at the Capitol we will be working from 10 AM to 2 PM.
Although we are unable to cover transportation costs, lunch will be provided.
We are still working on the talking points that you will use and provide to your legislators.
As soon as we have the room number in the Capitol, where we will meet, I will let you know.
If you have not yet made your appointments, please do so. And remember to let the CCB office know if you will be coming to the Capitol and the appointments you have made.
Also, let us know if you will be meeting your Legislators in their district offices rather than going to the Capitol itself.
(CCB Office 1-800-221-6359).
If you do not know who your Legislators are, you may contact Jeff Thom, either by email at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by telephone at 916-995-3967 in order to obtain that information.

From Jeff Thom Regarding AB2041

AB2041, our bill to clean up a technical error in AB410 that was passed last year and which relates to certain state agencies being required to provide narrative descriptions of proposed state regulations upon request, passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee unanimously. It will now be heard on the Assembly floor, before going over to the Senate. So far, there is absolutely no opposition.

Ralph’s Grocery Card Renewal Information

If you need to renew your Ralph’s grocery card in order to continue providing much needed funds back to the Council, please call the Council office to obtain the renewal information. 1-800-221-6359.

San Diego Braille Club Laughlin Trip

The trip to Laughlin that was mentioned in an earlier Connection was rescheduled due to lack of participants. It has been scheduled for May 28, 29, and 30. The cost is $125 for non Braille Club participants. We will pick up at the San Bernardino Metrolink Station.
For more details please call George Drane at (619) 262-3881 to sign up and for more information. George doesn't have email.

Redwood Empire Council of the Blind - Human Race Chapter Fund Raiser

From CCB President, Donna Pomerantz

Happy Friday everyone!
Both Ed Branch and me have been hearing many good things about the group who sang at our Spring Conference and Convention Banquet. As a result of the rave reviews from the CCB Family, Ed contacted the group and between Ed and Chloe from Supertonic, please read the add below just in case you might like to hear their video online or call them up to entertain at one of your local events in the Bay Area.

We are "Supertonic" the Santa Clara Universities' oldest a cappella group of 11 singers. We perform everything from Michael Jackson to top 40 hits. We sing at weddings, banquets, birthday parties, any type of function.
Check out our videos at
http://sites.google.com/site/scsupertonic/
You can contact us at scsupertonic@gmail.com
or by phone Chloe Wilson at 206-849-8077.

KNFB Reader for Sale

Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund - National Transportation Survey

Colleagues:
DREDF (Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund) has asked ACB to disseminate the notice below regarding an important national transportation survey.
Members of ACB's Transportation Committee reviewed the survey instrument and made suggestions to improve its overall accessibility.
Given the importance of this issue to all blind and visually impaired persons, I urge everyone reading this to take a few moments to participate.
Thank you.
Mitch Pomerantz, President
American Council of the Blind

IMPROVE TRANSPORTATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES:

Please participate in this short web survey, and encourage others to do so!
http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/882523/TransitChoices

The Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) is conducting research on what factors are most important to riders with disabilities when deciding which transit mode to use.

The confidential survey results will be part of a national study called Transit Cooperative Research Project B-40: Strategy Guide to Enable and Promote the Use of Fixed-Route Transit by People with Disabilities. The goal is to develop strategies to improve bus and train systems for people with disabilities. DREDF's research partners are TranSystems Corporation, The Collaborative, and KFH Group.
Please take the survey, and encourage others to do so!

Questions?

Metropolitan Transportation Commission - Vacancy Recruitment

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission is now recruiting for four vacancies on its Policy Advisory Council. Currently, there are three positions open for either a senior, disabled or low-income representative in San Francisco, Sonoma and Marin counties. In addition, there is one at-large position open for either a business or environment representative from any of the nine Bay Area counties.
Information on the Council and its requirements, as well as the application can be found on the MTC web site at:
http://www.mtc.ca.gov/get_involved/advisory/
The deadline for all applications is Wednesday, May 9th.
For more information contact:
Pam Grove
Public Information Officer
Metropolitan Transportation Commission
(510) 817-5706
PGrove@mtc.ca.gov

State Voter Information Guide for the June 5, 2012, Presidential Primary Election

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

April 27, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on April 27, and will be updated on May 4. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Evaluation of the Spring 2012 CCB Conference and Convention

The Spring 2012 CCB Conference and Convention organizers would appreciate receiving your evaluation of the program and the Crowne Plaza SFO.
Please email your evaluation responses to Eugene.lozano@ccbnet.org or call the CCB office 1-800-221-6359 on or before May 4th, 2012. Your responses will help organizers in planning future conference and conventions. In advance I wish to thank you for your assistance.
Gene Lozano

1. Did you like the Crowne Plaza SFO? Tell us why or why not.
2. Were there enough staff and volunteers to help you with any needs that you had during the conference and convention?
3. Were the staff and volunteers kind and courteous to you?
4. Was the exhibit area set up so that you could get around easily? If not, what could have been done better?
5. Was the Welcome to Burlingame and Hospitality Room set up so that you could get around easily so to have an enjoyable experience? If not, what changes should be made?
6. How was the sound quality of the meeting rooms?
7. Did you enjoy the speakers who addressed the general sessions and were there any specific speakers or topics that interested you?
8. Did you like having speaker’s vitas (background information) incorporated in the conference and convention program and if so, why? If your response is yes and finances permit would you like to have the vita of all breakout session speakers incorporated into the program?
9. If you are a guide dog user what were your experiences with the relieving area?
10. What were your experiences in the hotel restaurants in being served and the quality of your meals?
11. Overall was the conference and convention a success in your opinion?
12. Is there anything else that you would like to tell us regarding your experience, positive or negative, at the Crowne Plaza SFO?

CCB: Endless Possibilities, Endless Opportunities!

What a great Spring Conference and Convention we had! There was such diverse programming from technology workshops, we held two more beyond the regular Technology Committee slot which had good attendance.
We had an interactive Rehabilitation Committee Session where they talked about the VR Modernization Program and other things related to the Department.
We had discussion on the Junior Blind of America's Youth Transition Program as well as hearing from the Hatlain Center on their program which gives real life experience of personal responsibility to their students, and we even heard a little bit from Dr. Stuart Wittenstein, Superintendent, California School for the Blind, and so much more.
We had a quality Presidents' Dinner where a lively discussion of mentoring and recruiting was facilitated by me, and Frank Welte of our San Francisco and Contra Costa Chapters inspired us all into action.
Caltrans attended our Conference and Convention and set up a demonstration of alternate path of travel options and took our feedback.
Our banquet was marvelous! From the beginning with the Supertonic acapela group from Santa Clara University (thank you Ed) to our awards, and the stories Marlaina Lieberg shared with us, she was our ACB representative.
We had the kick off of the new CCB Streaming Team onsite that had Louis Herrera, Stephanie Rood, John Glass and Rob Turner was on stand by in the audience if needed to pinch hit. We also had Ken Metz and Andrea Pitzenbarger at home listening in and assisting with the monitoring of the sound quality.
The announcement of a volunteer Social Security Task Force that will work on a case by case basis with CCB Members is newly formed.
There was a lot of joy and laughter that surrounded us at convention. A huge thanks to everyone who helped to the heavy lifting, you know who you are, smile. A huge thank you.
So now onto the Fall Conference and Convention. Here is the information you all have been waiting for. Visit our website at http://www.ccbnet.org/conventions/upcomingConvene.htm

From Jeff Thom Regarding AB2485

Great news from the Capitol. With the help of some business groups, we were able to defeat AB2485, which would have permitted the California Department of Transportation to enter into agreements with private companies to put retail establishments at roadside rest areas along federal highways, thus depriving blind vendors of vending machine operations at these locations. Thanks to the many vendors who came to the Assembly Transportation Committee hearing and especially to Roy Harmon for his outstanding testimony.

Redwood Empire Council of the Blind - Human Race Chapter Fund Raiser

From The Redwood Empire Council of the Blind: We are doing the Human Race for our chapter fund raiser. We are walking in the Human Race. We are asking for donations. Please make checks payable to the Human Race, please in the memo line write RECB. You can send checks to Bill Gillespie at 850 Russell AVE. Apt. S11, Santa Rosa, Ca 95403. This fund raiser helps fund our general fund and the Life enhancement fund. Thank you, Bill Gillespie

Brian Day Presentation At the Spring 2012 Conference and Convention

At the conference and convention we heard a presentation from Brian Day regarding the universe, sounds it makes, and the way planets and debris interact.
During his presentation Brian played the sounds the aurora lights, collapsed stars and planets moving all make.
In 2013 NASA is launching a probe to study the moon’s atmosphere. Amateur radio operators can help by tuning in and listening to the sounds particles make as they are colliding with earth’s atmosphere.
For further information and how to participate please contact Brian at the below contact information.
Brian H. Day
NASA LCROSS Mission E/PO Lead
Planners Collaborative
Mailstop 226-4
NASA Ames Research Center
Moffett Field, CA 94035-1000
650-604-2605
Brian.H.Day@nasa.gov

State Voter Information Guide for the June 5, 2012, Presidential Primary Election

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

April 20, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on April 20, and will be updated on April 27. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Evaluation of the Spring 2012 CCB Conference and Convention

From Jeff Thom Regarding AB2485

We urgently need your phone calls and emails to oppose AB2485. This bill, which is being heard by the Assembly Transportation Committee on the afternoon of Monday April 23, would allow the California Department of Transportation to enter into agreement with private businesses for the operation of retail establishments at roadside rest areas along federal highways. Not only will this bill jeopardize current and potential operations of blind vendors who have, or can be allowed to have, vending machines at these rest areas, but the bill will also mean that other small businesses that operate near these rest stops will be put out of business by the big boys with whom the department can contract.
The committee roster is below. Please call the chair or any of the members, especially if one of them is your legislator. You can also email them by using their first name, followed by a period, then their last name, followed by asm.ca.gov. For example, the chair’s email would be bonnie.lowenthal@asm.ca.gov
Thank you for your work on this matter.

Committee roster with each Assembly members’ Capitol Office phone number:

Bonnie Lowenthal – Chair . Capitol Office (916) 319-2054
Kevin Jeffries - Vice Chair Capitol Office (916) 319-2066
Katcho Achadjian Capitol Office (916) 319-2033
Bob Blumenfield Capitol Office (916) 319-2040
Susan Bonilla Capitol Office (916) 319-2011
Joan Buchanan Capitol Office (916) 319-2015
Mike Eng Capitol Office (916) 319-2049
Warren T. Furutani Capitol Office (916) 319-2055
Cathleen Galgiani Capitol Office (916) 319-2017
Dan Logue Capitol Office (916) 319-2003
Jeff Miller Capitol Office (916) 319-2071
Chris Norby Capitol Office (916) 319-2072
Anthony J. Portantino Capitol Office (916) 319-2044
Jose Solorio Capitol Office (916) 319-2069

Contra Costa chapter CCB Meeting

The Contra Costa chapter CCB will be meeting on Saturday April 28 from 10:30AM to 12:30 PM at the Concord public library located at 2900 Savio Street.
In addition to our final raffle drawings and convention reports this month our guest speaker will be Art Lake of Lake Traffic demonstrating accessible pedestrian signals.
We invite everyone to come join us for our monthly meeting and to hear what promises to be an interesting demonstration.
For further information you can call Gabe Griffith, chapter president, at (925) 768-8195 or email the chapter at ContraCosta.CCB@gmail.com

Greater Los Angeles Chapter, CCB Meeting

From Ken Metz: This Saturday, April 21, the speaker at the Greater Los Angeles Chapter, CCB, will be none other than the President of the Orange County CCB Chapter, Andrea Pittsenbarger. Andrea works for Access Ingenuity and will be talking about some of the newest available technology for persons who are blind or visually impaired. Andrea has also assisted on the streaming team for the past two CCB Conference and Conventions, and monitored with me from our homes this past weekend.
Andrea is very knowledgeable on this subject, and you are all invited to attend our meeting to listen to her talk.
The Greater Los Angeles Chapter meets at Corky’s Restaurant, 5043 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA, cross street Magnolia. We are there at 11 a.m. to order our meals, and the actual meeting is from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Brian Day Presentation At the Spring 2012 Conference and Convention

CCB: Endless Possibilities, Endless Opportunities!

Winners of the CCB Spring Sweepstakes

First Prize $500 cash – Larry Hall
Second Place - $100 Wal-Mart Gift Card – Annabella Shaw
Third Prize - $50 VISA Gift Card – Bill Easton
Fourth Prize - $50 VISA gift Card – Larry Hall

Upcoming Fall 2012 CCB Conference and Convention

Date: November 1 - November 4, 2012.
Location: San Diego Marriott Del Mar, 11966 El Camino Real San Diego, California 92130
Phone: 858-523-1700
CCB Group Room Rate: $100 per night Inclusive

Also, for those wondering, well how do we get there? Here is the information hot off the presses!
Transportation
a. $12.00 negotiated shuttle transfer each way plus taxes to & from hotel with Super Shuttle/Cloud 9. Shuttle will pick up & return attendees to San Diego Airport, Greyhound & Amtrak Facilities (downtown). The negotiated rate is for all locations mentioned.
Complimentary hotel shuttle provided for Solano Beach train station.
b. Taxi (from airport to hotel) $65.00 each way, Miles: 17 miles.
Let's begin moving toward our Fall Conference and Convention. It will be here before we know it! We're looking forward to receiving your program ideas.

State Voter Information Guide for the June 5, 2012, Presidential Primary Election

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

April 6, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on April 6, and will be updated on April 20. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

We only have a few days until our spring conference and convention are here.
We have a number of great things in store for all of you. We've been fortunate to receive an extension for room night reservations at the CCB all inclusive rate of $100 if you book under our room block.
Be prepared to experience technology workshops, learning about your credit reports, having fun with Braille literacy, experiencing so many hands on things and of course so much more. Our exhibit hall will have lots of diversity and activity as well. Please read below for more details and come enjoy the convention with us.
If you wish to have a copy of the Pre-registration form and announcement, please contact the CCB Office and one can be emailed to you.
See you very soon!

Crowne Plaza SFO Guest Room Reservations

The deadline for Crowne Plaza SFO guest room reservations has been extended to Monday, April 9th! We are running short of meeting our guaranteed number of guest room reservations so if you have not made your room reservations, please do so immediately!

Crowne Plaza SFO Guestroom Rate Information for the California Council of the Blind Spring 2012 Conference and Convention

Room rates are $100.00, tax inclusive, for single or double occupancy.
The final date for making reservations in order to obtain the $100.00 room rate is now extended to Monday, April 9, 2012.
We cannot guarantee that you will receive the CCB room rate if you reserve after April 9, 2012. We are running short of meeting our guaranteed number of room reservations so if you have not made your reservations, please do so immediately by calling 1-800-411-7275 or 650-342-9200.
Identify your reservation by the date of the event "April 12 - 15, 2012" and "California Council of the Blind" or use the Group block code "CBC" when making your room reservation.
CCB must guarantee the number of rooms we will use. As we near the Conference and Convention date, if we do not meet our requirements, it may become necessary to release some of the rooms from our block.
It is important to understand that attendees will pay their own account upon departure. When reservations are made, attendees will be required to pay a deposit equal to the room rate for the first night for each reservation. A deposit is refundable to the attendee if the hotel receives notice of a cancellation at least 72 hours prior to scheduled arrival. Upon check-in, each attendee will be required to present a valid credit card, on which an amount of sufficient pre-authorization can be obtained to cover the room for the length of the guest's stay, plus the anticipated use of the hotel's ancillary services."

Volunteers Needed for Spring Conference and Convention

The Co-hosting Committee for the spring Conference and Convention urges those of you who know people who would like to be volunteers during the convention to contact Ed Branch at the CCB office immediately.
If you need more information, contact Mike Keithley at (650) 386-6286 or email mlkeithley@comcast.net. Thank you.

Association for Multicultural Concerns Luncheon

On Friday, April 13, 2012 at the CCB Conference and Convention:
12:00 Noon Association for Multicultural Concerns (AMC) Luncheon.
Lillian Scaife, President.
Total Emergence Independence the Hatlen Approach Hatlen Center for the Blind.
Our luncheon speaker will be Patti Maffei, Program Director at the Hatlen Center in San Pablo, California.
Patti was promoted to the position of Program Director in 2006 after having worked as an Orientation and Mobility Instructor at The Hatlen Center for 15 years. As a respected authority in the field of Mobility, she has lectured and presented workshops at professional conferences all over the nation, and has served as a master Teacher for numerous graduate interns. Since becoming Program Director, Patti has taken on managing a major portion of The Center's administrative requirements, and has continued to train new instructors. In addition, she has been the driving force behind the establishment of The Hatlen Center's national program, which officially launched in September 2006. Currently she is authoring a book that will be published by the American Printing House for the Blind. Patti holds an M.A. in Special Education/Orientation and Mobility from San Francisco State University. She is ACVREP certified in Orientation and Mobility.
Please join us as we welcome Patti and learn about the Hatlen Center, one of the only facilities of its kind serving people who are blind and visually impaired in the country.

CALUA Crafts: California Library Users of America

Fine handmade knits and other crafts at our exhibit booth at the spring CCB conference and convention.
Don't miss these one-of-a kind items: kitchen cloths; hats and scarves and other goodies.
Friday and Saturday in the exhibit room.

Announcing CCB Capitol Day

The CCB Governmental Affairs Committee is pleased to announce that the California Council of the Blind will be holding its Capitol Day on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Although we are unable to cover transportation costs, lunch will be provided.
We will be providing you in advance with information as to the bills and budget issues on which we will be advocating.
Any chapter that is able to do so is urged to assist those that would like to come to Sacramento for this event.
If you are coming to Capitol Day, please make appointments ahead of time with your state Assembly member and Senator. If you do not know who they are, you may contact Jeff Thom, either by email at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by telephone at (916) 995-3967 in order to obtain that information. Also, please let Jeff or the CCB office know if you are coming and about any appointments that you have made.
For those who are unable to come to Sacramento, we encourage you to go to the local district offices of your Assembly member and Senator on May 15 so that we can make this a truly memorable event and ensure that our elected officials know who we are and what we stand for.

Correction to the Time of the Golden Gate Chapter Meeting

Please note that the chapter time for the Golden Gate Chapter meeting will be from 10:30 to 1:00 every fourth Saturday of the month.
The new time will begin on the fourth Saturday in April, April 28.
The location remains at the Lighthouse which is located at 214 Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco.

EmploymentLINK 2012

Save the DATE!!
Thursday May 3, 2012
EmploymentLINK 2012
Join the Bay area’s leading AT companies Adaptive Technology Services and Sterling Adaptives for ‘EmploymentLINK 2012’ - a one day conference dedicated to employment and technology, held in the bay area at the Ed Roberts Campus in Berkeley.
EmploymentLINK 2012 is targeted at those people with an interest in employment matters for people with low vision or blindness including: management and staff of the Department of Rehabilitation; Job services providers; advocates; training organizations; policy makers; employers and their representatives.
The Conference is an important event for disability employment professionals and leaders. As part of our ongoing commitment to industry development and growth we aim to provide delegates with opportunities to think, question and respond to a range of critical issues that affect organizations and jobseekers with disability and the industry more broadly.
The conference will feature a program of keynote speakers including Joe Xavier (Director of Specialized Services for Department of Rehabilitation), panel discussions providing the opportunity to hear from the perspective of professionals who are visually impaired in the workforce, and key individuals working in the field of human resources such as Philip Kum, Management Analyst from the EPA.
The conference will close with a Technology reception where you will have an opportunity to meet directly with key Assistive Technology manufacturers.
Space at this year’s event is limited and we would encourage you to secure your spot quickly as places will fill up quickly.
If you have any questions or would like to reserve a place at this event please contact us at: cdodds@adaptivetec.com
Lesley@sterlingadaptives.com
Chrissy Dodds, Adaptive Technology Services,
Tel: 415 409 6650

KNFB Reader for Sale

Margie Donovan has a KNFB Reader for sale, asking $1,500.00 or best offer. It is about three years old, but rarely used. I have all documents and it includes a Nokia phone.
For further information, please call Margie at (916) 293-9505. Please only serious inquiries.
I will make a 10% donation from the sale to the CCB. Thanks for your interest. Margie Donovan

Union City BART station Bus Stop Announcements

The CCB office has received the following information from the Alameda Contra Costa Transit regarding issues with stop announcements to be made on busses service the Union City BART station.
The problem will exist during the Spring 2012 sign up and is hoped to be corrected during the next sign up of operators.
Because there are changes to the stops at Union City BART that have not been incorporated into the Spring 2012 data, there will be some incorrect annunciation.
Announcements on the following routes/directions will be impacted:
Rte 99 NB is programmed to enter the station via Union Square and stop on the same side of the roadway as the station entrance; consequently it will make the announcement, “Approaching Union City BART station” after it leaves the station.
Rte 333 NB is also programmed to enter the station via Union Square and stop on the same side of the roadway as the station entrance; consequently it will not make its final announcement, “Approaching Union City BART station, End of Line”
Operators should be reminded that they will need to call out stops as they approach Union City BART to ensure that passengers with visual impairments receive correct information. They also may need to assist such passengers with enough information to be oriented when they get off the coach (i.e. where the coach has stopped in relation to the station entrance.)
The following routes/directions also have conflicts between the data and the actual placement of bus stops, but annunciation is not affected either because the announcement is programmed early enough to catch the route in either direction, or because Union City BART is the beginning of line (and so not announced):
216 NB & SB
264 NB & SB
345 NB

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

March 30, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 30, and will be updated on April 6. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Crowne Plaza SFO Guestroom Rate Information for the California Council of the Blind Spring 2012 Conference and Convention

Room rates are $100.00, tax inclusive, for single or double occupancy. The final date for making reservations in order to obtain the $100.00 room rate is April 4, 2012. It is possible that this date can be extended, at this time we cannot guarantee that you will receive the CCB room rate if you reserve after April 4, 2012.
If you have not made your reservations, please do so immediately by calling 1-800-411-7275 or 650-342-9200. Identify your reservation by the date of the event "April 12 - 15, 2012" and "California Council of the Blind" or use the Group block code "CBC" when making your room reservation.
CCB must guarantee the number of rooms we will use. As we near the Conference and Convention date, if we do not meet our requirements, it may become necessary to release some of the rooms from our block.
It is important to understand that attendees will pay their own account upon departure. When reservations are made, attendees will be required to pay a deposit equal to the room rate for the first night for each reservation. A deposit is refundable to the attendee if the hotel receives notice of a cancellation at least 72 hours prior to scheduled arrival. Upon check-in, each attendee will be required to present a valid credit card, on which an amount of sufficient pre-authorization can be obtained to cover the room for the length of the guest's stay, plus the anticipated use of the hotel's ancillary services.
Also, please note there will be no complimentary lunches served in the Hospitality room at this convention.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

Conference and Convention Update
Please make your room reservations as soon as you can. The hotel is ready, willing and able to take them for the great price of $100 tax inclusive, the deadline is April 4th. There are so many great things in store for us at the CCB Conference and Convention. Your announcement and preregistration forms will be in your hands very soon, if not already.
If you wish to receive an email copy of the announcement and preregistration please contact Ed in the ccb office, or contact one of your Board members as each of us has a copy of the announcement and prereg too.
We are looking forward to seeing each of you at our Spring Convention, and with Marlaina Lieberg as our Banquet speaker one never knows what fun surprises may be in store!
Also, be sure to ask your chapter Presidents about the Spring Sweepstakes tickets ($2 per ticket). Everyone has them now and all proceeds go toward funding the printing of the Blind Californian! First prize is $500!
Take care and have a great weekend!

Volunteers Needed for Spring Conference and Convention

CCB Conference and Convention Room Mate Request

Nicolette Noyes is looking for a roommate for the Spring Conference and Convention. Must be a nonsmoker. If you have a guide dog that is ok. I will be staying Thursday, April 12th and Friday, April 13th.
Contact me on my cell phone at (415) 608-5008 between the hours of 10 AM to 10 PM.

Announcing CCB Capitol Day

The CCB Governmental Affairs Committee is pleased to announce that the California Council of the Blind will be holding its Capitol Day on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, from 10 AM to 3 PM. Although we are unable to cover transportation costs, lunch will be provided.
We will be providing you in advance with information as to the bills and budget issues on which we will be advocating.
Any chapter that is able to do so is urged to assist those that would like to come to Sacramento for this event.
If you are coming to Capitol Day, please make appointments ahead of time with your state Assembly member and Senator. If you do not know who they are, you may contact Jeff Thom, either by email at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by telephone at (916) 995-3967 in order to obtain that information. Also, please let Jeff or the CCB office know if you are coming and about any appointments that you have made.
For those who are unable to come to Sacramento, we encourage you to go to the local district offices of your Assembly member and Senator on May 15 so that we can make this a truly memorable event and ensure that our elected officials know who we are and what we stand for.

From the Golden Gate Chapter, CCB

New Meeting Time: Fourth Saturday of the month starting April 28, 2012.
11:30 to 12 Noon Brown bag lunch.
Chapter meeting from 12 Noon to 2 PM.
Meeting Location: San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind,
214 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102

L.A. County E-Sample Ballot

L.A. County has launched a new E-Sample Ballot subscription service.
Voters in the County will now be able to request to receive their Official Sample Ballot via email. This service provides yet another option for voters to receive their election information.
Voters can sign up by visiting www.lavote.net

KNFB Reader for Sale

Margie Donovan has a KNFB Reader for sale, asking $1,500.00 or best offer. It is about three years old, but rarely used. I have all documents and it includes a Nokia phone.
For further information, please call Margie at (916) 293-9505. Please only serious inquiries.
I will make a 10% donation from the sales to the CCB.
Thanks for your interest.
Margie Donovan

Union City BART station Bus Stop Announcements

The CCB office has received the following information from the Alameda Contra Costa Transit regarding issues with stop announcements to be made on busses service the Union City BART station. The problem will exist during the Spring 2012 sign up and is hoped to be corrected during the next sign up of operators.
Because there are changes to the stops at Union City BART that have not been incorporated into the Spring 2012 data, there will be some incorrect annunciation.
Announcements on the following routes/directions will be impacted:
Rte 99 NB is programmed to enter the station via Union Square and stop on the same side of the roadway as the station entrance; consequently it will make the announcement, “Approaching Union City BART station” after it leaves the station.
Rte 333 NB is also programmed to enter the station via Union Square and stop on the same side of the roadway as the station entrance; consequently it will not make its final announcement, “Approaching Union City BART station, End of Line”
Operators should be reminded that they will need to call out stops as they approach Union City BART to ensure that passengers with visual impairments receive correct information. They also may need to assist such passengers with enough information to be oriented when they get off the coach (i.e. where the coach has stopped in relation to the station entrance.)
The following routes/directions also have conflicts between the data and the actual placement of bus stops, but annunciation is not affected either because the announcement is programmed early enough to catch the route in either direction, or because Union City BART is the beginning of line (and so not announced):
216 NB & SB
264 NB & SB
345 NB

Escalator Closure at the Hallidie Plaza Entrance to Powell Street Station

Please be advised that the escalators serving the Hallidie Plaza entrance to Powell Street Station will be closed for repairs, starting March 19, 2012.
The SFMTA will renovate the two escalators at the northeast corner of Hallidie Plaza leading up to the cable car turnaround at Powell & Market streets. We will begin work on the down escalator from Market Street to the Mezzanine level. This escalator will be closed for approximately three months. Once the work is completed, the escalator in the up direction from the Mezzanine level to Market Street will be worked on for three months. Reconstructing the two escalators will take approximately six months in total.
During the construction period, one of the escalators will be in operation in the up direction. However, during the first four days of construction starting March 19th, both escalators will have to be shut down while an enclosed barricade structure is built to provide safety for pedestrians and construction crews. Customers can use the stairs or the station elevator for access between the plaza and street level.
Construction hours will be from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; however some weekend work may be required.
Phase One of the Metro Station Escalator Rehabilitation Project includes renovating the escalators at Church Street Station, at Hallidie Plaza of Powell Street Station and at Van Ness Station. Work at Church Street Station started in January and is expected to be completed in late March. Escalator work at Van Ness Station is slated to start in August lasting approximately for six months.
Thank you for your support and patience as we work to improve your Muni system.

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

March 23, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 23, and will be updated on March 30. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Crowne Plaza SFO Guestroom Rate Information for the California Council of the Blind Spring 2012 Conference and Convention

Room rates are $100.00, tax inclusive, for single or double occupancy. The final date for making reservations in order to obtain the $100.00 room rate is April 4, 2012. It is possible that this date can be extended, at this time we cannot guarantee that you will receive the CCB room rate if you reserve after April 4, 2012.
If you have not made your reservations, please do so immediately by calling 1-800-411-7275 or 650-342-9200. Identify your reservation by the date of the event "April 12 - 15, 2012" and "California Council of the Blind" or use the Group block code "CBC" when making your room reservation. CCB must guarantee the number of rooms we will use. As we near the Conference and Convention date, if we do not meet our requirements, it may become necessary to release some of the rooms from our block.
It is important to understand that attendees will pay their own account upon departure. When reservations are made, attendees will be required to pay a deposit equal to the room rate for the first night for each reservation. A deposit is refundable to the attendee if the hotel receives notice of a cancellation at least 72 hours prior to scheduled arrival. Upon check-in, each attendee will be required to present a valid credit card, on which an amount of sufficient pre-authorization can be obtained to cover the room for the length of the guest's stay, plus the anticipated use of the hotel's ancillary services.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

Conference and Convention Update
Please make your room reservations as soon as you can. The hotel is ready, willing and able to take them for the great price of $100 tax inclusive.
There are so many great things in store for us at the CCB Conference and Convention. Your announcement and preregistration forms will be in your hands very soon, if not already. If you wish to receive an email copy of the announcement and preregistration please contact Ed in the ccb office, or contact one of your Board members as each of us has a copy of the announcement and prereg too.
We are looking forward to seeing each of you at our Spring Convention, and with Marlaina Lieberg as our Banquet speaker one never knows what fun surprises may be in store! Also, be sure to ask your chapter Presidents about the Spring Sweepstakes tickets ($2 per ticket). Everyone has them now and all proceeds go toward funding the printing of the Blind Californian! First prize is $500!
Take care and have a great weekend!

Volunteers Needed for Spring Conference and Convention

Charter Bus From Sacramento to The Convention Hotel

The ACB Capital Chapter is chartering a bus from Sacramento to The convention Hotel.
April first is the due date for signing up for the bus. It Leaves Sacramento (Denny's at 7900 Collegetown Drive) 4/12/2012 at 9:00 AM. Leaves Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel 4/15/2012 at 1:30 PM.
Prices:

Round Trip Sacramento $55
Round Trip Vacaville $35
Round Trip El Cerito $30
Sacramento One Way $30
Vacaville One Way $20
El Cerito One Way $20

For questions or to pay for a trip contact Paul Patche Sr. at (916) 359-1212.

CCB Conference and Convention Room Mate Request

Sharlene Ornelas is looking for a female roommate for the Spring Conference and Convention. Must be a nonsmoker. I have a guide dog so having one is ok. I will be staying Thursday through Sunday. Contact me on my cell phone at (619) 339-6043 or by email at accessachiever@yahoo.com

Announcing CCB Capitol Day

The CCB Governmental Affairs Committee is pleased to announce that the California Council of the Blind will be holding its Capitol Day on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Although we are unable to cover transportation costs, lunch will be provided. We will be providing you in advance with information as to the bills and budget issues on which we will be advocating.
Any chapter that is able to do so is urged to assist those that would like to come to Sacramento for this event.
If you are coming to Capitol Day, please make appointments ahead of time with your state Assembly member and Senator. If you do not know who they are, you may contact Jeff Thom, either by email at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by telephone at (916) 995-3967 in order to obtain that information. Also, please let Jeff or the CCB office know if you are coming and about any appointments that you have made.
For those who are unable to come to Sacramento, we encourage you to go to the local district offices of your Assembly member and Senator on May 15 so that we can make this a truly memorable event and ensure that our elected officials know who we are and what we stand for.

Coachella Valley CCB Chapter - Meeting Location

The Coachella Valley CCB chapter is changing the location of our meetings. The new address is 801 E. Tahcquitz Canyon Way.
We meet every last Friday of the month, and the meetings start at 9;00 a.m. and last about three hours. We hope to see you at our next meeting, which will be held March 30.
If you need more information you may contact Linda Samulski at (760) 702-0879 or desertblossom@roadrunner.com

San Diego Braille Club Laughlin Trip

The San Diego Braille Club will be going to Laughlin April 29, 30 and May 1. We will be spending 2 nights at the Riverside Hotel and Casino. The cost is $125 each for individuals that aren't members of our CCB Chapter. Rooms are double occupancy. We need your name, full address, telephone number and who you would like to have as a roommate. The price includes the 2-night stay, transportation, breakfast 1 buffet and 1 dinner buffet. We have a chartered bus and will stop at the San Bernardino Metrolink Station in San Bernardino.
We are opening it up to the first 40 people who sign up and have their money in by April 3rd to: San Diego Braille Club, P.O. Box 3459, San Diego, CA 92169-3459.
If you have any questions please call Jacqueline Jackson at (619) 994-2776 (her cell).

L.A. County E-Sample Ballot

L.A. County has launched a new E-Sample Ballot subscription service. Voters in the County will now be able to request to receive their Official Sample Ballot via email. This service provides yet another option for voters to receive their election information.
Voters can sign up by visiting www.lavote.net

Escalator Closure at the Hallidie Plaza Entrance to Powell Street Station

Please be advised that the escalators serving the Hallidie Plaza entrance to Powell Street Station will be closed for repairs, starting March 19, 2012. The SFMTA will renovate the two escalators at the northeast corner of Hallidie Plaza leading up to the cable car turnaround at Powell & Market streets.
We will begin work on the down escalator from Market Street to the Mezzanine level. This escalator will be closed for approximately three months. Once the work is completed, the escalator in the up direction from the Mezzanine level to Market Street will be worked on for three months. Reconstructing the two escalators will take approximately six months in total.
During the construction period, one of the escalators will be in operation in the up direction. However, during the first four days of construction starting March 19th, both escalators will have to be shut down while an enclosed barricade structure is built to provide safety for pedestrians and construction crews. Customers can use the stairs or the station elevator for access between the plaza and street level.
Construction hours will be from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; however some weekend work may be required.
Phase One of the Metro Station Escalator Rehabilitation Project includes renovating the escalators at Church Street Station, at Hallidie Plaza of Powell Street Station and at Van Ness Station.
Work at Church Street Station started in January and is expected to be completed in late March.
Escalator work at Van Ness Station is slated to start in August lasting approximately for six months.
Thank you for your support and patience as we work to improve your Muni system.

Accessibility Out of the Box - A Tech Seminar

Editor’s note: We checked and there is no phone RSVP option for this announcement.
Certain technologies can provide intelligent and innovative solutions for people who are blind or visually impaired.
Join the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired on Tuesday, April 10, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and learn how to access and enjoy technologies like iTunes, iPad, iPhone and iPod.
Learn from experts about accessibility features for your iOS devices, including screen magnification, VoiceOver, settings for high contrast, and more.
This is an in-person tech seminar. Our typical live streaming and phone options will not be available.
Seating is limited so RSVP now to rsvp@lighthouse-sf.org
Location: LightHouse for the Blind, 214 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102

WORKING WHILE ON SSDI

A Free Workshop
Do you receive SSDI?
Are you thinking about returning to work?
Want to learn about the SSA’s regulations about working while on SSDI?
Come to this free workshop for answers to these questions and more!
When: Tuesday, March 27th, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Where: Ed Roberts Campus
Osher Room (Ground Floor)
3075 Adeline St., Berkeley, CA 94703
The Ed Roberts Campus is located above the Ashby BART station. There is free parking available in the BART lot behind the building.
For more information, please call (415) 864-8848 or email WRDLC@las-elc.org

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

March 16, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 16, and will be updated on March 23. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Crowne Plaza SFO Guestroom Rate Information for the California Council of the Blind Spring 2012 Conference and Convention

Room rates are $100.00, tax inclusive, for single or double occupancy.
The final date for making reservations in order to obtain the $100.00 room rate is April 4, 2012. It is possible that this date can be extended, at this time we cannot guarantee that you will receive the CCB room rate if you reserve after April 4, 2012.
If you have not made your reservations, please do so immediately by calling 1-800-411-7275 or 650-342-9200.
Identify your reservation by the date of the event "April 12 - 15, 2012" and "California Council of the Blind" or use the Group block code "CBC" when making your room reservation. CCB must guarantee the number of rooms we will use. As we near the Conference and Convention date, if we do not meet our requirements, it may become necessary to release some of the rooms from our block.
It is important to understand that attendees will pay their own account upon departure. When reservations are made, attendees will be required to pay a deposit equal to the room rate for the first night for each reservation. A deposit is refundable to the attendee if the hotel receives notice of a cancellation at least 72 hours prior to scheduled arrival. Upon check-in, each attendee will be required to present a valid credit card, on which an amount of sufficient pre-authorization can be obtained to cover the room for the length of the guest's stay, plus the anticipated use of the hotel's ancillary services.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

Conference and Convention Update
Please make your room reservations as soon as you can. The hotel is ready, willing and able to take them for the great price of $100 tax inclusive.
There are so many great things in store for us at the CCB Conference and Convention. Your announcement and preregistration forms will be in your hands very soon. Also, please check the ccb listservs and your email box for the announcement as well. The Board of directors has given the go in getting them out via these above means so that things can begin to get accessed and each of you can read about all the great things this convention will have to offer. If you wish to receive an email copy of the announcement and preregistration please contact Ed in the ccb office, or contact one of your Board members as each of us now has a copy of the announcement and prereg too.
We are looking forward to seeing each of you at our Spring Convention!
Take care and have a great weekend!

The New Moon - CCB conference and convention Presentation

Those of you who are aspiring citizen scientists and/or amateur radio enthusiasts will be interested in learning of a presentation to be given on Friday evening, April 13th, 2012 during the California Council of the Blind conference and convention. Please disseminate this information to anyone you know who is interested in space exploration and wants to be involved.
"The New Moon” Brian Day, Citizen Science Lead and Education/Public Outreach (E/PO) Specialist, NASA Lunar Science Institute, Moffett Field, California.
A new generation of robotic lunar explorers is completely changing our understanding of the Moon. The concept of the Moon as a completely arid, airless, static world is being replaced with the understanding that the Moon has a complex, intricate environment with active geology, significant deposits of water ice, and a dynamic (though thin) atmosphere.
Citizen scientists can play key roles in supporting the science of these missions. We will discuss how visually-impaired observers, especially those involved in amateur radio, can directly participate in NASA lunar exploration.

Volunteers Needed for Spring Conference and Convention

The Co-hosting Committee for the spring Conference and Convention urges those of you who know people who would like to be volunteers during the convention to contact Ed Branch at the CCB office immediately 1-800-221-6359.
If you need more information, contact Mike Keithley at (650) 386-6286 or email mlkeithley@comcast.net.
Thank you.

CCB Conference and Convention Room Mate Request

Announcing CCB Capitol Day

The CCB Governmental Affairs Committee is pleased to announce that the California Council of the Blind will be holding its Capitol Day on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Although we are unable to cover transportation costs, lunch will be provided. We will be providing you in advance with information as to the bills and budget issues on which we will be advocating.
Any chapter that is able to do so is urged to assist those that would like to come to Sacramento for this event.
If you are coming to Capitol Day, please make appointments ahead of time with your state Assembly member and Senator. If you do not know who they are, you may contact Jeff Thom, either by email at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by telephone at (916) 995-3967 in order to obtain that information. Also, please let Jeff or the CCB office know if you are coming and about any appointments that you have made.
For those who are unable to come to Sacramento, we encourage you to go to the local district offices of your Assembly member and Senator on May 15 so that we can make this a truly memorable event and ensure that our elected officials know who we are and what we stand for.

Contra Costa County Chapter - March Meeting

The Contra Costa County chapter is meeting in a different location for March only. Our March 24 meeting will be held at the Bethel Baptist church at 3578 Clayton Road starting at 10:30 AM.
If you have any questions or need any further information please call Gabe Griffith at (925) 768-8195 or email him at gabrielgriffith@astound.net

Coachella Valley CCB Chapter - Meeting Location

San Diego Braille Club Laughlin Trip

ABIV Chapter Tupperware Fund-Raiser

The ABIV chapter is holding a Tupperware fund-raiser!
Our home party will be held at the home of one of our members on 3/31/12 from 11:00-2:00.
If you cannot make it to the party, you can either order on line beginning 3/28 until 4/10, or by calling our fund-raiser.
If you would like to order and/or want more information please contact Christy at: ccrespin@att.net Or leave a message by calling (909) 800-7189 and leave your information to receive a return call.
Please help us build our treasury so we can, in turn, help our CCB.

Perkins Electric Braille Writer for Sale

Dina Chavez is selling a Perkins Electric Braille Writer. Asking $250.00, in excellent condition. Call (916) 706-8730 between 9 AM and 9 PM daily. Any shipping costs can be discussed individually.

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

March 9, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 9, and will be updated on March 16. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Crowne Plaza SFO Guestroom Rate Information for the California Council of the Blind Spring 2012 Conference and Convention

Room rates are $100.00, tax inclusive, for single or double occupancy.
The final date for making reservations in order to obtain the $100.00 room rate is April 4, 2012. It is possible that this date can be extended, at this time we cannot guarantee that you will receive the CCB room rate if you reserve after April 4, 2012.
If you have not made your reservations, please do so immediately by calling 1-800-411-7275 or 650-342-9200.
Identify your reservation by the date of the event "April 12 - 15, 2012" and "California Council of the Blind" or use the Group block code "CBC" when making your room reservation. CCB must guarantee the number of rooms we will use. As we near the Conference and Convention date, if we do not meet our requirements, it may become necessary to release some of the rooms from our block.
It is important to understand that attendees will pay their own account upon departure. When reservations are made, attendees will be required to pay a deposit equal to the room rate for the first night for each reservation. A deposit is refundable to the attendee if the hotel receives notice of a cancellation at least 72 hours prior to scheduled arrival. Upon check-in, each attendee will be required to present a valid credit card, on which an amount of sufficient pre-authorization can be obtained to cover the room for the length of the guest's stay, plus the anticipated use of the hotel's ancillary services.

The New Moon - CCB conference and convention Presentation

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

First, for the chapter and statewide affiliate tool box a huge thank you to those who are already submitting your Credentials Forms and Rosters. You are doing a "wonderful" job. Keep up the good work at meeting those deadlines!
Now, some sneak previews of the Spring conference and Convention where our theme is "CCB: Endless Possibilities, Endless Opportunities!" On that note here are some of the offerings you will be able to take part in if you attend the convention.
Come learn about the Department of Rehabilitation's new vocational services delivery modernization program; an in depth exploration of ZoomText capabilities; the Braille Competency Test and how to use Braille at work and elsewhere; The In-Home Supportive Services Program, Where Have We Come and Where Are We Heading?
There is so much more so stay tuned to the California Connection for the latest information!

From the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee

Any CCB Chapter, Statewide Affiliate or CCB Voting Member may propose amendments to the CCB Constitution and/or CCB Bylaws.
Proposed amendments are to be submitted in writing to the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee. In order to accommodate any party interested in submitting proposed amendments, the following are requested:
1. By Electronic Mail (preferred) to gkonsler@charter.net
2. Typewritten: By regular postal delivery to (note U.S. Postal Service recommended format):
GERALD R. KONSLER
11717 E. NORINO DR.
WHITTIER, CA 90601
3. Follow-up consultations (when necessary) by E-mail (preferred); by telephone (secondary preference) to: Gerald R. Konsler (562) 695-8569.
Separate proposals must be submitted separately. All correspondence will be shared with the Committee and CCB Executive Office Staff.
Thank you for your kind attention and consideration.

Social Security Alternate Formats

If you are a blind or visually impaired Social Security applicant, beneficiary, recipient or representative payee who has: 1) not made a request for notices and communications to be sent in alternate format or 2) has not received the alternate format of your choice please contact Charlotte Lanvers at 510-644-2555 x 5231 or clanvers@dredf.org by March 15, 2012.
SSA provides one of the following alternate formats automatically: audio CD, MS Word on CD, Braille, Large Print (18 point), standard print (12 point) sent with a follow up telephone call, or standard print (12 point) sent via certified mail.
If these formats do not work for you, you can request the alternate format of your choice by calling SSA at 1-800-772-1213; SSA is required to issue a decision on your request for non-automatically granted formats within 45 days.
Thank you.

Announcing CCB Capitol Day

The CCB Governmental Affairs Committee is pleased to announce that the California Council of the Blind will be holding its Capitol Day on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Although we are unable to cover transportation costs, lunch will be provided. We will be providing you in advance with information as to the bills and budget issues on which we will be advocating.
Any chapter that is able to do so is urged to assist those that would like to come to Sacramento for this event.
If you are coming to Capitol Day, please make appointments ahead of time with your state Assembly member and Senator. If you do not know who they are, you may contact Jeff Thom, either by email at jeff.thom@ccbnet.org or by telephone at (916) 995-3967 in order to obtain that information. Also, please let Jeff or the CCB office know if you are coming and about any appointments that you have made.
For those who are unable to come to Sacramento, we encourage you to go to the local district offices of your Assembly member and Senator on May 15 so that we can make this a truly memorable event and ensure that our elected officials know who we are and what we stand for.

Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter California Pizza Kitchen Fundraiser

The Glendale-Burbank Area Chapter is having a California Pizza Kitchen fundraiser on Monday, March 12 from 11 am to 10 pm at 601 North San Fernando Blvd. in Burbank.
You need to have a flyer so please contact Ardis Bazyn at (818) 238-9321 or abazyn@bazyncommunications.com or Keith Johnson at (626) 796-6989 for an attachment of the flyer.

Coachella Valley CCB Chapter - Meeting Location

Greater Los Angeles Chapter, California Council of the Blind, - New Meeting Place

The Greater Los Angeles Chapter, California Council of the Blind, has a new meeting place.
The information is: Corky’s Restaurant, 5043 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks, California, cross street Magnolia.
Our meetings will continue to be held on the third Saturday of each month with our meal beginning at 11 a.m., and the meeting from 12:30 to 2:30.
Our next meeting will be held on St. Patty’s day, March 17, 2012 with our honored speaker being our CCB State President, Ms. Donna Pomerantz.
If you have any questions regarding our meetings, please call Ken Metz at (818) 882-3610 home, or (323) 793-1805 Cell.

San Diego Braille Club Laughlin Trip

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

March 2, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on March 2, and will be updated on March 9. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Crowne Plaza SFO Guestroom Rate Information for the California Council of the Blind Spring 2012 Conference and Convention

Room rates are $100.00, tax inclusive, for single or double occupancy.
The final date for making reservations in order to obtain the $100.00 room rate is April 4, 2012. It is possible that this date can be extended, at this time we cannot guarantee that you will receive the CCB room rate if you reserve after April 4, 2012.
If you have not made your reservations, please do so immediately by calling 1-800-411-7275 or 650-342-9200. Identify your reservation by the date of the event "April 12 - 15, 2012" and "California Council of the Blind" or use the Group block code "CBC" when making your room reservation.
CCB must guarantee the number of rooms we will use. As we near the Conference and Convention date, if we do not meet our requirements, it may become necessary to release some of the rooms from our block.
It is important to understand that attendees will pay their own account upon departure. When reservations are made, attendees will be required to pay a deposit equal to the room rate for the first night for each reservation. A deposit is refundable to the attendee if the hotel receives notice of a cancellation at least 72 hours prior to scheduled arrival. Upon check-in, each attendee will be required to present a valid credit card, on which an amount of sufficient pre-authorization can be obtained to cover the room for the length of the guest's stay, plus the anticipated use of the hotel's ancillary services.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President: Spring Conference and Convention Update and CCB Nuts and Bolts for the Chapter and Statewide Affiliate Toolbox

A brief note regarding some CCB related nuts and bolts for our chapters.
I wish to send out a very warm "thank you" to everyone who has sent in their membership dues and rosters by the deadline of March 1st. All of you who have done so are doing your part to make the load manageable allowing us the time needed to get our information into the ACB Office. Thanks to the Membership Committee for assisting us with the "gentle reminders" as well. To you who helped with that, you know who you are and many, many thanks for being that voice on the phone reaching out to everyone as well as sending follow up emails! Credentials are due into the office by March 12 so you may be seated at our Spring Conference and Convention which will allow your chapter representative to participate in Nominating Committee proceedings and more. the information has been posted to the Presidents' email listserv.
If you are in need of another format so your chapter can complete this task, please feel free to contact Ed in the CCB Office. Also, be sure to ask your chapter Presidents about the Spring Sweepstakes tickets ($2 per ticket). Everyone has them now and all proceeds go toward funding the printing of the Blind Californian! First prize is $500! There are some fun surprises in store for those of you who wish to attend the CCB Banquet this Spring. Stay tuned to read more about some of those in future Connections!
It is my hope that Committees and Statewide Affiliates will be sharing their information here as well as on the lists.
Guess who is coming to California? None other than Marlaina Lieberg! Many of you know her as the very "lively" Secretary of the American Council of the Blind! Among the many things she may be known for, she does a "wonderful" roll call at the ACB Conference and Convention, she is the voice behind the "Coast To Coast" ACB Radio show, and so much more! Well, we hope you will sign up to attend our Conference and Convention where we will be sure to have a great time while learning the most up to date information on the goings on in ACB!
Stay tuned for weekly updates as we near the Conference and Convention.

The New Moon - CCB conference and convention Presentation

Those of you who are aspiring citizen scientists and/or amateur radio enthusiasts will be interested in learning of a presentation to be given on Friday evening, April 13th, 2012 during the California Council of the Blind conference and convention. Please disseminate this information to anyone you know who is interested in space exploration and wants to be involved.
"The New Moon” Brian Day, Citizen Science Lead and Education/Public Outreach (E/PO) Specialist, NASA Lunar Science Institute, Moffett Field, California.
A new generation of robotic lunar explorers is completely changing our understanding of the Moon. The concept of the Moon as a completely arid, airless, static world is being replaced with the understanding that the Moon has a complex, intricate environment with active geology, significant deposits of water ice, and a dynamic (though thin) atmosphere.
Citizen scientists can play key roles in supporting the science of these missions. We will discuss how visually-impaired observers, especially those involved in amateur radio, can directly participate in NASA lunar exploration.

From the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee

Any CCB Chapter, Statewide Affiliate or CCB Voting Member may propose amendments to the CCB Constitution and/or CCB Bylaws.
Proposed amendments are to be submitted in writing to the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee. In order to accommodate any party interested in submitting proposed amendments, the following are requested:
1. By Electronic Mail (preferred) to gkonsler@charter.net
2. Typewritten: By regular postal delivery to (note U.S. Postal Service recommended format):
GERALD R. KONSLER
11717 E. NORINO DR.
WHITTIER, CA 90601
3. Follow-up consultations (when necessary) by E-mail (preferred); by telephone (secondary preference) to: Gerald R. Konsler (562) 695-8569.
Separate proposals must be submitted separately. All correspondence will be shared with the Committee and CCB Executive Office Staff. Thank you for your kind attention and consideration.

CCB Conference and Convention Room Mate Request

Ms. Cam Schure is seeking a female room mate for the Spring 2012 CCB Conference and Convention in Burlingame. She is a non-smoker. Guide dog users are welcome. Please call her at (831) 372-0626 between the hours of 5 PM to 8 PM.

Social Security Alternate Formats

East Los Angeles Chapter Meeting

The East Los Angeles chapter of the California Council of the Blind meets on the second Saturday of every month at the Garcia home in East Los Angeles, at 1226 South McBride, cross street Olympic.
On Saturday, March 10, the chapter will have a quick overview seminar on access to apple touch screen technology using electronic refreshable Braille displays, note takers and Bluetooth standard off the shelf keyboards. Find out what interactive touch screen technology is and how it works. Learn about Bluetooth and wireless technology, what are the benefits of either technology. Most of all know how to troubleshoot a connection between devices.
This special technology session will start at 10:00 AM and will go until 11:00 when the regular chapter meeting will commence. Those in attendance will be able to purchase lunch prepared by the Garcia Family for $5.00. The lunch for this meeting will consist of taquitos, rice, beans and Albondiga soup, plus dessert. There will also be drinks available at an additional expense. Since it will be St. Patrick’s day month, there might be Green drinks. The meeting will end at the usual hour of 2:00 PM.

Coachella Valley CCB Chapter - Meeting Location

The Coachella Valley CCB chapter is changing the location of our meetings. The new address is 801 E. Tahcquitz Canyon Way. We meet every last Friday of the month, and the meetings start at 9;00 a.m. and last about three hours. We hope to see you at our next meeting, which will be held March 30. If you need more information you may contact Linda Samulski at (760) 702-0879 or desertblossom@roadrunner.com

Scottish Fiddlers 31st Spring Concert

The Scottish Fiddlers will present their 31st Spring Concert on Saturday, March 10, 2012, at 7:30 p.m at the Hermosa Beach Playhouse, 710 Pier Avenue Hermosa Beach.
This year our guest artist will be Cape Breton fiddler Andrea Beaton! You can listen to her amazing fiddle style on her website: http://www.andreabeaton.com
[During the Highland clearances, Scottish immigrants brought their fiddle music to Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. Although music in Scotland has changed since that time, it is believed that the traditional style has been best preserved in Cape Breton. Andrea Beaton comes from a family of well-known Cape Breton musicians. Do check out the impressive bio on her website.
We are also bringing back The Tappan Sisters - Stacey and Christina! You can watch a video of Christina singing at last year's concert in Pasadena at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnukNHR4kLc&noredirect=1
Stacey is a professional opera singer and can be found at www.staceytappan.com
Robert Hackney, Pipe Major of Nicholson Pipes and Drums will be performing on the Highland pipes, and there will be Cape Breton dancing by the Harvey family.
We promise you an evening of hand-clapping, toe-tapping music!
General Admission tickets are available by mail or at the door:
Adults $10 Children under 12 FREE
PREFERRED SEATING (reserved front rows) is $20 and is only available by advance purchase.
For mail order tickets, send your check payable to SFLA with a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Scottish Fiddlers of Los Angeles
c/o Chris Hendershot
1925 Voorhees Avenue, #A
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Web ticketing will be available soon at
www.scottishfiddlers.org

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

February 24, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on February 24, and will be updated on March 2. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President: Spring Conference and Convention Update

Guess who is coming to California? None other than Marlaina Lieberg! Many of you know her as the very "lively" Secretary of the American Council of the Blind! Among the many things she may be known for, she does a "wonderful" roll call at the ACB Conference and Convention, she is the voice behind the “Coast To Coast” ACB Radio show, and so much more! Well, we hope you will sign up to attend our Conference and Convention where we will be sure to have a great time while learning the most up to date information on the goings on in ACB!
Stay tuned for weekly updates as we near the Conference and Convention.

The Cult of Beauty: The Victorian Avant-Garde

From Gene Lozano, CCB First Vice President & Chair, Committee on Access and Transportation:
The Cult of Beauty: The Victorian Avant-Garde
1860-1900
The Legion of Honor Museum
February 18-June 17, 2012
ACCESS VIEWING DAY:
Monday, May 7, 2012
Admission by appointment.
Reduced crowds and discounted fees.
Free to each member and one guest.
Non-members: $5 per person; some free tickets available for those with financial need (make request on reservation form).

ACCESS FEATURES Available
1. Extra blue spaces for parking
2. Map with parking and transportation information
3. Wheelchairs and folding stools on first-come-first-served basis*
4. Extra seating inside and outside exhibition
5. Portable large-print editions of exhibition labels*
6. Small tours led by docents
7. Audio tours free to visitors who are blind or visually impaired*
8. Descriptive tours at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for visitors with low vision
9. Art for Touching
10. Printed version of audio tour script*

Available upon Request
11. American Sign Language tour
12. Materials in alternate format to study in advance of visit*
13. Other requests: contact tbrown@famsf.org or 415-750-7645*
* Available for all exhibition viewing hours

The New Moon - CCB conference and convention Presentation

From Gene Lozano, CCB First Vice President & Chair, Committee on Access and Transportation:
Those of you who are aspiring citizen scientists and/or amateur radio enthusiasts will be interested in learning of a presentation to be given on Friday evening, April 13th, 2012 during the California Council of the Blind conference and convention.
Please disseminate this information to anyone you know who is interested in space exploration and wants to be involved.

"The New Moon" Brian Day, Citizen Science Lead and Education/Public Outreach (E/PO) Specialist, NASA Lunar Science Institute, Moffett Field, California.

A new generation of robotic lunar explorers is completely changing our understanding of the Moon. The concept of the Moon as a completely arid, airless, static world is being replaced with the understanding that the Moon has a complex, intricate environment with active geology, significant deposits of water ice, and a dynamic (though thin) atmosphere.
Citizen scientists can play key roles in supporting the science of these missions. We will discuss how visually-impaired observers, especially those involved in amateur radio, can directly participate in NASA lunar exploration.

From the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee

Any CCB Chapter, Statewide Affiliate or CCB Voting Member may propose amendments to the CCB Constitution and/or CCB Bylaws.
Proposed amendments are to be submitted in writing to the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee. In order to accommodate any party interested in submitting proposed amendments, the following are requested:
1. By Electronic Mail (preferred) to gkonsler@charter.net
2. Typewritten: By regular postal delivery to (note U.S. Postal Service recommended format):
GERALD R. KONSLER
11717 E. NORINO DR.
WHITTIER, CA 90601
3. Follow-up consultations (when necessary) by E-mail (preferred); by telephone (secondary preference) to: Gerald R. Konsler (562) 695-8569.
Separate proposals must be submitted separately. All correspondence will be shared with the Committee and CCB Executive Office Staff. Thank you for your kind attention and consideration.

CCB Conference and Convention Room Mate Request

Scholarship Announcements

The following are three scholarships that are available.
American Council of the Blind 2012-2013 Academic Year Scholarship Announcement
The American Council of the Blind (ACB) annually awards approximately twenty scholarships ranging in amounts from $1,000 to $2,500 to vocational, entering freshmen, undergraduate and graduate college students who are legally blind, maintain a 3.3 GPA and are involved in their school/local community. Applications and all supporting materials must be received by 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time on March 1st.
To read the scholarship guidelines and complete an on-line application, please visit:
www.acb.org/scholarship
For more information, please contact the ACB National Office at: (202) 467-5081 or (800) 424-8666.
We look forward to receiving your application materials!

CCLVI Scheigert Scholarship Announcement
The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI) will award three scholarships in the amount of $3,000 each to full-time entering freshmen, undergraduate and graduate college students who are low vision, maintain a strong GPA and are involved in their school/local community. Application materials must be received by March 15th. Scholarship monies will be awarded for the 2012 - 2013 academic year. To read the scholarship guidelines and complete an on-line application, please visit: www.cclvi.org and click on the "Scholarship' link.
Applications will be available to submit on-line until March 15th at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time. Questions may be directed to CCLVI at (800) 733-2258.

Dr. Sam Genensky Video Magnifier Memorial Award
The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International (CCLVI) announces the Dr. Sam Genensky Video Magnifier Memorial Awards.
A total of 5 video magnifiers will be awarded to at least 2 students (K-12, undergraduate, graduate and vocational levels) and 2 non-students (adults and seniors)
Applications may be submitted beginning January 25th and all materials must be received by March 31st.
To read the award guidelines and complete an on-line application, please visit the web site www.cclvi.org and click on the "About Our Scholarships" link.
Applications will be available to submit on-line until March 31st at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time.
To receive a hard copy application, please call (800) 733-2258.

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

February 17, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on February 17, and will be updated on February 24. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Notice From The CCB Office

The CCB office will be closed on Monday, February 20 in observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

Happy Friday everyone!
I want to share a few brief reminders with each of you. We will soon be publishing the room night reservation amounts as several members and friends have been asking so please stay tuned so you can begin - reserving in mass - your rooms for the Spring Conference and Convention. Also, I hope you have received your Sweepstakes tickets from your chapter and are getting the word out there of this great, low priced opportunity to win some great prizes while contributing to a great cause, the California Council of the Blind. Take care and I hope all are doing well.

From Doug Martin, San Diego Chapter

Long time member and past Chapter President, Jerry Wilson passed away December 31, 2011.
We are having a memorial service on Saturday, Feb 18th, 2012 at 12 Noon at the Blind Community Center, 1805 Upas Street, San Diego, CA 92104.
Food will be served and anyone can share their memories of Jerry.

From the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee

Any CCB Chapter, Statewide Affiliate or CCB Voting Member may propose amendments to the CCB Constitution and/or CCB Bylaws.
Proposed amendments are to be submitted in writing to the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee. In order to accommodate any party interested in submitting proposed amendments, the following are requested:
1. By Electronic Mail (preferred) to gkonsler@charter.net
2. Typewritten: By regular postal delivery to (note U.S. Postal Service recommended format):
GERALD R. KONSLER
11717 E. NORINO DR.
WHITTIER, CA 90601
3. Follow-up consultations (when necessary) by E-mail (preferred); by telephone (secondary preference) to: Gerald R. Konsler (562) 695-8569.
Separate proposals must be submitted separately. All correspondence will be shared with the Committee and CCB Executive Office Staff. Thank you for your kind attention and consideration.

CCB Conference and Convention Room Mate Request

Scholarship Announcements

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

February 10, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on February 10, and will be updated on February 17. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

San Gabriel Valley Chapter Pizza Pasta Party Fundraiser

From Pam Polagi, San Gabriel Valley Chapter President:
Healthy happy 2012 to everyone. The new year means that our 27th annual pizza pasta party fundraiser is just around the corner!
San Gabriel Valley Chapter members cordially invite you, as well as your family and friends, to please come join us on Saturday, February 18, 2012 from 3 PM to 7 PM at the Monrovia VFW. Hall. 825 South Magnolia Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016. The cross street is Chestnut.
The ticket cost is only $10 per person. You may purchase tickets from any San Gabriel Valley Chapter member presale, or you may purchase tickets at the door on the day of the event, no extra cost.
Please come join us for fun, friends and delicious food.
The menu consists of: delicious pizzas, pasta with meat sauce, salad with either Italian or homemade Ranch dressing, garlic bread, and for dessert, cookies. The beverages will include bottled water, iced tea, regular and diet soda, as well as Starbucks coffee. You may purchase alcoholic beverages from the bar, if you wish.
All persons present will be eligible to win door prizes and will also have a chance to win the grand prize. A 50/50 drawing will be conducted, winner takes half. If you wish to participate in our fundraiser and can not attend, your $10 ticket purchase will entitle you to a chance to win the grand prize, as Winner need not be present.
If you need any additional information, please feel free to contact me by telephone at (626) 445-7297.
Thank you in advance for your support and looking forward to seeing you at the event.
Pam Polagi, President, San Gabriel Valley Chapter, CCB

From the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee

Any CCB Chapter, Statewide Affiliate or CCB Voting Member may propose amendments to the CCB Constitution and/or CCB Bylaws.
Proposed amendments are to be submitted in writing to the CCB Constitution and Bylaws Committee. In order to accommodate any party interested in submitting proposed amendments, the following are requested:
1. By Electronic Mail (preferred) to gkonsler@charter.net
2. Typewritten: By regular postal delivery to (note U.S. Postal Service recommended format):
GERALD R. KONSLER
11717 E. NORINO DR.
WHITTIER, CA 90601
3. Follow-up consultations (when necessary) by E-mail (preferred); by telephone (secondary preference) to: Gerald R. Konsler (562) 695-8569.
Separate proposals must be submitted separately. All correspondence will be shared with the Committee and CCB Executive Office Staff. Thank you for your kind attention and consideration.

CCB Conference and Convention Room Mate Request

iPhone 3gs for Sale

Bill Gillespie has an iPhone 3gs for sale for $400. The phone is in great condition. The reason I am selling it is that I upgraded to the iPhone 4s. You can call Bill at (707) 217-5272 or email Bill at bigbill49@gmail.com

Scholarship Announcements

Private Eyes

Private Eyes by Stephen Dietz, Directed by Greg Shane, March 10th - April 8th.
Phone: 310-902-8220 cre@creoutreach.org
Theatre by the Blind puts its own, unique spin on the Steven Dietz’s multilayered, comedy of suspicion. Presented by an entirely blind cast, Greg Shane directs Private Eyes, a relationship thriller about love, lust and the power of deception.
Matthew's wife, Lisa, is having an affair with Adrian, a theatre director. Or perhaps the affair is part of the play being rehearsed. Or has Matthew imagined all of it simply to have something to report to his therapist Frank? The audience itself plays the role of detective in this relationship thriller where art imitates life. Or does it?

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

February 3, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on February 3, and will be updated on February 10. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to Gabe Griffith directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

Another week has passed us by and I didn't get to go enjoy the festivities where the little groundhog was the center of attention. Oh well, maybe some day I'll be able to go.
Now, onto the business at hand. Very soon your Chapter Presidents will be receiving the CCB Spring Sweepstakes tickets in the mail. A huge thank you to those members who have given and are giving donations so we can have a nice cash prize! We'll announce, very soon, more of the specifics about the "Spring Sweeps" as John fondly refers to them.
Whatever you can do to support the "CCB Spring Sweeps" would be very much appreciated by all. Stay connected to the connection for more news on the Spring conference and Convention, and other Council happenings! Thank you and be well.

San Gabriel Valley Chapter Pizza Pasta Party Fundraiser

From RECB

We want to let all CCB members know that Larry Hall fell and cracked his hip on January 31. 2012. He had surgery and the doctors put in some screws. He is at Kaiser in Santa Rosa, Ca. Larry is in Room #465 North. It would be great for Larry's CCB Friends to call Him. The phone number is (707) 393-4000.
In Our next RECB meeting immediate past President Jeff Thom will be our speaker. The meeting is on Saturday, February 11, 2012. The time is 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. The address is 1050 3rd street in Santa Rosa, CA. For any questions please call Beryl Brown at (707) 545-7642. February is Blind History month at our Chapter.

iPhone 3gs for Sale

Scholarship Announcements

Private Eyes

Sacramento Area Council of Governments - TRANSIT SERVICE Feed-Back Request

Whether you ride daily, occasionally or haven’t tried transit yet, the Sacramento Area Council of Governments is looking for feedback on bus, dial-a-ride, paratransit and light rail transit services in the counties of Sacramento, Sutter, Yolo and Yuba.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON LOCAL TRANSIT SERVICE? Would you like to use it for more trips, but don’t because of issues like where it goes or doesn’t go, the schedule or cost? Please give us your thoughts by attending an Unmet Transit Needs Hearing or by relaying your comments to SACOG.
Does local transit meet your needs?
Sacramento Area Council of Governments
1415 L Street, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
tel (916) 321-9000
fax (916) 321-9551
tdd (916) 321-9550
www.sacog.org

SUTTER/YUBA COUNTIES
Monday, February 27, 2012 at 4:00 PM
Yuba County Government Center
Marysville Room
915 8th Street, Marysville
Transit Access: Yuba-Sutter Transit Routes 1 and 4

YOLO COUNTY
Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 6:00 PM
Davis Council Chambers
23 Russell Blvd., Davis
Transit Access: Yolobus Route 42 and Unitrans Routes M & Q

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 6:00 PM
Regional Transit Auditorium
1400 29th Street, Sacramento
Transit Access: RT Routes 30, 38, 67, 68, and RT Light Rail (Gold Line)

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 2:00 PM
Folsom-Hilton Garden Inn
Natoma Room A
221 Iron Point Road, Folsom
Transit Access: Folsom Stage Line Route 10 and RT Light Rail (Gold Line)

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at 2:00 PM*
Galt Council Chambers
380 Civic Drive, Galt
Transit Access: SCT/Link General Public- Dial-a-Ride and Highway 99 Express

*Spanish translation will be provided.
Meetings are accessible to disabled persons.
To arrange for language translation or sign language interpreters for deaf persons, please call (916) 321-9000 or TDD access (916) 321-9550 at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.
ATTEND ANY OF THESE UNMET TRANSIT NEEDS HEARINGS:

Mail Comments:
SACOG
Attn: Unmet Transit Needs
1415 L Street, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
Email Comments:
transit_needs@sacog.org
Phone Comments:
(916) 340-6275
TDD:
(916) 321-9550
Fax Comments:
(916) 321-9551
DOWNLOAD Online Comments:
www.sacog.org

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

January 27, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on January 27, and will be updated on February 3. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

Happy Friday everyone, or happy weekend depending on when you read this. I hope everyone is doing well.
First to begin on a personal note, it has been a good week for us in the Pomerantz house as Mitch has finally been separated from his pic line, YAY! This journey for us is still moving forward, but for us, this was another milestone! As always, thank you to all of you for your support during these past months, it seems like forever to me.
Now onto the business at hand. To all of our chapters and statewide affiliates, please do whatever you can to assist your groups in getting their chapter/affiliate rosters and dues ready for the current year. To our Presidents and Leadership, please be on the watch for the proper forms within the next week. Remember, you will receive credentials and dues/roster reminders and I'm sure most of you are already working on them. I also wish to thank those of you who helped us by filling out the event forms and applications in preparation for the Spring. It is a living breathing from that is ever evolving and we'll come to you in future months to receive feedback as to what was positive and what may need a little improvement.
Stay connected to the weekly connection for more news on the Spring conference and Convention, and other Council happenings! Thank you!

From The Orange County Chapter CCB

A membership luncheon will be held Saturday, February 4th, 2012, 11 AM to 2 PM at Millie’s Restaurant and Bakery, 1480 South Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA (between Catella and Ball Road). Access does go to this location.
Participants will order off the menu.
RSVP to Andrea Pitsenbarger at (714) 921-0289 or by e-mail at Patches921@sbcglobal.net

San Gabriel Valley Chapter Pizza Pasta Party Fundraiser

Accessible Prescription Issues - Rite Aid Pharmacy

To Rite Aid Pharmacy customers with visual impairments in the greater San Francisco Bay Area:
As part of American Council of the Blind's (ACB) and California Council of the Blind's (CCB) on-going accessible prescription information effort with national pharmacy retail chains, lawyers Linda Dardarian and Lainey Feingold would like to talk with people in the greater San Francisco Bay Area who currently receive prescription medications from Rite Aid, either at a Rite Aid store, through the Rite Aid website or by ordering through Rite Aid's phone system for home delivery or store pick-up.
If you get your prescription medications from Rite Aid and live in the counties listed below, please contact Scott Grimes, Senior Paralegal in Linda's law firm (Goldstein, Demchak, Baller, Borgen & Dardarian) either by email, at sgrimes@gdblegal.com or toll free at 1-800-822-5000.
The counties that we are looking at are the following:

Alameda
Contra Costa
Marin
Monterey
Napa
San Francisco
San Mateo
Santa Clara
Santa Cruz, and
Sonoma

In addition to Rite Aid, ACB, CCB, with Linda's and Lainey's offices, continue to work on accessible prescription issues with CVS, Walgreens, Wal-Mart, and Target.
Questions about those retailers can also be sent to Scott at the contact information above. Thanks, Lainey, Linda and Scott

Sacramento Area Council of Governments - TRANSIT SERVICE Feed-Back Request

Whether you ride daily, occasionally or haven’t tried transit yet, the Sacramento Area Council of Governments is looking for feed-back on bus, dial-a-ride, paratransit and light rail transit services in the counties of Sacramento, Sutter, Yolo and Yuba.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON LOCAL TRANSIT SERVICE? Would you like to use it for more trips, but don’t because of issues like where it goes or doesn’t go, the schedule or cost? Please give us your thoughts by attending an Unmet Transit Needs Hearing or by relaying your comments to SACOG.
Does local transit meet your needs?

Sacramento Area Council of Governments
1415 L Street, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
tel (916) 321-9000
fax (916) 321-9551
tdd (916) 321-9550
www.sacog.org

SUTTER/YUBA COUNTIES
Monday, February 27, 2012 at 4:00 PM
Yuba County Government Center
Marysville Room
915 8th Street, Marysville
Transit Access: Yuba-Sutter Transit
Routes 1 and 4

YOLO COUNTY
Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 6:00 PM
Davis Council Chambers
23 Russell Blvd., Davis
Transit Access: Yolobus Route 42 and Unitrans Routes M & Q

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 6:00 PM
Regional Transit Auditorium
1400 29th Street, Sacramento
Transit Access: RT Routes 30, 38, 67, 68, and RT Light Rail (Gold Line)

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 2:00 PM
Folsom-Hilton Garden Inn
Natoma Room A
221 Iron Point Road, Folsom
Transit Access: Folsom Stage Line Route 10 and RT Light Rail (Gold Line)

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at 2:00 PM*
Galt Council Chambers
380 Civic Drive, Galt
Transit Access: SCT/Link General Public-
Dial-a-Ride and Highway 99 Express

ATTEND ANY OF THESE UNMET TRANSIT NEEDS HEARINGS:
Mail Comments:
SACOG
Attn: Unmet Transit Needs
1415 L Street, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
Email Comments: transit_needs@sacog.org
Phone Comments: (916) 340-6275
TDD: (916) 321-9550
Fax Comments: (916) 321-9551
DOWNLOADOnline Comments:
www.sacog.org

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

January 20, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on January 20, and will be updated on January 27. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

From Donna Pomerantz, CCB President

Happy Weekend Everyone!
I just wanted to share a few reminder tid bits with everyone.
Please be on the look-out for the following in the mail, or ask about them in your chapter meetings.

Your Chapter Presidents will be receiving Spring Sweepstakes Tickets in the mail within the month so be sure to ask them for a book or two. All proceeds from the sales will go to the Blind Californian.
The scholarship Committee has been working diligently on putting some extra polish on the application and process. CCB offers a number of Scholarships for students who are blind or visually impaired every year so please stay tuned to the connection and email lists for the announcement that states when people can begin applying.
Be on the watch for Credentials and the note for the dues renewal and updated rosters. Even if you are not going to be able to attend the Spring Conference and Convention, these will need to be filled out and made current. Be sure to consult with your Chapter, or Statewide Affiliate, President for more information on how your group is working on these items.

Have a wonderful week everyone, and stay tuned for more information each week.
Donna Pomerantz, CCB President.

From The Orange County Chapter CCB

From Christy Crespin

Do you have an old CCTV in good working condition that you are no longer using? What about the magnifiers that are just sitting in your drawer that you haven't used in years? Do you have a computer with magnification or speech software in good working condition that you need to find a home for?
Well, I've got the perfect solution. At the state hospitals such as Patton where I work, there are people in need of this equipment on a supervised basis. The computers will not be hooked up to any Internet service, so we don't need the modems. Through our Volunteer Services department, you can receive a donation receipt for your taxes.
If interested, please leave your information via phone at (909) 425-6315 or email me at: christy.crespin@psh.dmh.ca.gov and I will follow up. Thank you.

Sacramento Area Council of Governments - TRANSIT SERVICE Feed-Back Request

Sacramento Area Council of Governments
1415 L Street, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
tel (916) 321-9000
fax (916) 321-9551
tdd (916) 321-9550
www.sacog.org

SUTTER/YUBA COUNTIES
Monday, February 27, 2012 at 4:00 PM
Yuba County Government Center
Marysville Room
915 8th Street, Marysville
Transit Access: Yuba-Sutter Transit
Routes 1 and 4

YOLO COUNTY
Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 6:00 PM
Davis Council Chambers
23 Russell Blvd., Davis
Transit Access: Yolobus Route 42 and Unitrans Routes M & Q

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 6:00 PM
Regional Transit Auditorium
1400 29th Street, Sacramento
Transit Access: RT Routes 30, 38, 67, 68, and RT Light Rail (Gold Line)

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 2:00 PM
Folsom-Hilton Garden Inn
Natoma Room A
221 Iron Point Road, Folsom
Transit Access: Folsom Stage Line Route 10 and RT Light Rail (Gold Line)

SACRAMENTO COUNTY
Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at 2:00 PM*
Galt Council Chambers , 380 Civic Drive, Galt

Transit Access: SCT/Link General Public- Dial-a-Ride and Highway 99 Express
*Spanish translation will be provided.
Meetings are accessible to disabled persons.
To arrange for language translation or sign language interpreters for deaf persons, please call (916) 321-9000 or TDD access (916) 321-9550 at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

January 13, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on January 13, and will be updated on January 20. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

CCB Office - Holiday Closure

The CCB office will be closed on Monday, January 16 in observance of the Martin Luther King holiday.

Spring 2012 Conference and Convention Event Space

As a friendly reminder, CCB chapters, statewide affiliates and committees who are planning to conduct an event during the spring 2012 conference and convention, must submit their event letter of agreement and application on or before midnight, Friday, January 20th, 2012. Event information is needed by the January 20th deadline in order to request your event space from the Crowne Plaza SFO Hotel and to be scheduled into the conference and convention program. Event information and applications received after the January 20th deadline will be considered for the 2012 fall conference and convention.
The event letter of agreement and application were sent out to all presidents/chairs of chapters, statewide affiliates and committees on December 22nd, 2011. If you did not receive your event forms or need another set, contact the CCB office at 1-800-221-6359 or by e-mail at ccotb@ccbnet.org

CCB Presidents List Serve Designees

Reminder to all chapter and statewide affiliate Presidents and or Vice Presidents.
Please contact either the CCB office via email ccotb@ccbnet.org or by phone at 1-800-221-6359, or Donna Pomerantz via email donna.pomerantz@ccbnet.org or by phone at 1-626-233-2991 with your two designees for the CCB Presidents List Serve. I gave a few days extension but I am emptying out the old e-mail list tonight, Friday, January 13th, and putting in the information given to me by those who have already made contact.
Please feel free to email or call and let us know who your 2 designees will be for the year 2012.
Thank you Donna.

Vanda Pharmaceuticals Clinical Study Recruitment

Dear CCB Members.
Over the past year, Vanda Pharmaceuticals has made steady progress in recruiting participants for their clinical study, but they still have work to do and need our help.
The deadline to enroll patients is forthcoming and they need our help to reach their recruitment goal as soon as possible. I remind you that without enough patients in their study, they cannot develop a treatment for this severe sleep disorder that afflicts so many people.
Please help spread the word about this very important research. Your efforts are sincerely appreciated.
More information on N24HSWD is available at www.24sleepwake.com
As a reminder, Vanda has set up a registry and a survey that are available by phone and on the web. Below is the announcement for their study with contact information and eligibility criteria.
Thank you for your help.
Sincerely,
Gene Lozano

Clinical Research Study Announcement

Do you ever feel like your sleep patterns are different than the rest of the world? Do you sometimes feel the unwanted urge or need to fall asleep during the day time when you need to be awake? Do you also find that you feel just too wide awake to fall or stay asleep during the night time? If you are blind, this could be due to a real sleep problem related to the lack of light needed to keep your body's internal clock in sync with the day and night cycle.
If you or someone you know might be affected, please call 1-888-389-7033 or email info@non24registry.com to learn about an ongoing clinical research study that is evaluating a new investigational treatment for this type of sleep problem. When calling, you can also complete a short sleep survey. For each completed survey, $25 will be donated to CCB.
You may be eligible to participate in the clinical trial if you are between 18 and 75 years of age and are totally blind.
Volunteers will be compensated for their participation in the clinical study and will receive study related medication, medical evaluations, and transportation at no cost.

Humboldt Council of the Blind 7th Annual Benefit Concert

Humboldt Council of the Blind (HCB) would like to announce their 7th annual benefit concert. This yearly event will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at The Alibi bar & grill in Arcata, Ca. 9th street on the plaza.
This yearly concert is our main fund raiser for each year. Please come by if you are passing through or live in or near the area of the redwoods of Humboldt County.
Time: 1 p.m,
Price: 21 and over. $5-20 sliding scale.
The HCB also has a compilation music CD of local bands & artists which we sell. It is titled, “Making Blindness Fashionable”.
All proceeds go directly to the HCB. It is almost sold out (We have 5 copies left to sell of Volume 1) and we are soon to release a Volume 2 titled “Vision & Sound”.
Copies are $12 postage paid. Payable to, Forbesx4@sbcglobal.net
There are local blind musicians who play on the CD and who participate each year in the rock n roll concert. Please email with any questions. Much thanks.

From The Redwood Empire Council Of The Blind

We have a few calendars left. Please contact Beryl Brown at (707) 545-7642 or (707) 636-0082. The price is $12.00.

From Christy Crespin

Do you have an old CCTV in good working condition that you are no longer using? What about the magnifiers that are just sitting in your drawer that you haven't used in years? Do you have a computer with magnification or speech software in good working condition that you need to find a home for? Well, I've got the perfect solution. At the state hospitals such as Patton where I work, there are people in need of this equipment on a supervised basis. The computers will not be hooked up to any Internet service, so we don't need the modems. Through our Volunteer Services department, you can receive a donation receipt for your taxes. If interested, please leave your information via phone at (909) 425-6315 or email me at: christy.crespin@psh.dmh.ca.gov and I will follow up. Thank you.

Improving Telecommunications for People Who Are Blind - LA Discussion Groups In Spanish

We need your assistance in spreading the word about these group discussions improving telecommunications for people with disabilities. Last month we completed a discussion group in San Francisco with English speakers who are blind/severely low vision. We will have a discussion group Feb. 2 and 3 in Los Angeles for those who speak Spanish. It is a good opportunity for a Spanish speaking blind/severely low vision individual or a caregiver of a disabled person to share his/her opinions to help improve telecommunications, and earn a $75 honorarium for their time (and $25 for transportation costs).
For more information please contact Silvia Leon OneWorld Communications 415-413-7219.

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith

January 6, 2012

Welcome to the California Connection, the weekly news service provided in English and Spanish by the California Council of the Blind. This news release has been revised on January 6, and will be updated on January 13. Remember that in order to have a message in on the next connection, please provide the message either to the office or to me directly at (925) 768-8195 or ca.connection@ccbnet.org by Wednesday before the connection is recorded, or it will need to be placed in the following connection. Also, please make sure your message states in the subject line that it is for the connection or it may get missed.

Spring 2012 Conference and Convention Event Space

grocery card Renewal

If you need to renew your Ralph’s, Food4Less or FoodsCo grocery card in order to continue providing much needed funds back to the Council, please call the Council office to obtain the renewal information. 1-800-221-6359.

From The Redwood Empire Council Of The Blind

We have a few calendars left. Please contact Beryl Brown at (707) 545-7642 or (707) 636-0082. The price is $12.00.

New Year Party Social of the California Council of the Blind Students

Would you like to have a moment of relaxation and good-old conversations with friends and the young students as part of the New Year? If so, we would like to cordially invite our fellow CCB members, families and friends to attend the very first New Year party social of the California Council of the Blind Students (CCBS).
When: 14th of Jan. 2012 from 1:00 Pm to 4:00 Pm.
Where: The Old Spaghetti Factory located at 1910 J Street, Sacramento, Ca 95814.
Please come to meet new and old friends, to enjoy each other's company as of part of the New Year, and to share new ideas on how to effectively maintain the strength of the wonderful student-body organization.
RSVP is recommended but not required. To RSVP, or for questions about this event, please contact Tuan Nguyen, CCBS Vice President, at ngtapop925@hotmail.com or (916) 529-2320 or contact Lisa Cushman, CCBS Secretary, at crysania@sbcglobal.net or (510) 913-3402.
Happy Holidays!

From Christy Crespin

Do you have an old CCTV in good working condition that you are no longer using? What about the magnifiers that are just sitting in your drawer that you haven't used in years? Do you have a computer with magnification or speech software in good working condition that you need to find a home for? Well, I've got the perfect solution. At the state hospitals such as Patton where I work, there are people in need of this equipment on a supervised basis. The computers will not be hooked up to any Internet service, so we don't need the modems. Through our Volunteer Services department, you can receive a donation receipt for your taxes. If interested, please leave your information via phone at (909) 425-6315 or email me at: christy.crespin@psh.dmh.ca.gov and I will follow up. Thank you.

Thank you for reading,
Have a nice day
Gabe Griffith